Performance Pads – Sixteen Performance Pads on the sub-controller for seven different functions including Hot Loop, Auto Loop, Manual Loop, Hot Cue, Roll, Slicer, and Sampler. The Parameter arrows select the loop length ranges for the pads; total loop length range is 1/32 to 32 beats. The lightweight and sturdy construction enables the Pioneer DDJ-SP1 to be placed in flexible locations (with or without the use of the T-U101 S-stand which is sold separately) and to be set up instantly. The slim build and instantaneous setup experience make this compact controller a great addition to any kit.

It won’t unlock Serato DJ on its own, but it does include Serato Video, and the ability to control it. With an excellent layout supported by a shift layer, the DDJ SP1 provides a handy way to upgrade the control and pad sections of your SX mixer.

Slip Mode allows more accurate and efficient loops, scratches and reverses whilst playback quietly continues, and at exactly the right point, the track is brought back. The unit is a compact add-on version of the effects deck, performance pad, and browsing sections of the DDJ-SR or DDJ-SX. In the first mode, track playback continues, and there’s a new sliced section created when your playback goes past the old one. The Pioneer DDJ-SP1 is completely MIDI assignable through the USB port included as part of the hardware.

In this mode, the FX section is taken to control Serato Video effects, so it can’t be used for audio effects, but the pads continue to work as normal. Pioneer seems to have something for everyone in its collection of powerful controllers and add-on tools. Add the Pioneer DJ-SP1 Controller for Serato DJ to a set-up that supports mixing and scratching with Serato DJ Pro – for example a laptop, or timecode CDJs/ turntables with a DJM-900SRT mixer – and use the pre-mapped buttons and dials to trigger 6 samples, 8 Hot Cues and more than 30 FX Powered by iZotope – without the need to touch a keyboard or mouse.

Sampler Volume Fader - In between the the performance pads is a volume slider to control output of the trigger pads. These Serato DJ FX provides added depth to your mixes, allowing you to incorporate everything from reverbs and delays to distortion and filters.