Expanding it’s Serato DJ software controller family, Pioneer has introduced the DDJ-SZ, which it considers its “flagship model.” The controller emulates the look of Pioneer’s CDJs and is designed for DJs who are looking for all the top-of-the-line features associated with Pioneer’s products in an all-in-one setup. 35% bigger than the popular DDJ-SX, the DDJ-SZ contains several new features such as bigger JOG wheels, large multi-color performance pads, a DJM style mixer, dual USB ports, a MAGVEL cross fader, and much more.
The most apparent upgrade on the DDJ-SZ are the new 8.1-inch JOG wheels, the same size as on Pioneer’s CDJ players. The larger wheels make accurate mixing and scratching easier, and the wheels' resistances are adjustable to the user’s preferences. The “ON JOG” display shows playback status, cue points, and position.
Located directly below the JOG wheels are four effects buttons – HOT CUE, ROLL, SLICER, and SAMPLER. Under these buttons are eight large performance pads, illuminated with different colors, that can be used to insert modified effects into music. In Sampler mode, the volume of the sampler effect varies depending on how hard the user presses the pad.
Two USB ports on the DDJ-SZ allow the DJ to simultaneously connect two computers that can be switched seamlessly.
The mixing area is based on Pioneer’s DJM series, with several different controls and effects including the new Oscillator functions (noise, siren, cymbal, and horn), as well as Sound Color FX (pitch, jet, echo, and filter).
The MAGVEL cross fader allows for extremely smooth transitions and high durability between the players using a contact-free magnetic system that is designed to withstand more than 10 million operations. The cross fader’s “cut in” time can also be customized.
The DDJ-SZ will be available in March 2014 for a suggested price of $1,999.