ReviewFinder DJ Controllers

Pioneer DDJ-400

TLDR: The Pioneer DDJ-400 DJ Controller is a user-friendly and versatile device that is perfect for beginner to intermediate DJs who want to learn the basics of DJing and for professionals who want a streamlined and efficient workflow.
Ranking:  
Consumer sentiment:
In comparison:
Pioneer DDJ-400 rank #2 out of 85. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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9.7
Amazing

The product receives amazing reviews on average (consumer score 9.7). This is slightly above the median dj controller score of 8.3.

About consumer score

Price:
We currently don't have any recent price information for Pioneer DDJ-400, so we can't determine how its cost ranks in comparison to other DJ Controllers.
  • Lowest price: $55.55
  • Median price: $379.99
  • Highest price: $2898
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ReviewFinder: reviews, prices and alternatives summarized by a powerful AI engine.

Expert consensus

The Pioneer DDJ-400 DJ Controller is a user-friendly and versatile device that is perfect for beginner to intermediate DJs who want to learn the basics of DJing and for professionals who want a streamlined and efficient workflow.

The Pioneer DDJ-400 DJ Controller is a lightweight and compact device that is perfect for beginner to intermediate DJs who want to learn the basics of DJing. It has a user-friendly interface with a layout that mimics that of a club-standard CDJ and mixer, making it easy for beginners to get started and learn the basics of DJing.

The controller has a professional layout with active looping and cue controls placed at the top, and the mixer section is equipped with a 3-band equalizer, filter control knobs, faders, a crossfader, and navigation and download buttons. The DDJ-400 also has 32 performance pads and several knobs and faders for customization, making it a more streamlined and efficient workflow for professional DJs.

The tutorial feature is excellent for beginners getting to grips with DJing. The Pioneer DDJ-400 is considered to be an excellent entry-level device that will help users easily master the interface of the world's most common professional DJM and CDJ equipment. It is perfect for beginners who want to learn the basics of DJing and for professionals who want a streamlined and efficient workflow.

The Pioneer DDJ-400 is a versatile and reliable DJ controller that is suitable for a wide range of users, and it is highly compatible with a variety of software and operating systems. It is a great choice for DJs who need a controller that can handle frequent gigs and performances, and it is easy to transport, making it ideal for mobile DJs.

Features

The Pioneer DDJ-400 DJ Controller is a user-friendly and efficient option for beginner to intermediate DJs with basic effects and easy connectivity to various audio sources.

The Pioneer DDJ-400 DJ Controller is a suitable option for beginner to intermediate DJs with its 2 channels, built-in mixer section, and standard mixing features. It offers basic effects such as delay, echo, reverb, flanger, and filter, but lacks deeper effects control compared to higher-end controllers.

The DDJ-400 has two RCA inputs, one 1/4 inch microphone input, and a USB output for connection to a computer, making it easy to connect devices such as turntables, CDJs, and other audio sources. The controller has a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate and access the various features and functions, with the functions right on the central mixer for easier access.

The tutorial feature is excellent for beginners getting to grips with DJing. Overall, the Pioneer DDJ-400 is a suitable option for beginner to intermediate DJs looking for a user-friendly and efficient mixing experience.

How many channels does the Pioneer DDJ-400 have and how does this impact the user's mixing and track transitioning capabilities?

The Pioneer DDJ-400 DJ Controller has 2 channels. This means that the user can mix and transition between two tracks at a time. While this may limit the user's capabilities compared to controllers with more channels, it is still a suitable option for beginner to intermediate DJs. According to DjingPro, the DDJ-400 has a built-in mixer section with all the standard mixing features you would expect from Pioneer DJ controller product range. The 3-band EQ along with the dedicated high, medium, and low pass filter gives DJs the essentials to EQ tracks for mixing and transitions. Additionally, the controller has bright LED level meters to monitor amplitude levels, and trim knobs at the top so DJs can regulate the volume levels efficiently, providing a user-friendly and efficient mixing experience.
Based on 6 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

What types of effects are available on the Pioneer DDJ-400 and how do they differ in terms of quality and versatility?

The Pioneer DDJ-400 offers basic effects such as delay, echo, reverb, flanger, and filter. However, according to Music Radar, the DDJ-400 lacks deeper effects control, which means that the quality and versatility of effects are limited compared to higher-end controllers. If you're looking for more advanced and versatile effects, you might want to consider a higher-end controller such as the Pioneer DDJ-1000 or Native Instruments S4 Mk3.

How many inputs and outputs does Pioneer DDJ-400 have and what types of devices can be connected to it?

The Pioneer DDJ-400 has two channels with two RCA inputs and one 1/4 inch microphone input. It also has a USB output for connection to a computer. The DDJ-400 has a 1/8 inch and 1/4 inch headphone jack for monitoring and a direct RCA output and 1/8 inch output for connection to speakers. This means that you can connect devices such as turntables, CDJs, and other audio sources to the controller for mixing and DJing.
Based on 2 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

How easy is it to navigate and access the various features and functions of the Pioneer DDJ-400 controller?

According to reviews on Home DJ Studio and thedjplanet.com, the Pioneer DDJ-400 has a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate and access the various features and functions. Additionally, the Home DJ Studio review notes that the controller has the functions right on the central mixer for easier access, making it more natural when you are in the middle of a transition and want to layer in some extra FX. The controller also has a tutorial feature that is excellent for beginners getting to grips with DJing, according to a review on DjingPro.
Based on 15 quotes from 7 sources [show quotes and sources]

User interface

The Pioneer DDJ-400 is a user-friendly entry-level DJ controller with a professional layout, active looping and cue controls, a mixer section with a 3-band equalizer and filter control knobs, 32 performance pads, and a tutorial feature for beginners.

The Pioneer DDJ-400 has a user-friendly interface with a layout that mimics that of a club-standard CDJ and mixer, making it great for beginner DJs who want to learn the basics of DJing. The controller has a professional layout with active looping and cue controls placed at the top, a mixer section equipped with a 3-band equalizer, filter control knobs, faders, a crossfader, and navigation and download buttons.

The controller has 32 performance pads and several knobs and faders for customization, making it a more streamlined and efficient workflow for professional DJs. The DDJ-400 also has a tutorial feature that is excellent for beginners getting to grips with DJing, as the tutorials are intuitive and easy to understand.

Overall, the Pioneer DDJ-400 is considered to be an excellent entry-level device that will help users easily master the interface of the world's most common professional DJM and CDJ equipment.

How are the buttons and knobs arranged on the Pioneer DDJ-400?

According to product reviews on djplayit.com and DjingPro, the Pioneer DDJ-400 has a layout with buttons and knob placement similar to a club-standard deck, with the same basic layout for its buttons, knobs, loops, and effects dedicated areas as the top-of-the-line Nexus CDJs. The set-up is designed to emulate a professional controller, and the active looping and cue controls are placed at the top, while the mixer section is equipped with a 3-band equalizer, filter control knobs, faders, as well as a crossfader and navigation and download buttons.
Based on 15 quotes from 8 sources [show quotes and sources]

Is the layout of Pioneer DDJ-400 more beginner-friendly compared to other controllers?

According to the product reviews in our database, the layout of Pioneer DDJ-400 is designed to mimic the layout of club-standard decks, making it great for DJs already accustomed to a traditional CDJ and mixer layout or those wanting to eventually buy an expensive rig like this. It has a professional layout, though made for beginners, it has one of the most natural professional paths. The Pioneer DDJ-400 is one of the new and improved entry-level controllers from Pioneer DJ that clearly aims at beginner DJs looking to learn their basic DJing craft.
Based on 17 quotes from 7 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the number of buttons and knobs available for customization on the Pioneer DDJ-400 controller?

The Pioneer DDJ-400 controller has 8 small performance pads with pad mode buttons, a pitch fader, a loop section, 3-band EQs, trim pots, filters, volume faders, a crossfader, and a DJM-style beat FX section. Each deck also has 8 rubber pads with beat loop, keyboard, hot cue, beat jump, key shift, pad fx1, pad fx2, and sampler modes. So, in total, there are 32 performance pads and several knobs and faders for customization.
Based on 9 quotes from 7 sources [show quotes and sources]

Which features of the Pioneer DDJ-400 make it a more streamlined and efficient workflow for professional DJs?

The Pioneer DDJ-400 has a club-style layout with buttons and knob placement similar to that of a club-standard CDJ and mixer, making it great for DJs already accustomed to this layout, or those wanting to eventually buy an expensive rig like this. According to Home DJ Studio, the Pioneer DDJ-400 has all the functions on the central mixer, which makes it easier to access and more natural when you are in the middle of a transition and want to layer in some extra FX. Additionally, the DDJ-400 has a tutorial feature that is excellent for beginners getting to grips with DJing, as the tutorials are intuitive and easy to understand, according to DjingPro. Overall, the Pioneer DDJ-400 is considered to be an excellent entry-level device that will help you easily master the interface of the world's most common professional DJM and CDJ equipment, according to TheDJPlanet.com.
Based on 11 quotes from 6 sources [show quotes and sources]

Build quality

The Pioneer DDJ-400 DJ Controller is a lightweight and durable option for beginner and intermediate DJs, but may not be suitable for professional DJs who require a more heavy-duty controller.

The Pioneer DDJ-400 DJ Controller is primarily constructed of plastic, which makes it ultra-lightweight. However, the build quality of the DDJ-400 is strong and solid, and the material used does not feel cheap or toy-like. The buttons, pads, faders, and knobs are of good quality and respond well.

The overall durability of the DDJ-400 is good, and the material used does not seem to be a significant factor affecting its durability. While certain parts may break easily with misuse, with good care, the DDJ-400 can last for several years. This makes it a great option for beginner and intermediate DJs who are looking for a solid and reliable controller that is easy to transport.

However, for professional DJs who require a more heavy-duty controller for frequent use, the DDJ-400 may not be the best option.

What materials are used in the construction of Pioneer DDJ-400?

The Pioneer DDJ-400 DJ Controller is primarily constructed of plastic, which makes it ultra-lightweight. According to product experts from DJ Tech Reviews, RecordCase, djtechzone.com, and gemtracks.com, the DDJ-400 is built solidly, and the feel of the material is not cheap. The buttons, pads, faders, and knobs are of good quality and respond well.
Based on 10 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]

How does the material used in Pioneer DDJ-400 affect its overall durability?

The Pioneer DDJ-400 is built primarily with plastic construction, which makes it ultra-lightweight. According to several product reviews, the build quality of the DDJ-400 is strong and solid, and the material used does not feel cheap or toy-like. However, certain parts may break easily with misuse, as noted by a review on djplayit.com. Generally, with good care, the DDJ-400 can last for several years. So, the overall durability of the DDJ-400 is good, and the material used does not seem to be a significant factor affecting its durability.
Based on 12 quotes from 7 sources [show quotes and sources]

Size and portability

The Pioneer DDJ-400 is a lightweight and compact DJ controller that is easy to transport, making it ideal for new DJs who want to carry it anywhere.

The Pioneer DDJ-400 is a lightweight and compact DJ controller that is easy to transport, making it ideal for new DJs who want to carry it anywhere, be it to a friend's house or to a gig. It has a small footprint and is made of rugged and durable plastic construction that can hold up well against wear and tear.

While it does not come with a carrying case or bag, it is recommended to get one if the DJ wishes to carry it around frequently. The small size and weight of the Pioneer DDJ-400 make it easy to transport to gigs or at a friend's house, and it is also lightweight and small enough to be transported in a big backpack or small duffel bag, making it ideal for mobile DJs with as little as an iPad.

Overall, the Pioneer DDJ-400 is a portable and convenient controller for gigging and home studio setups.

What are the dimensions and weight of the Pioneer DDJ-400?

The Pioneer DDJ-400 has dimensions of 482.0 × 272.4 × 58.5 mm (WxDxH) and weighs 2.1 kg, according to the official Pioneer DJ website.
Based on 7 quotes from 6 sources [show quotes and sources]

How easy is it to transport the Pioneer DDJ-400?

According to various product reviews on ReviewFinder, the Pioneer DDJ-400 is lightweight and has a small footprint, making it easy to transport. It is ideal for new DJs who want to carry it anywhere, be it to a friend's house or to a gig. The plastic construction is rugged and durable, which can hold up well against wear and tear. However, it is best to get a bag or flight case if the DJ wishes to carry it around frequently.
Based on 17 quotes from 7 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Pioneer DDJ-400 come with a carrying case or bag for convenient transportation?

No, it does not come with a carrying case or bag. However, it is recommended to get a bag or flight case if you wish to carry it around. According to gemtracks.com, the controller is lightweight, making transportation easy, and you can easily carry it anywhere you want to go to, be it to a friend's house or to a gig. Some sources also suggest that the plastic construction is rugged enough to hold up well against wear and tear during transportation.
Based on 12 quotes from 7 sources [show quotes and sources]

How does the size and weight of Pioneer DDJ-400 affect its usability during a performance or gig?

According to product experts, the small size and weight of Pioneer DDJ-400 make it easy to transport to gigs or at a friend's house. It is also lightweight and small enough to be transported in a big backpack or small duffel bag, making it ideal for mobile DJs with as little as an iPad. The compact size of the Pioneer DDJ-400 also means that it won't dominate your home DJ studio, making it ideal for new DJs who don't want a controller that will take up too much space. Overall, the size and weight of the Pioneer DDJ-400 make it a portable and convenient controller for gigging and home studio setups.
Based on 16 quotes from 8 sources [show quotes and sources]

Compatibility

The Pioneer DDJ-400 is a versatile and compatible DJ controller that works with a variety of software and operating systems.

The Pioneer DDJ-400 is a highly compatible DJ controller that works with a variety of software and operating systems. It comes with the Rekordbox DJ software, which is included for both Mac and PC users. The controller is also compatible with other popular DJ software such as Virtual DJ, Traktor, and Serato.

This makes it a versatile option for DJs who prefer different software programs. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, the Pioneer DDJ-400 is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and compatible DJ controller.

Which software is compatible with Pioneer DDJ-400?

According to product reviews on DjingPro, djplayit.com, gemtracks.com, beatmatchguru.com, and RecordCase, the Pioneer DDJ-400 is compatible with the Rekordbox DJ software, which comes included with the controller. Additionally, the controller is compatible with other popular software such as Virtual DJ, Traktor, and Serato, according to djplayit.com.
Based on 7 quotes from 6 sources [show quotes and sources]

What operating systems is Pioneer DDJ-400 compatible with?

The Pioneer DDJ-400 is compatible with both Mac and PC operating systems. According to a product review on djplayit.com, a premium Rekordbox key is included for both Mac and PC users. Additionally, the controller is also compatible with other popular DJ software such as Virtual DJ, Traktor, and Serato.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Expert Reviews

There are people on the Internet whose job is to review products. Below are their opinions.

Expert reviews [15]

210
Total expert reviews: 15
  • with a score: 4
  • without a score: 11
Highest score by Digital DJ Tips
560
Average score based on 15 reviews
210
Lowest score by djplayit.com
64

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20

Best Alternatives

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The Traktor Kontrol S2 DJ Controller is a well-designed and feature-rich two-channel controller suitable for beginner and professional DJs, with a club-standard layout, smooth and accurate physical controls, and compatibility with both Mac and Windows operating systems. The Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 DJ Controller is a versatile and user-friendly option suitable for both beginner and intermediate DJs, offering a wide range of effects and compatibility with various devices and software options. The Pioneer DJ XDJ-RR is a versatile and user-friendly DJ controller that offers a range of features to enhance your DJ performance, making it suitable for both beginners and professionals.
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DJ Controllers above are offered because they are in the same price range as Pioneer DDJ-400. To browse more budget and premium dj controllers go to our dj controller ranking .

Position in ranking

We maintain a monthly ranking that sums up expert recommendations for all DJ controllers.

Rank Change Price DJ Controller
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MSpot
LandR
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Music Radar
Equipboard
Music Critic
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1
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Traktor Kontrol S2
The Traktor Kontrol S2 DJ Controller is a well-designed and feature-rich two-channel controller suitable for beginner and professional DJs, with a club-standard layout, smooth and accurate physical controls, and compatibility with both Mac and Windows operating systems.
5
1
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3
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12
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- $299
Pioneer DDJ-FLX4
The Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 DJ Controller is a versatile and user-friendly option suitable for both beginner and intermediate DJs, offering a wide range of effects and compatibility with various devices and software options.
1
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1
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9
3
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Pioneer DDJ-400
The Pioneer DDJ-400 DJ Controller is a user-friendly and versatile device that is perfect for beginner to intermediate DJs who want to learn the basics of DJing and for professionals who want a streamlined and efficient workflow.
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2
4
-
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3
-
-
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4
- $1049
Pioneer DJ XDJ-RR
The Pioneer DJ XDJ-RR is a versatile and user-friendly DJ controller that offers a range of features to enhance your DJ performance, making it suitable for both beginners and professionals.
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1
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ReviewFinder ranks based on a combination of customer reviews, expert reviews / mentions and popularity. Expert recommendations carry the highest weight in the ranking. We do not rank based on price, our commission or brand. dj controllers below are at the top of our ranking this March.

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Traktor Kontrol S2 Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 Pioneer DDJ-400 (this item) Pioneer DJ XDJ-RR
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Traktor Kontrol S2 rank #1 out of 97. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 rank #2 out of 97. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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Pioneer DDJ-400 rank #3 out of 97. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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The Traktor Kontrol S2 DJ Controller is a well-designed and feature-rich two-channel controller suitable for beginner and professional DJs, with a club-standard layout, smooth and accurate physical controls, and compatibility with both Mac and Windows operating systems. The Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 DJ Controller is a versatile and user-friendly option suitable for both beginner and intermediate DJs, offering a wide range of effects and compatibility with various devices and software options. The Pioneer DDJ-400 DJ Controller is a user-friendly and versatile device that is perfect for beginner to intermediate DJs who want to learn the basics of DJing and for professionals who want a streamlined and efficient workflow. The Pioneer DJ XDJ-RR is a versatile and user-friendly DJ controller that offers a range of features to enhance your DJ performance, making it suitable for both beginners and professionals.
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ReviewFinder: reviews, prices and alternatives summarized by a powerful AI engine.