Pioneer continues to polish its virtual DJ controller line-up, with the latest DDJ-ERGO-V model packing so many LEDs you could probably outshine a half dozen glitterballs. Hooking up to your PC or Mac via a single USB connection, the DDJ-ERGO-V offers a pair of 115mm controllers, an integrated audio interface, the ability to control up to four decks from one unit, and various blinking light patterns to show you how well you’re doing on your mixing, beat matching and more.
For instance, Blue LEDs on the jog wheels show how close the mix phase is, pulsing more strongly when you’re closer in pitch. The channel fader lighting, meanwhile, match track beat with their flashing as well as showing output levels by their brightness. There are also dedicated controls for loops, filters and sample playback, while ports include a MIDI output, microphone input and line-out. The angled physical design means you can slide your laptop keyboard underneath and keep the overall footprint low.
The DDJ-ERGO-V comes bundled with Atomix Productions Virtual DJ Limited Edition, which is ready to use straight from the box. Packed with features that even top of the range software can't boast, Virtual DJ LE lets DJs scratch, mix and add modern remix effects to your music and video sets without paying for an upgrade. On top of the four decks with autosync, you get instant access to eight samples, smart loops and much more. Automatic beatgrids, high-detail waveforms and a software interface that matches the controller will make it easy to keep track of the mix. A new approach to the DDJ-ERGO-V adds a visual dimension to DJing. Pulse Control uses lights to highlight what features are in play, how accurate your beat matching is and which track is loaded.
