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AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6 Review

The AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6 is a mid-range 4-channel DJ controller specifically designed for ambitious hobby DJs. With the included software rekordbox and Serato DJ Pro, along with innovative features for both platforms, the controller offers everything you need for professional performances or practice sessions.

Thanks to the large full-size jog wheels and a well-thought-out layout, the DDJ-GRV6 is a successful evolution of the DDJ-FLX6. However, there are a few compromises: External inputs, apart from a microphone channel, are not available, and the pitch faders are relatively short.

First Impressions and Setup

AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6 connections

The DDJ-GRV6 impresses with its modern and professional design. Despite the plastic construction and some slightly cheaper-looking controls, the controller stands out visually in a positive way. Compared to the DDJ-FLX6, several weaknesses have been addressed: The impractical and often ridiculed “Hero Knobs” of the predecessor are gone. Instead, the DDJ-GRV6 offers a tidy design with a clear structure.

A highlight is the new, shiny strip on top, which houses the controls for the Groove Circuit Feature (Rekordbox) and Stems FX (Serato). (More on this later) This zone not only gives the controller a premium look but also opens up exciting creative possibilities for DJs.

The setup is incredibly easy and can be completed in just a few minutes: After installing Rekordbox or Serato DJ Pro, the controller is connected to the PC or MAC via USB-C cable. Once headphones and speakers are connected, the setup is ready to go. Especially convenient: Both software packages are automatically activated by the controller, so no additional licensing fees are required.

The AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6 in Practice

We extensively tested the AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6 in our studio to assess its strengths and weaknesses in practice. We not only thoroughly examined the core features of the DJ controller, but also looked at how it performs in various scenarios such as live performances and studio sessions.

All the new features and other aspects that caught our attention will now be presented to you in detail:

Groove Circuit (rekordbox)

AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6 Groove Circuit

The Groove Circuit for rekordbox is one of the standout features of the DDJ-GRV6 and demonstrates how creatively DJs can work with modern technology. This feature allows you to remix the drums of a track live and create dynamic transitions or breaks. Using four special buttons, you can seamlessly insert or switch between pre-installed drum loops from two banks, each with four loops. This provides the opportunity, especially during live sets, to spontaneously add new elements without interrupting the flow of a track. What is particularly impressive is that DJs can sample the drums of a running track directly and then save them as loops, creating a high level of individuality.

The drum roll function further expands creative possibilities. Similar to a loop roll, this function focuses exclusively on the drums and can be used to set rhythmic accents. In combination with the drum release function, which removes drums from the mix with effects like vinyl break or echo out, the Groove Circuit feature offers a wealth of tools to spice up the performance.

Stems FX (Serato)

AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6 Stems FX

In Serato, the Groove Circuit is replaced by Stems FX, offering a different yet equally creative approach. Here, DJs can specifically edit individual elements of a track (stems) such as vocals, bass, drums, or instruments. This functionality allows you to highlight or remove specific elements of a track, which is especially useful for remixes or live edits. As with the Groove Circuit, the drum roll and drum release functions are also available here, creating many parallels in how the features work.

Another thoughtful detail is the high-quality overlays that AlphaTheta provides for the controls. These overlays are specifically designed for the functions in Serato and can be attached and removed multiple times. They ensure that the labeling of the buttons always corresponds to the features being used, which is especially helpful when switching between different software environments.

New Library Control

AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6 Library Control

Another highlight of the DDJ-GRV6 is the significantly improved music library control, which shines especially when used with rekordbox 7. DJs can preview tracks directly in the library without having to load them first. This handy feature not only saves valuable time but also makes it easier to quickly find and test suitable tracks, which can be a real advantage during live performances. Similar functions have been integrated in Serato, including a highly useful view button. With this, you can quickly switch between different views in the software, further enhancing its clarity.

Central to navigation is the large encoder in the library area, inspired by the Opus-Quad. It combines intuitive rotary and tilt movements with a press function, making navigation in large music libraries simple and efficient.

New Layout of the Performance Pads

AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6 Performance-Pads

One of the most noticeable changes of the DDJ-GRV6 is the new position of the performance pads, now arranged above the jog wheels. These are in a straight row of eight buttons, reminiscent of the design of the CDJ-3000 series. This positioning allows for more ergonomic control, which is especially beneficial during longer sets.

What distinguishes the DDJ-GRV6 from the CDJs, however, is the extended functionality of the pads. In addition to traditional tasks like setting cues and creating loops, they provide access to modern features such as Loop Roll, Keyboard, or Sampler. This offers DJs significantly more flexibility to make their performances more creative and diverse. This innovation makes the controller a versatile tool, ideal for various music styles and performance types.

Effects and Sound Quality

AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6 Sound Color FX

With the Sound-Color Effects, which are available for the first time on a controller in this price range, the DDJ-GRV6 sets new creative accents. These effects expand on the classic channel filters and offer DJs an impressive range of sonic possibilities. Whether it's "Noise" for smooth transitions, "Dub Echo" for deep, atmospheric accents, or "Jet" for dynamic modulations – the Sound-Color effects provide additional variety and allow you to make tracks unique.

What is remarkable is that these effects are fully usable in both software environments – Serato and rekordbox – making them particularly versatile. Even with heavy use, the effects remain precise and clear without overwhelming the sound.

The overall sound quality of the DDJ-GRV6 is also impressive: it is remarkably good for a controller in this price range, delivering clean and balanced audio output even at higher volumes. This makes it an ideal choice for both practice sessions at home and performances in front of an audience.

Serato DJ is No Longer an Afterthought

A notable point of the DDJ-GRV6 is that AlphaTheta has developed a controller that no longer treats Serato users as second-class users. Almost all knobs, functions, and features are just as usable in Serato as they are in rekordbox. Previous models often had insufficient labeling or limited functionality, which was particularly frustrating with devices that supported dual software. The DDJ-GRV6 solves this problem consistently and offers a nearly identical experience on both platforms.

However, there are a few minor limitations. Serato DJ Pro is delivered without the "Pitch 'n Time" expansion pack, which is required for key shifting. Since Serato does not sell this package separately, users are forced to purchase a complete upgrade. However, this is more of a shortcoming of Serato than of AlphaTheta.

Other Features

AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6 Smartphone

In addition to the aforementioned features, the DDJ-GRV6 impresses with solid build quality and ample creative options, making it a versatile tool. It is the first controller to support deeper integration with rekordbox 7 and only the second to officially support rekordbox Stems.

Another interesting feature is the ability to use the controller with Android and iOS devices via rekordbox. However, unlike the DDJ-FLX4, it lacks Bluetooth connectivity, meaning a cable is always required. Nonetheless, the DDJ-GRV6 offers enough features to make it an exciting device for ambitious hobby DJs.

Our Conclusion on the DDJ-GRV6 Controller

AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6 Jogwheels

The AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6 impressively shows that a mid-range controller can be both advanced and user-friendly. With its full-size jog wheels, innovative features like Groove Circuit and Stems FX, and a thoughtful integration into rekordbox and Serato, it appeals to both beginners and experienced DJs. What stands out particularly is the equal treatment of both software platforms, allowing Serato users to finally experience the same comprehensive features as rekordbox users.

The deep integration of the new rekordbox 7 library features and the ability to edit drums or individual stems live open up new creative possibilities. At the same time, the controller remains easy to use and intuitively structured, making it suitable for long performances. Additionally, the modern layout of the performance pads and the improved effects section contribute to the versatility of the controller.

Of course, there are some compromises: the lack of Bluetooth connectivity for mobile devices, the short pitch faders, and the limited connection options may be a disadvantage for some users. However, these drawbacks are more than compensated for by the innovative features, solid build quality, and balanced price-performance ratio.

Anyone looking for a versatile controller that can be used both at home and as a stepping stone to professional equipment will find the DDJ-GRV6 to be the perfect choice. It offers enough room for creative experiments while providing the necessary features for a reliable performance. This makes it a clear improvement over its predecessor and a recommended choice for ambitious DJs.

Summary and Technical Specifications

ManufacturerAlphaTheta
ModelDDJ-GRV6
RRP849 €
Channels4
Compatible Softwarerekordbox (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android), Serato DJ Pro
Special FeaturesGroove Circuit, Stems FX, Performance Pads, Sound-Color Effects, Smart-Rotary-Selector
Connections1 microphone input, 2 master outputs, 1 booth output, 2 headphone outputs, 2 USB-C
Power SupplyDC 9 V (Power Supply) / DC 5 V (USB)
Dimensions (W x D x H)711.4 x 375.9 x 75.7 mm
Weight4.6 kg
Included AccessoriesUSB Cable (C to C), Overlay Sheet, Quick Start Guide, Safety Instructions

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Controller

Advantages

  • Innovative Groove Circuit with Drum-Swap function
  • Stems FX with targeted editing of individual stems
  • Intuitive control through Smart-Rotary-Selector and new pad layout
  • Solid integration of both software platforms
  • High-quality jog wheels and versatile effect options
  • Future-proof USB-C connections

Disadvantages

  • No Bluetooth connection for mobile devices
  • Pitch faders are relatively short
  • Limited connection options
  • No Pitch 'n Time expansion pack for Serato included

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