I was searching for a standalone controller for a home setup, seeking an upgrade from my DDJ-FLX6. In my search, I was naturally considering the XDJ-RX3 and the XDJ-XZ (both of which had fantastic Black Friday discounts with DJ TechTools). I was also contemplating whether to wait an unknown period of time before Pioneer DJ would release the XDJ-XZ2, but ultimately, I am very happy with my decision to forge ahead with the Opus Quad (OQ). My general advice is, conduct your own research and compare the functionalities across controllers, but for me, these are several of the main reasons why I chose the Opus Quad:
• Design: This has been polarizing within the community, but I LOVE the aesthetics – the controller is very chic and another plus is how ergonomic it is. The controller is very decluttered and you can actually rest your hands during long sets. Pioneer DJ chose to innovate on this front, and preference will largely depend on the user.
• The UI/Layout: Pioneer DJ significantly departed from the standard club layout which has all the hardware readily in front of you – obviously, this has pros and cons, and is a dealbreaker for some DJs. Instead, they opted to place many features within the screen, allowing the potential to update the software (e.g., adding new effects) in the future. Personally, I am comfortable adapting to the interface, and I can play on the XZ or CDJ-3000s without any issue – I think adaptability is key. If, however, you want a 1:1 layout between your home setup and the club layout, that is an important factor to consider.
• 4-Channels: This is the first true standalone controller with 4-channel functionality that does not require additional inputs. You can play with all channels simply from the USB.
• Jog Wheels: The importance of these will vary from DJ-to-DJ. I typically do not scratch but the OQ has full-size mechanical jog wheels with Jog Adjust. I appreciate the rubberized grooves and the jog heels feel solid and satisfying to play with.
• CPU/Speed: The OQ is FAST – tracks and hot cues load almost instantaneously, and I’ve really noticed the processing power (especially compared to older tech like the XDJ-XZ). There is a night-and-day difference with the older models.
• WiFi/Software: The fact that the OQ has WiFi opens a lot of doors for future changes – streaming, software upgrades, etc. Rather than relying on more dated technology, I wanted to spend the extra premium knowing that improvements and updates could be pushed through.
• Sound Quality: The OQ sports the ESS 32-bit audio chip, found only in the DJM-V10 and A9 mixers. This is a major improvement and beats out just about every one of their other standalone console devices.
• Other Factors: A couple of examples are the Smart Cue feature (perhaps Gated Cues will be a future software update), the new rotary knob for loops, the browsing rotary kob, the beautiful and responsive 10.1” touch screen, and more.
• Overall Enjoyment: I should mention that it FEELS amazing to play on this controller, almost luxurious in a curious way, and while this is harder to quantify, that matters to me as a DJ.
As I mentioned before, do your own research if you are contemplating the Opus Quad, but the last thing I’ll say is DJ TechTools is legitimate. They are a very well-operated small business, and they offered amazing discounts on brand new controllers. Thanks so much, DJ TechTools!
