Algoriddim has done a fantastic job of mapping the controller to work flawlessly straight away. Even the crossfader activates a filter as you sweep across when you select the transition FX. Note you will have to choose the split output in the settings to activate the cue buttons, but this makes complete sense as you wouldn’t be able to cue without the output enabled. Depending on your app and device combo, you can mix sounds via streaming services including Beatport, SoundCloud Go+, TIDAL, and even Beatsource. The DDJ-200 doesn’t feature a microphone input so you won’t be able to use your mic with the device unless you are using an external audio mixer. The conclusion:

Smart DJ Controller DDJ-200 - Pioneer DJ

If you are tight on the budget you might be considering compensating for the DDJ-400 price by buying it used. Keep in mind that there are many risks that come along with getting used DJ equipment. There are innovative features aplenty on the Hercules DJ Control Inpulse 300 to teach beginner DJs how to properly DJ. If you want to learn how to mix, the Inpulse 300 is a better option than the DDJ-200. A long time favourite amongst the mobile DJ community, Algoriddim’s fantastic DJay application (read our review here) is probably best known for its Spotify streaming integration. With Pioneer DJ not releasing the WeDJ on iPad yet, Algoriddim Djay will become the leading contender for using an iPad with the DDJ 200. A set up we enjoy due to the larger screen and magnetic stands currently available. What Equipment Do You Really Need To DJ? – Gear Recommendations Both devices feature only 2 mixer channels. The DDJ-400 on the other hand features a sound card and an RCA output and you will be able to connect your speakers directly to the unit using appropriate cables. DDJ-200 & DDJ-400 output sectionsYou can override this if you need, but it works well, and we never felt the need to adjust it. The app will also analyse and set beat grids required for Sync. Especially with the new phrase sync mode, its essential these grids are correctly set, and we found ourselves having to adjust them on more than one occasion manually. Thankfully this is easy enough to do and takes little time thanks to the intuitive controls. All in all, this is a fantastic little app that brings the best out of the controller! DDJ 200 and WeDJ Application Algoriddim Djay Weighing only 3.75 Ibs. and measuring 75 x 11.5 x 4 (LxWxH)-inches, it fits comfortably on any table-top and can be carried around easily. There are some cool travel cases for the DDJ-200, so you don’t scratch the controller or break it as you take it around with you to house parties. The Pioneer DJ DDJ 200 is an extremely easy-to-operate USB bus-powered controller that’s super compact, lightweight, and cheap; with innovative mobile app mixing features.

DDJ-200 - Pioneer DJ Smart DJ Controller DDJ-200 - Pioneer DJ

DJ controllers are useful for DJs mixing strictly digital, as most support USB cable connectivity. They are lightweight and portable, which is great for DJs regularly on the go. DJ headphones have a dedicated control and are easy to operate. There are dedicated beat syncing and transition FX buttons that integrate directly into the WeDJ app. The DDJ-200 is a unique controller to set up with speakers and headphones. As the controller has no audio connections, the speakers actually connect to the phone, tablet or computer. The included splitter cable allows for both the headphones and speakers to connect to just the one headphone port. Some phones will need a headphone adaptor to connect the splitter cable.The DDJ-400 comes with a Rekordbox software license while the DDJ-200 does not. If you want to use the DDJ-200 with Rekordbox you will have to have it connected to your PC when you use the software (the unit acts as a software activation dongle). While shopping for your ideal DJ controller (this also goes for DJ headphones, speakers, and all your other DJ technology) it’s essential to define your level of DJing proficiency. Lower-end models are barebones with limited creative tools.

Getting Started With The DDJ-200 (2023) - Beginners Set Up Guide Getting Started With The DDJ-200 (2023) - Beginners Set Up Guide

While on the DDJ-200 you won’t be able to control loops using physical buttons, the whole loop functionality is easily accessible from the DJ app of your choice. Overall whether it’s your first DJ controller, you search for a sturdy DJ controller for your curious kid or you want to find some portable gear for mobile usage the Pioneer DDJ-200 will be a great choice. The Pioneer DDJ-200 offers a smart way top mix your music. Connect your smartphone, tablet or PC/Mac and start mixing your digital music. The DDJ-200 is compatible with a wide variety of software programmes and apps, including WeDJ for iPhone, WeDJ for Android, djay, edjing Mix and rekordbox. As basic as controllers get, The Pioneer DDJ 200 doesn’t have the best build that’s mostly made of plastic. What can you expect at this price point? For what you pay, you get a whole lot more than you bargained for. It’s still got the pro-layout and feel of top-tier Pioneer DJ DJ controller. For the simplest connection to your source, go for a wireless, Bluetooth connection. Or, if you prefer to be wired in, simply plug the DDJ-200 into your PC, Mac, tablet or smartphone with a USB cable, or connect to your iPad or iPhone with a Lightning cable and start mixing your music using the compatible DJ software or app of your choice.Our dedicated Pioneer DDJ 200 course is our most comprehensive to date with lessons covering WeDJ on iPhone and Android, Algoriddim Djay on iPad and Rekordbox on a laptop! The Auto Mix feature will take over your DJing duties while you grab a refresher on your drink. I’m not going to lie; I’ve used this feature a few times. You don’t even need to use the jog wheels to add scratches into the mix with the DDJ-SB3’s pad scratch feature. You can add scratches reproduced from the iconic DJ jazzy Jeff’s custom scratch samples. DJs that are green behind the ears, with DJ technology and skills, can form their fundamental skills with the tutorial & “Pop-Hint” features in WeDJ. I’ve been that guy lugging around several pieces of gear from show to show, and it gets exhausting.

Pioneer DJ DDJ-200 First Look - DJ with Spotify and Beatport Pioneer DJ DDJ-200 First Look - DJ with Spotify and Beatport

Bringing together performance features from Rekordbox DJ with brand new streaming options from Beatport Link and SoundCloud, the WeDJ application works seamlessly with the DDJ 200. Within a couple of presses, you are connected, and the inbuilt tutorials are fantastic for beginners. The app features new advanced phrase sync and transition effect mode, which massively automate the mixing process. These won’t be for everyone and only sound good if used in the right situation. However, it’s bound to be a feature that beginners will love to play with. More advanced performance features such as slip and slicer are all included but activated via the screen of the phone.

Depending on your app and device combo, you can also mix via streaming music services. Compatible services include Beatport LINK, SoundCloud Go+, Deezer, TIDAL and Beatsource LINK.