Which would you choose; the S7 or the S11?
One of the biggest pros and cons to Pioneer DJ is their incredible library of different DJ controllers, many of which are a great fit universally.
Whether you’re just starting or have been in the DJ space for a while, Pioneer DJ has a controller that you’ll not only love, but you’ll be able to carry with you throughout your DJ career.
The challenge, however, is that with so many controllers being comparable it can be a real challenge knowing which one is ideal for you to start checking out.
DJM-S7 vs DJM-S11: Overview
For example, after the much-loved DJM-S9 scratch battle mixer, Pioneer DJ wasn’t content to just put out one quality mixer as its following successor.
Instead, they presented both, the DJM-S7 as well as the DJM-S11. While the S7 is technically a smaller and less extensive version of the S9 and S11, its intuitive design and setup make it, interestingly, seem like the next step.
In this comparison guide, we’ll take a look at both the S7 and the S11 to see which of these two mixers is the most ideal for you and what you’re trying to do.
While it’s easy to suggest that the S11 is objectively the superior option, that doesn’t necessarily make it the best option for most DJs that don’t have higher-end disposable cash.
Here, we’ll go over their respective strengths and weaknesses so you can decide which is best for what you need in a mixer for your DJ career.
Pioneer DJ DJM-S7 Explained
Starting with the smaller of the two, Pioneer DJ’s DJM-S7 is a 2-channel scratch-style battle mixer that comes with just about everything you’d need for a starter mixer.
It allows for a fully customizable setup while also including access to Serato DJ Pro as well as being a Hardware Unlock for the use of rekordbox.
The mixer has a width of 10.5 inches (266.7mm), 4.25 inches in height (107.9mm), and a depth of 15.6 inches (397.5mm).
The mixer weighs in at just under 10lbs (4.49kg). The S7 comes with an improved scratch pad, a larger set of performance pads as well as all of the same built-in Beat FX options as the S11.
The mixer also comes with Bluetooth wireless input, allowing you to connect your phone, as well as a Loop MIDI, an automated control feature with several software functions.
Read this next: DJM S7: 2 Channel Scratch Performance Mixer
What We Like:
- Similar Size & Build To S9
- Impressive Overall Layout
- Free Serato DJ Pro
- Bluetooth Wireless Input
- Unique Loop MIDI Feature
Similar Size & Build To The S9
First thing first, let’s talk about the size and build of this thing. The good news is that, for those coming from the DJM-S9, you’ll feel right at home here.
Not only do both DJ mixers have the same size, but they also have similar overall builds.
In addition to being an easy transition for S9 owners, the S7 is smaller than the S11, making it easier to move around and play with.
You’ll have to be slightly more careful, but not so much that it matters.
Essentially, the S7 is perfect for someone who either already has their set mixer (and needs a smaller one for quick jobs), is a fan of mobility and being lightweight, or just wants to better switch over from the S9 without dealing with super jarring size issues.
Impressive Overall Layout
Next up is the mixer’s impressive layout. Similar to its build and size, the layout also borrows heavily from the S7 design. This again makes it ideal for those that want to switch over without a lot of unnecessary changes.
Of course, while it shares many similarities with the S7, it isn’t a carbon copy. Here, the performance pad buttons are larger, as well as the load button.
It also includes all of the same Beat FX features as the S11, so you’re not losing out with this over that.
Free Serato DJ Pro Software
One of the particularly noteworthy factors is its inclusion of free use of Serato DJ Pro.
Keep in mind that this isn’t the Serato DJ Lite, which is known for its many restricted features, but the full-on Pro version gives you everything.
Not only does it include Serato DJ Pro, but it also is a Hardware Unlock for those that want to use Rekordbox features.
When you consider that many controllers, CDJs, and turntables don’t include either of these things, it’s worth factoring it in here considering how useful it is.
Bluetooth Wireless Input Option
The Bluetooth wireless input option allows you to sync up your phone with the mixer, letting you throw in sounds directly from your phone into your performance set.
You can use your phone to play loops, do scratch overs, or even just directly pull from music apps and play a requested track.
While I don’t think it has too much place in high-end professional settings, it’s great for having fun in smaller venues or while at home. Plus, it’s just a useful feature to have on hand at all times.
Unique Loop MIDI Feature
Lastly, the S7 comes with the Loop MIDI feature. This is wholly unique to the S7 and allows you to send out MIDI commands using your paddles.
The feature comes with a “Pattern A” and a “Pattern B”. The pattern A feature works to let you gradually shorten a beat’s cycle when playing a loop. This lets you create more tension and buildup before hitting them with what they need.
Pattern B lets you lower and raise your deck keys for deck 1 or deck 2.
You can also use it to activate samplers as well as Hot Cue 1/A. Lastly, the Pattern B feature lets you entirely mute the deck for short jumps in the sound.
What We Do Not Like:
- Does Not Include A Touchscreen
- Size Is Smaller Than S11
- Only Two Channels
Does Not Include A Touchscreen
Not a huge factor for older buyers. one thing that the S11 has over the S7 is the fact that the former includes a touchscreen feature, and the latter doesn’t.
We’ll get into all of the features on the touchscreen later in that section. Suffice it to say here, however, that the touchscreen is a sore miss that you’ll
Size Is Smaller Than S11
Yes, the smaller size is great for those that already have a mixer and need something great to transition from S9. The challenge is that those that want something objectively better, won’t be getting it here, at least in the size department.
Only Two Channels
While the vast majority of DJM mixers only have access to two channels (particularly battle mixers), it doesn’t change the fact that the same is true here.
Despite having a lot of impressive options, you won’t have the same extensive freedom as the S11 does, at least in terms of the channel options.
Read this next: DJ Controller vs DJ Mixer (All You Need To Know)
Verdict
Make no mistake about it, the DJM-S7 is a powerful device that does just about anything you’d want in a mixer. As it stands, you’re better off checking out the S7 if you want a smaller, more affordable setup. It’s quite similar to the S11, making it a great option even on its own.
All in all, the S7 does handle pretty much anything you’d need.
I’ll go over the different strengths of the S11 to see how it stacks up.
Pioneer DJ DJM-S11 Explained
While the S7 does have an impressive set of features to play with, that doesn’t the DJM-S11 doesn’t have useful features to play with.
Here, the mixer is slightly larger compared to the S7. It has a width of 10.5 inches (266.7mm), a full-on height of 4.25 inches (107.9mm), and a depth of 17.8 inches (452.12mm).
The S11 also comes in at 11.4lbs (5.17kg) the heavier and denser of the two.
In terms of incredible features, the S11 also comes with a free Serato DJ Pro as well as a completely customizable touchscreen monitor.
It comes with numerous FX options, including its new Smooth Echo, which can be automatically engaged when moving the faders or hitting the assigned triggers.
Read this next: Pioneer DJ DJM S11: The Perfect Scratch Battle Mixer?
What We Like:
- Incredible Sound Quality
- Customizable Touch Screen
- Extensive FX Options
- Includes 4-Deck Control
- Larger Overall Build
Incredible Sound Quality
First up on our list is, interestingly enough, nothing to do with what you can see and everything with what you hear. While both mixers have great sound quality, it’s the S11’s inclusion of the 64-bit mixing and dithering process that ups the ante with the DJM-S11.
Between that and its low-jitter clock circuit and sound converter, everything that comes out of the mixer is crystal-clear and remarkably pronounced.
Customizable Touch Screen
One thing that instantly bumps the S11 up a few notches is the inclusion of a customizable touchscreen. This 4.3-inch screen is entirely customizable and offers up just about any bit of information you’d need.
This includes things like waveform information or the ability to offer base controls over decks 3 and 4.
The screen is super versatile and is a great win for the S11 mixer.
Extensive FX Options
As mentioned with the S7, the S11 has a full-on plethora of different FX options. There are over 22 different options to play with, including both the new Fader Pitch as well as Helix.
The one area that is wholly unique to the S11 is the inclusion of Smooth Echo. This feature lets you activate it automatically while moving the faders or hitting the assigned trigger pads.
Ultimately, it’s just a super fun and enjoyable feature that you can’t get on the S7 or the previous S9, making the S11 your only option.
Includes 4-Deck Control
While it does come with only 2 channels, it also includes 4 different deck options, the additional 2 being accessed via digital software.
This is a first for just about any battle mixer and, while a bit clunky to access, it can still be used pretty effectively.
Large Overall Build
Lastly is the mixer’s overall build size compared to the S7 and S9. Though it will be a bit harder to transition if you’re coming from an S9 device, for everyone else, the S11 is just superb when it comes to its size.
Its larger size gives it a sense of heft and weight while also making it a bit more durable compared to the S7.
The mixer’s size also allows you to perform without everything feeling so squished together and cramped. Here, you can play with everything without feeling like you’re going to press something else by accident.
What We Do Not Like:
- More Expensive
- More Difficult To Transition
More Expensive
As good as the S11 is, you’re going to always have to contend with the fact that it’s a more expensive option compared to the S7. I will say that the difference isn’t so insane to be outrageous if you picked one over the other.
Still, there is a big enough difference that those on a budget will have a lot to consider between all that it carries.
More Difficult To Transition
This was mentioned a bit when it came to the size but is also true when it comes to the layout and overall way it works. Whereas the S7 is meant to mirror the S9 more closely, the S11 is meant to be more of an “evolution” of everything that came before.
This means a bigger size, a different layout, and a ton of different features.
On one hand, all of these things are super compelling and useful. On the other, however, it can be more than a bit daunting and difficult to transition away from, especially if you’re a strong fan of the S9 mixer.
2-channel DJ Mixer with Dual USB Audio Interfaces, 16 Performance Pads and Effects Controls for Serato DJ
Read this next: What Does A Mixer Do? (How do DJ Mixers Work Simplified)
Verdict
When it comes to the DJM-S11, I have to say that it truly is the real deal. I wanted to come in and say that it was a slightly shinier version of the S7 or S9.
The truth is, however, that unless you’re a huge stickler for your mixer being a certain way, the S11 is the definitive option.
Which Is Best?
Honestly, this was a much tougher breakdown as both battle scratch mixers have a lot that they can fall back on. Ultimately, however, I will say that Pioneer DJ’s DJM-S11 is the objectively superior device for most people.
Yes, I expected it to have more going for it compared to the S7, but this is kind of crazy.
The only reason I can think you’d choose S7 over the S11 is due to the price and its less intense and intimidating nature.
Despite the many different perks that come with the S7, it is a bit more like a fun casual mixer, especially when compared to the S11.
All in all, if you have the money or are willing to save a bit, I’d recommend the Pioneer DJ DJM-S11. It has all the perks of the S7 while also coming with many, many more.
DJM-S7 Vs DJM-S11: The Verdict
Pioneer DJ has always been known for putting together incredible controllers, mixers, and CDJs. Here, while both scratch battle mixers are truly amazing options, the S11 simply is the superior option. Still, that doesn’t make the S7 not a great alternative in its own right.
It ultimately comes down to what type of Battle DJ you are or plan to be. If you’re just getting your groove on, you’ll probably like the smaller and more lithe form of the S7.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to become more established, or are already at the top of your game, you’ll want to play with the S11.
It is the de facto mixer that every high-level performer should at least cut their teeth on.
