Pioneer Serato DDJ-SX User manual

DJ Controller
DDJ-SX
Operating Instructions
http://pioneerdj.com/support/
The Pioneer DJ support site shown above offers FAQs, information on software and various other types of
information and services to allow you to use your product in greater comfort.
http://serato.com/
For the latest version of the Serato DJ software, access Serato.com and download the software from there.

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FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This
device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation.
Product Name: DJ Controller
Model Number: DDJ-SX
Responsible Party Name: PIONEER ELECTRONICS (USA) INC.
SERVICE SUPPORT DIVISION
Address: 1925 E. DOMINGUEZ ST. LONG BEACH, CA 90810-1003, U.S.A.
Phone: [phone]
URL: http://www.pioneerelectronics.com
D8-10-4*_C1_En
For US customer only
Information to User
Alterations or modifications carried out without appropriate authorization may invalidate the user’s right to operate
the equipment.
D8-10-2_A1_En
CAUTION
This product satisfies FCC regulations when shielded cables (with Ferrite-cores attached) and connectors are used
to connect the unit to other equipment. To prevent electromagnetic interference with electric appliances such as
radios and televisions, use shielded cables (with Ferrite-cores attached) and connectors for connections.
D8-10-3b_A1_En
NOTE:
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15
of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on,
the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
— Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
— Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
— Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
— Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. D8-10-1-2_A1_En

3
En
Contents
How to read this manual
!Thank you for buying this Pioneer product.
Be sure to read both this leaflet and Read Before Use (Important)/
Quick Start Guide! Both documents include important information
that you must understand before using this product.
For instructions on obtaining the Serato DJ software’s manual, see
Acquiring the manual (p.31).
!In this manual, names of screens and menus displayed on the prod-
uct and on the computer screen, as well as names of buttons and
terminals, etc., are indicated within brackets. (e.g.: [CUE] button,
[Files] panel, [MIC1] terminal)
!Please note that the screens and specifications of the software
described in this manual as well as the external appearance and
specifications of the hardware are currently under development and
may differ from the final specifications.
!Please note that depending on the operating system version, web
browser settings, etc., operation may differ from the procedures
described in this manual.
This manual consists mainly of explanations of functions of this unit as
hardware. For detailed instructions on operating the Serato DJ soft-
ware, see the Serato DJ software manual.
!The Serato DJ software manual can be downloaded from “Serato.
com”. For details, see Downloading the Serato DJ software manual
(p. 31).
!The latest version of these operating instructions can be down-
loaded from the Pioneer support site. For details, see Downloading
the latest version of these operating instructions (p.31).
Before start
Features....................................................................................................... 4
What’s in the box ........................................................................................ 5
About the AC adapter................................................................................. 5
Installing the software................................................................................ 6
About the driver software and setting utility software............................. 8
Connections and part names
Connections ................................................................................................ 9
Part names and functions ....................................................................... 11
Basic Operation
Connections .............................................................................................. 16
Starting the system................................................................................... 18
Quitting the system .................................................................................. 21
Advanced Operation
Using the performance pads................................................................... 22
Using the slip mode.................................................................................. 23
Using the dual deck mode....................................................................... 24
Using the channel fader start function................................................... 25
Using the sampler velocity mode............................................................ 25
Analyzing tracks........................................................................................ 25
Utility settings ........................................................................................... 25
Using external inputs ............................................................................... 27
Additional information
Troubleshooting........................................................................................ 29
Block Diagram .......................................................................................... 31
Acquiring the manual .............................................................................. 31
Using as a controller for other DJ software............................................ 31
About trademarks and registered trademarks ...................................... 33
Cautions on copyrights ............................................................................ 33

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Before start
Features
This unit is an all-in-one DJ system combining a Pioneer DJ device with
high operability and an excellent reputation among professional DJs
with Serato DJ, a DJ software program by Serato. This unit is equipped
with an control interface optimized for operating Serato DJ. The interface
controls are positioned on a large body with room to spare, so the vari-
ous functions of Serato DJ can be operated intuitively and accurately.
Furthermore, this unit has an internal sound card, so a computer can be
connected with a single USB cable.
“BIG JOG” & “ON JOG DISPLAY”
This unit is equipped with large jog dials for smooth operability, so users
can scratch with the feel of an analog player. There is also an on-jog
display at the center of the jog dial, indicating the track’s playing status
and the currently playing position. The jog dial can be operated with the
feel of watching the surface of an analog record.
“PERFORMANCE PADS”
This unit is equipped with large performance pads allowing the four
functions of Serato DJ (Hot Cue, Roll, Slicer and Sampler) to be operated
with dynamic actions (tapping, tapping repeatedly, etc.). The pads are in
rubber, so they can be operated without getting tired, even during long
performances. When using the Sampler mode, users can select one of
four velocity curves to achieve dynamically inflected performances.
“4-CHANNEL MIXER”
This unit is equipped with a 4-channel mixer for mixing the tracks played
on the four decks in Serato DJ independently. The four tracks can be
mixed simultaneously to achieve even more unique DJ mixes.
Professional Build Quality & Design
Aluminum materials are used for the top panel and jog plate, making
for a design with a sense of solidity and high quality that adds class
to DJ performances in clubs or at home parties. Also, rubber is used
for the knobs and pads to achieve not only a sense class but also high
operability.
“Serato DJ” Supported
This unit supports the Serato DJ software, which offers a great number
of functions required for DJ performances. All of the buttons and con-
trols on this unit are preset to associate them with the software, so DJ
performances can be held immediately, simply by connecting this unit to
a computer. Furthermore, the Dual Deck Control and Slip functions have
been developed in cooperation with Serato.
“DUAL DECK CONTROL”
The two tracks currently playing on the two decks can be operated
simultaneously with a single player interface. This enables performances
using such player functions as scratching and hot cueing with the two
tracks seemingly a single track.
“SLIP MODE”
This unit is equipped with a Slip Mode function by which the sound
continues in the background while such operations as looping, scratch-
ing and hot cueing are being performed. This allows DJ performances
without changing the original track’s development after such playback
operations as looping, scratching and hot cueing are completed.
Flexible Connectivity
This unit is equipped with four sets of external inputs for connecting CD
players, analog turntables, etc. This unit’s 4-channel mixer can be oper-
ated on a stand-alone basis, so the externally input sound can be mixed
without passing through a computer. There are two microphone inputs.
For the outputs, this unit has two sets of master out terminals (one set
of XLR terminals and one set of RCA terminals), allowing connection of
professional PA equipment, and one set of booth out terminals. This unit
supports all types of party scenarios and DJ performance styles.
“LEVEL METER”
A master level meter is provided at the center of the mixer, with chan-
nel level meters positioned near the control interface for the respective
channels. This lets users see the levels of the respective channels as
they operate this unit, for more comfortable DJ performances.
“NEEDLE SEARCH”
Points can be searched for simply by touching the touch pad with a
finger. This makes for intuitive, speedy searching with the sense of
touching the music directly.
HIGH SOUND QUALITY
The audio output circuitry uses a low-jitter clock and high performance
DAC to reproduce the original sound faithfully and achieve clear club
sound. In addition, the sound quality technology Pioneer has developed
with its professional series is used to achieve the industry’s highest level
of sound quality for a DJ controller.

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Before start
What’s in the box
!CD-ROM (Installation Disc)
!AC adapter
!Power plug1
!USB cable
!Warranty (for some regions only)2
!Read Before Use (Important)/Quick Start Guide
1The number of power plugs included differs depending on the
region.
2Japanese and European models only. (For North American models,
warranty information is provided at the end of the “Read Before Use
(Important)/Quick Start Guide” booklet.)
About the AC adapter
Safety instructions
To ensure your personal safety and to maximize the full operating poten-
tial of your unit, read and follow these safety instructions.
Read & Retain Instructions
Read all operating and user information provided with this product.
Cleaning
Use a damp cloth to clean the exterior housing. Avoid using any fluids
including liquid, aerosol or alcohol-based cleaning products.
Water or Moisture
Avoid operating or locating this product near water or other sources of
fluid.
Accessories
Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table. The prod-
uct may fall and be seriously damaged.
Ventilation
Do not block or cover this product in use. This unit should not be placed
in a built-in installation unless properly ventilated.
Environment
Avoid placing this product in a location with exposure to large quantities
of dust, high temperatures, high humidity, or subject to excessive vibra-
tions or shocks.
Power Sources
Operate this product only from the recommended power sources. If
you are unsure of the power source, consult an authorized Pioneer
representative.
Power-Cord Protection
When unplugging the unit, pull on the plug – not on the cord. Do not
handle the cord or plug with wet hands; doing so could cause an electric
short or shock. Do not allow anything to pinch or rest on the power cord
and do not place in a walkway.
Power
Turn OFF the system before installing this or any other hardware device.
Overloading
Avoid connecting too many devices to a single wall socket or power
source as this can cause fires or short circuits.
Object & Liquid Entry
Never push inappropriate objects in to the device. Avoid spilling any
liquids in to or on the outside of the drive.
Servicing
Opening or removing the cover exposes you to possible electrical shock
or other danger. Contact a Pioneer authorized service representative for
repairing this product (refer to the enclosed Service & Support Card).
Damage Requiring Service
Unplug the unit and refer servicing to qualified service personnel in the
following situations:
%When the power cord, plug, or chassis is damaged.
%If liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into the product.
%If the product has been exposed to rain or water.
%If the product does not operate normally when the operating instruc-
tions are followed. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the
operating instructions. Improper adjustment of other controls may
result in damage and can require extensive work by a qualified tech-
nician to restore the unit to its normal operation.
%When the product exhibits a distinct change in performance – this
indicates a need for service.
Check that there are no irregularities with the AC adapter or power plug,
then insert the power plug into the specified position of the AC adapter
using the specified procedure until a click is heard. For details, see
Mounting the power plug on page 6.
If there are irregularities with the AC adapter or power plug, ask your
nearest Pioneer authorized service center or your dealer to carry out
repair work.
!Do not use this unit with a coin, paper clip or other metal object
stuck between the AC adapter and power plug. Doing so could cause
a short circuit, leading to fire or electric shock.
!When mounting the AC adapter on a wall outlet, make sure there is
no space between the AC adapter and the wall outlet. Faulty contact
or a coin, paper clip or other metal object getting stuck in the space
could cause a short circuit, leading to fire or electric shock.
Coin, paper clip or other metal object
Top
Side
!The power plug could come detached from the AC adapter and
remain in the power outlet if someone trips on the AC adapter’s
power cord or if something hits the AC adapter. If this happens,
remove the power plug remaining in the outlet with dry hands, hold-
ing it as shown on the diagram below and without touching metal
parts. Do not use any tools to remove it.
Do not touch.

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Mounting the power plug
Slide the power plug along the guide rails in the AC
adapter unit as shown on the diagram below, then press
in until a click is heard.
Removing the power plug
While pressing the [PUSH] button on the AC adapter
unit, slide the power plug away from the adapter as
shown on the diagram below to remove it.
Once the power plug is mounted, there is no need to remove it.
Installing the software
Before installing the software
For the latest version of the Serato DJ software, access Serato.com
and download the software from there. A software download link is
also provided on the included CD-ROM.
!For details, refer to “Installation Procedure (Windows)” or
“Installation procedure (Mac OS X)”.
!The user is responsible for preparing the computer, network
devices and other elements of the Internet usage environment
required for a connection to the Internet.
About the driver software (Windows)
This driver software is an exclusive ASIO driver for outputting audio
signals from the computer.
!There is no need to install the driver software when using Mac OS X.
Checking the latest information on the driver software
For detailed information on this unit’s designated driver software, see
the Pioneer DJ support site below.
http://pioneerdj.com/support/
About the Serato DJ software
Serato DJ is a DJ software application by Serato. DJ performances are
possible by connecting the computer on which this software is installed
to this unit.
Minimum operating environment
Supported operating systems CPU and required memory
Mac OS X: 10.6.8, 10.7.4
and 10.8
32-bit
version
Intel®processor, Core™2 Duo 2.0 GHz
or better
1 GB or more of RAM
64-bit
version
Intel®processor, Core™2 Duo 2.4 GHz
or better
4 GB or more of RAM
Windows: Windows 7
32-bit
version
Intel®processor, Core™2 Duo 2.0 GHz
or better
2 GB or more of RAM
64-bit
version
Intel®processor, Core™2 Duo 2.4 GHz
or better
4 GB or more of RAM
Others
Optical drive Optical disc drive on which the CD-ROM can be read
USB port A USB 2.0 port is required to connect the computer
with this unit.
Display resolution Resolution of 1 280 x 720 or greater
Internet connection
An Internet connection is required for registering
the “Serato.com” user account and downloading the
software.
!For the latest information on the required operating environment and compat-
ibility as well as to acquire the latest operating system, refer to “Software Info”
under “DDJ-SX” on the Pioneer DJ support site below.
http://pioneerdj.com/support/
!Operation is not guaranteed on all computers, even if all the required operating
environment conditions indicated here are fulfilled.
!Depending on the computer’s power-saving settings, etc., the CPU and hard
disk may not provide sufficient processing capabilities. For notebook comput-
ers in particular, make sure the computer is in the proper conditions to provide
constant high performance (for example by keeping the AC power connected)
when using Serato DJ.
!Use of the Internet requires a separate contract with a provider offering Internet
services and payment of provider fees.
About the installation procedure
The installation procedure depends on the operating system (OS) on the
computer you are using.
For Windows
After installing the driver software, install the Serato DJ software.
For Mac OS X
Only install the Serato DJ software.
Installation Procedure (Windows)
Do not connect this unit and the computer until installation is
completed.
!Log on as the user which was set as the computer’s administrator
before installing.
!If any other programs are running on the computer, quit them.
1 Insert the CD-ROM into the computer’s optical drive.
The CD-ROM menu is displayed.
!If the CD-ROM menu does not appear when the CD-ROM is inserted,
open the optical drive from [Computer (or My Computer)] in the
[Start] menu, then double-click the [CD_menu.exe] icon.

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Before start
2 When the CD-ROM menu appears, select [Install
Driver Software (Pioneer_DDJ_SX_Driver_x.xxx.exe)],
then click [Start].
!To close the CD-ROM menu, click [Exit].
3 Proceed with installation according to the instructions
on the screen.
If [Windows Security] appears on the screen while the installation is
in progress, click [Install this driver software anyway] and continue
with the installation.
When the installation program is completed, a completion message
appears.
After installing the driver software, install the Serato DJ software.
4 Select [Download Serato DJ Software.] from the
CD-ROM’s menu, then click [Start].
5 “An internet environment is required to access the
site. Connected to the internet?” is displayed. Click [Yes].
The web browser is launched and the Pioneer DJ support site is
displayed.
6 Click [Software Info] under [DDJ-SX] on the Pioneer
DJ support site.
[Serato DJ Support Information] is displayed.
7 Click the link to the Serato DJ download page.
The Serato DJ download page is displayed.
8 Log in to your “Serato.com” user account.
!If you have already registered a user account on “Serato.com”,
proceed to step 10.
!If you have not completed registering your user account, do so
following the procedure below.
—Following the instructions on the screen, input your e-mail
address and the password you want to set, then select the
region in which you live.
—If you check [E-mail me Serato newsletters], newsletters
providing the latest information on Serato products will be
sent from Serato.
—Once user account registration is completed, you will receive
an e-mail at the e-mail address you have input. Check the
contents of the e-mail sent from “Serato.com”.
!Be careful not to forget the e-mail address and password speci-
fied when you performed user registration. They will be required
for updating the software.
!The personal information input when registering a new user
account may be collected, processed and used based on the
privacy policy on the Serato website.
9 Click the link in the e-mail message sent from “Serato.
com”.
This takes you to the Serato DJ download page. Proceed to step 11.
10 Log in.
Input the e-mail address and password you have registered to log in to
“Serato.com”.
11 Download the Serato DJ software from the download
page.
Unzip the downloaded file, then double-click the unzipped file to launch
the installer.
12 Read the terms of the license agreement carefully,
and if you agree, select [I agree to the license terms and
conditions], then click [Install].
!If you do not agree to the contents of the usage agreement, click
[Close] to cancel installation.
Installation begins.
The message of successful installation appears once installation is
completed.
13 Click [Close] to quit the Serato DJ installer.
Installation procedure (Mac OS X)
Do not connect this unit and the computer until installation is
completed.
!If any other programs are running on the computer, quit them.
1 Insert the CD-ROM into the computer’s optical drive.
The CD-ROM menu is displayed.
!If the CD-ROM menu does not appear on the screen when the
CD-ROM is inserted, open the optical driver from Finder, then dou-
ble-click the [CD_menu.app] icon.
2 Select [Download Serato DJ Software.] from the
CD-ROM’s menu, then click [Start].
3 “An internet environment is required to access the
site. Connected to the internet?” is displayed. Click [Yes].
The web browser is launched and the Pioneer DJ support site is
displayed.
4 Click [Software Info] under [DDJ-SX] on the Pioneer
DJ support site.
[Serato DJ Support Information] is displayed.
5 Click the link to the Serato DJ download page.
The Serato DJ download page is displayed.
6 Log in to your “Serato.com” user account.
!If you have already registered a user account on “Serato.com”,
proceed to step 8.
!If you have not completed registering your user account, do so
following the procedure below.

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—Following the instructions on the screen, input your e-mail
address and the password you want to set, then select the
region in which you live.
—If you check [E-mail me Serato newsletters], newsletters
providing the latest information on Serato products will be
sent from Serato.
—Once user account registration is completed, you will receive
an e-mail at the e-mail address you have input. Check the
contents of the e-mail sent from “Serato.com”.
!Be careful not to forget the e-mail address and password speci-
fied when you performed user registration. They will be required
for updating the software.
!The personal information input when registering a new user
account may be collected, processed and used based on the
privacy policy on the Serato website.
7 Click the link in the e-mail message sent from “Serato.
com”.
This takes you to the Serato DJ download page. Proceed to step 9.
8 Log in.
Input the e-mail address and password you have registered to log in to
“Serato.com”.
9 Download the Serato DJ software from the download
page.
Unzip the downloaded file, then double-click the unzipped file to launch
the installer.
10 Read the terms of the license agreement carefully,
and if you agree, click [Agree].
!If you do not agree to the contents of the usage agreement, click
[Disagree] to cancel installation.
11 If the following screen appears, drag and drop the
[Serato DJ] icon on the [Applications] folder icon.
About the driver software and
setting utility software
This unit functions as an audio device conforming to the ASIO
standards.
Using the settings utility software
This function can only be used by those using a Windows operating
system.
Launching the settings utility software
Click the Windows [Start] menu>[All
Programs]>[Pioneer]>[DDJ_SX]>[DDJ_SX ASIO Settings
Utility].
Adjusting the buffer size
In the same way as the buffer size setting in the Serato DJ software,
decreasing the value of the [Kernel Buffers] setting lowers the transfer
delay (latency) of the audio data, while increasing the value reduces the
tendency for dropouts in the audio data (breaks in the sound).
The setting at [USB BUFFER SIZE (LATENCY)] in the Serato DJ soft-
ware’s [SETUP] menu has priority for the buffer size. (The default setting
is 512 samples/10 ms.)
!For details on making the settings on the DJ software, see the Serato
DJ software manual.
!If the [Buffer Size] or [Kernel Buffers] number is made large, drops
in the data (breaks in the sound), etc., occur less easily, but the time
lag due to transmission delays in the audio data (latency) increases.
If breaks in the sound occur with the default
setting
1 Launch [DDJ_SX ASIO Settings Utility] and change
[Kernel Buffers] to [4].
2 Set [USB BUFFER SIZE (LATENCY)] in the Serato DJ
software to the minimum buffer size at which no breaks
in the sound occur.
If no breaks in the sound occur with the default
setting
1 Set [USB BUFFER SIZE (LATENCY)] in the Serato DJ
software to the minimum buffer size at which no breaks
in the sound occur.
2 Launch [DDJ_SX ASIO Settings Utility], change [Kernel
Buffers] to [2], and check that no breaks in the sound
occur.
3 If no breaks in the sound occur, set [USB BUFFER SIZE
(LATENCY)] in the Serato DJ software to the minimum
buffer size at which no breaks in the sound occur. If
breaks in the sound do occur, change [Kernel Buffers] in
the [DDJ_SX ASIO Settings Utility] to [3].
Checking the version of the driver
software
Click the Windows [Start] menu>[All
Programs]>[Pioneer]>[DDJ_SX]>[DDJ_SX Version Display
Utility].
!You can check the firmware version of this unit on the screen.
!The firmware version is not displayed when this unit is not connected
to the computer or when this unit and computer are not properly
communicating.

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Connections and part names
Connections and part names
Connections
!Wait until all connections between devices have been completed
before connecting the AC adapter.
Be sure to turn off the power and unplug the AC adapter from the
power outlet before making or changing connections between
devices.
Refer to the operating instructions for the component to be
connected.
!Only use the AC adapter included with this unit.
!Power is supplied to this unit by the AC adapter.
!Connect this unit and the computer directly using the included USB
cable.
!A USB hub cannot be used.
!Refer to the operating instructions for the component to be
connected.
Names of Parts
Rear panel
4 5 62
13 7 6 5 8 a b c d9
1 MASTER OUT 1 terminals
Connect powered speakers, etc., here.
!Compatible with XLR connector type balanced outputs.
2 MASTER OUT 2 terminals
Connect to a power amplifier, etc.
!Compatible with RCA pin-jack type unbalanced outputs.
3 BOOTH terminals
Output terminals for a booth monitor, compatible with balanced or
unbalanced output for a TRS connector.
The master channel sound can be output from the [BOOTH] termi-
nals regardless of the audio level set for the master channel.
!The sound will be distorted if the level is raised too high when
using unbalanced outputs.
4 MIC2 terminal
Connects a microphone here.
!The [INPUT SELECT] switch on the main unit’s front panel must
be set to [MIC2].
5 CD terminals
Connect to a DJ player or other line level device.
!The [INPUT SELECT] switch on the main unit’s front panel must
be set to [CD].
6 PHONO/LINE input terminals
Connect a phono level output device (analog player (for MM car-
tridges), etc.) or a line level output device (DJ player, etc.) here.
Switch the terminals’ function according to the connected device
using the [INPUT SELECT] switch on this unit’s front panel.
7 SIGNAL GND terminal
Connects an analog player’s ground wire here. This helps reduce
noise when the analog player is connected.
8 MIC1 jack
Connects a microphone here.
!The [INPUT SELECT] switch on the main unit’s front panel must
be set to [MIC1].
!Either an XLR connector or a phones plug (Ø6.3 mm) can be
used.
9 Kensington security slot
a USB terminal
Connect to a computer.
!Connect this unit and the computer directly using the included
USB cable.
!A USB hub cannot be used.
b STANDBY/ON switch
This switches this unit’s power between on and standby.
c DC IN terminal
Connect to a power outlet using the included AC adapter (with the
power plug mounted).
!Wait until connection of all equipment is completed before con-
necting the AC adapter.
!Only use the included AC adapter.
d Cord hook
Catch the AC adapter’s power cord and USB cable on this hook
when using this unit.
!The sound will be interrupted if the AC adapter or USB cable is
disconnected during playback.

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Front panel
1 62 53 4 34
1 PHONES jacks
Connect headphones here.
Both stereo phone plugs (Ø6.3 mm) and stereo mini phone plugs (Ø
3.5 mm) can be used.
!There are two input jacks, both a stereo phones jack and a mini
phones jack, but do not use both simultaneously. If both are used
simultaneously, when one is disconnected and/or connected, the
volume of the other may increase or decrease suddenly.
2 HEADPHONES LEVEL control
Adjusts the audio level output from the [PHONES] terminal.
!The control can be stowed away by pressing it into the main unit.
When pressed again, the control pops out.
3 INPUT SELECT switch
Selects the input source of each channel from the components con-
nected to this unit.
—[PC]: Select this to use the track loaded in the Serato DJ soft-
ware’s deck.
—[MIC1] or [MIC2]: Select one of these to use the microphone con-
nected to the [MIC1] or [MIC2] jack.
—[CD]: Select this to use a line level output device (DJ player, etc.)
connected to the [CD] terminals.
—The sound is muted for approximately 3 seconds when
switched to [PHONO].
4 INPUT SELECT switch
Selects the input source of each channel from the components con-
nected to this unit.
—[PC]: Select this to use the track loaded in the Serato DJ soft-
ware’s deck.
—[PHONO]: Select this to use a phono level (for MM cartridges)
output device (analog player, etc.) connected to the [PHONO/
LINE] input terminals.
—[LINE]: Select this to use a line level output device (DJ player,
etc.) connected to the [PHONO/LINE] input terminals.
5 Crossfader curve selector control
This switches the crossfader curve characteristics.
!The further the control is turned clockwise, the sharper the curve
rises.
!The further the control is turned counterclockwise, the more
gradually the curve rises.
!The control can be stowed away by pressing it into the main unit.
When pressed again, the control pops out.
6 TOUCH SENSOR LEVEL control
This adjusts the sensitivity of the jog dial’s touch sensor.
Connecting the input/output terminals
Connecting input terminals
Rear panel
AUDIO OUT
RL
CONT
Analog player Analog player
DJ player
DJ player
Computer
Portable audio
device
Portable audio
device
Microphone Microphone
DJ player DJ player
AC adapter
(included)
To power outlet
RLRL
RLRL

11
En
Connections and part names
Connecting output terminals
Rear panel
Components, amplifiers,
powered speakers, etc.
Power amplifier,
powered speaker, etc.
Power amplifier
(for booth monitor),
powered speaker, etc.
RL
Front panel
Headphones
Cord hook
Hook the AC adapter’s power cord in the top of the cord
hook, the USB cable in the bottom.
Fasten the AC adapter’s power cord and USB cable in place by hooking
them on the cord hook. This prevents the power cord and USB cable
from being accidentally pulled and the plugs from being disconnected
from the terminals.
!Do not fasten with the base of the AC adapter’s power cord bent.
If used continuously under these conditions, the power cord may
be damaged, resulting in faulty contact.
!The sound will be interrupted if the AC adapter or USB cable is
disconnected during playback.
USB cable
AC adapter’s power cord
Cord hook
Part names and functions
1 Browser section
2 Deck section
3 Mixer section
4 Effect section
Browser section
1 1 2 1 1
3 4
1 LOAD button
Press:
The selected tracks are loaded to the respective decks.
!When the [LOAD] button is pressed twice, the tracks loaded in
the selected deck on the opposite side are loaded into the deck
whose [LOAD] button was pressed. When this is done while
a track is playing, the track is played from the same position.
(Instant Double)
[SHIFT] + press:
The library’s track list is sorted when one of the [LOAD] buttons is
pressed.
: Sorts by track number.
: Sorts by BPM.
: Sorts the track names in alphabetical order.
: Sorts by album.
2 Rotary selector
Turn:
The cursor in the library or on the [CRATES] panel moves up and
down.
Press:
The cursor moves between the [CRATES] panel and library each time
the rotary selector is pressed.
If there are sub crates for the item currently selected in the [CRATES]
panel, those crates are expanded or collapsed.
!This function (for expanding or collapsing crates, including sub
crates) cannot be controlled from this unit with Serato DJ Ver.
1.0. It is scheduled to be supported with a future version update.
The cursor on the [Files] panel moves to a lower layer.
The cursor on the [Browse] panel moves to the next category.
!For details on the [CRATES] panel, see Importing tracks (p.19).

12 En
3 BACK button
Press:
The cursor moves between the [CRATES] panel and library each time
the button is pressed.
The cursor on the [Files] panel moves to a higher layer.
The cursor on the [Browse] panel moves to the previous category.
[SHIFT] + press:
Switches the Serato DJ layout.
4 LOAD PREPARE (AREA) button
Press:
Loads tracks to the [Prepare] panel.
[SHIFT] + press:
The panel display switches each time the button is pressed.
Panel display off lFiles lBrowse lPREPARE lHistory l
Panel display off.
Deck section
This section is used to control the four decks. The buttons and controls
for operating decks 1 and 3 are located on the left side of the controller,
those for operating decks 2 and 4 are located on the right side of the
controller.
1 Jog dial
Turn top:
When the vinyl mode is on, the scratch operation is possible.
When the vinyl mode is off, the pitch bend operation (adjustment of
the playing speed) is possible.
Turn outer section:
The pitch bend operation (adjustment of the playing speed) is
possible.
[SHIFT] + Turn top:
The playback position skips in sync with the beat. (Skip mode)
!The skip mode cannot be used with tracks for which no beatgrid
is set. For details on setting beatgrids, see the Serato DJ software
manual.
2 VINYL button
This switches the vinyl mode on/off.
3 NEEDLE SEARCH pad
By touching the pad, you can jump to the desired position in the
track loaded in the deck.
4 TEMPO slider
Use this to adjust the track playing speed.
5 KEY LOCK button
Press:
Turns the key lock function on and off.
When the key lock function is on, the key does not change even when
the playing speed is changed with the [TEMPO] slider.
The sound is digitally processed, so the sound quality decreases.
[SHIFT] + press:
The [TEMPO] slider’s range of variation switches each time the but-
ton is pressed.
[±8%][
±16%][ ±50%]
Press for over 1 second:
Sets the tempo (BPM) of the currently playing track back to its origi-
nal tempo.
6 TAKEOVER indicator
When decks are switched while the sync function is off, the position
of the controller’s [TEMPO] slider may not match the software’s
tempo (pitch). To regain control of the tempo from the controller,
adjust using the [TAKEOVER] indicator as reference. Slowly move
the [TEMPO] slider in the direction in which the [TAKEOVER] indica-
tor lights. When moved to the position at which the [TAKEOVER]
indicator turns off, the [TEMPO] slider’s position matches the soft-
ware’s tempo (pitch) and the tempo can once again be controlled
with the [TEMPO] slider.
7 AUTO LOOP button
Press:
Turns the auto looping mode on and off.
!During loop playback, this operation cancels looping.
[SHIFT] + press:
Switches looping between active and non-active. (Loop Active)
!Even if looping is active, if there is no playback position in that
loop, loop playback is not performed.
!When the playback position enters the active loop, loop playback
starts.
!During loop playback, this operation cancels looping.
8 LOOP 1/2X button
Press:
Select the auto loop beat.
During loop playback, the length of loop playback is split in half each
time this button is pressed.
[SHIFT] + press:
During loop playback, moves the loop to the left by the amount equal
to its length. (Loop Shift)
9 LOOP 2X button
Press:
Select the auto loop beat.
During loop playback, the length of loop playback is doubled each
time this button is pressed.
[SHIFT] + press:
During loop playback, moves the loop to the right by the amount
equal to its length. (Loop Shift)
a LOOP IN button
Press:
Loop In Point is set.
When this button is pressed during loop playback, the loop in point
can be fine-adjusted using the jog dial.
[SHIFT] + press:
The loop slot switches. (Loop Slot)

13
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Connections and part names
When loops are stored in loop slots ahead of time, they can be called
out later.
!Up to eight loops can be set in the loop slots.
!When you select the number of the loop slot at which you want to
store the loop then set a loop, the loop is automatically stored.
!When a new loop is set after a loop has been stored, the loop is
overwritten and the slot is updated.
!When the number of the loop slot whose loop you want to call out
is selected and the LOOP OUT button is pressed while pressing
the [SHIFT] button (reloop), playback of the stored loop starts.
b LOOP OUT button
Press:
The loop out point is set, and loop playback begins.
When this button is pressed during loop playback, the loop out point
can be fine-adjusted using the jog dial.
[SHIFT] + press:
Cancels loop playback. (Loop Exit)
After loop playback is canceled, playback returns to the previously
set loop in point and loop playback resumes. (Reloop)
c HOT CUE mode button
Press:
Sets the hot cue mode.
[SHIFT] + press:
This will be used with future function enhancements of the Serato
DJ software.
!For function enhancements, see the Pioneer DJ support site
below.
http://pioneerdj.com/support/
d ROLL mode button
Press:
Sets the roll mode.
[SHIFT] + press:
This will be used with future function enhancements of the Serato
DJ software.
!For function enhancements, see the Pioneer DJ support site
below.
http://pioneerdj.com/support/
e SLICER mode button
Press:
Sets the slicer mode.
!The mode switches between slicer mode 1 and slicer mode 2
each time the button is pressed.
!To cancel the slicer mode, press one of the [ROLL] mode,
[SAMPLER] mode or [HOT CUE] mode buttons.
[SHIFT] + press:
This will be used with future function enhancements of the Serato
DJ software.
!For function enhancements, see the Pioneer DJ support site
below.
http://pioneerdj.com/support/
f SAMPLER mode button
Press:
Sets the sampler mode.
Press for over 1 second:
Turns the sampler velocity mode on and off.
!For details on the sampler velocity mode, see Using the sampler
velocity mode on page 25.
[SHIFT] + press:
This will be used with future function enhancements of the Serato
DJ software.
!For function enhancements, see the Pioneer DJ support site
below.
http://pioneerdj.com/support/
g Performance pads
The performance pads are used to control the hot cue, loop roll,
slicer and sampler functions.
=Using the performance pads (p.22)
h PARAMETERcbutton, PARAMETERdbutton
Use these to set the loop roll, slicer and sampler parameters.
=Using the performance pads (p.22)
i PLAY/PAUSE fbutton
Press:
Use this to play/pause tracks.
[SHIFT] + press:
The track returns to the temporary cue point and playback continues
from there. (Stutter)
j CUE button
Press:
This is used to set, play and call out temporary cue points.
!When the [CUE] button is pressed while pausing, the temporary
cue point is set.
!When the [CUE] button is pressed during playback, the track
returns to the temporary cue point and pauses. (Back Cue)
!When the [CUE] button is pressed and held after the track
returns to the temporary cue point, playback continues as long
as the button is pressed in. (Cue Sampler)
!When the [PLAY/PAUSE f] button is pressed during cue
sampling, playback continues from that point.
[SHIFT] + press:
Loads the previous track in the track list. (Previous Track)
!If the current playback position is not the beginning of a track,
the track returns to the beginning.
k SYNC button
Press:
The tempos (pitches) and beat grids of tracks on multiple decks can
be synchronized automatically.
[SHIFT] + press:
Cancels the sync mode.
l SHIFT button
When another button is pressed while pressing the [SHIFT] button, a
different function is called out.
m DECK button
Switches the deck to be operated.
n DUAL DECK button
Turns the dual deck mode on and off.
=Using the dual deck mode (p.24)
o GRID ADJUST button
Press:
When the jog dial is turned while pressing the [GRID ADJUST] but-
ton, the beat grid interval can be adjusted.
[SHIFT] + press:
Sets a beat marker. (Grid Set)
!Beat markers can be set at multiple points.
p GRID SLIDE button
Press:
When the jog dial is turned while pressing the [GRID SLIDE] button,
the overall beat grid can be slid to the left or right.
[SHIFT] + press:
Clears the beat markers. (Grid Clear)
q SLIP button
This turns the slip mode on/off.
=Using the slip mode (p.23)

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r CENSOR button
Press:
The track is played in the reverse direction while the [CENSOR] but-
ton is pressed, and normal playback resumes when the button is
released.
!Even during playback in the reverse direction, normal playback
continues in the background. When the button is released, play-
back resumes from the point reached in the background.
[SHIFT] + press:
The track is played in the reverse direction. When the [SHIFT] and
[CENSOR] buttons are pressed again, reverse playback is canceled
and normal playback resumes.
s PANEL SELECT button
Press:
The panel display switches in the order below each time the button
is pressed.
Panel display off l[REC] panel l[FX] panel l[SP-6] panel l
Panel display off ...
[SHIFT] + press:
The panel display switches in the order below each time the button
is pressed.
Panel display off l[SP-6] panel l[FX] panel l[REC] panel l
Panel display off ...
!When Serato-Video is installed and enabled at the [SETUP]
menu, a key for switching to the [VIDEO] panel is displayed on
the Serato DJ software screen. To display the [VIDEO] panel, use
the mouse to click this key for switching to the [VIDEO] panel.
Mixer section
c
d
4 4
e
g
f
h
b
1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2
5
3
9
7
4
6
a
5 5
5
3
8
7
4
6
9
8
1 FX 1 assign button
Turns effect unit FX1 on and off for the respective channel.
2 FX 2 assign button
Turns effect unit FX2 on and off for the respective channel.
3 TRIM control
Adjusts the individual channel output gain.
4 EQ (HI, MID, LOW) controls
Boosts or cuts frequencies for the different channels.
5 Channel Level Indicator
Displays the sound level of the respective channels before passing
through the channel faders.
6 FILTER control
Applies the filter effect for the respective channel.
The original sound is output when the control is at the center
position.
Turn counterclockwise: Gradually decreases the low-pass filter’s
cutoff frequency.
Turn clockwise: Gradually increases the high-pass filter’s cutoff
frequency.
7 Headphones CUE/MIC TALK OVER button
Press:
The sound of channels for which the headphones [CUE] button is
pressed is output to the headphones.
!When the headphones [CUE] button is pressed again, monitoring
is canceled.
When the [INPUT SELECT] switch for channel 3 or 4 is set to [MIC1]
or [MIC2], the talkover function can be turned on or off.
When the talkover function is on, the headphones [CUE/
MIC TALK OVER] button flashes. When a sound of over -15 dB is
input to the microphone, the sound other than that of the micro-
phone is attenuated by approximately 20 dB.
!The talkover function for both the microphone connected to the
[MIC1] terminal and the microphone connected to the [MIC2]
terminal can be turned on and off by pressing the headphones
[CUE/MIC TALK OVER] button for either channel 3 or channel 4.
[SHIFT] + press:
The track’s tempo can be set by tapping the button. (Tap function)
!When the Tap function is used, the display of the deck section on
the computer’s screen switches to the [Beatgrid Editer] display.
Click [Edit Grid] on the computer’s screen.
8 Headphones CUE button
Press:
The sound of channels for which the headphones [CUE] button is
pressed is output to the headphones.
!When the headphones [CUE] button is pressed again, monitoring
is canceled.
[SHIFT] + press:
The track’s tempo can be set by tapping the button. (Tap function)
!When the Tap function is used, the display of the deck section on
the computer’s screen switches to the [Beatgrid Editer] display.
Click [Edit Grid] on the computer’s screen.
9 Channel fader
Move:
Adjusts the level of audio signals output in each channel.
[SHIFT] + move:
Use the channel fader start function.
For details on the channel fader start function, see Using the channel
fader start function on page 25.
a Crossfader Assign Switch
Assigns the channel output to the crossfader.
[A]: Assigns to [A] (left) of the crossfader.
[B]: Assigns to [B] (right) of the crossfader.
[THRU]: Selects this when you do not want to use the crossfader.
(The signals do not pass through the crossfader.)
b Crossfader
Outputs the sound assigned with the crossfader assign switch.
c MASTER LEVEL control
Adjusts the master sound level output.
d Master level indicator
Displays the master output’s audio level.
e Booth monitor level control
Adjusts the level of audio signals output from the [BOOTH] terminal.

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Connections and part names
f HEADPHONES MIXING control
Adjusts the balance of the monitor volume between the sound of the
channels for which the headphones [CUE] button is pressed and the
sound of the master channel.
g MASTER CUE button
Turns monitoring of the master output’s sound on and off.
h SAMPLER VOLUME fader
Adjusts the sampler’s overall sound level.
Effect section
This section is used to control the two effect units (FX1 and FX2).
Controls and buttons to operate the FX1 unit are located on the left side
of the controller, those to operate the FX2 unit are located on the right
side of the controller. The channels to which the effect is to be applied
are set using the effect assign buttons .
1 1 1 2
3 3 3 4
1 Effect parameter controls
These adjust the effects’ parameters.
2 FX BEATS control
Adjusts the effect time.
3 Effect parameter buttons
Press:
Turns the effect on and off or switches the parameter.
[SHIFT] + press:
Switches the effect type.
4 TAP button
Press:
The BPM used as the base value for the effect is calculated by the
interval at which the button is tapped with a finger.
When the button is pressed and held, the effect time is reset.
[SHIFT] + press:
Switches the effect mode.
!This function (Effect Mode Switching) cannot be used with
Serato DJ Ver. 1.0. It is scheduled to be supported in a future
version update.
To monitor the effect sounds
When the [HEADPHONES MIXING] control is turned to the [CUE] side,
the Serato DJ software’s effect sounds are not output in the sound of
channels whose headphones [CUE] button is pressed. To monitor the
Serato DJ software’s effect sounds, turn the [HEADPHONES MIXING]
control to the [MASTER] side, turn on the [MASTER CUE] button and
monitor the effect sound with the master output’s sound.

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Basic Operation
Connections
1 Connect headphones to one of the [PHONES]
terminals.
2 Connect powered speakers, a power amplifier,
components, etc., to the [MASTER OUT 1] or [MASTER
OUT 2] terminals.
RL
Power speaker, etc
!To output the sound from the [BOOTH] terminals, connect speak-
ers or other devices to the [BOOTH] terminals.
!For details on the connections of the input/output terminals, see
Connections (p.9).
3 Connect this unit to your computer via a USB cable.
4 Turn on the computer’s power.
5 Connect the power plug to the AC adapter.
Slide the power plug into the AC adapter’s guide rails as shown on the
diagram and press in until a click is heard.
!For detailed cautions on the AC adapter, see “About the AC
adapter” (p. 5).
!The shape of the plug differs according to the region in which the
unit is sold.

17
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Basic Operation
6 Connect the AC adapter.
AC adapter
(included)
To power outlet
7 Press the [STANDBY/ON] switch on this unit’s rear
panel to turn this unit’s power on.
Turn on the power of this unit.
!For Windows users
The message [Installing device driver software] may appear
when this unit is first connected to the computer or when it is
connected to a different USB port on the computer. Wait a while
until the message [Your devices are ready for use] appears.
8 Turn on the power of the devices connected to the
output terminals (powered speakers, power amplifier,
components, etc.).
!When a microphone, DJ player or other external device is con-
nected to input terminals, the power of that device also turns on.

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Starting the system
Launching Serato DJ
For Windows
From the Windows [Start] menu, click the [Serato DJ] icon under [All Programs] > [Serato] > [Serato DJ].
For Mac OS X
In Finder, open the [Applications] folder, then click the [Serato DJ] icon.
Computer screen directly after the Serato DJ software is launched
A
C
1
2
1The [ACTIVATE/BUY Serato DJ] icon may appear on the right side of the screen that is displayed when Serato DJ is launched the first time, but
there is no need to activate or purchase a license for those using DDJ-SX.
2Check [DO NOT SHOW AGAIN] at the bottom right of the screen, then click [License] and continue to use Serato DJ as such.
To operate the beat grid
With Serato DJ, [SYNC PREFERENCE] is set to [Simple sync] by default, but this must be switched to [Smart sync] in order to perform beat grid
operations.
SETUP–DJ Preference-SYNC PREFERENCE
For instructions on displaying the settings screen and details on the beat grid, see the Serato DJ manual.
Computer screen when a track is loaded in the Serato DJ software
AA
C
B
A Deck section
The track information (the name of the loaded track, artist name, BPM, etc.), the overall waveform and other information is displayed here.
B Waveform display
The loaded track’s waveform is displayed here.
C Browser section
Crates in which tracks in the library or sets of multiple tracks are stored are displayed here.
This manual consists mainly of explanations of functions of this unit as hardware. For detailed instructions on operating the Serato DJ software, see
the Serato DJ software manual.

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En
Basic Operation
Importing tracks
The following describes the typical procedure for importing tracks.
!There are various ways to import tracks with the Serato DJ software. For details, see the Serato DJ software manual.
!If you are already using Serato DJ software (Scratch Live, ITCH or Serato DJ Intro) and have already created track libraries, the track libraries you
have previously created can be used as such.
1 Click the [Files] key on the Serato DJ software screen to open the [Files] panel.
The contents of your computer or the peripheral connected to the computer are displayed in the [Files] panel.
2 Click the folder on the [Files] panel containing the tracks you want to add to the library to select it.
3 On the Serato DJ software screen, drag and drop the selected folder to the crates panel.
A crate is created and the tracks are added to the library.
a
b
a [Files] panel
b Crates panel
Loading tracks and playing them
The following describes the procedure for loading tracks into deck [1] as an example.
1 Rotary selector
2 BACK button
3 LOAD button
1 Press this unit’s [BACK] button, move the cursor to the crates panel on the computer’s screen, then turn the rotary
selector to select the crate, etc.

20 En
2 Press the rotary selector, move the cursor to the library on the computer’s screen, then turn the rotary selector and
select the track.
a
b
a Library
b Crates panel
3 Press the [LOAD] button to load the selected track onto the deck.
Playing tracks and outputting the sound
The following describes the procedure for outputting the channel 1
sound as an example.
!Set the volume of the devices (power amplifier, powered speakers,
etc.) connected to the [MASTER OUT 1] and [MASTER OUT 2]
terminals to an appropriate level. Note that loud sound will be output
if the volume is set too high.
a
b
d
c
e
4
8
7
5
6
9
f hg
4 TRIM control
5 EQ (HI, MID, LOW) controls
6 FILTER control
7 Headphones CUE button
8 Channel fader
9 Crossfader Assign Switch
a MASTER LEVEL control
b BOOTH MONITOR LEVEL control
c HEADPHONES MIXING control
d MASTER CUE button
e Crossfader
f HEADPHONES LEVEL control
g INPUT SELECT switch
h Crossfader curve selector control
1 Set the positions of the controls, etc., as shown
below.
Names of controls, etc. Position
MASTER LEVEL control Turned fully counterclockwise
TRIM control Turned fully counterclockwise
EQ (HI, MID, LOW) controls Center
FILTER control Center
Channel fader Moved forward
Crossfader Assign Switch [THRU] position
INPUT SELECT switch [PC] position