REVIEW: Pioneer DJ's DDJ-REV1

The DDJ-REV1 was released alongside the super popular DDJ-REV7 as part of Pioneer's effort to engage more scratch DJ's with their controllers. The REV7 is definitely a huge hit with it's rotating platters and revamped layout, but the REV1 is still definitely in the conversation for great controller redesign.

Since purchasing the REV-1 when it first came out, I've been able to really see exactly the in's and out's about what it has to offer. I was always looking for something that replicated the layout of a battle style turntable set up while not really wanting to spend over a $1000 on another piece of gear. I've been using my two Technics Turntables and a Rane Mixer for well over 17 years now (just recently upgrading to the Rane 72MKII) so I figured the REV1 would be great fit for me at the price point.

Coming in at just $279, the REV1 offers the same layout the REV7 has with the pads and toggle effects in the mixer area and a pitch control up at the top of the unit. The platters are bigger than it's cousin the DDJ-SB3 which offers a more comfortable feel for DJ's who love to scratch. The effects located on the DDJ-REV1 are based in Serato but are incredibly easy to activate once they are set inside of the software. 

One of the biggest pros for me was just how comfortable and portable the DDJ-REV1 was. Even with it being a lower priced controller, I didn't feel like there were things I was sacrificing when transferring over to DJ'ing on it. Everything I can do on my main setup, I can do on the DDJ-REV1 without missing out on any effects, loop functionality or even the ability to perform scratch routines. Another important aspect is the fact that the microphone input is mixed into the master of the controller. Typically on lower priced controllers, you'll need to get a sound card to properly use the microphone for things like livestreaming or recording. The REV1 already does that for you so you are literally able to just plug and play! I do wish that the volume controls for the microphone were located in a more convenient spot where you can see exactly where the knob is located. 

Another huge feature is the Tracking Scratch feature which will activate the crossfader to perform cuts for you while you move the platter. It basically simulates crab scratches, transformers, and flares to teach you exactly how to scratch when you do get used to the crossfader. It's the perfect training tool for people wanting to learn to scratch as that is the piece most beginners struggle with. 

If you're a beginner DJ that is looking to get into the world of Scratching and Open Format mixing; then I definitely think that the DDJ-REV1 is the perfect tool for you. It offers the training tools you'll need properly learn how to perform scratches with the crossfader and would make the transition to a full turntable/mixer set up that much easier. The controller also is Serato DJ Lite compatible and you are even able to upgrade it to Serato DJ Pro. With both programs you are able to use Serato Stems without any issues!