AlphaTheta’s new DJ controller hosts a new feature for freely manipulating drum parts

The controller’s layout is “inherited” from the Pioneer CDJ and DJM setups, which the brand believes will give users a feel for playing on club-standard equipment.

Image: AlphaTheta

Get MusicTech breaking news as it happens by following us on Telegram: https://t.me/MusicTechOfficial

AlphaTheta has launched a new four-channel DJ controller, compatible with rekordbox and Serato DJ Pro.

The DDJ-GRV6 arrives this October, though no official date has yet been revealed. It hosts a new Groove Circuit feature, allowing DJs to freely manipulate drum parts and create original grooves.

To use the Groove Circuit feature, available in rekordbox, DJs can simply press one of the dedicated buttons to swap the drum part of any track with a beat or break in a completely different genre while it’s playing, and add effects to create unique sounds. Paired with Serato DJ Pro, the DDJ-GRV6 can also manipulate and separate Stems using the Stems FX feature.

The controller’s layout is “inherited” from the Pioneer DJ CDJ and DJM setups, so it gives users a feel for playing on club-standard equipment and in turn, prepares them for the booth. AlphaTheta is Pioneer’s parent company, and has been since 2020. As we reported back in January, the corporation affirmed that its new DJ-focused products will now come with the AlphaTheta name, reserving the Pioneer DJ name solely for old products released during the Pioneer DJ era only.

The controller also includes a Smart Rotary Selector and Discover function, to help make browsing and selecting tracks faster. The DDJ-GRV6 can be used with both PC/Mac and mobile devices, and has a matte black finish and ergonomic design.

Its display is described by the brand as minimalistic, with indicators to offer intuitive access to necessary functions. The Groove Circuit is cleanly laid out above the Performance Pads with a “step up” in between, ensuring DJs won’t accidentally touch a jog wheel when they’re using it.

Check out more in the video below:

The DDJ-GRV6 will be available in mid October for $829 (excluding tax). Find out more information over at AlphaTheta.

Get the latest news, reviews and tutorials to your inbox.