Pioneers new controller: DDJ-ERGO

Pioneer has released another controller in their 'DDJ' series. I haven't had a chance to play with it yet so this is not a review, just giving you guys some release notes and a video from Pioneer to digest. I will say that from the pictures, the controller seems almost too compact for my liking. The 'play', 'cue button' and 'pitch slider' just seem to be positioned too close to the platter. Some might say that more features and buttons equal value for money but I like to breathe when im DJing. Also, too many pulsating lights are not really my taste even though they do serve a purpose. Pioneer are obviously directing this product at the newcomer and I don't mean to be all negative about their baby, I've been a Pioneer fan from the early CDJ's and I've spent a lot of money on their DJ gear. But would I buy this if I was just starting out? And would the allure of the Pioneer brand and all those features grab me? I don't know. There's a few other controllers near to this price point to consider (DDJ-ERGO: £429, Traktor Kontrol S2: £499,Vestax VCI-300: £485 (online)) and I admit I still love the VCI-300 although the build quality did give me some reservations. On the positive side, Pioneer say that the Midi output is compatible with most other DJ software so that can't be a bad thing (if you like Midi-mapping). Also you have the option of 4 deck mixing so that is another plus point to a lot of people. Well that's my unofficial take on the 'Ergo', here's the key features and video from Pioneer....Is it me or does it look like the deck's got heels on? lol

Key features:

Bundled with Virtual DJ LE Four-deck mixing, filters, sample decks and loop recording. This makes it possible to access all the most important controls instantly without pressing the Shift button.

The MIDI output makes the DDJ-ERGO compatible with most other DJ software on the market, Traktor users can apply the included TSI settings file to control their favourite software.

Pulse control adds a visual dimension for precision performance The newly developed Pulse Control uses light to give a visual representation of pitch, beat, effects and which decks are in use. Built-in LEDs enhance your mixing precision and add a new dimension to the art of DJing.

115mm Jog Wheel from the Pioneer pro-DJ range. The controller has also inherited the same layout as the popular DDJ-T1 and DDJ-S1 controllers. Plus the controller employs the same audio circuitry as Pioneer’s professional mixers for the master out terminal, ensuring a clear, powerful reproduction with no sound degradation.

Innovative laptop integration keeps screen in DJs’ line of sight at all times Pioneer’s laptop dock design enabled DJs to place laptop keyboards underneath the controller to use as little space as possible and keep the screen in view while using the controls. The DDJ-ERGO can also be adapted to sitting or standing positions; simply set the controller flat on any surface by unscrewing the removable legs.

Completely USB-powered for an even easier set up The DDJ-ERGO is fully operational from a USB bus through your computer, eliminating the need for an external power supply. There LEDs shine bright and the audio output levels are powerful and loud with no compromise. Unique “Delight” design concept suits every environment The controller’s eye-catching design features a black top panel and black and silver half-tone Jog Wheel. With it’s rounded edges and white side panel. The DDJ-ERGO looks good in the studio, the booth or the bedroom.

Other features: Line in and MIC input The industry’s first lock mechanism, “P-LOCK Fader Cap”, is equipped on the cross-fader and each channel fader to prevent fader caps from slipping during performance.