Denon DJ has launched the PRIME 4 G2, a major update to its flagship four-deck standalone DJ system, bringing onboard Stems rendering, larger jog wheels, new MPCe performance pads and integrated DMX lighting control.
Replacing the PRIME 4 and PRIME 4+, the new model keeps the familiar four-channel, four-deck format and 10.1-inch touchscreen, but introduces substantially more processing power and a redesigned performance workflow.
An eight-core ARM processor with 4GB of RAM delivers four times the processing power of the previous generation, according to Denon DJ.
For DJs already using the PRIME platform, the biggest practical change is onboard four-part Stems rendering. Tracks can now be processed directly on the hardware rather than having to be prepared beforehand in Engine DJ Desktop, with dedicated Instrumental and Acapella buttons alongside Stem FX and Stem Level EQ.
Rendering happens in the background and is stored on the connected drive for future use, although the complete track needs to finish rendering before its Stems can be used.
New jog wheels, pads and FX controls
The PRIME 4 G2 steps up from the smaller jog wheels of the PRIME 4+ to full-size 8-inch jog wheels, with dynamic LED displays providing playback, cue and Stems information.
There are also 16 new MPCe velocity and pressure-sensitive performance pads. Their 3D-sensing design allows different areas and pressure levels on an individual pad to control multiple functions, covering Hot Cues, Stems, Rolls, effects and lighting depending on the selected mode.
Denon has expanded the effects section too. The G2 includes two assignable FX toggle switches, more than 25 Main FX, 10 Touch FX, four Fader FX and four Sweep FX, alongside dedicated favourite-effect controls.
Three Playlist Bank buttons provide shortcuts to commonly used playlists, while a redesigned navigation encoder adds more direct control over browsing and library management.
Lighting control is now built into the hardware
Another notable addition, particularly for mobile and event DJs, is a built-in 3-pin DMX output.
The PRIME 4+ already supported Engine Lighting, but connecting a conventional DMX lighting setup required additional SoundSwitch hardware.
On the G2, a single DMX universe of up to 512 channels can be controlled directly from the system, with the MPCe pads able to handle functions including colour, position, strobe and intensity. Philips Hue and Nanoleaf lighting remain supported as well.
The existing independent Zone output also remains, allowing DJs to send a separate deck or playlist to another area of a venue.
Storage options include USB, SD card and an optional internal SATA drive, while built-in Wi-Fi provides standalone access to Apple Music, Amazon Music Unlimited, Beatport, SoundCloud Go+ and TIDAL.
One connection that has disappeared is Ethernet. The PRIME 4+ included an Ethernet port, whereas the G2 relies on Wi-Fi for its network connection—something worth noting for DJs who prefer a hardwired connection when streaming at venues.
Software support is coming later
Denon is also introducing a new architecture called OmniSource, designed to let DJs move between standalone media and computer-based DJ software on the same system.
However, that side of the G2 isn’t ready at launch.
The unit currently operates with Engine DJ in standalone use, with support for Serato DJ Pro, Algoriddim djay and VirtualDJ planned for future updates. Denon hasn’t announced when those integrations will arrive.
That’s an important distinction for anyone replacing a PRIME 4+, which already works as a controller for software including Serato DJ Pro.
Price and availability
The Denon DJ PRIME 4 G2 is available now through authorised dealers, priced at around US$2,599, £2,299 and €2,699. Australian pricing is listed at an RRP of AU$4,219, although some retailers are already selling it for less.
Rather than being another incremental PRIME refresh, the G2 represents the first substantial hardware overhaul of Denon’s flagship standalone platform in years.
The combination of onboard Stems, integrated DMX, larger jog wheels and considerably more processing headroom makes the biggest difference for mobile and event DJs who want more of their performance setup contained within a single system.
For full specifications and availability, visit the Denon DJ PRIME 4 G2 product page.
Also check out Nick Spinelli’s review:
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