Pioneer has upgraded its popular Serato DJ controllers to create the 2-channel DDJ-SB3, a new controller designed for beginner DJs to craft professional performances and improve their skills.

Designed for dedicated use with Serato DJ Lite (previously known as Serato DJ Intro), the DDJ-SB3 improves on the DDJ-SB2 model thanks to its combination of professional features and portability. The interface of the DDJ-SB3 is even more intuitive to use than its predecessors, inheriting traits from the layouts of the top models in the DDJ-S series including the introduction of the dedicated play and cue buttons, and the independent Auto Loop button.

In collaboration with DJ Jazzy Jeff, Pioneer has created Pad Scratch. The new feature on the DDJ-SB3 enables you to reproduce scratches based on the legendary hip hop DJ's own recordings by simply pressing the Performance Pads. Plus, smooth mixing is a breeze thanks to another new feature, FX Fade.

The layout design of the DDJ-SB3 is inherited from the top models in the DDJ-S series. The jog wheels, Performance Pads, play and cue buttons, independent Auto Loop buttons and all the knobs and fader positions in the mixer section are arranged in a way that enables professional DJ performances.

By pressing the Performance Pads on the DDJ-SB3, you can use the Pad Scratch feature to imitate eight different scratch techniques recorded by DJ Jazzy Jeff. Any track that you're playing or have cued up will be scratched, and the scratch speed automatically matches the track's BPM. So even if you have no experience, you can create professional scratch performances without breaking rhythm.

Using the new FX Fade feature, you can reduce the volume and apply FX to a track at the same time. This enables you to smoothly transition to your incoming track, even if you're playing with different genres of music. There are eight FX patterns to choose from, with two of each of the following types: high pass filter, low pass filter, loop playback and back spin.

Other features

• Built-in sound card (audio interface) - plug and play by connecting the controller to your laptop using a single USB cable.
• Class compliant - no need to install a driver.
• Mic input circuit
• USB bus powered.
• Grab handles on both sides
• Paid upgrade to Serato DJ Pro (previously known as Serato DJ)

Pioneer DJ's DDJ-SB3 will be available to purchase in mid-March and will cost $249.