One Merge FX is made up of four categories Build FX, Build Sample, Release FX and Drop Sample, which include 41 types of effects, all of which can be united to create over 9,000 different patterns. With this regard, I would have considered the FLX10, but it's like 4x a used flx6 and I would only use it for private parties with friends, so I suppose it is overkill for my use case. Increase the influence of the effect by simply turning the knob — depending on the preset pattern you’ve chosen, the combination of different effects and samples is triggered at the same time. The layout of the controls on the DDJ-FLX6-GT is the same as its predecessor, echoing club-standard CDJ + DJM setup, so you can perform intuitively. One great aspect of the Merge FX is that they allow for very complex FX chains, which would usually require more than two hands.

If you’re using Rekordbox DJ there are over 9,000 possible effect and sample patterns – giving you multiple drop options. Choose from 41 types of effect for each element (Build FX, Build Sample, Release FX, and Drop Sample) and combine them to create more than 9,000 different patterns. If you’re using Serato DJ Pro instead of rekordbox, then Scratch Bank can be used to trigger samples through the performance pads. In the new Merge FX section in rekordbox (PC/Mac), you can customize each effect type and the samples used in each pattern to create your own variations.The controller gives any DJ an edge when it comes to performing, and is a great way to keep the crowd's attention and take them on a journey they will not forget. VirtualDJ is compatible with the updated unit (licenses available separately), which also offers free use of the rekordbox Core plan and Serato DJ Pro. There are four channels at play, so ultimately tracks can be played on decks 1 and 2 whilst scratching can be on 3 and 4.

The software options for the controller is flexible as the controller’s DJ Performance functions can be unlocked with either rekordbox or Serato DJ Pro.Jog Cutter allows the jog wheel to be moved backwards and forwards to create slick scratching sounds, ensuring the user performs like a pro battle DJ. Sample Scratch is a new pad mode in rekordbox which allows you to select sounds that have been assigned to the sampler and then load them on to the decks, which allows you to scratch with your favourite sounds. Simply press the knob and turn it as fast or as slowly as you like to start building up the tension in the music. In addition to the master output there is also a connection for a booth monitor – this is another nod towards the professional kit the unit is modelled on. So again, I probably need only a 4 deck controller as an interface with Rekordbox and route all the audio with my external audio interface?

Now, considering that I also play guitar, I do have a soundcard (behringer UMC204HD) which I might use to route the audio output.

Plug and play capability is available via the in-built soundcard and DJ Performance functions with either rekordbox or Serato DJ Pro. Just days after the launch of the new two-channel DDJ-FLX4 controller, Pioneer have announced an upgrade to the larger model in the versatile FLX range. The new style includes a familiar layout of controls similar to how you would find them on the club-standard CDJ and DJM setups allowing for intuitive performances. With a built-in sound card, all you need to do is connect the DDJ-FLX6-GT via USB cable to a laptop that’s running a compatible software and you can start DJing right away.

The DDJ FLX6 also comes complete with FX Pack and Pitch ‘n Time DJ Expansion Packs license keys for Serato DJ Pro, which allows access to these advance features whichever application is selected. Energetic and intuitive performances come with ease, thanks to the layout, inclusion of full-sized jog wheels and brand-new Jog Cutter feature on the DDJ FLX6. Turn on Jog Cutter and simply move the jog wheel to apply a professional-sounding scratch effect to the last Hot Cue or playback position you used on that deck.

The controller allows the DJ creative freedom when selecting and mixing tracks, and takes away the worry of trying to merge two tracks from different backgrounds together seamlessly. The FLX6, however, features a new high-quality dark grey matte finish and re-designed jog wheels that will be sure to make your DJ setup stand out. Operation couldn’t be simpler – just tap the button in the centre of the Merge FX control and then twist the outer ring to set the intensity.