Denon DJ - Prime 4 G2

The PRIME 4 G2 retains the standalone 4-channel architecture that made the PRIME 4+ such a success, but introduces significant improvements to its operation and performance capabilities. This new generation is characterised in particular by increased processing power, a revamped interface and several features that allow for much more direct control over tracks whilst mixing.

OmniSource is one of the key developments. This architecture allows different music sources to be brought together within a single workflow, whether they are tracks stored locally, streaming services or, with compatible software, tracks from Serato DJ Pro and VirtualDJ. The system is therefore able to adapt to different working methods without requiring the DJ to completely change their mixing style.

The PRIME 4 G2 also offers standalone stem management. The separation of musical elements is carried out directly by the unit and can be used during a mix to alter a track’s composition in real time. For example, the DJ can remove vocals before a transition, retain only the instrumental of a track, reduce the drum track, or isolate certain elements to layer them over another track. The dedicated stem controls allow these adjustments to be made quickly, without having to prepare the tracks in advance on a computer.

This approach takes on a whole new dimension with the new MPCe pads. The 16 pads, which are sensitive to velocity, pressure and movement along the X/Y axes, allow you to control various functions depending on the selected mode. They can be used to trigger Hot Cues, work with loops, manipulate Stems or control certain effects. In particular, XY mode allows you to adjust several parameters with a single movement, offering greater scope for creating transitions and modifying the track whilst it is playing.

The 8-inch jog wheels have also been redesigned to complement this performance-oriented approach. Their central display allows you to view useful mixing information directly, including the playback position, cue points and the status of stems. The new JoyCoder completes the interface by combining navigation, track selection, access to information and previews into a single control.

The 10.1-inch touchscreen remains the focal point of the interface. As well as displaying waveforms and playback information, it provides access to numerous system settings and a full-featured software mixer. In particular, the DJ can modify the crossfader’s assignment, its curve, the sources used by the channels, and certain parameters for effects and outputs. Playlist Banks also facilitate access to selections prepared for the various stages of a performance.

Effects management has also evolved, with several control methods available. Main FX groups the system’s primary effects, whilst Touch FX allows for direct manipulation via the screen. Fader FX uses fader movement to trigger certain actions, and Sweep FX features dedicated controls on the channels. The main advantage is being able to choose the control mode depending on the situation: quickly triggering an effect during a transition, or, conversely, adjusting it more gradually during a sequence.

The PRIME 4 G2 also retains the functions necessary for gigs where the DJ needs to manage several elements at once. The microphone section has its own processing, whilst the Zone output allows you to manage the music played in another area independently. This can be particularly useful at a wedding, a private party or an event with multiple sound zones.

The audio section is based on ESS Technology ES9017S 32-bit Hi-Fi converters and boasts a dynamic range of up to 119 dB. This architecture enables the system to maintain precise sound reproduction during the various operations carried out directly by the unit, particularly when several processing functions are used simultaneously.

Lighting control is also an integral part of the system via Engine Lighting. The PRIME 4 G2 can directly manage a DMX universe and communicate with the SoundSwitch ecosystem. The capabilities can be expanded to control additional equipment, whilst support for Philips Hue and Nanoleaf also allows for the integration of certain connected lighting systems.

Taken together, this makes the PRIME 4 G2 a particularly attractive option for DJs who want to be able to manage more aspects of their performance from a single machine. The system can serve either as a standalone main setup or be integrated into a workflow with a computer, whilst offering additional tools to transform tracks, work on transitions, manage effects and synchronise lighting with the music.