Denon DN-SC2000 initial thoughts

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Denon DN-SC2000 initial thoughts
Posted on: 14.12.2010 by Branden Wentler
My DN-SC200 just arrived this afternoon and the short of it is it's a damn nice controller. The unit itself feels very sturdy and because of the steel case is surprisingly solid and weighty. The tsi from Denon's site works well and w/in 5 minutes of unpacking I was having a go. Furthermore, all of the controls have a nice quality feel akin to NI's Kontrol X1 and are sensibly arranged. The jog wheel is not flimsy and has a decent level of resistance so as not to feel as if it will fly away.
So far the only issues I've had is LED feedback in Windows causes audio distortion in certain instances. Namely when changing decks and activating autoloop. This is not really any fault of Denon and from what I understand will be addressed by NI in a future update. There is no obvious way to turn the unit off via switch or button combo. Though I purchased the 2000 with many considerations, compactness was a, ahem, big issue for me as I'll be traveling overseas in the near future. Nevertheless, I would love to have the same functionality on a larger controller in the future.

Likes:
-Buttons have the same rubber feel as an X1 but with slightly less "click" on press (which I really like)
-LED feedback is superb (Windows users may experience audio distortion)
-Size is compact and the height is exactly the same as an X1 w/o the carrying case.
-Super solid, level and plum. Absolutely no teeter-tottering with the unit on a glass table top. Steel construction this things feels more solid than my Audio8.
-Jog and Pitch slider feel ace. Don't believe this will be for hardcore scratchers though.
-Overall design
-All the knobs are push button capable! Finally someone is listening

Dislike:
-Notched EFX knobs. This will take some getting use to...good for some FX but clunky for others (iceverb anyone?)
-Compact design makes FX knobs slightly cramped for those with troll hands. Maybe replace with taller knobs
-Jog is a bit small. Not a big deal for me but others may experience circumference envy.
-Filter knob is also notched which makes getting back to center (0) nigh impossible. Don't use filter anyway may remap...could be an issue for some though.

I would like to emphasize how well the 2000 pairs with the X1 in both appearance and feel. Regretfully I only purchased one for 193USD and should have jumped on another at that deal.
Kellee Quarless
05.01.2011
Originally Posted by djpbe
If you want to use four channels you'll need an audio8 or an ESI Gigaport. The Audio4 only has 2 stereo outputs. You could run every thing in mono but it's not always ideal.

I use two of the SC2000's but only use two decks. I like to keep things simple. I get lost using multiple layers, mostly cause I drink far too much.
I noticed a significant difference in price between the Gigaport and Audio 8. Is there really a big difference in sound quality or is it like comparing a DDM4000 to a DJM 800, where the DDM4000 is just a great product for the price?
Terresa Ranganathan
30.12.2010
Originally Posted by chrisw
i mean in case like i wanted to use a UV knob

Sure, why not.
Rebbecca Cornelsen
30.12.2010
Originally Posted by cazwrx187
Thanks for the quick reply. So just a simple Audio 2? Or an Audio 4? I would like to be able to use all 4 channels.
If you want to use four channels you'll need an audio8 or an ESI Gigaport. The Audio4 only has 2 stereo outputs. You could run every thing in mono but it's not always ideal.

I use two of the SC2000's but only use two decks. I like to keep things simple. I get lost using multiple layers, mostly cause I drink far too much.
Cammy Clegg
30.12.2010
Originally Posted by DENON
You mean in case of fault?
Yes, everything is.
i mean in case like i wanted to use a UV knob
Terresa Ranganathan
29.12.2010
Originally Posted by chrisw
Just out of curriosity is the pitch slider knob replace able?
You mean in case of fault?
Yes, everything is.
Kellee Quarless
29.12.2010
Originally Posted by DENON
You would need a sound card.
Thanks for the quick reply. So just a simple Audio 2? Or an Audio 4? I would like to be able to use all 4 channels.
Terresa Ranganathan
29.12.2010
Originally Posted by cazwrx187
Say I were to purchase 2 DN-SC2000's and a DDM4000 mixer. What else would I need to make this setup work with my Macbook Pro? Thanks in advance.

You would need a sound card.
Faustino Stringfellow
15.12.2010
Originally Posted by Discotrick
If I were to get 2 Dn-sc2000's and a DN-X120 would that make a good setup? What else would be missing if I want to use it for traktor? What kind of audio interface would I need?
The Denon X120 is a good stable 2 channel mixer, so the minimum kit you would need is.

1 x SC2000 (this swaps channels with one button press, the LEDS change colour so you don't get confused where you are)

1 x audio interface, i'd go for the Audio 4DJ and use the separate outputs direct to the mixer, then you have the denon controlling the sound output and PFL. (you also get to use Timecode if you have Scratch Duo/ Scratch Pro and turntables).

Once i buy the MC-6000 i'll probably sell my Audio 4DJ, and I believe you will see a few Audio4's coming onto the market second hand soon, with people upgrading to the NI S4.

If you haven't already got Traktor Duo / Pro, take advantage of the offers now before NI put the price up again.

Well i was going to give you a link for the offers, but it looks like the NI store has nothing left! It was a brilliant offer, i would have suggested the Scratch Duo with Audio 4 bundle, which was cheaper than buying the Audio 4 on it's own ... perhaps a google search will help you find a store that still has stock.

Whatever you choose, have fun with it, get used to creating mappings for yourself, and remember one thing ... it's the music thats important, not the kit you play it on ...
Faustino Stringfellow
15.12.2010
Originally Posted by DENON
Thanks for the great feedback !
Actually we did ask many DJs for their feedback and the SC2000 was the result of it.
i don't have any problems with it, i'm just echoing the the feelings of some of the users with "fat finger syndrome".

As i said previously, i gigged with them live last week, and loved them. They did everything i asked from them, and even riased my game a little, and after 25 years in the game (yes i am old!) ... i found that very satisfying.

So much so i feel confident enough to buy another "all-in-one" system in the new year, namely the MC-6000.

I'll PM you with a few questions about it though.
Terresa Ranganathan
15.12.2010
Originally Posted by JSM
SC-2000 Mk2, perhaps a little bigger (ie longer) the transport controls placed at the bottom, the jog shifted left, leaving the fader and the jog a decent distance away from each other.
Thanks for the great feedback !
Actually we did ask many DJs for their feedback and the SC2000 was the result of it.
Lillia Datson
27.07.2012
Has anybody ran a set of these with an S4? I like using different layers, especially when mixing House etc but i find switching between the decks with C/D button can become quite confusing, not to mention if you press the wrong button believeing its another deck....
Rebbecca Cornelsen
05.01.2011
I don't own the gigaport but I hear great things about it. The major difference between it and the Audio8 is the Gigaport doesn't have any inputs. If you want to record your set, you'll need the inputs. If you don't want to record, save your money.
Loan Swift
05.01.2011
Great thread... Barring any MAJOR significant announcement at NAMM, 2 SC2000s will be in my hands in a couple weeks
Kellee Quarless
05.01.2011
Originally Posted by djpbe
If you want to use four channels you'll need an audio8 or an ESI Gigaport. The Audio4 only has 2 stereo outputs. You could run every thing in mono but it's not always ideal.

I use two of the SC2000's but only use two decks. I like to keep things simple. I get lost using multiple layers, mostly cause I drink far too much.
I noticed a significant difference in price between the Gigaport and Audio 8. Is there really a big difference in sound quality or is it like comparing a DDM4000 to a DJM 800, where the DDM4000 is just a great product for the price?
Terresa Ranganathan
30.12.2010
Originally Posted by chrisw
i mean in case like i wanted to use a UV knob

Sure, why not.
Rebbecca Cornelsen
30.12.2010
Originally Posted by cazwrx187
Thanks for the quick reply. So just a simple Audio 2? Or an Audio 4? I would like to be able to use all 4 channels.
If you want to use four channels you'll need an audio8 or an ESI Gigaport. The Audio4 only has 2 stereo outputs. You could run every thing in mono but it's not always ideal.

I use two of the SC2000's but only use two decks. I like to keep things simple. I get lost using multiple layers, mostly cause I drink far too much.
Cammy Clegg
30.12.2010
Originally Posted by DENON
You mean in case of fault?
Yes, everything is.
i mean in case like i wanted to use a UV knob
Terresa Ranganathan
29.12.2010
Originally Posted by chrisw
Just out of curriosity is the pitch slider knob replace able?
You mean in case of fault?
Yes, everything is.
Cammy Clegg
29.12.2010
Just out of curriosity is the pitch slider knob replace able?
Terresa Ranganathan
29.12.2010
Audio 4 will work out nice.
Kellee Quarless
29.12.2010
Originally Posted by DENON
You would need a sound card.
Thanks for the quick reply. So just a simple Audio 2? Or an Audio 4? I would like to be able to use all 4 channels.
Terresa Ranganathan
29.12.2010
Originally Posted by cazwrx187
Say I were to purchase 2 DN-SC2000's and a DDM4000 mixer. What else would I need to make this setup work with my Macbook Pro? Thanks in advance.

You would need a sound card.
Kellee Quarless
29.12.2010
Say I were to purchase 2 DN-SC2000's and a DDM4000 mixer. What else would I need to make this setup work with my Macbook Pro? Thanks in advance.
Faustino Stringfellow
15.12.2010
Originally Posted by Discotrick
If I were to get 2 Dn-sc2000's and a DN-X120 would that make a good setup? What else would be missing if I want to use it for traktor? What kind of audio interface would I need?
The Denon X120 is a good stable 2 channel mixer, so the minimum kit you would need is.

1 x SC2000 (this swaps channels with one button press, the LEDS change colour so you don't get confused where you are)

1 x audio interface, i'd go for the Audio 4DJ and use the separate outputs direct to the mixer, then you have the denon controlling the sound output and PFL. (you also get to use Timecode if you have Scratch Duo/ Scratch Pro and turntables).

Once i buy the MC-6000 i'll probably sell my Audio 4DJ, and I believe you will see a few Audio4's coming onto the market second hand soon, with people upgrading to the NI S4.

If you haven't already got Traktor Duo / Pro, take advantage of the offers now before NI put the price up again.

Well i was going to give you a link for the offers, but it looks like the NI store has nothing left! It was a brilliant offer, i would have suggested the Scratch Duo with Audio 4 bundle, which was cheaper than buying the Audio 4 on it's own ... perhaps a google search will help you find a store that still has stock.

Whatever you choose, have fun with it, get used to creating mappings for yourself, and remember one thing ... it's the music thats important, not the kit you play it on ...
Faustino Stringfellow
15.12.2010
Originally Posted by DENON
Thanks for the great feedback !
Actually we did ask many DJs for their feedback and the SC2000 was the result of it.
i don't have any problems with it, i'm just echoing the the feelings of some of the users with "fat finger syndrome".

As i said previously, i gigged with them live last week, and loved them. They did everything i asked from them, and even riased my game a little, and after 25 years in the game (yes i am old!) ... i found that very satisfying.

So much so i feel confident enough to buy another "all-in-one" system in the new year, namely the MC-6000.

I'll PM you with a few questions about it though.
Terresa Ranganathan
15.12.2010
Originally Posted by JSM
SC-2000 Mk2, perhaps a little bigger (ie longer) the transport controls placed at the bottom, the jog shifted left, leaving the fader and the jog a decent distance away from each other.
Thanks for the great feedback !
Actually we did ask many DJs for their feedback and the SC2000 was the result of it.
Rebbecca Cornelsen
15.12.2010
I've got a pair of the SC-2000's and the DN-X120. I use an Audio2DJ for an interface. I really like the setup so far. The only drawback to it is you only get 2 decks. I don't like using the different layers, so I got two units.
Domenic Kappauf
14.12.2010
If I were to get 2 Dn-sc2000's and a DN-X120 would that make a good setup? What else would be missing if I want to use it for traktor? What kind of audio interface would I need?
Faustino Stringfellow
14.12.2010
Originally Posted by BennyJ
No not for scratching but..dij i just like the feel of them. If i didnt want them i would just grab 2 midi fighters
fair point
Matha Obray
14.12.2010
No not for scratching but..dij i just like the feel of them. If i didnt want them i would just grab 2 midi fighters
Faustino Stringfellow
14.12.2010
Originally Posted by BennyJ
Yes but i want something with some jog wheels on it.
Why? I am not been sarcastic here, is it for scratching, because the only real way to get good scratching is TCV and a pair of turntables, jogs can't really "cut it".

However if its for seeking/skipping through tracks, you don't need them at all, mapping takes care of that (even the SC2000 has a mapping to skip through the track very quickly by holding shift and using the filter rotary) and i found i used that feature this weekend on more than one occasion.
Matha Obray
14.12.2010
Yes but i want something with some jog wheels on it.
Faustino Stringfellow
14.12.2010
Originally Posted by BennyJ
Ahh ok. well i have a budget around 500....im considering these and a vci-100 but i believe the vci may be kinda small.
the VCI is indeed a wonderful machine, i don't believe you'll ever have a problem with it ...it's 2 channel of course, but with the correct mapping, you can get a four deck solution (and again you will only need an ADJ2 as you will be internal mixing). Just make sure that your lappy can handle all decks and effects before spending your money ...

have you considered the weird TR1 from Vestax its less than $500 and can control 4 decks ...

http://www.djdeals.com/vestaxTR1.htm
Faustino Stringfellow
14.12.2010
Originally Posted by space monkey
I'm on an HP DV9000, 2GB Ram, Windows XP, minimal HW profile (i.e. no wireless etc...)
Audio8 to Xone:92
Kontrol X1
DN-SC2000

This has happened with every controller I've used with send monitor state for LED feedback: APC40, NDX800 and now Denon's. Fortunately there is a fix that Str8upDrew created. I was just hoping the Denon would not be affected. Not a huge deal though, just an extra step when setting up.

The filter issue is not biggie for me. I have the Xone for that. The FX knobs are too close for me because on any clockwise turn my middle finger gets pinched on the neighboring knob.
the .tsi i am using doesn't use "send monitor state" and the mapping is great. I got it from this community it's called SC2000 HP mod.test

i had no problems with two units over the entire evening , all LEDS working fine and i was bashing those buttons like the crazy fool i am ....

try that one and see if it works better for you.
Matha Obray
14.12.2010
Ahh ok. well i have a budget around 500....im considering these and a vci-100 but i believe the vci may be kinda small.
Faustino Stringfellow
14.12.2010
Originally Posted by BennyJ
Im wondering if i should get 2 sc2000 1 x-session pro and a audio 2...Or 2 sc2000 1 4chanell mixer and 2 audio 2 dj's....
If you are using the X-session, then you will be "internal mixing", therefore all you will need is the A2 ...one RCA pair to the amp, and headphone monitoring from the A2.

If you want 4 "real" or external channels then its a 4 channel proper mixer and an audio 8 is the only way forward (and you get to use timecode if you want.)

If you are happy with just two channels then an audio4 with a 2 channel proper mixer.

You CAN'T combine the 2 ADJ2's without using ASIO4ALL and then you are bypassing the ultra low latency drivers that NI provide, and you'll never get the smoothness that other DJ's get with their setups.

What is it that you want to do, whats your budget, where do you want to play ? These are questions you need to ask yourself first before buying anything.
Faustino Stringfellow
14.12.2010
Originally Posted by SirReal
@ MeowMix

That's the setup I have, 2 DNS2000's out 4 channels of the Audio8 to my mixer. Works great so far although I haven't been able to really have a go at it for a long set as I'm totally new to Traktor and still gridding many of my tracks.

While I LOVE these controllers so far, the only thing I have a slight issue with is how close the pitch fader is to the jog wheel. I have to keep aware not to bump it when I'm manually beat syncing
Whilst i had that reservation about the pitch fader, i didn't have any bother in a busy club and i wasn't exactly professional this time, a little too much Jamaican rum and a lot of jumping around ... i tend to use the left side of the jog for "nudging" the track. And if all fails, hit "sync" LOL ! :eek:

I suppose it's just a learning curve as with any new kit.

Perhaps in the near future Denon will ask one of it's users to help in the design layout of the SC-2000 Mk2, perhaps a little bigger (ie longer) the transport controls placed at the bottom, the jog shifted left, leaving the fader and the jog a decent distance away from each other.

Has anyone used the Reloop "contour" yet ? I see thats as the only real comparison to the SC2000....
Branden Wentler
14.12.2010
Originally Posted by BennyJ
Have u ever experienced any lag?
Jet lag a number of times.
I had lag on my Xone:4D but that was a driver issue. The 2000 works fantastically.
Matha Obray
14.12.2010
Have u ever experienced any lag?
Branden Wentler
14.12.2010
I'm on an HP DV9000, 2GB Ram, Windows XP, minimal HW profile (i.e. no wireless etc...)
Audio8 to Xone:92
Kontrol X1
DN-SC2000

This has happened with every controller I've used with send monitor state for LED feedback: APC40, NDX800 and now Denon's. Fortunately there is a fix that Str8upDrew created. I was just hoping the Denon would not be affected. Not a huge deal though, just an extra step when setting up.

The filter issue is not biggie for me. I have the Xone for that. The FX knobs are too close for me because on any clockwise turn my middle finger gets pinched on the neighboring knob.

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