Standalone DJ systems have revolutionized the world of DJing, offering a level of flexibility and convenience that was previously unimaginable. A Standalone DJ controller is a complete DJ setup in a single unit, eliminating the need for external components. They’ve become a game-changer in the industry. Allowing DJs to focus more on their craft and less on the technicalities of their setup.

Standalone DJ controllers are particularly impactful because they streamline the DJing process. They come with built-in software, allowing you to mix, scratch, and add effects directly on the unit. This means you can perform anywhere, anytime, without the need for a computer. This portability is a significant advantage for DJs who perform at various venues and need a reliable, easy-to-set-up system.

In essence, standalone DJ systems are transforming the DJing landscape. They offer a perfect blend of convenience, flexibility, and advanced features, making them an invaluable tool for any DJ. Whether you’re performing at a club or practicing in your bedroom, a standalone DJ system with an awesome DJ set, can elevate your DJing experience.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into some of the best standalone DJ controllers on the market. We will explore features, benefits, and why they’re worth considering for your DJ setup.

Pioneer DJ Opus Quad

The Pioneer DJ Opus Quad, released in March 2023, is a testament to Pioneer DJ’s commitment to innovation. This 4-channel all-in-one DJ system is designed with a contemporary style, featuring an earth-colored front panel trimming that adds a touch of elegance.

One of the standout features of the Opus Quad is its large 10.1-inch glass touchscreen. This screen, combined with the dedicated ‘Smart Rotary Selector’, allows for rapid track search.

The Opus Quad is Pioneer DJ’s first foray into standalone four-deck playback. This means you can use all four channels in standalone mode, offering a level of flexibility that’s hard to match. It comes with Pioneer’s rekordbox and also supports Serato DJ Pro, providing you with a range of options for your DJing needs.

The unit features full-size mechanical jog wheels. Above each deck, individual screens display essential track data, similar to what you’d find on CDJs.

The Opus Quad also offers hands-on control of effects via an XY-pad and on-board track analysis. It features 16 hot cue pads, 8 above each jog wheel.

One unique feature is its zone output, which allows you to play different music in different rooms. This is a great feature for DJs who perform at events with multiple rooms or areas.

The unit supports USB connectivity. It also features built-in WiFi for access to streaming services and your personal cloud library. Additionally, it has Bluetooth connectivity.

The Opus Quad measures 925.7mm , 499.7mm and 142mm, and weighs 13.2kg. Despite its size and weight, it’s a powerhouse of functionality and innovation.

The price of the Opus Quad is around $3000. If you can afford it, the controller is a worthy investment for the features and future-proofing it offers.

You can check out our Pioneer Opus Quad – A New Era of Standalone DJ Systems insight article.

Denon DJ Prime 4+

The Denon DJ Prime 4+ is a marvel of modern DJ technology. Released in June 2023, it’s an upgrade from its predecessor, the Prime 4, and it’s packed with features that make it one of the most advanced all-in-one DJ systems available today.

At the heart of the Prime 4+ is Denon’s proprietary Engine DJ software. This powerful software allows for meticulous music preparation and playlist creation, providing a seamless DJing experience. It’s a four-channel standalone DJ controller, meaning you can control four separate decks without the need for a laptop.

One of the standout features of the Prime 4+ is its built-in WiFi/Ethernet connectivity. This feature provides over-the-air access to streaming services, giving you the ability to mix millions of songs on the fly. It’s like having the world’s most extensive record store at your fingertips.

The Prime 4+ can be expanded into a full four-deck setup with the addition of two LC6000 deck controllers from Denon DJ. This flexibility makes it a versatile choice for DJs who want to push the boundaries of their performances.

The embedded Engine OS software in the Prime 4+ is incredibly powerful. It includes a sampler and even stems, a feature that allows you to isolate and control different elements of a track. This opens up a world of creative possibilities for your mixes.

One unique feature of the Prime 4+ is its integration with SoundSwitch, a next-gen lighting control system. This allows you to control DJ lighting directly from the unit, adding a visual element to your performances.

Coming in at around $2199, the Prime 4+ is best suited for tech-savvy DJs who value power and cutting-edge features. It’s also a great choice for those who want an alternative to the all-dominating Pioneer DJ brand.

Numark Mixstream Pro Go

The Numark Mixstream Pro Go is a compact, portable, and affordable standalone DJ controller. It’s a two-channel controller that’s powered by the same Engine DJ software as the Prime 4+, offering many of the same benefits.

One of the unique features of the Mixstream Pro Go is its built-in battery and speakers. While the speakers won’t be shaking any dance floors, they’re surprisingly good for a portable controller. Combined with the built-in battery, this makes the Mixstream Pro Go a great option for practicing your set, I mean partying anywhere.

Despite its lower price point, the Mixstream Pro Go doesn’t skimp on features. It includes a mic input, USB/SD card source choices, booth and balanced master outputs, and some on-board effects. While it’s primarily designed for consumer use, it’s also found a place in the kits of some mobile DJs.

The Mixstream Pro Go is a fantastic choice for those looking for a high-quality standalone DJ controller without breaking the bank. It’s a testament to the fact that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a capable DJ system.

The price of the Numark Mixstream Pro Go will cost around $800, making it the most affordable standalone DJ system on this list.

Pioneer DJ XDJ-RX3

The Pioneer DJ XDJ-RX3 is a two-channel, four-deck all-in-one DJ system that comes with Pioneer’s proprietary rekordbox software and is also compatible with Serato DJ Pro. This system allows you to prepare your music in rekordbox and transfer it onto USB sticks, setting cue points, loops, adding beat countdowns, and analyzing keys, among other things.

One of the standout features of the XDJ-RX3 is its large, high-resolution 10.1-inch touch screen. This screen offers rapid browsing, a playlist bank, touch preview, and a countdown timer. The audio design of the circuit board has also been improved for better sound compared to the previous model.

The XDJ-RX3 features 6-inch touch-capacitive jog wheels with tension adjustment and color ‘on jog’ displays. It also has dual-USB ports onboard for standalone mode, allowing you to load your tracks on one and record your mixes on the other. This is also useful for back-to-back DJ changeovers without laptops.

The system supports high-quality uncompressed audio files, including AIFF, WAV, and FLAC. It also has built-in ‘Sound Color’ and ‘Beat FX’ taken from Pioneer’s DJM pro club mixers, now including an extra 6 Beat FX and 2 additional Sound Color FX as found on the XDJ-XZ.

The XDJ-RX3 also features 8 fully-illuminated performance pads on each channel with secondary pad layer modes (with gated Hot Cues). The pads trigger hot cues, Beat loop, Slip Loop, and Beat Jump. It also has external outputs to connect turntables or CDJs plus 2 Mic inputs, all pro inputs/outputs as standard.

The XDJ-RX3 is a compact and versatile DJ system that offers a seamless transition from the bedroom to the DJ booth. It costs $2000, approximately $500 US cheaper than the 4-channel XDJ-XZ, making it a great choice for DJs who don’t need four channels but still want a high-quality Pioneer system.

Denon SC Live 4

Let’s shift gears and talk about a DJ controller that’s perfect for hobbyists, bedroom DJs, and live streamers – the Denon SC Live 4. Released in November 2022, this 4-channel all-in-one DJ system is a complete out-of-the-box solution that doesn’t skimp on features.

The SC Live 4 comes with Denon’s proprietary Engine DJ and it’s also compatible with Serato DJ Pro. This means you have maximum versatility right from the get-go, whether you prefer to work standalone or as a DJ controller powered through your laptop/USB port.

One of the standout features of the SC Live 4 is its compact, lightweight, and portable design. Plus, it has built-in speakers its like an all-in-one home DJ setup, so you don’t need to worry about lugging around extra equipment.

The SC Live 4 also boasts a 7-inch HD multi-gesture touchscreen, giving you easy access to FX and other controls. The 6-inch jog wheels come with ‘on-jog’ displays that conveniently show BPM and time elapsed, and there are 8 performance pads for each channel.

But that’s not all. The SC Live 4 is equipped with built-in Wi-Fi for music streaming, cloud access, and Engine DJ OS updates. It supports streaming services TIDAL, Beatport Streaming, Beatsource. Want to know where DJ’s get their music? Check out this article – DJ Music – Where Do DJs Get Their Music?

In terms of connectivity, the SC Live 4 has 2 x USB-A ports, 1 x USB-B port, and an SD card slot. It also has dedicated XLR, RCA, and 1/4-inch booth outputs, making it compatible with most sound systems. And with 2 x microphone inputs, you can easily add vocals or commentary to your mixes.

Despite its all-plastic construction, the SC Live 4 doesn’t feel cheap. It’s a solid piece of equipment, excellent value for money at $1300 US.

Final Thoughts

Standalone DJ systems have truly transformed the DJing landscape, offering unparalleled flexibility and convenience. These all-in-one units have become a game-changer, allowing DJs to focus more on their craft and less on technicalities.

The Pioneer DJ Opus Quad, with its sophisticated style and large touchscreen, exemplifies Pioneer DJ’s commitment to innovation. The Denon DJ Prime 4+, packed with advanced features, is a marvel of modern DJ technology. The Numark Mixstream Pro Go, despite its affordability, doesn’t compromise on features, making high-quality DJing accessible to all.

The Pioneer DJ XDJ-RX3 and XDJ-XZ offer seamless transitions from bedroom practice to live performance, with robust features and intuitive controls. Lastly, the Denon SC Live 4, perfect for hobbyists and live streamers, offers a complete out-of-the-box solution without skimping on features.

If you are seeking a DJ controller more entry level check out Best DJ Controller for Beginners 2023: Top 5 Controller Reviews, or if you are a scratch DJ, take a look at the Pioneer DDJ REV1: An In-Depth Exploration

In essence, these standalone DJ systems are invaluable tools for any DJ, offering a perfect blend of convenience, flexibility, and advanced features. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring DJ, these systems can elevate your DJing experience to new heights. Choose the one that best fits your style and needs, and let the music play! With the right standalone DJ system, you can focus on what truly matters – creating unforgettable musical experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a standalone DJ system? 

A standalone DJ controller is a comprehensive DJ setup that doesn’t require a computer to operate. It typically includes a mixer, decks, and a built-in music library, allowing DJs to mix tracks directly from the device.

Why should I consider a standalone DJ system over a traditional setup? 

Standalone DJ systems offer convenience and portability. They eliminate the need for a laptop, reducing the amount of gear you need to carry. Plus, they often come with advanced features like streaming service integration and high-resolution touchscreens, enhancing your DJing experience.

Can I use a standalone DJ system with DJ software? 

Yes, most standalone DJ systems are compatible with popular DJ software like Serato, Rekordbox, and Virtual DJ. This means you can use them as controllers when connected to a computer, giving you the best of both worlds.

Are standalone DJ systems suitable for beginners? 

Absolutely! Standalone DJ systems are user-friendly and often come with features that help beginners learn the ropes. They’re a great investment as they can grow with you as your skills improve.

Are standalone DJ systems expensive? 

The price of standalone DJ controller can vary widely based on their features and brand. While some high-end models can be quite pricey, there are also more affordable options available that still offer great functionality and performance.

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