Roland DJ-202 Review

With the flagship DJ-808, Roland successfully hooked consumers who were either underwhelmed by traditional mixers or found operating external devices too cumbersome.

The recently introduced two-channel DJ-202 controller, in a streamlined form, also benefits from the integrated step sequencer with classic TR sounds. This awakens the remixer in a rhythm pattern, as even the dustiest tracks gain a new shine. Let's see how this polish holds up in our practical test.

Roland has been a synonym for cult synthesizers and drum machines for years

Especially their TR-808 and TR-909 shaped the characteristic beats of hip-hop, house, and techno music in the 80s, to which they have remained faithful to this day. That's why Roland and DJs have been married for decades.

From their wild marriage emerged a new generation of DJ controllers. Their latest baby: the DJ-202.
Its features: handy, clear, affordable, and tailored for beginner DJs.

Its dimensions of 47.8 x 27.9 x 6.2 centimeters offer ample space for nearly 15-centimeter jog wheels, eight performance pads, and a two-channel mixer with plenty of room for finger acrobatics on the controls.

Does not run standalone

In controllers of this price range, the rear panel accepts no external sources apart from a 6.3mm microphone jack, such as CDJs or turntables.

The output also focuses exclusively on a Cinch master output for looping into a mixer or connecting to an amplifier. However, another indication of the entry-level class is not the MIDI-Out, with which one can sniff around semi-professionally.

Thus, the DJ-202 sends the MIDI clock to external MIDI-compatible devices to synchronize with the step sequencer. Otherwise, the controller communicates exclusively with the laptop connected via the USB port, from which it draws its power, as well as with the installed software Serato DJ Intro. An upgrade to the full version is not included but optional.

Standard Layout

You know one, you know almost all. This also applies to the arrangement on all DJ controllers, especially for the DJ-202, which is advantageous. Switching between different devices is facilitated.

Rethinking the workflow and constantly flipping through the manual are no longer necessary. With the standard features, the DJ 202 quickly adapts: two channels with 45 millimeter Flat Track faders connected via a crossfader, three-band EQ plus filter and trim are standard.

A seven-color, three-color LED chain shows only the master level, but not the cue level. In addition, there is a navigation button and load pads to search in the software and load tracks. The headphones, which are plugged into the 6.3mm jack on the front, not only play the cue signal, but fortunately also the master signal via a continuous controller.

The decks are defined by eight green illuminated, non-dynamic touch performance pads, accessing hot cues, loops, sequencers, or samplers depending on the selected modes. The touch-sensitive, handy, unlit jogwheel assists in pitch bending, searching, and scratching.

Next comes the three-part FX section, which can be adjusted via an encoder controller either by level or by beats. Despite its short length of 45 millimeters, the pitch fader loads beat matching manually instead of the sync buttons.

Upscale Entry Level

The DJ-202 delivers astounding performance beyond its class, if one overlooks the somewhat stingy connectivity options. Starting with its rather rich sound despite playback through RCA. This is thanks to the built-in sound card with 24-bit/48 kHz. Integration with Serato DJ Intro and Serato DJ works perfectly.

Finally, the controller is compatible with the New Zealand software. Although there are only two channels, the controller allows working with all four decks of the software. For those still unsatisfied, they turn to the controller's other highlight:

The eight pads can be used in kits with eight sounds from the TR-808 and TR-909, and samples in sixteen note patterns, which can be triggered live or saved step by step, but cannot be further edited. This works quite well, but for better understanding, a look into the user manual is required.

In addition, you should take some practice sessions beforehand to train dexterity to master precise timing. The start of patterns from the step sequencer does not allow for corrections.

Conclusion

With the DJ-202, Roland offers an entry-level controller that is convincing both in quality and technology. Its affordable price, but also the lack of input for standalone operation, matches its class.

On the other hand, it surprises with a rich sound, its workflow is well thought out. But above all, with its step sequencer, including MIDI-Out, it makes the leap out of the bedroom DJ play zone.