Ok so this will never be or compare to a pioneer! But...If your after a mixer that has plenty of features and doesn't cost the earth then this is a great choice.
This mixer has plenty of features for the money and is a worthy piece of kit for any DJ on a budget.
Sound quality is very good, the contact free crossfader is excellent and reduces the 'dirty contact issue' associated with older mixers, meaning that the mix is always clear, smooth and consistent. the crossfader is also adjustable so you can set it to suit you. 4 channels allows for enough space for a few decks, efx unit or whatever you want.
the usb connection allows for direct playback and recording from a computer or laptop. if your computer has music on it then user the mixer to push it out through your speakers and hear it properly. i use it with audacity and it sounds great, ive never had any problems recoding or playing back any recordings that ive made. it also means that a digital copy of your mix is recorded so you can easily upload it to soundcloud or make a podcast or sync it over to your smart phone as an MP3. ive put a few mixes on cd and they play clear without distortion or problems - ive not done anything to sound settings i just plugged in and started using it.
Build quality is pretty good, it feels sturdy and heavy. Its knobs and buttons have a good feel to them, the are smooth and feel robust, ive hammered the crossfader and had no issues at all. ive used mixers in the past that feel flimsy and poor but this is very good.
The only downside to this mixer is the efx unit. some efx are very good and sound ok but if im honest they could be better. there is nothing to tell you what the efx are and its not that easy to know how to set it up. that said im sure with some time spent and a few notes, you could find some very good ones and incorporate them into your mixes. Personally I would suggest a separate, stand alone efx unit if you want easy, reliable, noticeable efx but for those little highlights this will do the trick.
efx can be added over individual channels or through the main mix.
ive not had much use of the microphone but i have tested it and it does what is says on the tin. nothing much more i can say about that.
Unfortunately there is a lack of XLR outputs on the back but its still easy to connect and its ideal for bedroom DJ but is still capable to be used in a club.
Overall this is a great piece of kit and its difficult to knock it at this price. if you want better, pay more money. if your on a budget then this is definitely worth a look.
