The Denon Prime 4 Plus sets new standards for all-in-one DJ units—integrating real-time stems, Amazon music streaming, advanced jog wheels, touchscreen effects, and pro connectivity for serious mobile and event DJs. Read a detailed review exploring its features, performance, and industry impact.
Denon Prime 4 Plus Review: Is It the Ultimate All-in-One DJ System?
Introduction
The Denon Prime 4 Plus steps into the spotlight as one of the most advanced all-in-one DJ units available, boasting real-time stem separation, streaming service integration, upgraded hardware, and the powerful Engine DJ 3.1 software. This review unpacks its features, creative possibilities, practical performance, and how it fares against industry benchmarks like the Pioneer Opus Quad.
Key Innovations
Real-Time Stems
For the first time, an all-in-one hardware DJ unit supports on-board stem separation (beta, left deck only at launch). DJs can split vocals and instrumentals in real time, freeing up new opportunities for mashups, transitions, and remixes—though initial sound quality trails laptop-based solutions like Serato and Virtual DJ.
Amazon Music and Streaming Expansion
Prime 4 Plus connects with five major streaming services, notably adding Amazon Music Unlimited. Seamless Dropbox wireless sync means DJs can access libraries virtually anywhere, and the unit can even wirelessly link to Engine DJ desktop for direct music transfers.
Upgraded Job Wheels and Hardware
Jog wheel improvements deliver weightier, responsive feel and tactile feedback. The overall unit design is sleeker, more polished, and built for longevity on the road or in the booth.
Touchscreen Effects and Channel Control
Engine DJ 3.1 introduces advanced touch effects, channel and sweep FX, and creative sound manipulation tools tailored for dynamic performance. Dedicated layer control buttons enable full four-channel mixing, enhanced by fast track analysis and live grid editing.
Performance Features
- Hot cues, loops, rolls, slicers, and sampler pads for live remixing
- Built-in song analysis and beat grid editing without a laptop
- XLR Master/Zone/Booth outputs for pro audio routing
- Four USB sockets, SD card reader, and SATA Bay for up to 4TB storage
Lighting Integration
Prime 4 Plus controls lighting directly, with support for Nanoleaf, Philips Hue, and DMX integration. Mobile DJs and content creators can automate light shows or sync effects for professional results.
Microphone and Zone Outputs
Two pro microphone sockets (XLR/TRS combo) provide top-notch sound and EQ, with an additional output for routing playlists to alternate rooms—a big win for mobile/event DJs covering multiple spaces.
Engine DJ 3.1: Next-Level Software
The Engine DJ software is the heart of the Prime 4 Plus, featuring:
- Day mode for bright environments
- Onboard sampler and advanced FX
- Pitch and reverb drop for creative transitions
- FX frequency parameters to target effects precisely
Industry Comparison: Denon Prime 4 Plus vs. Pioneer Opus Quad
While both units deliver impressive specs, the Prime 4 Plus edges ahead in feature set thanks to Engine DJ 3.1, advanced lighting integration, and price competitiveness. It’s heavier (over 21 lbs), especially in a flight case—but serious event DJs will appreciate the flexibility and reliability.
Downsides
- Stem separation is in early beta and only available on one deck at launch.
- Long-term users of the original Prime 4 may need to wait for stems support.
- Unit weight can be challenging for frequent travel.
Value Proposition
Denon DJ continues its trend of releasing hardware with ongoing software upgrades, avoiding the subscription models seen in the DJ software sector. This approach ensures users benefit from fresh features and improvements without recurring fees—making Prime 4 Plus excellent value.
Who Should Buy the Prime 4 Plus?
- Event and mobile DJs needing robust, flexible all-in-one setups
- Creators who value advanced mixing, lighting, and streaming integration
- DJs seeking professional-grade build, storage, and sound routing
- Anyone ready to embrace on-board creative mixing, real-time stems, and touchscreen effects
Final Thoughts
The Denon Prime 4 Plus stands as a powerful, forward-looking unit designed for working DJs and industry professionals. Its blend of hardware upgrades, software innovations, and streaming flexibility mark a significant leap in all-in-one DJ technology. While stem separation remains a work-in-progress, the potential is enormous—pointing to a future where this feature will become the industry norm.
For those who want the latest creative tools, integrated lighting control, and pro-grade reliability, the Prime 4 Plus is a compelling choice—offering more features at a better value than close rivals. The evolution of stems and ongoing updates will only solidify its place as the number one contender in the all-in-one DJ unit market.