Pioneer DJM-S3 Users Manual

DJ MIXER

DJM-S3

pioneerdj.com/support/

http://serato.com/

The Pioneer DJ site shown above offers FAQs, information on software, and various other types of information
and services to allow you to use your product in greater comfort.

Operating Instructions

Contents

How to read this manual

Thank you for buying this Pioneer DJ product.
Be sure to read this manual and the “Operating Instructions (Quick
Start Guide)” included with the unit. Both documents include important
information that you should understand before using this product.
! In this manual, names of channels and buttons indicated on the

product, names of menus in the software, etc., are indicated within
square brackets ([ ]). (e.g. [MASTER] channel, [ON/OFF], [Start]
menu)

! Please note that the screens and specifications of the software

described in this manual as well as the external appearance and
specifications of the hardware are currently under development and
may differ from the final specifications.

! Please note that depending on the operating system version, web

browser settings, etc., operation may differ from the procedures
described in this manual.

! Please note that the language on the screens of the software

describes in this guide may differ from the language on your
screens.

Before start

Features ........................................................................................................ 3

Installing the software ................................................................................. 3

Part names and functions

Rear panel .................................................................................................... 7

Control Panel ............................................................................................... 8

Connections

Connecting input terminals ...................................................................... 10

Connecting output terminals ................................................................... 11

Operation

Basic Operation ......................................................................................... 12

Advanced Operations ................................................................................ 13

Using Serato DJ

Launching Serato DJ ................................................................................. 14

Importing tracks......................................................................................... 15

Using the DVS system

Before controlling the Serato DJ software .............................................. 16

Controlling the Serato DJ software .......................................................... 17

Changing the settings

Setting preferences ................................................................................... 21

Changing procedures ............................................................................... 21

About the auto standby function .............................................................. 21

About the setting utility software ............................................................. 22

Checking the latest information on the driver software ......................... 23

[Mixer Audio Output] pulldown menu list .......................................... 23

Additional information

Troubleshooting ......................................................................................... 24

Block Diagram ........................................................................................... 25

About trademarks and registered trademarks ....................................... 26

Cautions on copyrights ............................................................................. 26

En

2

Before start

Before start

Features

This unit is a 2-channel DJ mixer which can be used with the Serato DJ
software, and is designed for optimal DJ performances. It has a sound
card compatible with Serato DJ. It allows you to do DJ performances
with the DVS system controlled by turntables or CDJs. Additionally, it
has the best panel layout for scratching and includes a Magvel Fader.
These features support various DJ performances.

PLUG & PLAY

This unit is equipped with an internal sound card, enabling you to start
playing with Serato DJ immediately by connecting to a computer using a
USB cable without having to make complicated settings.

FADER & ISOLATOR

MAGVEL FADER: This unit is designed with cross fader which is our
proprietary magnetic system. MAGVEL FADER is highly durable and
capable of being operated more than 10 million times, yet is capable of
delicate and fine adjustments. It is also good for powerful scratching.
CHANNEL FADER: This unit designed with the fader whose operation
load is light and which is suitable for quick mixing.
3-BAND ISOLATOR: This unit is designed with the isolator function
which enables you to change to your favorite tone by adjusting
separately the treble, midrange and bass volumes. Also, the range can
be muted by turning the controller all the way to the left.

SOUND COLOR FX

This unit has the SOUND COLOR FX’s FILTER function which is well­received by DJs using the DJM-900NXS2 in clubs, and enables various
DJ performances. Turning the [COLOR] controllers on each channel can
apply effects to a track, adjust the track to your preferred quality, and
enable you to improvise on the performance. Turning the [PARAMETER]
controller enables you to achieve a more diverse result.

Installing the software

This driver software is a proprietary program for inputting and outputting
audio signals from the computer. To use this unit connected to a
computer on which a Mac OS or Windows is installed, install the driver
software on the computer beforehand.

Software end user license agreement

This Software End User License Agreement (“Agreement”) is between
you (both the individual installing the Program and any single legal
entity for which the individual is acting) (“You” or “Your”) and Pioneer DJ
Corporation (“Pioneer DJ”).
TAKING ANY STEP TO SET UP OR INSTALL THE PROGRAM MEANS
THAT YOU ACCEPT ALL OF THE TERMS OF THIS LICENSE AGREEMENT.
PERMISSION TO DOWNLOAD AND/OR USE THE PROGRAM IS
EXPRESSLY CONDITIONED ON YOUR FOLLOWING THESE TERMS.
WRITTEN OR ELECTRONIC APPROVAL IS NOT REQUIRED TO MAKE
THIS AGREEMENT VALID AND ENFORCEABLE. IF YOU DO NOT
AGREE TO ALL OF THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT, YOU ARE NOT
AUTHORIZED TO USE THE PROGRAM AND MUST STOP INSTALLING IT
OR UNINSTALL IT, AS APPLICABLE.

1 DEFINITIONS

1 “Documentation” means written documentation, specifications

and help content made generally available by Pioneer DJ to aid in
installing and using the Program.

2 “Program” means all or any part of Pioneer DJ’s software

licensed to You by Pioneer DJ under this Agreement.

2 PROGRAM LICENSE

1 Limited License. Subject to this Agreement’s restrictions,

Pioneer DJ grants to You a limited, non-exclusive, non­transferable, license (without the right to sublicense):
a To install a single copy of the Program in Your computer

or mobile device, to use the Program only for Your
personal purpose complying with this Agreement and the
Documentation (“Authorized Use”);

b To use the Documentation in support of Your Authorized Use;

and

c To make one copy of the Program solely for backup purposes,

provided that all titles and trademark, copyright and
restricted rights notices are reproduced on the copy.

2 Restrictions. You will not copy or use the Program or

Documentation except as expressly permitted by this Agreement.
You will not transfer, sublicense, rent, lease or lend the Program,
or use it for third-party training, commercial time-sharing or
service bureau use. You will not Yourself or through any third
party modify, reverse engineer, disassemble or decompile the
Program, except to the extent expressly permitted by applicable
law, and then only after You have notified Pioneer DJ in writing of
Your intended activities.

3 Ownership. Pioneer DJ or its licensor retains all right, title

and interest in and to all patent, copyright, trademark, trade
secret and other intellectual property rights in the Program and
Documentation, and any derivative works thereof. You do not
acquire any other rights, express or implied, beyond the limited
license set forth in this Agreement.

4 No Support. Pioneer DJ has no obligation to provide support,

maintenance, upgrades, modifications or new releases for the
Program or Documentation under this Agreement.

3 WARRANTY DISCLAIMER

THE PROGRAM AND DOCUMENTATION ARE PROVIDED “AS IS”
WITHOUT ANY REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, AND YOU
AGREE TO USE THEM AT YOUR SOLE RISK. TO THE FULLEST EXTENT
PERMISSIBLE BY LAW, PIONEER DJ EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL
WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND WITH RESPECT TO THE PROGRAM AND

En

3

DOCUMENTATION, WHETHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED, STATUTORY,
OR ARISING OUT OF COURSE OF PERFORMANCE, COURSE OF
DEALING OR USAGE OF TRADE, INCLUDING ANY WARRANTIES
OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
SATISFACTORY QUALITY, ACCURACY, TITLE OR NON-INFRINGEMENT.

4 EXPORT CONTROL AND COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS
AND REGULATIONS

You may not use or otherwise export or re-export the Program except as
authorized by United States law and the laws of the jurisdiction in which
the Program was obtained. In particular, but without limitation, the
Program may not be exported or re-exported (a) into any U.S.-embargoed
countries or (b) to anyone on the U.S. Treasury Department's Specially
Designated Nationals List or the U.S. Department of Commerce Denied
Persons List or Entity List. By using the Program, you represent and
warrant that you are not located in any such country or on any such
list. You also agree that you will not use the Program for any purposes
prohibited by United States law, including, without limitation, the
development, design, manufacture, or production of nuclear, missile, or
chemical or biological weapons.

5 U.S. GOVERNMENT RESTRICTED RIGHTS

The Program and Documentations are “commercial computer software”
and “commercial computer software documentation” as those terms are
defined in 48 C.F.R. §252.227-7014 (a) (1) (2007) and 252.227-7014 (a) (5)
(2007). The U.S. Government’s rights with respect to the Program and
Documentations are limited by this license pursuant to 48 C.F.R. §12.212
(Computer software) (1995) and 48 C.F.R. §12.211 (Technical data) (1995)
and/or 48 C.F.R. §227.7202-3, as applicable. As such, the Program and
Documentations are being licensed to the U.S. Government end users:
(a) only as “commercial items” as that term is defined in 48 C.F.R. §2.101
generally and as incorporated in DFAR 212.102; and (b) with only those
limited rights as are granted to the public pursuant to this license. Under
no circumstance will the U.S. Government or its end users be granted
any greater rights than we grant to other users, as provided for in this
license. Manufacturer is Pioneer DJ Corporation, 6F, Yokohama i-Mark
Place, 4-4-5 Minatomirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 220-0012
Japan.

6 DAMAGES AND REMEDIES FOR BREACH

You agree that any breach of this Agreement’s restrictions would cause
Pioneer DJ irreparable harm for which money damages alone would
be inadequate. In addition to damages and any other remedies to
which Pioneer DJ may be entitled, You agree that Pioneer DJ may seek
injunctive relief to prevent the actual, threatened or continued breach of
this Agreement.

7 TERMINATION

Pioneer DJ may terminate this Agreement at any time upon Your breach
of any provision. If this Agreement is terminated, You will stop using
the Program, permanently delete it from your computer or mobile
device where it resides, and destroy all copies of the Program and
Documentation in Your possession, confirming to Pioneer DJ in writing
that You have done so. Sections 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 will
continue in effect after this Agreement’s termination.

8 GENERAL TERMS

1 Limitation of Liability. In no event will Pioneer DJ or its

subsidiaries be liable in connection with this Agreement or its
subject matter, under any theory of liability, for any indirect,
incidental, special, consequential or punitive damages, or
damages for lost profits, revenue, business, savings, data, use, or
cost of substitute procurement, even if advised of the possibility
of such damages or if such damages are foreseeable. In no event
will Pioneer DJ’s liability for all damages exceed the amounts
actually paid by You to Pioneer DJ or its subsidiaries for the
Program. The parties acknowledge that the liability limits and risk
allocation in this Agreement are reflected in the Program price
and are essential elements of the bargain between the parties,
without which Pioneer DJ would not have provided the Program
or entered into this Agreement.

2 The limitations or exclusions of warranties and liability contained

in this Agreement do not affect or prejudice Your statutory rights
as consumer and shall apply to You only to the extent such
limitations or exclusions are permitted under the laws of the
jurisdiction where You are located.

En

4

3 Severability and Waiver. If any provision of this Agreement

is held to be illegal, invalid or otherwise unenforceable, that
provision will be enforced to the extent possible or, if incapable
of enforcement, deemed to be severed and deleted from this
Agreement, and the remainder will continue in full force and
effect. The waiver by either party of any default or breach of this
Agreement will not waive any other or subsequent default or
breach.

4 No Assignment. You may not assign, sell, transfer, delegate or

otherwise dispose of this Agreement or any rights or obligations
under it, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, by operation of
law or otherwise, without Pioneer DJ’s prior written consent.
Any purported assignment, transfer or delegation by You will be
null and void. Subject to the foregoing, this Agreement will be
binding upon and will inure to the benefit of the parties and their
respective successors and assigns.

5 Entire Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the entire

agreement between the parties and supersedes all prior or
contemporaneous agreements or representations, whether
written or oral, concerning its subject matter. This Agreement
may not be modified or amended without Pioneer DJ’s prior and
express written consent, and no other act, document, usage or
custom will be deemed to amend or modify this Agreement.

6 You agree that this Agreement shall be governed and construed

by and under the laws of Japan.

Cautions on Installation

! Before installing the driver software, be sure to turn off the power of

this unit and disconnect the USB cable from both this unit and your
computer.

! If you connect this unit to your computer without installing the driver

software first, an error may occur on your computer depending on
the system environment.

! If you have discontinued the installation process in progress, step

through the installation process again from the beginning according
to the following procedure.

! Read Software end user license agreement carefully before installing

this unit’s proprietary driver software.

! Before installing the driver software, terminate all other programs

running on your computer.

! The driver software is compatible with the following OSs.

Supported operating systems

macOS Sierra 10.12 (latest update)
OS X: 10.11, 10.10, 10.9 (latest update)

®

10 (latest service pack)

Windows

®

8.1 (latest service pack)

Windows

®

Windows Pro

Windows
service pack)

8.1 (latest service pack)

®

7 Home Premium/Professional/Ultimate (latest

32-bit version
64-bit version
32-bit version
64-bit version
32-bit version
64-bit version
32-bit version
64-bit version

1

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1

Checking the latest information on the driver software

For the latest information on this unit’s dedicated driver software, see
the Pioneer DJ site below.
pioneerdj.com/support/

Obtaining the driver software

1 Launch a web browser on the computer and access
the Pioneer DJ site below.

pioneerdj.com/support/

2 Click the [FIND SOFTWARE & FIRMWARE UPDATES]
icon.

3 Click the [DJM-S3] icon in the [DJ MIXER] category.

4 After clicking [Drivers], download the latest driver
software from the download page.

! Download the driver for either Windows or Mac from the download

page.

About the Serato DJ software

Serato DJ is a DJ software application by Serato. DJ performances are
possible by connecting the computer on which this software is installed
to this unit.

Minimum operating environment

Supported
operating systems

macOS Sierra 10.12,
OS X 10.11 / 10.10 / 10.9
(latest update)

®

Windows

10 /
Windows® 8.1 /
Windows® 7 (latest
service pack)

Others

USB port

Display resolution Resolution of 1280 x 720 or greater

Internet connection

! For information on the latest system requirements, compatibility, and supported

operating systems, click [FIND SOFTWARE INFORMATION] on the Pioneer
DJ support page below, and then select [DJM-S3] on the [SOFTWARE
INFORMATION] page.

pioneerdj.com/support/
! Operation is not guaranteed on all computers, even if all the required operating

environment conditions indicated here are fulfilled.

! Depending on the computer’s power-saving settings, etc., the CPU and hard

disk may not provide sufficient processing capabilities. For notebook computers
in particular, make sure the computer is in the proper conditions to provide
constant high performance (for example by keeping the AC power connected)
when using Serato DJ.

! Use of the Internet requires a separate contract with a provider offering Internet

services and payment of provider fees.

! Operating System support assumes you are using the latest point release for

that version.

 Obtaining the Serato DJ software

1 Launch a web browser on the computer and access
the Serato DJ site below.

http://serato.com/dj/downloads

2 Click [Serato DJ] on [DJ PRODUCTS].

The Serato DJ download page is displayed.
! The download page may be changed without notice.

3 Click [DOWNLOAD SERATO DJ].

4 Log in to your “Serato.com” user account.

! If you have already registered a user account on “Serato.com”,

proceed to step 4.

! If you have not completed registering your user account, do so

following the procedure below.
— Following the instructions on the screen, input your e-mail

address and the password you want to set, then select the region
in which you live.

CPU and required memory

®

processor Core™ i3, i5 and i7 1.07 GHz

Intel

32-bit

or better

version

4 GB or more of RAM

®

Intel

64-bit
version

32-bit
version

64-bit
version

A USB 2.0 port is required to connect the computer
with this unit.

An Internet connection is required for registering
the “Serato.com” user account and downloading the
software.

processor Core™ i3, i5 and i7 1.07 GHz

or better

4 GB or more of RAM

®

processor Core™ i3, i5 and i7 1.07 GHz

Intel
or better

4 GB or more of RAM

®

Intel

processor Core™ i3, i5 and i7 1.07 GHz

or better

4 GB or more of RAM

— If you check [E-mail me Serato newsletters], newsletters

providing the latest information on Serato products will be sent
from Serato.

— Once user account registration is completed, you will receive an

e-mail at the e-mail address you have input. Check the contents
of the e-mail sent from “Serato.com”.

! Be careful not to forget the e-mail address and password specified

when you performed user registration. They will be required for
updating the software.

! The personal information input when registering a new user account

may be collected, processed and used based on the privacy policy on
the Serato website.

5 Click the link in the e-mail message sent from
“Serato.com”.

Proceed to the Serato DJ download page. Proceed to step 5.

6 Log in.

Input the e-mail address and password you have registered to log in to
“Serato.com”.

7 Download the Serato DJ software from the
download page.

 Installation procedure (Windows)

Do not connect this unit and the computer until installation is
completed.

! Log on as the user which was set as the computer’s administrator

before installing.

! If any other programs are running on the computer, quit them.

1 Unzip the downloaded driver software
(DJMS3XXXXexe.zip).

2 Double-click the unzipped driver software (DJM­S3_x.xxx.exe).

3 Proceed with installation according to the
instructions on the screen.

If [Windows Security] appears on the screen while the installation is
in progress, click [Install this driver software anyway] and continue
with the installation.
When the installation program is completed, a completion message
appears.
After installing the driver software, install the Serato DJ software.

4 Unzip the downloaded Serato DJ software file.

5 Double-click the unzipped software file to launch
the installer.

6 Read the terms of the license agreement carefully,
and if you agree, select [I agree to the license terms
and conditions], then click [Install].

! If you do not agree to the contents of the license agreement, click

[Close] to cancel installation.

Installation begins.

The message of successful installation appears once installation is
completed.

Before start

En

5

7 Click [Close] to quit the Serato DJ installer.

 Installation procedure (Mac)

Do not connect this unit and the computer until installation is
completed.

! If any other programs are running on the computer, quit them.

1 Unzip the downloaded driver software
(DJMS3MXXXXdmg.zip).

2 Double-click [DJM-S3_M_X.X.X.dmg].

3 Double-click [DJM-S3AudioDriver.pkg].

4 Proceed with installation according to the
instructions on the screen.

5 Unzip the downloaded Serato DJ software file.

6 Double-click the unzipped software file to launch
the installer.

7 Read the terms of the license agreement carefully,
and if you agree, click [Agree].

Downloading the Serato DJ software
manual

1 Launch a web browser on the computer and access
the Serato DJ site below.

http://serato.com/dj/downloads

2 After clicking [Manuals and Downloads] on the
right-hand side of the download page, click the
relevant manual.

Downloading of the Serato DJ software manual starts.

! If you do not agree to the contents of the usage agreement, click

[Disagree] to cancel installation.

8 If the following screen appears, drag and drop the
[Serato DJ] icon on the [Applications] folder icon.

En

6

Part names and functions

b

Rear panel

1 2 3 54 6 7 8 6 7 7 9 a

Part names and functions

1 Cord hook

Hook the power cord of the AC adaptor to avoid accidentally
disconnecting it from the unit.

2  switch (page 12 )

This switch is between off and on for this unit.

3 DC IN terminal (page 10)

Connect the DC plug of the supplied AC adaptor. Connect all other
equipment, then connect the power cord.
Only use the power cord and AC adapter supplied with this unit.

4 MASTER2 output terminals (page 11 )

Connect to the analog input terminals of a power amplifier, etc.

5 MASTER1 output terminals (page 11 )

Connect your equipment, such as powered speakers or a power
amplifier, to the analog input terminal.
Use these terminals as balanced output.

Do not accidentally insert the power cord of the supplied AC
adaptor or the power cord of the equipment.
Do not connect to a terminal which can supply phantom
power.

6 PHONO input terminals (page 10 )

Connect to a phono level (MM cartridge) output device. Do not input
line level signals.

7 LINE input terminals (page 10 )

Connect to a DJ player or a line level output component.

8 SIGNAL GND terminal (page 10 )

Connect an analog player’s ground wire. This helps reduce noise
when the analog player is connected.

9 MIC input terminal (page 10 )

Connect a microphone.

a USB terminal (page 10)

Connect to a computer.

b Kensington security slot

En

7

Control Panel

6

5

4

3

2

6

9

a

a

7
8

b

c c

d

e

6

7
8

l

k

j

e

1

1 PHONES terminal (page 11 )

Connect headphones.
This unit supports 1/4” stereo phone plugs and 3.5 mm stereo mini
plugs.

2 PARAMETER control (page 13 )

Adjust the SOUND COLOR FX parameter.

3 MIC TONE control (page 12)

Adjust the sound quality from the microphone.

f

f

g

h

i

4 MIC LEVEL control (page 12 )

Adjust the volume to output from the microphone.

5 AUX TRIM control

Adjust the volume from the AUX input.

6 Input selector switches (page 12 )

Select an input source on each channel.

En

8

7 TRIM control (page 12 )

Adjust the volume from each channel.

8 ISO (HI, MID, LOW) controls (page 12 )

Adjust the sound quality of the respective channels.

9 Master Level indicator (page 12 )

It shows the volume from the MASTER output.
When the volume is too loud, the [CLIP] indicator flashes. In this
case, turn down the volume.
— Slow flashing: sound will become distorted.
— Fast flashing: sound is distorted.

a Channel Level indicator (page 12 )

It shows the volume before passing the channel fader.

b STANDBY indicator (page 21 )

This indicator is lit when the unit is in the standby state.

c COLOR control (page 13 )

Change the parameters of the SOUND COLOR FX of the different
channels.

d FILTER button (page 13 )

Turn on/off the SOUND COLOR FX effects.
— WAKE UP: Press this button to cancel the standby state.

e CUE button (page 12 )

Press the [CUE] button for the channel you want to monitor.

f Channel Fader (page 12 )

Adjust the volume of each channel.

g CROSS F.CURVE (THRU, , ) selector switch
(page 12 )

This switches the cross fader curve characteristics.

h CROSS F. REVERSE switch (page 12 )

Turn on/off the cross fader reverse function.

i Cross fader (page 12 )

Sound outputs following the curve selected by the [CROSS F.CURVE]
selector switch.

j HEADPHONES LEVEL control (page 12 )

Adjust the level of audio signals output from the headphones.

k HEADPHONES MIXING control (page 12 )

Adjust the monitor volume balance of the sound of channels for
which the [CUE] button is pressed and the sound of the [MASTER]
channel.

l MASTER LEVEL control (page 12 )

Adjust the level of audio signals from the [MASTER1] or [MASTER2]
output.

Part names and functions

Do not pull on the channel fader and cross fader knobs with excessive
force. The knobs have a structure by which they cannot be pulled off
easily. Pulling the knobs strongly may result in damaging the unit.

En

9

Connections

Be sure to turn off the power and unplug the power cord from the power outlet whenever making or changing connections.
Connect the power cord after all the connections between devices have been completed.
Be sure to use the included power cord.
Refer to the operating instructions for the component to be connected.

! Connect this unit and the computer directly using a USB cable.
! Use USB cables that conform to USB 2.0.
! USB hubs cannot be used.

Connecting input terminals

Rear panel

Analog player Analog player

Microphone

10

En

AC adaptor

Computer

Pioneer DJ’s DJ player

To power outlet

Pioneer DJ’s sampler, etc.

Connecting output terminals

Rear panel

Power amplifier 1

Powered speakers 1

1 Be sure to use the [MASTER1] output terminals only for a balanced output. Connection with an unbalanced input (such as RCA) using an XLR to

RCA converter cable (or converter adapter), etc., may lower the sound quality and/or result in noise.

For connection with an unbalanced input (such as RCA), use the [MASTER2] output terminals.

2 Be careful not to accidentally insert the power cord of another unit to the [MASTER1] output terminals.

Do not connect a terminal which is supplied with phantom power to the [MASTER1] output terminals.

Headphones

Front panel

Connections

En

11

Operation

Basic Operation

Outputting sound

1 Press the  switch.

Turn on the unit.

2 Set the input selector switches.

Select the input source for the different channels from among the
devices connected to this unit.

— [ ]: Audio from a computer connected to the [USB] terminal is

selected.

— [LINE]: Audio from a device connected to the [LINE] input

terminal is selected.

— [PHONO]: Audio from analog players connected to the [PHONO]

input terminals is selected.

3 Turn the [TRIM] control.

Adjust the level of audio signals input for each channel.
The corresponding channel level indicator lights when audio signals are
being properly input to that channel.

4 Move the channel fader up.

Adjust the level of audio signals output for each channel.

5 Set the cross fader.

This operation is not necessary when the [CROSS F.CURVE] selector
switch is set to [THRU].

6 Turn the [MASTER LEVEL] control.

Audio signals are output from the [MASTER1] and [MASTER2] output
terminals.
The master level indicator lights.

Adjusting the sound quality

Turn the [ISO (HI, MID, LOW)] controls for the
respective channels.

The adjustable ranges for the respective controls are as shown below.

— [HI]: –∞ dB to +6 dB (20 kHz)
— [MID]: –∞ dB to +6 dB (1 kHz)
— [LOW]: –∞ dB to +6 dB (20 Hz)

Monitoring sound with headphones

1 Connect headphones to the [PHONES] terminal.

2 Press the [CUE] button(s) for the channel(s) you
want to monitor.

3 Turn the [HEADPHONES MIXING] control.

Adjust the monitor volume balance of sound from channels for which
the [CUE] button is pressed and the [MASTER] channel.

4 Turn the [HEADPHONES LEVEL] control.

Adjust the level of audio signals for the headphones.

Setting the fader curve

Switch the [CROSS F.CURVE (THRU, , )] selector
switch.

— [THRU]: Set to this option when not using the cross fader.
— [ ]: The curve is increased slowly.
— [ ]: The curve is increased steeply. (If the cross fader is moved

from the extreme left or right position, output sound is changed
to the opposite side immediately.)

Using the fader reverse function

Turn on the [CROSS F.REVERSE] switch.

When turning on the [CROSS F.REVERSE] switch, the operating
direction of the cross fader is reversed.

Using AUX

1 Set the input selector switch for AUX.

— [ ]: Audio from a computer connected to the [USB] terminal is

selected.

— [LINE]: Audio from a device connected to the [LINE] input

terminal is selected.

2 Turn the [AUX TRIM] control.

Adjust the level of audio signal input for the AUX channel.

Using a microphone

1 Connect a microphone to the [MIC] input terminal.

2 Turn the [MIC LEVEL] control.

Adjust the volume from the [MIC] input terminal.

! If the control is turned to the extreme right position, the sound

output will be too loud.

3 Turn the [MIC TONE] control to adjust the sound
quality.

— When turning the control to the [LOW] position, the high

frequency is attenuated.

0 to -12 dB (10 kHz)
— When turning the control to the [HI] position, the low frequency

is attenuated.

0 to -12 dB (100 Hz)

12

En

Advanced Operations

Using the SOUND COLOR FX function

This is an effect that changes in association with the [COLOR] control.
Sound passed through a filter is output.

1 Press the [FILTER] button.

The [FILTER] button flashes, and the effect is set for [CH1] and [CH2].

2 Turn the [COLOR] control.

The effect is applied to the channel(s) for which the control(s) was (were)
turned.
! Turn counterclockwise: The cutoff frequency of the low-pass filter is

decreased slowly.

! Turn clockwise: The cutoff frequency of the high-pass filter is

increased slowly.

3 Turn the [PARAMETER] control.

The effect’s quantitative parameter can be adjusted.
Turn to the right to increase resonance.

 Canceling the SOUND COLOR FX effect

Press the [FILTER] button that is flashing.

The effect is canceled.

Operating software by MIDI interface

This unit outputs the operation information of buttons and controls in
universal MIDI format.
When connected by USB cable to a computer on which a MIDI­compatible software is installed, the software can be operated from this
unit.
Install the software on your computer before use. Also, set the software’s
audio and MIDI related settings.
! For MIDI channel setting instructions, see Changing the settings on

page 21 .
! For details of the MIDI messages on this unit, see the website below.
pioneerdj.com/support/

1 Connect a computer to the [USB] terminal on this
unit.

After the connection, transmission of the MIDI messages starts.
! When operating the fader or control, a message corresponding to

the position is sent.

Operation

En

13

Using Serato DJ

Launching Serato DJ

For Mac

In Finder, open the [Applications] folder, then click the [Serato DJ] icon.

For Windows 10

From the Windows [Start] menu, click the [Serato DJ] icon under [Serato] > [Serato DJ].

For Windows 8.1

From [Apps view], click the [Serato DJ] icon.

For Windows 7

From the Windows [Start] menu, click the [Serato DJ] icon under [All Programs] > [Serato] > [Serato DJ].

Computer screen directly after the Serato DJ software is launched

1 The [EXPANSION PACKS & ACTIVATIONS] icon may appear on the right side of the screen that is displayed when Serato DJ is launched the first

time, but there is no need to activate or purchase a license for those using DJM-S3.

2 Click [My Serato] to use the unit as is.

Computer screen when a track is loaded in the Serato DJ software

Click [Library] at the upper left of the computer screen, then select [Vertical] or [Horizontal] from the pull-down menu to switch the Serato DJ screen.

A Deck section

The track information (the name of the loaded track, artist name, BPM, etc.), the overall waveform and other information is displayed here.

B Waveform display

The loaded track’s waveform is displayed here.

C Browser section

Crates in which tracks in the library or sets of multiple tracks are stored are displayed here.
This manual consists mainly of explanations of functions of this unit as hardware. For detailed instructions on operating the Serato DJ software, see
the Serato DJ software manual.

En

14

Importing tracks

The following describes the typical procedure for importing tracks.

! There are various ways to import tracks with the Serato DJ software. For details, see the Serato DJ software manual.
! If you are already using Serato DJ software (Scratch Live, ITCH or Serato DJ Intro) and have already created track libraries, the track libraries you

have previously created can be used as such.

! If you are using Serato DJ Intro and have already created track libraries, you may have to reanalyze the tracks.

1 Click the [Files] key on the Serato DJ software screen to open the [Files] panel.

The contents of your computer or the peripheral connected to the computer are displayed in the [Files] panel.

2 Click the folder on the [Files] panel containing the tracks you want to add to the library to select it.

3 On the Serato DJ software screen, drag and drop the selected folder to the crates panel.

A crate is created and the tracks are added to the library.

a

b

a [Files] panel
b Crates panel

4 Select a track on the browser section, and then drag and drop it to the deck.

Using Serato DJ

En

15

Using the DVS system

This unit allows you to use the Serato DJ software and control disc 1 to operate digital music files using familiar analog players or DJ players.
1 A special CD and record containing the signals necessary for operating digital music files.

Before controlling the Serato DJ software

About input channels

Serato DJ setting screen

Computer screen when the Serato DJ software and this
unit are connected (setup screen)

This is the Setup screen displayed when the computer and this unit are
connected after installing the driver software.

1 CALIBRATION DECK

The Serato DJ software calculates analog signals from the control
disc and processes the signals of digital audio files.
Different signal levels and device statuses can be calculated for each
usage environment to make the optimum settings for reading out the
control signals.
! When CALIBRATION DECK is not displayed, click the

[Expansion Packs] tab. Then, from the list, select [Vinyl/CDJ
Control] and tick the [Enable Vinyl/CDJ control] check box.

2 Utility settings

Utility settings such as settings affecting the entire system and
detailed operation settings can be made here.

The signals played on the Serato DJ software’s decks [DECK1] to
[DECK2] are input to this unit’s respective channels.
The combinations of the decks and the respective channels to which the
sound is input are fixed. These combinations are shown below.

Correspondence table of Serato DJ software decks and
DJM-S3 channels

Serato DJ software deck

DJM-S3 channel

DECK1 DECK2

CH1 CH2

Set the positions of the controls, etc., as shown
below.

Names of controls, etc. Position

Input selector switch

TRIM control Turned fully counterclockwise

ISO (HI, MID, LOW) controls Center

En

16

Controlling the Serato DJ software

Here we explain three types of connections for different usage environments.

! When using analog players, proceed to page 17 .
! When using DJ players, proceed to page 18 .
! When using analog players and DJ players simultaneously, proceed to page 19 .

When using analog players

The following describes how to use the unit by connecting analog players to the Serato DJ software’s decks from [DECK1] to [DECK2].

Audio cable Audio cable

Ground wire Ground wire

Rear panel

Analog player Analog player

CONTROL VINYL CONTROL VINYL

To powered speakers

To the AC adaptor

Computer

1 Connect the analog player used to control [DECK1]
to the [PHONO] terminals of [CH1], and the analog
player used to control [DECK2] to the [PHONO]

5 Select [SETUP] on the Serato DJ software’s screen,
then select [TURNTABLES] at the [Audio] tab in the
utility settings.

terminals of [CH2].

2 Connect the ground wires for the respective
analog players to this unit’s [SIGNAL GND] terminals.

3 Set the control vinyls on the analog players.

4 Switch the DJM-S3’s input.

Set the input selector switches of [CH1] and [CH2] to the [ ] side.

Input selector switches

Using the DVS system

En

17

When using DJ players

The following describes how to use the unit by connecting DJ players to the Serato DJ software’s decks from [DECK1] to [DECK2].

Audio cable Audio cable

Rear panel

DJ player DJ player

CONTROL CD CONTROL CD

To the AC adaptor

To powered speakers

Computer

1 Connect the DJ player used to control [DECK1] to
the [LINE] terminals of [CH1], and the DJ player used
to control [DECK2] to the [LINE] terminals of [CH2].

2 Insert discs recorded with CONTROL signals into
the DJ players.

3 Switch the DJM-S3’s input.

Set the input selector switches of [CH1] and [CH2] to the [ ] side.

Input selector switches

4 Select [SETUP] on the Serato DJ software’s screen,
then select [CDJS] at the [Audio] tab in the utility
settings.

En

18

When using analog players and DJ players simultaneously

The following describes how to use the unit by connecting analog players to the Serato DJ software’s [DECK1], and DJ players to Serato DJ software’s
[DECK2].

1 Connect the analog player used to control [DECK1]
to the [PHONO] terminals of [CH1], and the DJ player
used to control [DECK2] to the [LINE] terminals of
[CH2].

2 Switch the DJM-S3’s input.

Set the input selector switches of [CH1] and [CH2] to the [ ] side.

Input selector switches

3 Select [SETUP] on the Serato DJ software’s screen,
then select [CUSTOM] at the [Audio] tab in the utility
settings.

The settings utility appears.

Using the DVS system

4 Select the [MIXER OUTPUT] tab in the settings
utility, and then select [CH1 Control Tone PHONO]
for CH1 that is used to operate an analog player
and [CH2 Control Tone LINE] for CH2 that is used to
operate a DJ player.

En

19

Checking the control signals

Press the play button on the connected player and
play track 1.

Green ring appears at [CALIBRATION DECK].
Check that the innermost ring is close to a true circle.

For details, see the Serato DJ software manual.

= Downloading the Serato DJ software manual (p. 6 )

Selecting the play mode

The Serato DJ software provides three play modes that can be selected
according to your intended purpose.
[ABS], [REL] and [INT] can be selected on the deck unit.
Here we explain the procedure with the play mode set to [ABS] as an
example.

Select [ABS] at the tab on the deck unit.

3 Move the channel fader away from you.

4 Turn the [MASTER LEVEL] control to adjust the
audio level of the speakers.

Adjust the sound level output from the [MASTER 1] and [MASTER 2]
terminals to an appropriate level.

Quitting the system

1 Quit [Serato DJ].

When the software is closed, a message for confirming that you want to
close it appears on the computer’s screen. Click [Yes] to close.

2 Press the  switch on this unit’s rear panel to turn
the power off.

3 Disconnect the USB cable from your computer.

For a description of the respective play modes, see the Serato DJ
software manual.

= Downloading the Serato DJ software manual (p. 6 )

Importing or loading tracks

See “Importing tracks” (page 15).

Playing tracks

The following describes the procedure for outputting the [DECK1] (CH1)
sound as an example.
! Set the volume of the devices (power amplifier, powered speakers,

etc.) connected to the [MASTER 1] and [MASTER 2] terminals to an

appropriate level. Note that loud sound will be output if the volume is

set too high.

1 Press the play button on the connected player and
play track 1.

Play a track in the Serato DJ software.

2 Turn the [TRIM] control.

Turn the [TRIM] control to adjust so that the channel level indicator’s
orange indicator lights at the peak level.

20

En

Changing the settings

Setting preferences

*: Default setting

Setting items Setting value Descriptions
Setting items Level indicator Setting value Level indicator

MASTER OUT ATT.

MIDI CH

MIDI BUTTON TYPE

PC UTILITY

AUTO STANDBY

FACTORY RESET

VERSION

[CH1] top indicator flashes

[CH1] 2nd from top indicator
flashes

[CH1] 3rd from top indicator
flashes

[CH1] 4th from top indicator
flashes

[CH1] 5th from top indicator
flashes
[CH1] bottom indicator
flashes

[CLIP] indicator on
[MASTER] flashes

0 dB* [CH2] 0 dB or less turns on
–6dB
–12dB

1* ~ 16

TOGGLE* [CH2] orange indicators turn on
TRIGGER

ON

OFF* [CH2] green indicators turn on

ON* [CH2] orange indicators turn on
OFF
RESET
CANCEL

1.0 or more

[CH2] -6 dB or less turns on
[CH2] -12 dB or less turns on
MIDI channels 01 to 09 are shown by the
number of [CH2] indicators turned on.
MIDI channels 10 to 16 are shown by the
top [MASTER] and up to 6 [CH2] indicators
turned on.

[CH2] green indicators turn on

[CH2] orange indicators turn on

[CH2] green indicators turn on
[CH2] orange indicators turn on
[CH2] green indicators turn on
1 digit: [CH1]

0.1 digit: [MASTER]

0.01 digit: [CH2]

Set the attenuation level of the sound from [MASTER1]
output terminals or [MASTER2] output terminals.

Set the MIDI channel.

Set how to transmit the MIDI signal.

Set whether to automatically launch the setting utility
software of the computer when connecting the unit to the
computer using a USB cable.

Turn the auto standby function on or off.

All settings are reset to their defaults.

It shows the firmware version.

Changing the settings

Changing procedures

1 While pressing the [FILTER] button, press the 
switch.

The top [CH1] indicator flashes.

2 Press the [CUE] button for channel 1 to select the
setting item.

A different [CH1] indicator or [CLIP] indicator on [MASTER] flashes.*

3 Press the [CUE] button for channel 2 to select the
setting value.

For turning on the level indicators, the number of indicator or the color
changes.*

4 Press the [FILTER] button to set the setting value.

The level indicators fast flashes.

5 Press and hold the [FILTER] button for more than 1
second.

The changing procedure is completed.
* For flashing or lighting indicators, see “Setting preferences” above.

About the auto standby function

When [AUTO STANDBY] is set to [ON], the unit automatically enters
the standby mode if 10 hours elapses with all of the following conditions
met.
— That none of this unit’s buttons or controls are operated.
— That no audio signal is input to each channel of this unit.

! In the standby mode, the [STANDBY] indicator is lit.
! When the [FILTER] button is pressed, the standby mode is canceled.
! This unit is shipped with the auto standby function turned on. If you

do not want to use the auto standby function, set [AUTO STANDBY]
to [OFF].

En

21

About the setting utility software

The setting utility can be used to make the checks and settings
described below.
— Set the audio data to input to this unit from the computer.
— Set the audio data output from this unit to the computer.
— Adjust the buffer size (when using ASIO).
— Check the version of the firmware and driver software.

Displaying the setting utility

For Mac

Click [Macintosh HD] icon > [Application] > [Pioneer] > [DJM-S3] >
[DJM-S3 Settings Utility].

For Windows 10

Click [Start] menu > [Pioneer] > [DJM-S3] > [DJM-S3 Settings
Utility].

For Windows 8.1

In [Apps view], click the [DJM-S3 Settings Utility] icon.

For Windows 7

Click [Start] menu > [All Programs] > [Pioneer] > [DJM-S3] > [DJM­S3 Settings Utility].

Setting the audio data output from this
unit to the computer

Display the setting utility before starting.

1 Click the [MIXER OUTPUT] tab.

Setting the audio data to input to this
unit from the computer

Display the setting utility before starting.

1 Click the [MIXER INPUT] tab.

2 Click the [Mixer Audio Input] pull-down menu.

Set the channel to input the audio data from the computer.
The status for the input selector switch is displayed on the right side on
the pull-down menu.
! This setting is not available while using the compatible DJ software.

2 Click the [Mixer Audio Output] pull-down menu.

Select and set the audio data to be output to the computer from the flow
of audio signals inside this unit.
! For [Mixer Audio Output] pulldown menu list, see page 23 .

3 Click the [USB Output Level] pull-down menu.

Adjust the volume of the audio data output from this unit.
! The [USB Output Level] setting is applied equally to all audio data.

However, when 1 on the table at step 2 is selected, the audio data is
output with the same volume at which it is input to this unit.

! If not enough volume can be achieved with the DJ software’s volume

adjustment alone, change the [USB Output Level] setting to adjust
the volume of the audio data output from this unit. Note that the
sound will be distorted if the volume is raised too high.

! [Control Tone] can be used with supported software.

22

En

Adjusting the buffer size (when using
ASIO)

This feature is only for using Windows.

If an application using this unit as the default audio device (DJ software,
etc.) is running, quit that application before adjusting the buffer size.
Display the setting utility before starting.

Click the [ASIO] tab.

! If the buffer size is made large, drops in audio data (breaks in the

sound) occur less easily, but the time lag due to the delay in the
transfer of the audio data (latency) increases.

Checking the version of the firmware and
driver software

Display the setting utility before starting.

Click the [About] tab.

Changing the settings

Checking the latest information on
the driver software

For the latest information on this unit’s dedicated driver software, see
the Pioneer DJ site below.
pioneerdj.com/support/
! Operation cannot be guaranteed when multiple units of this mixer

are connected to a single computer.

[Mixer Audio Output] pulldown menu list

CH1 (USB1/2) CH2 (USB3/4) CH3 (USB5/6)

CH1 Control Tone PHONO

CH1 Control Tone LINE

Post CH1 Fader Post CH2 Fader Post CH2 Fader

Cross Fader A

Cross Fader B

MIC MIC MIC

AUX AUX AUX

REC OUT REC OUT

1 Can be used with compatible software. The audio data is output with the same volume at which it is input to this unit, regardless of the [USB Output Level] setting.
2 When using for applications other than recording, pay attention to the DJ application’s settings so that no audio loops are generated. If audio loops are generated, sound

may be input or output at unintended volumes.

2

2

1

1

CH2 Control Tone PHONO

CH2 Control Tone LINE

Cross Fader A

Cross Fader B

2

2

1

1

2

REC OUT

Post CH1 Fader

Cross Fader A

Cross Fader B

—

2

2

2

En

23

Additional information

Troubleshooting

! If you think that there is something wrong with this unit, check the items below, and check [FAQ] for [DJM-S3] on the Pioneer DJ site.
pioneerdj.com/support/
Also, check the connected devices. If the problem cannot be resolved, ask your nearest Pioneer authorized service center or your dealer to carry out

repair work.
! This unit may not operate properly due to static electricity or other external influences. In such cases, normal operation may be restored by

unplugging the power cord then plugging it back in.

Problem Check Remedy

There is no sound or the volume is
too low.

Sound is distorted. Is the sound level output from the [MASTER]

Cross fade does not work. Is the [CROSS F. CURVE] selector switch set

SOUND COLOR FX does not work. Is the [COLOR] control set to an appropriate

MIDI control does not work. Are the MIDI settings properly set? To operate software with this unit, this unit’s MIDI messages must be assigned

This unit is not recognized after it has
been connected to a computer.

Sound of a computer cannot be
output from this unit.

Sound is distorted when an analog
player is connected to this unit’s
[PHONO] terminals.
Or, lighting of the channel level
indicator does not change even when
the [TRIM] control is turned.

Is the input selector switch set to the proper
position?

Are the connection cables properly connected? Connect the connection cables properly. (page 10 )

Are the terminals and plugs dirty? Clean the terminals and plugs before making connections.

Is [MASTER OUT ATT.] set to [-6 dB], etc.? Set [MASTER OUT ATT.] on the [UTILITY]. (page 21 )

channel appropriately set?

Is the level of audio input to each channel properly
set?

properly?

position?

Is the driver software properly installed on your
computer?

Are this unit and computer properly connected? Connect this unit and the computer directly using the included USB cable. (page

Are the audio output device settings properly set? Select this unit with the audio output device settings. For instructions on making

Is the input selector switch set to the proper
position?

Have you connected an analog player with a
built-in phono equalizer?

Is an audio interface for computers connected
between the analog player and this unit?

Set the input selector switch to the input source for the channel. (page 12 )

Adjust the [MASTER LEVEL] control so that the master level indicator lights at
around [0 dB] at the peak level. (page 12 )

Set [MASTER OUT ATT.] on the [UTILITY] to [-6 dB] or [-12 dB]. (page 21 )

Adjust the [TRIM] control so that the channel level indicator lights at about [0
dB] at the peak level.

If [THRU] is selected, cross fader does not work. Set the [CROSS F. CURVE]
selector switch properly. (page 12 )

Turn the [COLOR] control clockwise or counterclockwise. (page 13 )

to the software you are using. For the assignment method, see your software’s
operating instructions.

Install the driver software. If it is already installed, reinstall it. (page 4)

10 )

settings for your application, see your application’s operating instructions.

Set the input selector switch to the [

Connect the analog player with built-in phono equalizer to the [LINE] input
terminals. (page 10 )

If the analog player with built-in phono equalizer has a PHONO/LINE selector
switch, set it to PHONO.

If the output of the audio interface for computers is line level, connect it to the
[LINE] input terminals. (page 10 )

If the analog player has a PHONO/LINE selector switch, set it to PHONO.

] position. (page 12 )

24

En

Block Diagram

Additional information

En

25

About trademarks and registered
trademarks

! Pioneer DJ is a trademark of PIONEER CORPORATION, and is used

under license.
! Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or

trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or

other countries.
! macOS, OS X, iTunes, and Finder are trademarks of Apple Inc.,

registered in the U.S. and other countries.
! Intel and Intel Core are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S.

and/or other countries.

! ASIO is a trademarks of Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH.
! Serato DJ, Scratch Live, ITCH, and Serato DJ Intro are registered

trademarks of Serato Audio Research Ltd., registered in the U.S. and

other countries.
The names of companies and products mentioned herein are
trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Cautions on copyrights

Recordings you have made are for your personal enjoyment and
according to copyright laws may not be used without the consent of the
copyright holder.
! Music recorded from CDs, etc., is protected by the copyright laws

of individual countries and by international treaties. It is the full

responsibility of the person who has recorded the music to ensure

that it is used legally.
! When handling music downloaded from the Internet, etc., it is the

full responsibility of the person who has downloaded the music to

ensure that it is used in accordance with the contract concluded

with the download site.
! The specifications and design of this product are subject to change

without notice.

© 2017 Pioneer DJ Corporation. All rights reserved.
<DRI1525-A>

26

En