The Plug’s Take on my top 3 4-Channel DJ Controllers
Wanna level up your DJ game? Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, upgrading to a 4-channel DJ controller is a game-changer. And guess what? I got my hands on three of my favorite 4-channel controllers that will have you scratching, mixing, and performing like a pro (or at least looking like a pro). Let’s dive in! No boring tech talk, just the real-deal details. We’re taking a look at the Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX10, Denon Prime 4 Plus, and Rane Performer. They may not stop you from train wrecking, but nothing’s more fun than playing with a new favorite toy.
1. Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX10: The Mashup Machine
Price: $$$
Best For: DJs who want to get creative and mash up tracks like a wizard.
This controller is next-level when it comes to mixing and remixing on the fly. The Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX10 is packed with a bunch of cool features that can make you sound flawless, almost like you’re prerecorded. With Track Separation technology, you can split vocals, drums, and other elements in real-time to create some crazy, insane mashups. The jog wheels are equipped with customizable displays, so you can always see what’s going on without looking at your laptop (which is always a win). PLUS, it’s got DMX output, so your lighting will be just as hot as your mix.
Check out the Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX10 here!
What’s fire:
Track Separation for live mashups and remixes.
Customizable jog wheel displays for easy navigation.
DMX output for synchronized lighting.
Mix Point Link to sync tracks effortlessly.
What could be better:
A bit of a higher price tag.
Some advanced features might take a bit to master.
Bottom Line: If you're ready to take your sets to the next level and want to blow people’s minds with mashups and sick lighting, this controller is a top tier choice.
2. Denon Prime 4 Plus: The Lone Wolf (aka No Laptop Needed)
Price: $$$
Best For: DJs who want to ditch the laptop and be 100% self-sufficient.
The Denon Prime 4 Plus is perfect for DJ’s looking to minimize what they bring to gigs (goodbye cable chaos leftover from other DJ’s) and still throw down a pro-level performance. It’s fully standalone, meaning you don’t even need a laptop to mix. You can stream directly from Amazon Music Unlimited, Apple Music, or your favorite services, giving you access to unlimited music without the stress of forgetting your laptop, external, or thumb drive. The large touchscreen and intuitive interface will make you look like you’re running a spaceship, and let’s be real, who doesn’t want that?
Grab the Denon Prime 4 Plus here!
What’s fire:
Standalone functionality — no laptop needed.
Large touchscreen for intuitive control.
Streaming support from major platforms.
Durable design ready for gigs and tours.
What could be better:
Smaller jog wheels might be a downside for scratch DJs.
Still a bit of a pricier option.
Bottom Line: If you’re tired of your laptop and want to DJ without all the tech baggage, the Denon Prime 4 Plus is a game-changer.
3. Rane Performer: The Turntablist’s Dream
Price: $$$
Best For: DJs who want the vinyl feel but with all the cool digital features.
Vinyl lovers, if you’re craving that vintage turntable feel but want to stay in the digital age, the Rane Performer is your new best friend. Motorized platters give you that authentic vinyl vibe, but with a digital twist. The stem controls let you isolate different elements of a track, letting you mix and remix on the fly like your favorite headliners. And with 29 main effects and 4 channel effects, your mixes will be next-level.
Check out the Rane Performer here!
What’s fire:
Motorized platters for that vinyl feel.
Stem controls for isolating and remixing tracks.
29 main effects and 4 channel effects for ultimate creativity.
Solid, durable build to survive the road.
What could be better:
Learning curve with all the features.
Heavy weight might make it less portable.
Bottom Line: If you’re a turntablist who wants modern tech but still crave that vinyl touch, the Rane Performer has you covered.
Final Thoughts: Which One’s Right for You?
Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX10: If you want to go wild with mashups and lighting effects, this is your controller. It’s got all the bells and whistles for a pro-level performance.
Denon Prime 4 Plus: If you want to leave your laptop at home and rock a gig without cables, this one’s a winner. It’s standalone and super powerful.
Rane Performer: If you love vinyl but want to step into the digital world with style, this controller will give you that true turntable feel, plus a bunch of cool effects.
So, what are you waiting for? Pick your weapon of choice, hit that "Add to Cart" button, and get ready to rock the party.
