Pioneer DDJ-SR2 Serato DJ Controller Review & Demo Video

Website: djbooth.net/dj-...
The Pioneer DDJ-SR2 is an update to the original DDJ-SR which was one of my top-three favorite controllers of all time for Serato DJ. The DDJ-SR2 has all the good features of the original unit and it adds RGB backlit color pads, XLR Balanced outputs, a Serato DJ club-kit ready soundcard for turntable or CDJ Timecode playback control, and Pitch N Time and Pitch Play controls. It also comes bundled with the full version of the Serato DJ software as well as the Serato DJ Pitch N Time package to get you started. Check out our full Video review and see the review summary below to see if the DDJ-SR2 is right for you.

[@miggy_moto2383]

Just purchased it today....can't wait to get started..!!!

[@jbkahl]

Miggy how you enjoying this unit so far

[@AstarteVX]

Excellent overview, helped me with making my buying decision on a new controller after my SX died

[@thisdj83]

I wouldn't buy the same brand if my controller died.

[@DJDRFUNKJUICE]

This it's really nice controller also bulit soundcard you can hook up Turntables or CDJs this it's dope I might check it out real soon also VDJ just add to the map setting great review. Funkup Salute 💓✌

[@logisticalstyles]

Pitch n Time came bundled with my SR2.

[@RealDJblaze]

Yes, it is bundled!

[@josyulasanshray2936]

DJBooth Pro Audio I think he made a mistake by saying it had to be purchased separately

[@mrpep1976]

Sx-2 or Sr2 ????? Which and why?

[@RADIANTSLUDGE]

Great review as always DJBOOTH.

[@BobbyFreedomDJBobbyFreedom]

Thank you man, mine arrives tomorrow, I was using a Denon MC-4000 which is decent.

[@ClectaSkiMusic]

Great review as always brother....

[@aries24988]

Great review bro

[@DJDUMusic]

Best shirt ever!!

[@RealDJblaze]

Thank you!

[@ofektor1199]

Just got mine really like it!

[@devonhall2101]

does it work with serato pro

[@gtamediaproductions1]

Love your t shirt bud! Thanks for the info on this mixer. 👍

[@kareemthedream6084]

Thank you!

[@edgi55]

A major gripe for me is the non replaceable cross fader, including as you said, the very small pitch sliders.

[@djpredator579]

I like this one

[@seasickbaby]

It's basically the same controller as the DDJ-RR, but made for Serato...

[@reiniersacerio9334]

I’m not a dj but I’m buying this lol

[@Antweezy]

you want to spend $600 but not use it for djing?

[@druthedj]

This is actually not too shabby. I just wish those pitch faders were a bit longer and the decks were mirrored with fader on the outside.

[@RodSKEEZ]

This shit made me get a board. Thank you!🎉

[@kareemthedream6084]

You're Welcome

[@djalerttempo]

I think the crossfader replacement like the DDj SR is the main thing we should worry about problem if it soldered to the main motherboard.Pioneer who not dare do such a thing and it's a upgrade didn't think persons would be curious to find out by disassembling the controller

[@peoelo]

THAT"S RIGHT: first question when considering to buy a pioneer controller: can the crossfader be changed easily? they always get damaged so fast

[@andrewmacdonald7285]

Hoping someone can help here. Just picked up a DDJ-SR2 and trying to get set up. Downloaded all the latest drivers and imported all of my music along with analyzing the files. When I connect to controller to my laptop, on the bottom of the screen I get a “Error: Failed to Connect Audio” message. Can anyone help me with this?

[@RealDJblaze]

Try a different USB cable or a different USB port. Also try removing and re-installing the drivers... Definitely a USB/Driver issue...

[@rickquesada925]

I just ordered mine from Guitar Center for $699.

[@kareemthedream6084]

Great pickup!

[@richardottley4611]

Great video.. I'm planning to get this controller after the holidays.. dope shirt of Rodney Dangerfield and Redd Foxx where can I find that shirt? 🤔🤔

[@RealDJblaze]

Thanks brother! One of my favorite shirts. You can find shirts like these at karmaloop.com and plndr.com

[@CarlosMartinez-rk2bt]

Great review 😎👑👑👑👑👑👑👑

[@Music-vc7mq]

thank you for the information....

[@DJ-Gboi]

Great review...Im feeling this controller...I'll probably still get it lol...but I'm a little upset they didn't include two USB ports... when the price is pretty much the same as numark ns6ii....but they had space to make the pitch faders longer

[@JOEMONTY65]

Do a review on denon mc7000.

[@DjTecniq]

Great review but you never mentioned utility mode where you can tweak advanced settings and functions for the controller. It's all good though I figured it all out.

[@1augh0utL0UD]

Very everything!

[@judiharrison1217]

I am new to DJing and received the DDJ-SR2 as a gift... what laptop fo you recommend for me to store my music on?

[@RealDJblaze]

Any laptop that meets the Serato DJ Pro Specs...

[@judiharrison1217]

@@RealDJblaze thank you. I went with a Dell. But unfortunately the Pioneer ddj-sr2 controller won't connect to my laptop which is a Dell Inspiron 15. It says the hardware is connecting but then it says the hardware failed to connect.

[@4playmusicentertainment650]

If you're a beginner DJ, choose The Pioneer DDJ-RB. Comes with full rekordbox Dj software and cost less.

[@irandixon78]

4PlayMusic Entertainment What about the latency?

[@thisdj83]

Garbage. Go with Roland.

[@joshkeith245]

Anyone have an opinion on the SR2 vs SX2? SR2 looks great but I keep coming back to the SX2. Thanks

[@mangadolo]

Dope shirt!

[@kareemthedream6084]

Thanks!

[@gfrizzleshizzlemanizzle]

Hi! Is this still a dope buy now in 2023?

[@kareemthedream6084]

Yes, this is still good!

[@mamboeyes]

How are you doing Kareem, I'm looking at 4 channel controllers, Need to stay under a grand and close as possible to 500. Been looking at the Numark NS6 2 and the Pioneer ddj sr2. Mostly for home use, I love leds all over, especially on the jog wheels like the DDJ-RZ . Any tips or recommendations would be appreciated. thanks

[@freshkidd23]

Does anyone know if this controller only works with the new version of serato dj pro or can I still use the old one as well. CAs my pro still lags here and there

[@DjWhiteSpider]

icant play with my ddj sr2 without power wire whats the matter just the reverse is glowing red

[@RealDJblaze]

You probably need the power cable for this all the time. I can't remember though as this was a while ago...

[@justynssagan6156]

RekordBox 800, and DDJ SR2, Which is the better control Controller We know the difference in software

[@kareemthedream6084]

They are very similar in quality and use... I would choose the software first then pick the controller. It's a toss-up.

[@justynssagan6156]

@@kareemthedream6084 Which software is better in your opinion

[@kareemthedream6084]

@@justynssagan6156 I like Serato the best personally but Rekordbox is really good.

[@justynssagan6156]

@@kareemthedream6084 A serato better than traktor

[@TheBlackOf1993]

I know there's a way you can increase the tempo by pressing another button and moving pitch slider, so you can increase beyond the 'normal' increase you'd get. Do you remember how to do that?

[@RealDJblaze]

No I do not...

[@kapturebeatsuk]

Hold shift and click tempo/range button below the pitch slider

[@Planes_osu]

I’m torn between this and Roland DJ 707m which you also made a video review for. If you were to choose, what would it be? Thanks

[@RealDJblaze]

I would get the 707 if i was doing more mobile dj shows but i would get the ddj-sr if i am doing more performance oriented shows like scratching and tone play...

[@Planes_osu]

DJBooth Pro Audio thank you

[@lifastorm]

Wish it had a crossfader control knob!

[@videophoto1436]

This controller can be powered by a laptop ?

[@markgordon5462]

it can be powered both externally and by USB to laptop bud!

[@joecreates5958]

SIR, CAN GIVE A DEMO USING REKORDBOX WITH DDJ SR2? THANK YOU

[@2119rocky]

I won’t have to install audio drivers on my computer for my NS7III correct ?

[@RealDJblaze]

Not if you have a MAC...

[@mikejuniorfishing9681]

Does the pad trans fx still on the sr2 like the sr?

[@user-ko4mg3uf4y]

im a beginner i could get the SR2 for a good price 650 Euros but im not sure if its worth over the FLX4 for 300 Euros for a beginner or will this be to compilcated to getting started?? or how does the SR2 compare to the DDJ 800? or should i just get the FLX4 to start with and later upgrade to the DDJ800 instead of the SR2?

[@kareemthedream6084]

The DDJ-800 is a bit better and newer. I would get that for the extra 300 over the SR2...

[@MultiWayland]

I am looking to get this. this will be my first Controller. i am a d.j out of n.y.c for over 35 years ( 1200 mk2s ) over 100.000. 12 inch records. ( what do you think ) ???

[@janik872]

Can you play normal vinyl player with that?

[@jusdef07]

Thanks for the review Kareem. Would you suggest the Pioneer DDJ SR2 or the Roland DJ 505 ?

[@RealDJblaze]

It's a toss up! the 505 has the TRS but the SR2 has better jog wheels/Fader/build quality, but the 505 is not far behind on these...

[@coolo73]

Yeah I'm on the fence myself. The 505 has more features, but i'm concerned about the plastic build quality being less road-worthy. Are the knob shafts for either unit metal or plastic? I could also see the deck switch on the SR2 wearing out if you're using 4 decks all the time.

[@jusdef07]

OK Reem, I went with the Roland 505 for the drum samples. Scheduled for delivery on 11-7-17. Thanks for the reply and vids.

[@marcusvaldes]

I think I'm going with a 505 too. Are you loving it?

[@SuperBubba360]

Marcus Valdes how do you like the 505? thinking of getting 1

[@djflashb]

No central display kills it for me...I need it as a reference instead of looking at the laptop screen to know where I'm at

[@313khari]

djflashb thats not a big deal though

[@coolo73]

Worth noting that the jog LEDs on the SR2 still have a bit of useful functions built-in. They blink when the track is running out, change color to let you know which deck is active and it's volume level with brightness so you don't get confused while switching 4 decks. Also I'm thinking I could probably attach one of those car gooseneck mounts and use a phone running serato remote for a jog display.

[@srreginald1211]

i know i hate that too its a good controller but those led marks are almost set in stone lol

[@phillloyd81]

have to spend a fair bit more for them, not really worth it when you need a lappy anyway

[@djalpha1407]

I have the numark platnium fx and the displays definitely help

[@derrickdenson7451]

Do you think this would be a better buy the the numark ns6ii

[@tjvaughns8212]

Honest Question Kareem. I Tag Team DJ various events using a Denon MC4000 and I've noticed that whenever I am next to a Pioneer Controller (Mostly the SX2) there seems to be a noticeable difference in sound quality. (With the pioneer controllers performing poorly when compared to the MC4000). I am in love with this controller and I love Pioneer's Jog Wheels and the 16 pads. But the sound quality is holding me back. Would you say this controller received any sound quality improvements? P.S: We plug our controllers into an external mixers using the rca inputs and again the MC4000 outshines the SX2

[@tjvaughns8212]

Thanks in advance!

[@tjvaughns8212]

Mateen Davis Thank you for agreeing! I was starting to think my ears were playing tricks on me LOL. So even the SZ has sound quality issues? For the price of that thang... that's CRAZY!

[@djnoy842]

Thanks for this comment. That's why i got the mc4000 instead

[@monteswilliam81]

That’s true denon has way better sound card, I do have both brand and you can easily notice

[@lockout871]

does it have a aux on it

[@RealDJblaze]

It has channel level inputs...

[@justynssagan6156]

Is it better than Pioneer rekordBox ddj 800

[@DjGaffa_Ke]

No

[@DJMilez]

Yes

[@djlilshit1]

Aye my guy I have sr2 but I use Virtual dj and my hot cue and auto loop led lights don't come on, what can I do can you or anybody help me out

[@djreanna9211]

scotty robinson mine doesnt have that problem, try Updating the firmware maybe

[@andrewmacdonald7285]

Hey Scotty just picked up a SR2 and I also use VirtualDJ. Do you know how to set up the headphones? On my SB3 is was very simple but seem to have a hard time with this. Any help?

[@otaju1]

Hi, thanks for your helpful videos. You posted this video in 2017. I dj with Serato SL3, but the pressure from venues that have no decks anymore are pushing me to buy my first controller. Now, that we are in middle of 2019, are you still recommending buying the DDJ-SR2 or are there new updates that are MUCH better ?

[@RealDJblaze]

The DDJ-SR2 is my favorite 2-channel DJ controller for Serato DJ PERIOD!

[@otaju1]

@@RealDJblaze Perfect! Thank you very much for your promptly reply. Blessings.

[@DontStopRemula]

Exactly my same question! Thanks for answering !

[@robertoegg]

roland dj-707m if you're a mobile dj - wonderful investment!

[@Fiycreations]

Is this better than the sx2? And why? Which one is a more club proffesional controller with more option?

[@RealDJblaze]

They can basically do the same things... The SX is bigger and better for 4 channels of mixing. If you are only mixing 2 channels, then the SR2 is OK for you...

[@Jhunjhun45]

do you really the AC adapter to be able to play it? or can it just be powered through the USB cable?

[@RealDJblaze]

This works with USB power only as well...

[@aszeegeorge7594]

Do you need the power adapter for it to work? Or does it work without it as well?

[@RealDJblaze]

I believe you do for this one...

[@pbm9544]

What speakers u recommend with this controller ?

[@kingblack6965]

Rokit

[@c__lovexo]

Hey can anyone please tell me how to connect my speakers to my DDJ SR2 controller? I also need help with mixing/cueing in the headphones. Thanks!

[@RealDJblaze]

Go check out some tutorials on DJ headphone cueing, but for the speakers, you just need to go from you controller to the speakers using either an XLR cable or RCA cable.

[@ShaggyEnterprises]

Is the eq full kill?

[@DjIssaMusic]

Can you adjust the crossfader curve? Is it good for scratchin?

[@RealDJblaze]

Yes you can and its GREAT for scratching!

[@jtrskaos]

how to disable the crossfader on this ddj sr2? there is no button for this

[@RealDJblaze]

You can do it in the software.

[@JayCosta12]

Is there a way I can use the DDJ SR 2 with Traktor?

[@ronyjean1251]

Dj tell me I can't get one for $500

[@djlala]

im looking to buy a controller in a long timr since vestax vci300 ... would you recommend the SR2 over the SX2? ...and i’ve tried the SX2 and is just me or is Pioneer cross fader drop/lower in volume when you turn the cross fader from cutting setting to mixing setting ? I felt and heard the volume lower slightly.

[@RealDJblaze]

I did not notice any issues with the SX2 crossfader... The SR2 is like a smaller SX2, so go with the one you like the sizing of the best...

[@brianrussell5789]

and to answer your question, SX2!

[@brianrussell5789]

Oh and your other question, there is a cross fader knob that you can adjust so that it doesn't fade out as you cross fade

[@marcossantibanes9122]

What Equipment would you recommend if i wanted to makes mixes like Taku's drive slow homie mix ?

[@RealDJblaze]

LOL, any controller will work.

[@DjGaffa_Ke]

2022, should I go for it?

[@kareemthedream6084]

Sure, its still great!

[@kaichyuangan7081]

Dude wanna ask u, the serato dj pro had come and how do I use my pc speaker to play the sound of my Sr2 without speaker, like how can I make my pc as speaker for the sr2

[@RealDJblaze]

You can't... you need to use the SR2 as the soundcard to connect speakers.

[@thisdj83]

You can only do this on Virtual DJ. You go into menu and choose output source. Serato is still a joke.

[@Aldoadk]

Is there an option to reverse crossfader (hamster style) ? The original SR has the switch on the front of the unit.

[@coolo73]

I did some research and apparently the crossfader curve and reverse options are in the serato settings. The SR2 is basically a midi controller with an internal audio interface...NOT REALLY a standalone mixer like Pioneer is advertising. In the SR2 manual it states that if you use it standalone (without a computer connected running the Serato software) the EQs and filter won't work. Huh?!?! You'll probably lose the crossfader settings too. Doesn't really meet the basic functionality of a standalone mixer. Oh well...

[@thisdj83]

Roland 505 and 808 have this feature.

[@jesustirado743]

Do I need a mixer for a mic

[@darvon1982]

Does anyone know any cyber monday sales for this controller?

[@djnet71]

Any new entry...SR3 for example???

[@RealDJblaze]

Not that I know of...

[@djnet71]

DJBooth Pro Audio... meaning?

[@gyalispronav8403]

I want one of this djj Sr2

[@djtaysonmixlogice615]

I have necessities

[@stefantamas1005]

Nice watch! What model?

[@RealDJblaze]

Thank you! It's an AP...

[@celinasmith1148]

Price sr2 please

[@johnsokolowski3201]

Hi im looking to get one used, but they dont know if it has the Serato on it, on here you say on here it is bundled with Serato Software

[@RealDJblaze]

If it is used, then it still unlocks Serato DJ Pro. You just need to download the software and then plug in the SR2 and it will all work perfectly...

[@johnsokolowski3201]

@@RealDJblaze Oh Ok, great, was also looking at the SX3 but I think the SR2 will work just s well for me, mainly only home use,,SX3 be nice, but a little more expensive even used

[@juliochavez3350]

Please help me ddj sr2 or ddj sx2 ?

[@levialston9046]

i have this controller only problem i have is how to listen to my headphone while the other track is playing

[@RealDJblaze]

Click the headphone cue button on the side you want to hear, then adjust the headphone cue section to play only the CUE and not the Master side...

[@levialston9046]

@@RealDJblaze thanks alot u a life saver

[@jeremywilliams3686]

Is the crossfader replace able

[@RealDJblaze]

Sure, if you are not afraid to open it up yourself...

[@ronyjean1251]

can someone tell me how much I can pay for the pioneer SR2 please and let me know the address please

[@therealdjaux5184]

Rony Jean you can purchase from either guitar center , eBay or even amazon . You can look at spending anywhere from about $700-$800 depending on the sales and tax

[@seanvanhorn9115]

$698 AT SAM ASH

[@hypemasterofficial]

Yoh,just bought the DDJ-SR2 with serato pro but it doesn’t play like it turns on but pressing play doesn’t do anything

[@DJGoldblackwood]

Can it used with the serato without it crack ?

[@RealDJblaze]

You don't need to crack anything as the controller unlocks Serato DJ.

[@ferdamusonthebeatz7891]

No way to change the fader style ? Like in the original SR ?

[@DjTecniq]

Ferdamus On The Beatz it’s in the software and the cut lag can be adjusted in utility mode.

[@ferdamusonthebeatz7891]

DjTecniq good looking out bro! Appreciate it

[@tariqali6822]

is the ddj sr2 jog wheel bigger than the ddj sb3

[@RealDJblaze]

Not sure if they are bigger but they are better all around...

[@tariqali6822]

@@RealDJblaze thank you

[@szg46]

Could I use djay pro 2 instead of Serato DJ with the sr2?

[@RealDJblaze]

Not so sure... check their website.

[@isaacsimmerdownrodriguez3618]

Hello, were you able to use this controller with Djay Pro 2? I'm wondering the same thing

[@barreznik4695]

there is beat jump?

[@kareemthedream6084]

I'm pretty sure there is but I don't remember how...

[@marcusvaldes]

DDJ-SR2 or DJ-505.....Hmmmmmmm..........

[@giladshaked131]

Marcus Valdes sr2

[@tylerchambers6391]

Don't buy this it crashes ALOT pioneer doesn't seem to be interested in fixing the problem either

[@teamheadshot101]

Hey Kareem, are you able to connect another controller & laptop to one of the outputs on this controller?

[@jesustirado743]

On the controller

[@daymeongartrell4809]

Is there a review on the new Rane 72?

[@RealDJblaze]

It doesn't even work yet, lol... Soon enough tho.

[@djvalpacinolewis5315]

Crossfader Curve ??

[@lamontmaxwell8617]

Yo, My Shit Be Freezing In Serato. Should i Just Use The USB Instead Of The Power Adapter? Or Use Both? I Swear My SR2 Just Suddenly Stops.

[@tylerchambers6391]

Happens to me too. Should have never have bought this because pioneer has no interest in fixing it or updating the software to change anything

[@LorrenR]

In Haverhill

[@teamheadshot101]

Will this controller fit in a DDJ-SR1 flight case?

[@RealDJblaze]

Yes it will

[@DjTecniq]

It will but it will be a tight fit cause the SR2 is not the same size as the original SR it’s slightly bigger.

[@suspectshot23ballislife6]

Do you have to pay for “Pitch and Play” ?

[@theta808s]

There is a code card included so if you buy it new: yes

[@mbetaudoka1479]

How can i use ddj sr2 with 4 decks on laptop

[@RealDJblaze]

With the deck layer buttons.

[@mbetaudoka1479]

@@RealDJblaze i mean as ddj sr2 is two channels and i switch my serato to 4 decks how can i do it, can you show in video

[@LorrenR]

I want topiooneer

[@lastmanstandingtactical]

Is this good for a beginner? I want to buy it for my son

[@RealDJblaze]

Yes, this is very good for a beginner!

[@lastmanstandingtactical]

@@RealDJblaze My son DJ on his laptop, he really loves it and he is really taking it seriously. I noticed that the good DJ controllers are quiet expensive so I thought of buying a good one so It can last for a long time so I don't have to buy another one anytime soon. So Should I just buy the SR2 or something a bit more expensive like DDJ 1000 or 800? Thank you for your response.

[@rchanell9679]

how can i buy it?

[@youllfigureitoutb]

This or Numark mixtrack pro 3?

[@srreginald1211]

James Clyde i would get this because it will grow as you grow in 2 months your gonna master the mixtrack pro 3