Feature:
Comes ith effects and sampler basically. The effects can all be timed to the beat, which the mixer will pretty much do automatically for you. The sampler quality from vinyl is excellent so I'm assuming that from CD will be even better. There are only about 6 effects (I think!) but they'll provide no end of fun creativity. The only thing that I wich was there was the option to add effects to samples or to apply DIFFERENT individual effects to both records at the same time.....I'm assuming that these options are probably on the more expensive Pioneer mixers maybe... The only other thing that takes time to get used to is the headphone cue buttons. Most of us are probably used to having a knob to turn which will slowly switch between both channels in the headphones. You can alter the amount of volume for each song going through the headphones by just altering the amount you move the knob....Not so with the DJM 400. It uses an individual button control method. You can press the CH1 button for Channel 1 and/or the Ch2 button for Channel 2. The only way you can change the volume is by altering the gain for that channel. However, this may not be desirable as you may have already set the volume suitable for when you want to bring the next song in. Don't despair though.....this is a small issue and you will get used to it in time. It's just a different way of doing things...

Quality:
The build quality is excellent. It's solid and robust from my experience so far. It's not that heavy in comparison to some of the other mixers out there. But does that matter? It's heavy enough not to be blown off you're mixing table by a gust of wind so that will do for me! The interface finish is good, black with a slightly speckled finish. I can't imagine this mixer ever breaking down....

Value:
It's definately worth it's price....you won't be dissapointed.

Desirability:
Let's face it, Pioneer are fast becoming the standard in many of the big clubs for mixers and DJ CD players (The CDJ1000 is everywhere!). Sitting back on the sofa and looking at the mixer from head height....the Pioneer Logo staring you in the face....who wouldn't want some equipment made by the people whose kit is being used in the big clubs?!

Sound:
The sound output is very good. Clear and sharp. I've got 2 Vestax PDX 2000 turntables connected to it and the sample quality is perfect.

Ease of Use:
It's one of the easiest mixers I've ever used. The effects / sampling interface is a doddle...once you get the hang of it of course! The crossfader is very good - very smooth when crossing channels. All volume / component knobs (treb, bass etc) are solid and feel accurately repsonsive (the rate of change of volume / component is accurately in line with the amount the knob is moved - I've had mixers in the past that didn't respond very accurately to the amount the knobs were turned!). Connections on the rear of the mixer are pretty much standard for a 2 channel, easy to understand and set up with 2 tunrtables or CD mixers. The maunal that comes with it is quite good as well, which is quite refreshing! It describes all the types of sounds you can make with the effects. To be honest though, you'll probably learn more by just messing around and experimenting.

Support:
I didn't deal with Pioneer direct as I imagine most of you wouldn't do anyway if you were buying this mixer (probably get it from an online shop or other DJ shops). But I bought mine from Hard To Find Records.....seem fine to me.

Overall:
I won't be changing this mixer in the near future. If I do then it will be for another Pioneer....I'm converted and I'm sure you will be too.