Reply to Opinions RE Z2/F1/X1/SL1200s vs. DDJ-SX/SL1200

Hi,

I bought a VCI-100SE as soon as Ean had them available, but my schoolwork and subsequent career had prevented me from really delving into it's creativity as much as I'd like. Years later I find myself with the cash and time to re-invest. Looking back I would have got an S4, but with the unit being dated at this time, the DDJ-SX seemed like the best option for me (not mobile) so I pulled the trigger at $775 (no tax/ship).

I'm still awaiting delivery, but the more I've been believeing about it (and seeing the limited software), the more I'm leaning away from it for the following reasons:

1) Effects are not that impressive, sure the filter apparently sound great, but I feel like the fader effects combos I had even with my VCI-100SE trump the DDJ-SX. The roller/slicer does look really interesting, but now with Flux mode and 2.6's macro effects, NI just seems to blow Serato out of the water creatively.

2) DVS, I really want it. Hands down I plan to buy some SL-1200s. Currently Serato DJ will not work with timecodes (I would need to get a Rane soundcard and run SSL). I could plug the turntables into the DDJ-SX, but I would have to own records. This is 2012, I don't want to have to buy wax to supplement my mostly FLAC collection. I could run Traktor Scratch Pro 2.6 and run a timecode on the SL's easily with a Z2.

3) Remix decks have me hooked. I ordered a MF3D and am really excited to jam with it. The F1 looks nice as well (especially size-wise opposite a X1).

4) The DJTT community is quite awesome. From custom TSI's to hacking the MF3D to work like a F1, I really like the support I'd have here sticking with Traktor


I've narrowed my setup down to a Z2 with (so glad there's a usb hub) a X1 for basic effect and control operations, and a MF3D + F1 to control the other two remix decks. I may start with the MF3D first and add the F1 later, or sell the MF3D and get an F1 to start (haven't decided). Then I would have SL1200s with timecodes so I could scratch and use the platters for effects (this is possible still right?). I don't believe I would need 2 X1s, right?

The disadvantage to this vs. the DDJ-SX would be the true lack of 4 channels. The DDJ has the nice pads, but a F1/MF3D would top even those. The fit and finish of the Pioneer is better too. Also the Z2 @ $800, X1 @ $200 and F1 @ $250, even after 15% off, is still more than the SX. Without the F1 it's pretty close.

I would like an S5 or DDJ-TX which had remix functions in the way of some nice pads as well as four channels. I would need to also be able to control timecodes via vinyl. I don't believe this is happening any time soon. Perhaps a Z4 will be release, but I believe having two remix decks (with additional 'channels' on those) would be fine for my bedroom DJ purposes.

Sorry for the long, almost rambling post, but this is quite important to me and I want to make the most informed decision. I will spin mostly for my own house parties (50-100 people) and have a pretty extensive sound and lighting setup for a duplex. I care the most about creativity, remixing, and having fun. I hope this helps, thanks in advance for your help/suggestions.