Denon DJ Prime 4 Review & Demo - Is this the end of laptop DJing?

[@corneromme8735]

It’s actually really sad how Denon DESTROYS Pioneer gear in every single way, but people still choose outdated, overpriced gear like the XDJ RX2 simply because Pioneer is “club standard”. CMON people we have to break this monopoly position of Pioneer so that they are forced to innovate and lower their ridiculous prices. Well done Denon, I’m leaving Pioneer behind and gonna buy the Prime 4 tomorrow. R.I.P. Pioneer

[@digitaldjtips]

They certainly both have their diehard fans :)

[@MonstaMunch101]

@@digitaldjtips I'm not a diehard fan of either. Denon has more features but lower quality. To me it's that simple.

[@hollywoodthedj1673]

I totally agree with you on that!

[@jesperweiss9029]

@@hollywoodthedj1673 the dealbreaker for me is the tiny jogwheels. I really think denon dropped the ball completely. Way too easy for pioneer to just slab on a pair of 7" jogwheels and then outpeform the denon system.

[@MentalBlue]

Yes youre right. This Prime 4 gear has everything I ever wanted to have on my DJ controller / standalone all-in-one gear. No doubt. I would buy it tomorrow. Yet I am still hesitating. Why? ... well I simply would like to have the same logic and workflow in my hands and habit of my workflow routine when I am not using my controller on stage but using the Pioneer players in a club or stage. Otherwise, I could not find one thing that's bad on PRIME 4 since it has more of features than I would probably ever need. Except that, Denon has a bad policy and conditions for local distributors in Europe for example. For example, in my country, they even do not exist as a distributor and after talking with some Pioneer distributors they explained that the volume of sales in units per year, makes Denon standing so small in comparison with high volume orders of Pioneer equipment. So when distributors who live from sales f music gear, are choosing a brand that makes money ... then it is clearly Pioneer. I am ecen not able to try this PRIME 4 device to get a feeling under my hands and make the decision to buy. Denon has to make better channel management and distributor deals to make this great gear stand out and make any difference on the market. Otherwise, Pioneer will stay the leader. No doubt.

[@GBGOLC]

I started DJing in1987 with my first Technics SL1210s. I’m now looking on KZbin researching equipment for my son, I’ve been out of the game since 1992, and my god, how things have moved on. No limits, really excellent video review.

[@digitaldjtips]

Yes things have changed a lot :) Glad you liked it!

[@rajchoudhury5130]

Im making the dive and going to purchase this. Im a 1210 all day though

[@fantasyproduct1042]

Same here 🙂

[@djjimhorn]

Hands down...the BEST review of the Prime 4!!!! Well done sir

[@batstarmuaz4904]

Agreed

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks Jim.

[@mr.grenade8604]

Digital DJ Tips your reviews are amazing

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks Mr Grenade!

[@Aesop101]

@@digitaldjtips you're a legend

[@johnexpotech]

What an excellent review probably the only one I’ve ever completely watched start to finish. Topped only by a wicked track selection, hats off to you sir!

[@digitaldjtips]

You're welcome John!

[@alphatecmusic8016]

Denon take my money! This is absolutely incredible...

[@digitaldjtips]

Lol :)

[@superlazy3355]

They didn't need to take my money, I willingly parted with it.. And I suggest if you can you do. ITSSOFUCKINGAMAZINGIMAYJIZZ

[@gm1668]

Phil Morse, you are the best Dj reviewer EVER, thank you for this indepth review, I have mine coming in on Monday

[@digitaldjtips]

No problem!

[@dj-peterofficial2753]

Hey Phil! You've probably seen my comments here'n' there by now, and by heart I'm a digital Hardware DJ. Being a full time Dj at 50, 35 years in the mirror, seen and used pretty much every common player that's ever entered a DJ booth. More important, I've used and owned at least one model of every generation from Pioneer since 1994 till now, and probably will until the very end. BUT, very big BUT, this week I finally decided to let one of my younger DJ fellows buy my two CDJ-2000 Nexus, switching those for the Prime 4. Since I got the NXS2 setup, the Nexus's have been my gear to bring when needed. Still working perfect after 6 years of use, but as they are modular, when a mixer is coming along, three heavy cases to carry is not fun when there's a bit of a walk to the venue from where I can park my car. I've been looking at the Pioneer all-in-one units, but nah, after playing on them they just don't feel right for me, nor does the price. But, the Prime 4 has everything I will ever need, and I don't even think it's gonna be too nerdy. Stuff like the pads will not be my thing, or maybe a couple of hot cues at most. The loop knob will do. My head can't remember what a blank pad does in heat of a gig. I need numbers written on them so I know what will happen. I prefer the search instead of beat jump, and that can be the preferred setting if i want to in the settings. The option to have a built in SSD is great, and to be able to update the music directly from my computer is just cream on top of everything else. I'm using folders on my computer which I just import as playlists. All changes and updates are done in my folders, which I then just re-import to rekordbox. This also means that everything I need to do is to import the same folders to Engine Prime and the job is done. I've tested my SSD's with 14 000 RB analyzed tracks on the SC5000 and it works, but not as good as when the music is analyzed properly in Engine Prime. Very little extra work on a proper workstation. Drag'n'drop and play a game... Using SSD's makes exporting even a big library of music a question of minutes. The one really bad thing, in my opinion, is the vertical wave forms. I just can't get my head around it, but for a while, the locked smaller wave forms will do and I'll just cover that part of the screen where things move in the wrong direction. Denon NEED to adress that quickly. One little thing that I'd really like, is if they added the choice to use RGB wave forms. I've kinda gotten used to that. The one thing that they did change to make me not think twice, is the fact that they skipped the mirrored layout which they use on all previous controllers, including the mcx8000. Many of us old dogs just can't adapt to too many changes that is not just optional. Now, I'm off to play on a 11 day cruise, and soon I hope there's a package waiting for me. Maybe I'll write something from a genuin Pioneer gear heads point of view after a few weeks with the Prime 4.

[@digitaldjtips]

Hi Peter! Thanks for the thoughtful comment. "I need numbers written on them so I know what will happen." - One thing you can do is colour code them (hot cues) - Laidback Luke, for instance, uses different colours on his Denon set-up for different types of cue. I'd love you to work with us on a "Prime 4 from a Pioneer user's perspective" piece - drop us an email FAO me if you're interested in doing that (info AT digitaldjtips.com). Cheers - and enjoy your cruise!

[@DaDudeClub]

the parallel waveforms are integrated now with the update, I understand

[@digitaldjtips]

Yes, they are!

[@andersistbesser]

prime has everything i love from traktor. beat jumping the loop rotary.. everything is there i love the whole denon system

[@damelos4039]

Extremely well done overview. One of the best I've ever seen. Thank you! When and if I decide to get a DJ unit, it will be this one.

[@digitaldjtips]

It would be a great choice! Thanks for watching

[@bryantmoss6409]

Phil i happened upon this amazing equipment by accident. Thank you alot for the tutorial. I was basically doing a trial by error thing then my friend sent me your link. One word bro, awesome. Love ya in Chicago!!!

[@DJFITME]

Wish it had bar counter like on nxs2. It is so good feature for live shows if you have to play tracks that you dont remember well.

[@JoeJuts19]

Does anyone know if this has been added yet?

[@keokithedj]

@@JoeJuts19 it has it on the prime go

[@fabz1509]

Got me so pumped after no gigs.for such a long time. Excellent review.

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks!

[@DJDynablend]

That controller looks amazing, mmmm Denon

[@skipsadler8137]

Thank you. I just purchased this on new years eve and i been looking at reviews and tutorials and you are the only one that has covered everything and then some

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks for watching Skip, are you enjoying it? :)

[@wchapman1756]

Quick tip for analyzing on Denon Prime 4. Most of us only use decks 1 and 2 for mixing, leaving decks 3 and 4 for other purposes and housekeeping (Analyzing). Use decks 3 and 4 to pre-load songs that haven't been analyzed. It seems because of the powerful CPU in the Prime 4, it can analyze songs simultaneously. This lets you analyze a crate full of songs by pre-loading them while your main songs are playing, edit beat grids, and other chores. Now they just need a BPM tap to correct songs that have been analyzed by Denon Engine prime incorrectly.

[@digitaldjtips]

That's a great tip, thanks! we agree, a BPM tap would be good.

[@beatriceheinze2294]

Indeed, that is what I'm also always doing: using deck 3 and 4 for analyzing while I'm mixing. Works great! I really love the Prime 4.

[@scottnye3831]

Great tip thanks

[@lebronsinclair8012]

I had a chance to play with the unit last week. It is simply amazing. Only gripe is instant doubles were laggy and jog wheels not having tension adjust was a mistake.

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks Lebron :)

[@InsertFX]

Thanks Sr! Powerful and complete review of this amazing product!!! Thanks to the video I just took the decision of buying it!

[@digitaldjtips]

I am sure Denon DJ will be happy to read that! ;)

[@gevikmanuchahri3955]

i watched this review after almost 3 years,I think this is still the best.if not change my mind

[@churchillcoins8519]

Pioneer better take note because Denon is truly innovating and listening to DJ needs. I will definitely be picking one up once the Serato version is released.

[@digitaldjtips]

It will be interesting to see what happens next.

[@djcvmusic1]

@@digitaldjtips Spoiler: big chance Pioneer will release ''the 4 Decks standalone controller'' their customers ask years before. ;)

[@chrisbleezy2988]

This one won’t eventually be serato compatible? Im legitimately not sure

[@digitaldjtips]

Yes, pretty soon apparently.

[@soundscapes6914]

The only drawback of this unit is that you can't use more than one effect at the same time. that said, this is the best piece of DJ equipment made in recent times. Thumbs up to Denon and of course to you, Phil for this comprehensive review.

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks! So you could use the sweep effects plus the "normal" effects to give you a bit more flexibility.

[@oneiltomlinson]

Only one con. The top of the screen should be flushed in with the rest of the unit. Otherwise this is a forever unit. A unit that doesn’t need replacing for years to come.

[@superlazy3355]

You can flush the screen....

[@superlazy3355]

Ohhhh I see what u mean, did u mean the lil bit at the back that sticks out when laying flat? My bad

[@dukeneukem4747]

Super Lazy hey is it capable of travelingp with on plane as a carry on? (In the case of course)

[@digitaldjtips]

No, it's too big for that.

[@superlazy3355]

@@dukeneukem4747 definitely not!

[@djmayzon]

Hats off to you Denon! This unit is killer. So many great features and easily the best mobile dj unit available. I've always used Pioneer but this makes me want to make the switch!

[@digitaldjtips]

Let us know how you get on if you do...

[@paweldun]

at least and standalone controller. Actually there was one before: a super oem machine , the amreican audio versadeck. Nowadays the only company who still made this amazing machine is SYNQ

[@nigelcollins9793]

Wow Phil that was a massive review well done I notice that you didn't even really touch on the sound switch and stage linq Denon is about to be a real force to reckon with if people can get past there brand loyalty

[@digitaldjtips]

Agreed!

[@18Dummy18ISaid]

I’m still waiting for any of the makers of high level controllers to go back to mirrored decks. I like my pitch sliders on the outside edge of their respective sides. This remains to be the reason I’m sticking with a mid-level controller. I have yet to find a high-level controller that have mirrored decks with long pitch sliders.

[@nicklandovich]

Denon last top controller mcx8000 has a mirrored design. Loved it. Though all the pioneer fan boys cry about it for some reason if they see it.

[@chrischiangmai]

The word you tried to find was symmetrical the current systems are asymmetric

[@martynaslukosius6996]

Thank’s a lot for this review, i was in long way to choose from pioneer rx2 or denon dj prime 4, and now i can say this piece of hardware is amazing, and you helped me to decide, just ordered prime 4 and can’t wait to get my hands on it, thank’u

[@digitaldjtips]

Awesome, glad the review helped.

[@yerahmlee730]

damn pioneer needs to step up their game x1000 rn denon is killing it

[@intelcom4964]

441.00 I don't like the pioneer prices at all

[@itscakeofficial]

I've been rocking a Numark Mixtrack 3 since I first started DJing two years ago. I've thought about getting a new controller for the past month or so, but then I saw this system, and started thinking about standalone systems. The Pioneer XDJ - RX2 looked nice, but this one is just so much better. I'm definitely want to get this for my hardware upgrade.

[@digitaldjtips]

Would definitely be a step up, and it sounds like you've earned it! What is it about this that swayed you, Cake?

[@itscakeofficial]

Ever since I started DJing I was always a Bedroom DJ, using a PC and monitor. I knew if I wanted to start doing gigs, I would need to buy a laptop. But, if I bought a laptop, I would literally only be using it for DJing, so it would be pretty much wasted. That got me thinking about standalone systems. But, I couldn't find a four channel one except for the Denon MCX8000. Then I saw your guys video of the Prime 4 at NAMM. It looked very interesting, but I wanted to wait until reviews came out before thinking about it. So, when this video came out, I saw what the system had to offer, and it's just everything. 4-channel 4 deck controller, all the FXs I could want, the on board hard drive space, the mic mixer, and the stunning touchscreen. It's just perfect. Plus the added feature for deck colors, and artwork in the middle of the platter is such a nice touch. Overall, it's definitely the best piece of DJ I've seen this year.

[@digitaldjtips]

Cool! It's the best piece of DJ hardware we've seen so far this year, too..

[@victorpadilla9444]

Hopefully they can make one with motorized platter.

[@digitaldjtips]

I wouldn't put it past them.

[@digitaldjtips]

Probably versions of all of this stuff are coming...

[@druthedj]

Technically Denon has the SC5000M which has Motorized Platters - www.denondj.com/sc5000m-prime-sc5000mprimexus

[@digitaldjtips]

That's true, although I think he's referring to an all-in-one.

[@druthedj]

@charles wrigley I totally agree. I must say personally I'm not really into the 4-channel parts as I will rarely if ever, do a perfomance with all 4 decks at once so don't really need it, so always wished someone could do a serious 2 channel controller, use that extra up fader space to maybe make bigger jogs or something.

[@TR3NDSETR]

Fantastic review. U covered alot and ill prob watch it again. That said, i just bought a prime 4. Went back and forth between prime 4 , Rx2 and XZ.

[@DJFITME]

Is the fxs quantize ?

[@arnodg1]

yes (just got mine)

[@faraichisvo5230]

You put a lot of work into this. Hugely appreciated, have now subbed, keep up the great work!

[@digitaldjtips]

Glad it helped you!

[@bboymac84]

I hope this gets WiFi for getting tracks on the fly. As a working DJ we get requests or we may want to get a song that we may not have. That is extremely useful!!

[@digitaldjtips]

How cool would that be?

[@ldanzamariastile3536]

i can see them adding wifi on to controllers in the near future

[@imusiccollection]

A wifi usb dongle could do it

[@digitaldjtips]

Agreed, only a matter of time.

[@FUNKYGUY2000]

also bluetooth, wifi and bluetooth would make this unit even more powerful

[@KWEentertainment-x6i]

This controller has all the amazing features. It's only missing a few features 1 is the Tap function 2 is the access to a streaming service. I still use the Numark NS7 III with Serato DJ Pro. I've got really use to DJing with the streaming service Tidal and Sound Cloud. It's so convenient to have any song on the fly. If Denon add this main feature I would definitely jump on board

[@djjimhorn]

Request: could we test mic sound quality with the preference settings?

[@digitaldjtips]

Next time we get the chance we'll add it to our list Jim.

[@makstaz79]

Best darm reviewer of DJ Gear,straight to the point no BS

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks a lot!

[@SteveAldous]

A really good solid review guys well done! I think it's going to be a nightmare for all the technophobes out there, but still a pretty decent piece of hardware. Let's hope the Investment from Denon will improve the software significantly enough to compete in the market

[@digitaldjtips]

There is definitely an element of that, but it is also 1. Universal (they're trying to make it work with anything) and 2. surprisingly easy to get the hang of considering.

[@SteveAldous]

@@digitaldjtips yes I've used the sc5000 and it opens up lots of possibilities, and with the prime 4 even more 👏👌

[@digitaldjtips]

Indeed!

[@andyjamison2831]

I'm a bit of a technophobe but this sounds incredible. I'm making the transition from vinyl and watching many reviews. If I put the graft in and learn is it easy enough to get the hang of once I've Put the practice in like you would with anything new?

[@Keifer-D]

What a great review!! I didn’t think I would watch the whole thing, but coming from the DDJ SX controller, I feel this mimics that controller and makes things so much the same. The transition from the DDJ SX to this would be so easy! I will be looking into this all in one stand alone at my local music shop soon!! Thanks again for the in depth review and walk through of this great product!!

[@Keifer-D]

Just wondering about platter size compared to the DDJ SX. Smaller, larger or the same?

[@digitaldjtips]

At a guess, about the same.

[@djnoitalever9048]

Being in the business for as long as I have been, software releases and intent to “better the software” is exactly what it is until it’s released......vaporware

[@superlazy3355]

Except denon have come thru with all their updates. The even 'Primed' the mcx8000 (which made me cum in my pants.... My software made my hardware even better so.....) I believe they will stay on top of this!

[@cuttinchops]

I would really like to see how faders can/can not be replaced. Not just the Xf Typical inmusic fashion has been to rely on (poor) solder joints of the fader for mounting. I.e. the NS7. I REALLY hope they had a higher standard with the Denon line! If it is easy to replace faders....sold!

[@digitaldjtips]

We asked Denon DJ for you: "Only the crossfader is 'user replaceable'. Replacement of channel faders would require a qualified service tech."

[@VoyageOne1]

Had to rinse my eyes after seeing Pioneer's overpriced abomination

[@djjammindave]

Damn right, Voyage...is the only thing that makes me look at the other side of the fence.... the Pioneer S9 mixer, for example, over price. Two fucking channel mixer, unbelievable. I'm looking at the Denon 1850 mixer to complement my 1200's. I think that because of price, a lot of people buy the cheap Numark Scratch that does the same tricks, except the back spin...

[@dsdlinvestmentltd674]

Brilliant to see the judge on KZbin 😉 brilliant review

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks for watching!

[@theyhateddavid1062]

it's not the end of laptop djing, because this standalone unit is $1700 aahha

[@CastroBlues]

This is spectacular! Thank you for this in depth and thorough review Phil!

[@digitaldjtips]

You're more than welcome Luis. So what excited you the most about the Prime 4?

[@CastroBlues]

Digital DJ Tips the fact that Denon is another contender and pushing the stand alone player territory is exiting! Having 4 decks and awesome looking interface are probably my favorite features.

[@carlcouture1023]

SHUT UP AND TAKE MY MONEY!!!!!

[@kusacubari1867]

great comment ;0)

[@techsavvyhero]

Excellent detailed review! Really cool to see all the ins and outs of this unit. Cheers!

[@digitaldjtips]

You're welcome! What excited you the most about it?

[@techsavvyhero]

@@digitaldjtips The effects, ultrapitch and 4 decks to mix from simultaneously. Also the external hard drive pocket and multiple USB flash drive inputs

[@digitaldjtips]

Agreed! The pitch is really, really good - we loved that.

[@MrDjaremko1982]

good to hear that Denon is investing on more software and firmware team

[@digitaldjtips]

Making improvements all the time :)

[@druthedj]

Nice review! For the first time in a long while, I have my beady eye on Denon. The ability to have an internal hard drive is a game-changer!

[@digitaldjtips]

So what appealed to you the most about it, Dru TheDJ?

[@druthedj]

@@digitaldjtips 1. Definitely the ability to have an internal hard drive, the screen is impressive, gives the XDJ a run for its money. The in-jog display with extensive info is quite good, I reckon everyone should go that route, reduces the need to constantly look at a laptop, nice long pitch faders, the mixer section is quite comprehensive, pads etc. I think they really put in some work into this controller and much respect to Denon for this. I think they will force others to up their game. Just wish the jogs were bigger.

[@digitaldjtips]

I think you could get used to the jogs.

[@mikesimpson7375]

Hey Phil great review. This review was done April 2019...has Denon updated at all as we start approaching 2022 with some of those pieces you were speaking of? I currently run the 1850X Prime as a DVS deck...i was thinking of trading it in for the controller and finally saying goodbye to vinyl. Use serato currently. Have they made many of the advances? I know you can do DVS with this thing by the looks of it...I think.

[@DJLink2U]

Very great review. I would like to see its performance when it's stressed somewhat more: multiple decks playing (>2), some fx on top of it, ...

[@digitaldjtips]

We'll be doing some session mixes with it soon enough...

[@CasperScheringa]

Awesome video! Thank you Phill. Hard to choose between this one and the Pioneer DDJ-RXZ, but I think I'm convinced now

[@keepthinkingmusic]

Excellent review. 18 months later and with the teething issues seemingly addressed, I've just bought one to replace CDJs and Allen & Heath mixer.... Looking forward to getting used to the new changes!

[@digitaldjtips]

Awesome, enjoy!

[@1eyeI]

you had quickly mentioned the key lock Key sync part hope you will include it in another video, in deeper context. Great review even learn more about this controller as I've watch the namm videos.

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks for the feedback

[@chrisscott-mckenzie548]

Big Up Phil, Digital Dj Tips and Denon Dj, Can't wait to blast this player already!!!!!!!!!!

[@digitaldjtips]

:)

[@imusiccollection]

I have watched just about every big and little review on this unit. I have bought one on pre-order and I know with the hands on hardware control for EQ, looping and beat pads and global loop fx and 100% pitch adjust with perfect key lock sound and instant key matching and adjusting. Top FX banks as well as global FX and and the 4 decks all hands on in a fully featured controller with no breakable, crashable "lost your settings" laptop in the way. Just hands on control for everything. So I can get very creative with this! Laidback Luke has great demo of it showing his real DJ techniques on this. Using all the features. A club or DJ can easily be sending out a music signal to a more chilled back room for hanging out. Or even a pumping pre recorded mix. So its definitely a plus for.a promoter that you can DJ for two rooms at the same time. Same for a festival all night or day with a chill place to relax and chat or alternative dancey vibes. I have bought the XL urbanite fabric case by UDG which fits. Its lightweight but still well padded and supportive. Can get a flight case later too maybe. But this one is very good and portable. Also reccomend a keyboard X stand so you can set up anywhere. Also in a club just stick it on top of the pioneers Maybe with some eva foam (like a yoga mat) in between. The Denon conversion utility is great for sorting out tracks on it. So can use whichever software you prefer to use to organise playlists first. I like to use the colour coding cue points in the future for say yellow for vox red for drops. Green for intro, blue for outro etc. I love being able to make playlists on the fly with a quick swipe left to load tracks in the prepare folder or drag and drop multiple tracks for the set ahead into a new playlist. Also love the idea of a completely key matched set using any track! And open format Deejayimg too is awesome on this. And so you can mix with any pitch, up or down on the build ups, dropping into any genre and tempo. Or whatever using fx sync lock on the 100 per cent pitch adjust with the new track matched to whatever speed! Laptops can be so tricky. This is all hands on. And solid to really learn. There will be lots of firmware updates to add multi drive capability for choosing tracks from USB at the same time. But with the built in 1TB ssd that will be easy for.now with 1 drive. They have a 5 year plan for firmware updates. Like it being a Serato controller and horizontal waveforms I prefer vertical cos in line with the channel strip. Or crossfading on the zone out or even auto mix and sync and phrase match and key even? So the hardware is solid and the in built software and extra 3rd party help with denon conversion utility and your own preferred DJ software. I use iTunes for playlists and sorting new tracks first. So you can be as creative an artist as you want even with singers on top and control the M.C Yourself or getting a drum miced up or whatever you fancy. Plus midi can come too with a future firmware update as it's got it's own CPU for the the Prime system OS. Or how about easily fit a USB wifi dongle for streaming spotify. And even change the screen display for video mixing At the end of the day I want to be as creative and in the flow as possible. I like to play 2 tracks with some extra layer tracks on top and maybe a sample track cued to go. And previewing on a spare channel too. And play any genre whenever and mix it up mix it up with 10 trax in 5 minutes! Right now with deCu it is good to go! Now get amazing skills and just mix and enjoy the learning curve. See what you can do with this all in one!

[@digitaldjtips]

I think what'll be really interesting is what Denon DJ does NEXT to improve this unit via firmware, as it definitely has the potential to do SO much more.

[@imusiccollection]

@@digitaldjtips yes definitely! So much power in the processors and passion for the industry shown by Denon D in this Prime 4. Big shake up going on now. Denon is going to get it right.

[@digitaldjtips]

There is also a chance here to buy, forget and just LEARN rather than worry about what gear you're going to upgrade to next. DJing ultimately isn't about the gear after all!

[@imusiccollection]

Yes just like getting a pair of good old technics. Settle on one unit. Gear doesn't make you great. This one definitely makes it easier as all hands on. Practise and getting on with it does.

[@digitaldjtips]

Well said!

[@cameronpatrickscott]

Well that's new innit! I guess with enough time spent, some folks will really groove with it, spoilt for choice these days, still like having the lap top nearby, personally love the traktor software, thanks for the demo.

[@digitaldjtips]

Hope you found it useful Cam, it was stupidly long in the end, but hey, it's an important unit!

[@totes32]

Gentleman absolute convinced now to invest in the Prime 4, thank you.

[@digitaldjtips]

Glad we could help :)

[@arminfatol]

Very nice review, thanks a lot! I'd like to see an audio comparisson of PHONO inputs of Prime 4 vs A&H X:One96 ora X:One92' PHONO input.

[@MrDjwizz]

I’m wish they could add a Bluetooth 5,0 Transmitter for Ease with the new Bluetooth speakers especially for the zone out channel

[@digitaldjtips]

An idea for a MK2 :)

[@RustyOnTECH]

Fantastic, detailed and passionate review. I'm sold. Roll on pay day!

[@digitaldjtips]

Awesome!

[@marklewis5943]

Digital DJ Tips I’m thinking about trading In My Ddj 1000 and getting 1 of these . I want to come away from the laptop . Is this a wise move or stick with the pioneer ?

[@AndreJHoward]

I have an XDJ RX2. If Pioneer wasn't the club standard I would trade in and get one of these. Great review man.

[@digitaldjtips]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@PeteMcGrath1]

Awesome very dense and detailed review. Covered everything.. I want it, but may get the 2 as doubt would need 4 decks :) thanks mate

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks Pete, glad we could help!

[@TAALIIN]

Great review, Good Work Denon!!

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks very much Alejandro :)

[@djblingindustrys6429]

awesome review Phil very in depth looking at maybe getting prime for myself!!!!!

[@digitaldjtips]

so what appeals to you the most about it?

[@tombyrnerocks]

Great video. Really in depth. I'd be keen to find out more about it's integration with Traktor. For instance, how easy would it be to export your entire track collection and bring all your transients, beatgrids, cues, loops and track info across to make it literally a plug and play swap from one platform to another?

[@digitaldjtips]

We have yet to dive into do ing this so in all honesty, can't tell you right now Tom.

[@GTeeStudioz]

Great video….one question. Can you connect a laptop to this and copy music from the laptop hard drive to the Prime 4 hard drive?

[@dwaynekrause4511]

Great review! I am (was) a Pioneer only DJ. This changes the game. I am ordering one today. Can't wait! Seems to be better than the XZ and a lower price.

[@digitaldjtips]

Nice one, enjoy the new kit :)

[@Savage_7_99]

Wish they would make a newer model of this with rgb pads, bigger platters, and a magvel cross fader.

[@digitaldjtips]

Not a bad idea

[@alfkylfalt9184]

Thx Phil! Good review! I’m going with the SC5000M and X1800 but for the future this is a interesting kit!

[@digitaldjtips]

So what swayed you in the direction of the separates?

[@noizyme]

41:09 808 State x Carly Rae? That's a wild mix, haha. BTW, love the idea bc I had to buy a whole new laptop when I ran Serato, when it would randomly crash on my old laptop. Only thing I wish it had was a way to import VST effects like Virtual DJ can do.

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks for watching :)

[@silvijemusic9410]

It's all great, nice and beautiful but I miss the CD slot ... I've been collecting CDs for so many years and then some weird policy of moving CD units from all the players starts .... So sad.. I think that i will stay for a long time on my DENON DN-S3700 with CD drive.....

[@digitaldjtips]

CDs are the way of the dodo these days for most DJs unfortunately!

[@silvijemusic9410]

Unfortunately..It was the same with the vinyl records .. And they survived ... And as Denon shuts down production of its DJ turntable VL12, Technics is experiencing the resurrection of its SL1200 legend...

[@markjames1726]

I originally was using the Denon 6000mk2 Mapped to Traktor Pro2 till I bought an Pioneer XDJ-RX 3 years ago but sent it back for sound quality issues. About 8 months later I bought the Denon 8000 which again I returned due to the awful sound quality when using in key lock as to did a personal friend of mine who I wont Name. So I was back to my trusty 6000mk2 with Traktor on my Macbook Pro. I be honest I said that's it I won't look at another stand alone unit which was why I bought the pioneer and the Denon 8000 in the first place to get shot of the laptop look. This Prim 4 "WOW" after watching this video I'm sold on getting one. Amazing demo by Digital DJ Tips. Yes granted the Engine software needs more work but as you've said it's work in progress. I will add that the same personal friend of mine was invited to see a demo of it a few months back with a few others but was sworn to secrecy.

[@digitaldjtips]

The timestretching software in this thing is definitely next level!

[@markjames1726]

@@digitaldjtips Yes My mate that attended the demo was very impressed too.

[@digitaldjtips]

Yes :)

[@markjames1726]

@@digitaldjtips I have now bought the prime 4 about 6 weeks ago and all I can say is it's the death of the laptop for sure. I'm one of the worlds worst critics when talking of stand alone units but this machine is next level. Granted theres been 4 updates to the OS currently on 2.1. It just gets better and better. I believe there's a real shortage of theses machines in the UK at the moment with a waiting time till next January 2022. Lucky I bought mine when I did.

[@argslash]

This was a great review!

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks, Argslash. So what are you DJing with at the moment? Will you be saving up for one of these?

[@pierrefitch]

Can I use my Akai MPC One with this awesome dj setup

[@juzzonmorris]

Superb review. Great job as always Phil!

[@digitaldjtips]

Glad you enjoyed it, Morris Makes Movies. What do you like the best about this unit?

[@juzzonmorris]

I like the touch screen library & track management feature along with the swipe- to-deck load feature. This seems as though it will really reduce the time to find and load a track while gigging. Track location and load time is a big deal to me!

[@digitaldjtips]

...and don't forget the Qwerty keyboard for those full searches, too.

[@juzzonmorris]

@@digitaldjtips Yes, there are many great features. It was very hard to pick just one. I can honestly say that Dennon offers more bang for the buck than its competition. They however, must get the library folder section right.

[@juzzonmorris]

Wait😮 Did I hear correctly??? No Sampler Section?!?!? Oh, that's right it has 4 channels. No sampler section needed😌

[@imusiccollection]

Because Denon Engine software does not import the bpm from Serato, Traktor or Recordbox, it reanalyzes it on each library and track import and often wrongly analyzes bpm. Check this technical article www.reddit.com/r/DenonPrime/comments/a5iade/full_explanation_how_beatgrids_bpms_and_keys_are/

[@geoffgrove565]

Really great review!! Well explained, clear and concise. What a terrific bit of gear and good enough for me to jump and buy I think. Thanks, keep up the good work!

[@digitaldjtips]

No problem!

[@shawnbashura]

Phil.....as a mobile guy, once this communicates wirelessly with speakers (with acceptable lag), we have a game changer. Imagine.......plop your speakers down, plug em in, sync your controller (with all your tracks) and away we go. We're almost there! (and if battery technology improves.......)

[@digitaldjtips]

Indeed!

[@ARago216]

Great review & overview! 3 questions: 1. When you import a Serato library, do hot cue colors import as well? 2. Can you change colors of the 8 cues on the tracks and do the buttons sync? 3. Does the filter knob have a click mark at the 12:00 position to indicate that you’re back to 0% / default level?

[@digitaldjtips]

1 & 2 not sure without checking, sorry, 3 yes.

[@alanfurlong-drummer4419]

Great review as always, thank you.

[@digitaldjtips]

You're welcome, Alan. So what did you like the look of the most about the unit?

[@DJSigmarMuuga]

one thing that these all-in-one systems are missing is on the fly playlist updates. I am updating my DJ playlists quite often on the fly from itunes when at mobile gigs and dealing with requests. Song requests are harder to manage with these systems, thats why I still prefer laptop + controller.

[@digitaldjtips]

We think this kind of thing is coming for this system.

[@favour1975]

1. Does it connect to WiFi so can stream like you do with Virtual DJ 8 ? 2. Does the search facility pick up any song from your library as long as it is there ? 3. Does the software save your analysed songs and recognises it next time you load up ?

[@digitaldjtips]

1. You will be able to stream via wifi soon. 2. Yes 3. Yes

[@RathOX]

Looking at this vs the XR2 or even the prime go

[@digitaldjtips]

Nice one :)

[@neilthompson4819]

Hey Phil nice review, but I'm after the name of the track your playing 17mins in...

[@digitaldjtips]

Sorry but I have absolutely no idea, and neither does anyone else here!!

[@evagreen08]

PUSH IT UP (Weiss (UK) ELI BROWN :)

[@djbyrdman]

Great review.. After this, I wonder if computer makers will get in to the dj console business?

[@Aves_1]

Please no. I can only see that ending badly.

[@substance90]

Haha, I wonder what Apple might come up with... It'll probably be overpriced as hell though.

[@digitaldjtips]

We'll see Martin!

[@tinyghetsanvong]

4 DECKS MIX - Denon DJ Prime 4 This is what I thought about and wanted the most. There is no need to carry many accessories. We look like we are very professional.

[@Koopakid917543]

The ONLY thing is missing is either one or hopefully two HDMI ports and the ability to play music videos. That being said I have no reason to upgrade to this thing even though I want it and its really cool but it'll definitely give pioneer a run for their money

[@digitaldjtips]

Yes, it definitely isn't set up for playing music videos.

[@alvinleach5506]

Not even while connected to a laptop?

[@tobiaseilers]

Cool review! However, you didn't mention three downsides I have with this unit, that let me stay with the DDJ-1000 for now. First, in theory I could leave my laptop at home when going to a gig, but as a wedding dj I have to deal with spontaneous music request. Therefore I still need a laptop if I want to mix these tracks properly and not running a smartphone on one of the channels. I know that I could connect the laptop with the unit and put the files on the ssd inside or put them manually on a flash drive, which could be a workaround. But the problem is still that I need to have my laptop anyways. One day, these units will have internet connection (the prime 4 already has wifi built in). Then you could download on the unit!! The second problem I have or let's say, feature I miss (as of now) is, that the screen doesn't tell me, which tracks works great with the currently running track (bpm, key, genre, etc). This is a feature I love about rekordbox dj. Third, I often use the sampler features of rekordbox dj. One-Shots and these kind of stuff are not possible with the prime 4.

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks Tobias! fo0r mobile DJs, the solution is to have your full collection on the SSD of course, but as you say, it could be that soon, there is a wifi-enabled way to do this coming for the Prime 4. We agree, a proper recommendation engine would be good (we mention that in the written review). Agreed, a few people will miss the sampler. You could always put your samples of a track and use cue points to trigger up to eight of them, though, say on Deck 4.

[@DJ_THOR_24_7]

I have a question. How do we set que points where you can stop the track and ready up a que point and it not start playing when u hit it and continuous

[@stevenbudd5290]

Awesome Review.. I had already bought this before watching the review....awesome bit of kit..

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks for watching :)

[@ALLENNEWLIN1979]

Knowing how much time you have left on a track is not a feature on all controllers? As a vinyl dj (very rusty) I can’t imagine having to guess how much time is left on a track on these kind of devices. Looking at a needle on a record is the most guessing I could afford. I’ve never used a controller but was thinking of trying it as I want to mix again but can’t find a source for new vinyl

[@k1ngN0rk]

I wish Rane One & Prime 4 had a baby

[@digitaldjtips]

Lol :)

[@JimLigon]

Fantastic review! I was already leaning heavily towards this unit. I have been using the Numark NVII with Serato for almost 3 years now. I would love to get this unit if only for the fact that I can DJ without a laptop. But the features are very nice. The only thing I would miss from Serato would be the sampler but that is a minor inconvenience. Thank you.

[@digitaldjtips]

I think though that as this unit will shortly be Serato compatible, you would be able to also DJ using Serato and your laptop if you wished, in order to keep the sampler.

[@JimLigon]

@@digitaldjtips I'd have to think about that. To be honest, I only use the sampler to trigger drops at this point. I DJ for the radio so I submit an hour long mix every week. I could just drop the mix into FL Studio & add drops that way. It's not that big of a deal. But thanks so much for your feedback.

[@digitaldjtips]

Or you could load the drops onto one of the decks (deck 4...) as one file, and have cue points set to trigger them.

[@JimLigon]

@@digitaldjtips See? That's why we communicate with one another. Good ideas everywhere. I never even thought of that shit. LOL! Thanks, yo!

[@digitaldjtips]

:)

[@djnestle69]

Hello do you think they will get Virtual DJ to be added to the system. I use VDJ in the past years, and I love using it very much. I have to start from the beginning.

[@digitaldjtips]

I doubt it, as this is laptop-free DJing. Virtual DJ may map the unit to work as a controller with it though, they tend to for most new gear.

[@djquikdr]

The only thing I am worried about is a how to back-up your music and playlists from the internal SSD. Ofcourse you can do this manually but this is not how humans work. For instance at this moment I use Serato with a Denon controller but my music and playlists are in sync with my cloud. This way I always have a backup. I wonder how exactly you can manage your music on this device.

[@DruMUSIC06]

GREAT REVIEW sir! Got the info that I wanted. Subscribed. :)

[@digitaldjtips]

Welcome to our community, Dru!

[@kutasimusic]

If i were to choose NOW i might take this over the new Pioneer XDJ-RX2. They cost roughly the same, but the Denon seems like a more advanced/up-to-date system. ALTHOUGH i still have some concerns about Denon DJ as a brand, and not 100% sure if they ever gonna take over Pioneer in the professional scene... I feel that they are trying to do something better, but Pioneer has a big (well deserved) reputation in the business and after this Prime 4 - i am pretty sure - they will give an 'answer'. :) I know they there are famous DJs out there who started to promote Denon, but won't be easy to convince people buying something different if you spend this amount of money. Nice review Phil! :)

[@digitaldjtips]

As I say at the end of the review that's the big question mark. But time will tell...

[@christophersaundersoshea8546]

Phil . Well done mate as this is a full hands how too. I received mine 21 June 2019. The Prime Engine software is so limited its embarrassing compared to pioneer. I look forward to Atomix Virtual DJ mapping which they inform us they will be . Phil thank you .

[@digitaldjtips]

Glad you enjoyed the review.

[@lazarbozinovski3581]

Great review. Seems like it's worth the money. Just one thing is bothering me. You can't play 2-3 effects at the same time.. Not counting the Mixer Fx Section.. Beside that, excellent job Denon.

[@digitaldjtips]

No, but then again that's only the same as say a Pioneer pro mixer.

[@joaquinbenabentos]

I love to see your videos man, kind like an adict to see them in 2x jajajaja. Cheers from argentina.

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks a lot Joaquin!