DJ Mixers & Hardware Guide: DJM-S9 - The Ultimate Battle Mixer
The world of DJing has evolved dramatically over the years, with technology advancing at a rapid pace to provide DJs with more creative possibilities than ever before. Among the vast array of DJ equipment available today, the Pioneer DJ DJM-S9 stands out as one of the most innovative and performance-oriented battle mixers on the market. Whether you're a scratch DJ, turntablist, or club performer looking to elevate your sets, understanding the capabilities of the DJM-S9 can transform your approach to mixing.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into everything you need to know about the Pioneer DJ DJM-S9, from its groundbreaking features to how it compares with other popular DJ mixers. We'll also explore how to get the most out of this powerful piece of hardware and why it has become a favorite among professional DJs worldwide.
What Is the Pioneer DJ DJM-S9?
The Pioneer DJ DJM-S9 is a 2-channel battle mixer designed specifically for scratch DJs and turntablists who demand precision, reliability, and creative flexibility. Released in 2015, this mixer quickly established itself as a game-changer in the DJ hardware market, combining Pioneer's renowned build quality with innovative features that cater to performance-oriented DJs.
The DJM-S9 was developed with input from world-class battle DJs, resulting in a mixer that feels intuitive for complex scratching techniques while offering enough technological innovation to push creative boundaries. It's built to seamlessly integrate with Serato DJ Pro software, giving users access to digital features while maintaining the tactile feel that vinyl DJs appreciate.
Key Features of the DJM-S9
The DJM-S9 comes packed with features that set it apart from other mixers in its class:
Magvel Pro Crossfader: The heart of any battle mixer is its crossfader, and the DJM-S9's Magvel Pro is exceptional. With adjustable cut-in time and curve control, this magnetic crossfader offers incredibly smooth operation and is rated for 10 million movements, ensuring durability for even the most aggressive scratch DJs.
Performance Pads: Each channel features 8 multi-colored performance pads that can be used to trigger hot cues, rolls, slicers, and sampler functions directly from the mixer.
Pad FX: One of the DJM-S9's most innovative features, allowing DJs to apply effects by simply pressing and holding the performance pads.
Customizable FX: With independent FX engines for each channel, DJs can apply multiple effects simultaneously and customize their parameters.
Dual USB Ports: Allows for seamless DJ changeovers or back-to-back sets with another DJ.
Built-in Sound Card: High-quality 24-bit/96kHz audio processing ensures exceptional sound reproduction.
Customizable Faceplate: The mixer's faceplate can be removed and replaced with custom designs, allowing for personalization.
Technical Specifications of the DJM-S9
Understanding the technical aspects of the DJM-S9 helps appreciate why it performs so well in demanding DJ environments:
Channels: 2-channel mixer
Inputs: 2 phono/line switchable inputs, 2 CD/line inputs, 1 AUX input, 1 MIC input
Outputs: Master output (XLR, RCA), Booth output (1/4" TRS), Headphone output (1/4" TRS, 3.5mm mini)
Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 107 dB (Line)
USB: Dual USB 2.0 ports
Dimensions: 267 mm (W) × 107.9 mm (H) × 407.3 mm (D)
Weight: Approximately 4.6 kg
Power Consumption: 24 W
DJM-S9 vs. Other Popular DJ Mixers
To understand the DJM-S9's position in the market, it's helpful to compare it with other popular DJ mixers:
DJM-S9 vs. Rane Seventy-Two
The Rane Seventy-Two is often considered the DJM-S9's main competitor, though it takes a different approach:
The Seventy-Two features a 4.3-inch touchscreen that displays waveforms and allows for on-screen navigation, which the S9 lacks.
Rane's mixer includes three built-in effects engines compared to the S9's two.
The Seventy-Two has larger performance pads.
The DJM-S9 is more compact and lighter, making it more portable for mobile DJs.
Many DJs find the S9's Magvel Pro crossfader to have a slightly better feel for scratching.
DJM-S9 vs. Pioneer DJ DJM-S11
The DJM-S11 is Pioneer DJ's newer 2-channel battle mixer, building upon the S9's foundation:
The S11 includes a 4.3-inch touchscreen, addressing one of the main features the S9 lacked.
Both mixers feature the Magvel Pro crossfader, but the S11 adds a Magvel fader Pro for channel faders as well.
The S11 includes a new Smooth Echo feature that automatically adds echo when using the crossfader.
The S11 supports both Serato DJ Pro and rekordbox software, while the S9 is primarily designed for Serato.
The DJM-S9 is more affordable, making it still relevant for DJs who don't need the additional features of the S11.
DJM-S9 vs. Rane Seventy
The Rane Seventy offers a middle ground between the Seventy-Two and mixers like the DJM-S9:
Both are 2-channel battle mixers designed for Serato DJ Pro.
The Seventy lacks a screen but includes three internal effects engines compared to the S9's two.
Rane's MAG THREE crossfader competes well with Pioneer's Magvel Pro.
The Seventy includes dedicated loop controls that the S9 lacks.
Many DJs find the S9's pad FX system more intuitive for performance.
Setting Up the DJM-S9 with Serato DJ Pro
The DJM-S9 is designed to work seamlessly with Serato DJ Pro, offering plug-and-play functionality that makes setup relatively straightforward:
Software Installation: Download and install the latest version of Serato DJ Pro from the official website.
Driver Installation: Install the latest DJM-S9 drivers from Pioneer DJ's support page.
Hardware Connection: Connect the DJM-S9 to your computer using the included USB cable.
Turntable/CDJ Setup: Connect your turntables or CDJs to the mixer's inputs, ensuring they're set to the correct input type (phono for turntables, line for CDJs).
Audio Output: Connect the master outputs to your sound system and the booth outputs to your monitor speakers if applicable.
Software Configuration: Launch Serato DJ Pro, which should automatically recognize the DJM-S9. Navigate to the setup screen to confirm audio routing and MIDI mappings.
Calibration: If using DVS (Digital Vinyl System) with turntables, calibrate the control vinyl through Serato DJ Pro's setup utility.
Once set up, the DJM-S9 provides deep integration with Serato DJ Pro, allowing you to control most software functions directly from the hardware without needing to look at your computer screen.
Mastering the DJM-S9's Performance Features
To get the most out of the DJM-S9, it's essential to understand and practice with its unique performance features:
Performance Pads and Pad Modes
The DJM-S9's 16 performance pads (8 per channel) can be used in various modes:
Hot Cue Mode: Set and trigger cue points instantly.
Roll Mode: Create beat rolls of different lengths while maintaining playback position.
Slicer Mode: Divide a section of the track into eight parts and trigger them on the fly.
Sampler Mode: Trigger samples loaded in Serato DJ Pro's sampler.
Velocity Sampler Mode: Trigger samples with velocity sensitivity, allowing for more expressive performance.
Pitch Play Mode: Play cue points at different pitches for melodic scratching (requires Serato Pitch 'n Time).
To switch between these modes, use the mode buttons located above the performance pads on each channel.
Mastering the Pad FX
The Pad FX feature is one of the DJM-S9's most powerful creative tools:
Press the Pad FX mode button to enter Pad FX mode.
Each pad now controls a different effect with preset parameters.
Press and hold a pad to activate the effect; release to deactivate it.
Use the parameter knob to adjust the intensity or timing of the selected effect.
Combine multiple effects by pressing multiple pads simultaneously.
Create custom Pad FX settings through the Serato DJ Pro software or the Pioneer DJ utility software.
Customizing the Crossfader and Channel Faders
The DJM-S9 offers extensive customization options for its faders:
Crossfader Curve: Adjust the crossfader curve using the dedicated control on the front panel, from a smooth blend to a sharp cut ideal for scratching.
Crossfader Cut-in Time: Adjust how quickly the audio cuts in when moving the crossfader from its extreme position.
Channel Fader Curves: Customize each channel fader's response curve using the controls on the front panel.
Reverse Switches: Reverse the direction of the crossfader or channel faders for custom techniques or left-handed DJing.
Experimenting with these settings is crucial to finding the perfect feel for your particular scratching or mixing style.
Advanced Techniques for the DJM-S9
Once you're comfortable with the basic operation of the DJM-S9, you can explore more advanced techniques:
Creative Scratching Techniques
The DJM-S9's responsive Magvel Pro crossfader makes it ideal for advanced scratching techniques:
Transformer Scratches: Use the sharp crossfader curve to create precise transformer scratches.
Crab Scratches: The low cut-in time allows for clean execution of crab scratches.
Flare Scratches: Combine record movement with precise crossfader clicks.
Orbit Scratches: The responsive crossfader makes orbit scratches particularly effective.
Chirp Scratches: Execute clean chirps with minimal effort due to the crossfader's precision.
Practice these techniques with the crossfader settings adjusted to your preference for the best results.
Advanced FX Combinations
The DJM-S9's dual FX engines allow for complex effect combinations:
Layered Effects: Apply different effects to each channel and mix between them for unique transitions.
Beat-Synchronized Effects: Use the BPM tap button to synchronize time-based effects with your tracks.
Effect Chaining: Apply multiple effects in sequence for complex sound manipulation.
One-Shot FX: Use the parameter knob in combination with the FX buttons to create one-shot effect bursts.
Crossfader-Linked FX: Assign effects to trigger based on crossfader position for automated effect transitions.
Experiment with different combinations to develop your unique sound signature.
Loop-Based Performance Techniques
While the DJM-S9 doesn't have dedicated loop controls, you can still create impressive loop-based performances:
Use Serato DJ Pro's auto-loop function controlled via MIDI mapping.
Combine loops with the Roll pad mode for rhythmic variations.
Use the Slicer mode to create on-the-fly loop-based remixes.
Apply effects to loops for evolving textures.
Use hot cues to jump between different loop points in a track.
Maintaining Your DJM-S9
Proper maintenance is essential to ensure your DJM-S9 remains in optimal condition for years to come:
Regular Cleaning
Use compressed air to remove dust from faders, knobs, and buttons.
Clean the faceplate with a soft, slightly damp cloth (never spray liquid directly onto the mixer).
Use fader cleaning solution specifically designed for DJ equipment to maintain smooth fader action.
Clean input and output jacks with contact cleaner if you experience connection issues.
Fader Maintenance
The faders, especially the crossfader, are the most used components and require special attention:
Apply fader lubricant recommended by Pioneer DJ every few months for heavy users.
If you notice the crossfader becoming less responsive, consider replacing it (the Magvel Pro is user-replaceable).
Keep the fader caps clean to prevent dirt from entering the fader mechanism.
Software and Firmware Updates
Regularly check for firmware updates on Pioneer DJ's support website.
Keep Serato DJ Pro updated to ensure compatibility and access to new features.
Follow proper update procedures to avoid corrupting the mixer's firmware.
Expanding Your Setup: Compatible Gear for the DJM-S9
The DJM-S9 works well with a variety of additional equipment to expand your setup:
Turntables and Controllers
The DJM-S9 pairs exceptionally well with:
Pioneer PLX-1000: Professional direct-drive turntables designed to complement Pioneer DJ mixers.
Technics SL-1200/1210: The industry standard turntables, perfect for scratch DJs using the S9.
Rane Twelve: Digital turntable controllers that provide the feel of vinyl without the maintenance.
Pioneer DDJ-SP1: A supplementary controller that adds additional performance pads and controls for Serato DJ Pro.
Audio Interfaces and Sound Systems
While the DJM-S9 has a built-in audio interface, some DJs choose to expand their setup with:
External Audio Interfaces: For additional inputs/outputs or higher sample rates.
Pioneer KUVO: For sharing your DJ mix information with audiences in real-time.
Pioneer DAS Monitor Speakers: Designed specifically to complement Pioneer DJ equipment.
Subwoofers: To enhance the low-end response of your monitoring system.
Accessories and Customizations
Enhance your DJM-S9 experience with these accessories:
Custom Faceplates: Personalize your mixer with custom-designed replacement faceplates.
Replacement Crossfaders: Keep a spare Magvel Pro crossfader for quick replacement if needed.
DJ Coffin Cases: Custom cases that house your DJM-S9 and turntables/controllers for protection during transport.
Control Vinyl: High-quality Serato control vinyl for DVS systems.
USB Hubs: For connecting additional controllers or storage devices.
DJM-S9 in Professional Settings
The DJM-S9 has become a fixture in various professional DJ environments:
Battle DJs and Competitions
The DJM-S9 is a popular choice at DJ battles and competitions like the DMC World DJ Championships and Red Bull 3Style, where its responsive crossfader and performance features give competitors the tools they need for complex routines.
Club and Mobile DJs
Despite being designed primarily for scratch DJs, the DJM-S9 has found favor with club and mobile DJs who appreciate its:
Compact footprint that doesn't take up excessive booth space
Dual USB ports for seamless DJ changeovers
High-quality sound output suitable for professional sound systems
Versatile effects that can enhance any style of DJ performance
Production and Live Performance
Some producers and live electronic music performers incorporate the DJM-S9 into their setups for:
Real-time effect processing of instruments or vocals
Sample triggering and manipulation during live sets
Scratch techniques applied to live production elements
Hybrid DJ/live performance setups
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Even the best equipment can experience issues. Here are solutions to common problems DJM-S9 users might encounter:
Audio Problems
No Sound: Check input selector switches, ensure proper USB connection, verify audio routing in Serato DJ Pro.
Distorted Sound: Check input level/trim settings, ensure proper grounding for turntables, verify cables are fully inserted.
USB Audio Dropouts: Update drivers, use a high-quality USB cable, close unnecessary computer applications, adjust audio buffer size.
Hardware Issues
Sticky Faders: Clean with appropriate fader cleaner, check for debris in the fader track.
Unresponsive Pads: Restart the mixer, check Serato DJ Pro pad settings, update firmware.
Connection Problems: Try different USB ports, replace USB cable, reinstall drivers.
Software Integration Issues
Serato DJ Pro Not Recognizing Mixer: Reinstall drivers, try a different USB port, check for software updates.
MIDI Controls Not Working: Reset MIDI mappings in Serato DJ Pro, check controller settings in software.
DVS Problems: Recalibrate control vinyl, check needle condition, verify correct input settings.
The Future of DJ Mixers and Where the DJM-S9 Stands
As DJ technology continues to evolve, it's worth considering the DJM-S9's position in the market and its future relevance:
While newer mixers like the Pioneer DJ DJM-S11 and competitors from Rane and other manufacturers have introduced features like touchscreens and expanded effects sections, the DJM-S9 remains relevant for several reasons:
Its core performance features remain industry-standard
The build quality and reliability have stood the test of time
Many professional DJs have built their techniques around its specific feel and response
It represents an excellent value proposition as prices have decreased since its initial release
For DJs considering whether to invest in a DJM-S9 in 2023 and beyond, it remains a solid choice for those who prioritize performance-oriented features and reliability over the latest technological additions.
If you're looking to expand your DJ presence beyond just your equipment, consider creating a free musician website to showcase your mixes and performances. This can help you build a following and potentially book more gigs.
Conclusion: Is the DJM-S9 Right for You?
The Pioneer DJ DJM-S9 represents a significant investment for any DJ, so it's important to determine if it aligns with your needs and style:
The DJM-S9 is ideal for:
Scratch DJs and Turntablists: The responsive Magvel Pro crossfader and battle-oriented layout make it perfect for technical scratching.
Performance-Focused DJs: The extensive pad and effect options provide endless creative possibilities for DJs who incorporate performance elements into their sets.
Serato DJ Pro Users: The deep integration with Serato DJ Pro makes it an excellent choice for DJs committed to this software platform.
Professional DJs: The build quality and reliability make it suitable for demanding professional use.
You might want to consider alternatives if:
You primarily need a club-style mixer with 4+ channels
You prefer a mixer with a built-in screen for waveform display
You use rekordbox DJ as your primary software (though the S9 can work with it)
You're on a tight budget and don't need all the performance features
For those who decide the DJM-S9 is the right choice, you're investing in a piece of equipment that has proven itself in the most demanding DJ environments worldwide. Its combination of durability, performance features, and intuitive design has earned it a place among the most respected DJ mixers ever created.
As you continue to develop your skills as a DJ, you might also want to explore options for independent music distribution if you're creating your own tracks or remixes. This can help you reach a wider audience and potentially generate income from your music.
Whether you're a battle DJ looking to compete at the highest level or a club DJ wanting to add more creative elements to your sets, the DJM-S9 provides a platform that can grow with you as your skills and style evolve. Its enduring popularity in a rapidly changing market speaks to the thoughtful design and performance-first approach that has made it a modern classic in the world of DJ equipment.