AlphaTheta Releases New Four-Channel DJ Controller, DDJ-GRV6

AlphaTheta, the parent company of Pioneer DJ, has announced the launch of the DDJ-GRV6, a new four-channel controller designed for use with rekordbox DJ and Serato. This innovative unit introduces a unique Groove Circuit feature and a game-changing Drum Swap function.

The DDJ-GRV6 boasts four up-faders, a Color FX per channel, a three-band EQ, and a trim knob. It also includes a Beat FX section and a CDJ layout on each deck, complete with eight performance pads above each jog wheel. Users can easily switch control between decks one and two, and three and four, using dedicated buttons.

What makes the GRV6 stand out is its Groove Circuit and the Drum Swap feature, which utilizes stem separation technology to remove drums from the current track and replace them with pre-defined loops available in rekordbox DJ. This allows for quick mixing of different rhythms and genres, enhancing live remixes and seamless blends.

The Capture button enables users to record drums from the existing track and save them in one of the Drum Swap Banks for later use. Users can also save these Banks to rekordbox for easy recall. The Drum Release feature allows for a smooth transition back to the original track.

Although this technology shows the significant creative potential stemming from the development of stem separation in DJ software, it’s worth noting that sound quality may vary, particularly in club environments, where artifacts from the original track can still be heard. The Groove Circuit feature is exclusive to rekordbox and features a hardware overlay that enables Stem FX controls for individual track stems.

Other notable features include a Discovery button for the Collection Radar feature introduced with rekordbox 7. The back of the unit includes master TRS and RCA outs, RCA booth outs, and a USB-C port for laptop connectivity.

The DDJ-GRV6 is priced at €849 and is now available. For more details, visit the AlphaTheta website.