Pioneer CDJ Buying Guide - Which Pioneer CDJ is Best for You?

July 7, 2022 Guides

When the CDJ-500 first hit the market in 1994, turntables were at the forefront. Aimed at vinyl DJs transitioning into the digital realm, the design focused on emulating the classic turntable. For instance, the Jog Wheel was introduced to give DJs the ability to "push" the track back and forth... similar to what one could do touching a vinyl record.

The CDJ-1000 was the model that established Pioneer players as the industry standard in DJ setups, particularly after the introduction of the MK2 model in 2003. Today, the CDJ-2000NXS2 reigns supreme in the industry. Major festivals and clubs worldwide keep a lineup of "Nexus" or "Nexus Two" players ready for their DJs.

This guide aims to be the most comprehensive and accurate data source available for all Pioneer CDJ, XDJ, and other multiplayer models, allowing you to make an informed decision on which CDJ player suits you best. Let's get started!

Pioneer Terms & Acronyms

CDJ - a series of media players that allow control and manipulation of CDs (or other digital audio formats) via an emulated vinyl turntable interface.

XDJ - a series of media players similar to CDJs but without a CD slot. These devices play music from a USB stick or other digital media. We'll use the term CDJ interchangeably here unless specified otherwise.

Master Tempo - a feature that allows the DJ to change a track's playback speed without affecting its pitch. Some software refer to this as Key Lock.

Jog Wheel - a feature present in all CDJs, where a wheel (also known as Jog Dial) enables skipping music, bending pitch, and/or scratching. The first Jog Wheel was actually present in 1986 on the Technics SL-P1200.

Slip Mode - a feature allowing audio manipulation (e.g., scratching or looping) while the song continues to play "underneath." When you stop "manipulating" the audio signal, playback continues from the point it would have been if you hadn't touched it.

Pro DJ Link - a LAN (network) connection that enables sharing a music source across multiple players. In conjunction with Rekordbox, you can access prepared loops, cues, sync/quantize, and more.

HID Mode - a form of USB connection that allows your CDJs to be used "as controllers" in DJ software. HID Mode is a more precise and higher-resolution method than traditional MIDI.

Rekordbox - a free Pioneer application for managing music that can be played on compatible players. Libraries can be prepared and exported (e.g., to a USB stick), enabling you to utilize all player features. Rekordbox DJ is also available as a complete software suite for DJ performance, allowing you to play directly from your laptop.

Frequently Asked Questions About CDJs

Which CDJs support USB playback?

All current models of CDJs and XDJ support USB playback (3000, 2000NXS2, 900NXS, XDJ-1000MK2, and XDJ-700).

Several discontinued models also play from USB media: CDJ2000NXS, XDJ-1000, CDJ-2000, CDJ-850, CDJ-900, CDJ-350, and CDJ-400.

Which CDJs have Sync?

All current models of CDJs and XDJ feature the Sync function (3000, 2000NXS2, 900NXS, XDJ-1000MK2, and XDJ-700), as do the now discontinued CDJ-2000NXS and XDJ-1000.

Which CDJs support Rekordbox?

All current models of CDJs and XDJ are Rekordbox-compatible (3000, 2000NXS2, 900NXS, XDJ-1000MK2, and XDJ-700).

Several discontinued models also offered some level of Rekordbox support: CDJ-2000NXS, CDJ-2000, CDJ-900, CDJ-850, and CDJ-350.

Which CDJs work with Traktor (or Serato/djay PRO)?

The following devices are capable of using DJ software "as controllers" (in HID mode):

Traktor: CDJ-3000, CDJ-TOUR1, CDJ-2000NXS2, CDJ-900NXS, CDJ-2000NXS, CDJ-2000, CDJ-900, XDJ-1000
Serato: CDJ-3000, CDJ-TOUR1, CDJ-2000NXS2, CDJ-900NXS, CDJ-2000NXS, CDJ-2000, CDJ-900, CDJ-850, XDJ-1000, XDJ-1000MK2
djay PRO: CDJ-3000, CDJ-TOUR1, CDJ-2000NXS2, CDJ-2000NXS2, CDJ-2000NXS

Are CDJs better than controllers? Are they worth the money?

Well.... that's subjective, and the answer will vary among DJs. Controllers can indeed offer a better value for money, especially when comparing onboard features and price points.

CDJs exist to create a common standard platform for DJs. Many venues already have them, and they're the expected standard for any big show. But that's not relevant to all types of DJs, and like all things.... it comes down to a matter of preference. CDJs and XDJs allow for removing the laptop from the setup, which is important for some individuals and of course also serves stability.

What is the best Pioneer CDJ?

This can only be answered on a case-by-case basis. With a tighter budget, the XDJ-700 (or an older, no longer available player) makes the most sense. If you're an event promoter and need to meet technical standards, you'll want the CDJ-2000NXS2 without question. If you happen to host the biggest festivals in the world, the TOUR1 is up to the task.

This guide can help determine which players are most suitable for specific use.

What are the best CDJ alternatives?

Pioneer CDJ setups aren't suitable for everyone. Here are some alternatives available:

The impressive Denon DJ SC6000M Prime
For a very tight budget, the Gemini MDJ series is suitable
A controller-based setup
Good old-fashioned vinyl records with turntables

Current Models on Showcase

Pioneer CDJ-3000

Release Date: September 2020

The CDJ-3000 features an MPU unit with powerful computational capabilities - the first time it's been incorporated into a Pioneer CDJ - to make the system run faster and ensure smooth operation of the new features.

The internal audio processing of the CDJ-3000 has been increased to 96 kHz/32-bit and is compatible with all audio formats. The updated technology also offers a new Key-Shift function, variable playback speed, and Master Tempo control.

Brand new is the large 9-inch touchscreen, which displays all information even more clearly. The display has increased maximum brightness by over 150%, allowing you to see it in any lighting situation.

The high-quality aluminum surface and the redesigned Play, Cue, and Hot Cue buttons are stronger than ever. Additionally, the lockable V-Lock power cable protects against accidental disconnection. You can even connect your iPhone to the CDJ-3000 via USB cable and mix music directly from the latest iOS version of rekordbox, which supports lossless file types like WAV, FLAC, ALAC, and AIFF as well as MP3 and AAC.

CDJ-3000 Features

Powerful DJ media player with extensive controls and format support
State-of-the-art microprocessor unit for excellent sound quality and system reliability
9" multicolor touchscreen simplifies browsing and DJing
Up to 150% brighter display than previous CDJ models for improved readability
Ultra-low touch latency for a smooth user experience
High-quality vinyl jogwheel with responsive control and 3-way directional control
8 Hot Cue buttons provide a wide range of performance options
Hardware buttons for Beat Jump and Key Sync functions for even more creative performance options
Loading of ALAC, AAC, AIFF, FLAC, MP3, and WAV files from hard drives or SD cards
Setting up tracks and entire playlists in the rekordbox app
iOS rekordbox app support for music playback
Connectivity to other Pioneer DJ units via ProDJ Link network
High-quality analog and digital S/PDIF audio output onboard

Specifications

Supported formats:

WAV, AIFF, FLAC, ALAC (Sampling rate: 44.1/48/88.2/96 kHz, Bit depth: 16/24 bit)
MP3 (Sampling rate: 44.1/48 kHz, Bit depth: 16 bit)
AAC (Sampling rate: 44.1/48 kHz, Bit depth: 16 bit)

Supported file systems: FAT, FAT32, HFS+
Jogwheel: 206 mm
Sound card: 24-bit/48 kHz
Frequency response: 4 - 40,000 Hz
Signal-to-noise ratio: 115 dB or more
Total harmonic distortion: < 0.0018%
Weight: 5.5 kg
Dimensions (L x W x H): 453 x 329 x 118 mm

Pioneer XDJ-1000MK2

Release Date: September 2016

This player inherits the jog wheel, 7-inch touchscreen, and other great features from the flagship model CDJ-2000NXS2.

In fact, the XDJ-1000MK2, apart from lacking a CD slot, is more similar to the CDJ-2000NXS2 than the 900NXS. With the 8 Hot Cues, FLAC and ALAC support (lossless playback), digital output, a color-coded USB port, and Qwerty search as features, this player is definitely an alternative to the big brother.

This device is a good choice for anyone looking for a rekordbox experience similar to the 2000NXS2, but at about half the price.

Pioneer XDJ-1000MK2 Features

48kHz/24-bit sound card and digital out ports provide pro-level sound.
FLAC and ALAC support means you can play lossless music.
A separate power supply reduces noise
The Qwerty keyboard display allows you to search or filter tracks by rekordbox information like name, BPM, or key.
Full-color waveform display with zoom
8 color-coded Hot Cues
DDJ-SP1 compatibility: add-on controller with instant access to more Hot Cues, loops, Slip mode, and browsing on up to four players.
Sync and improved quantization. Quantized Beat Jump allows you to jump forward or backward 1, 2, or 4 beats from the current position.
Connect multiple players or laptops and share a single music source.
Access stored loops and cues, sync beat, and other rekordbox features on each CDJ player.
HID support: use your CDJs "as controllers" in rekordbox DJ software.
RGB USB port: select a color for a specific device (e.g., green for Drum-n-Bass, purple for Trance, etc.) and it will light up in that color when connected.
"My Settings" allows you to take your preferences on the go. Your personal settings are activated once tracks are loaded.
The key combination enables direct access to browse mode or "My Settings"

Specifications

Music formats: MP3, WAV, AIFF, AAC, FLAC, ALAC
Audio sources: USB storage (FAT, FAT32, HFS+), iOS or Android, Mac or Windows PC
Ports: 1 USB A, 1 USB B, 1 digital (coaxial) output, 2 analog RCA, 1 LAN (100Base-TX Ethernet)
Sound card: 48kHz/24-bit
Frequency range: 4 - 20,000 Hz
115 dB Signal-to-Noise Ratio
Output level: 2.0Vrms
Distortion: < 0.003%
Power consumption: 30W

Pioneer XDJ-700

Release: December 2015

Pioneer offers this more affordable alternative to the CDJ/XDJ line. Although the layout is relatively simple, the player includes a surprisingly good range of features.

The XDJ-700 is a much more compact player and comes with a detachable stand. This allows for a variety of setup options, even in smaller DJ setups.

Despite being a smaller deck, it still boasts a large 7" touchscreen, providing excellent access to track browsing (with a QWERTZ keyboard), hot cues, loops, and full-color waveforms.

Pioneer XDJ-700 Features

The QWERTZ keyboard display allows you to search or filter tracks by Rekordbox information such as name, BPM, or keys.
Full-color display with waveform zoom
Connect multiple players or laptops and share a single music source.
Access saved loops and cues, sync the beat, and other Rekordbox features on any CDJ player.
Very lightweight and compact
Includes detachable stand
Slip mode, sync, and quantization
HID control of Rekordbox DJ (playback from laptop)
"My Settings" allows you to take your preferences on the go. Your personal settings are activated once tracks are loaded.

Specifications

Music formats: MP3, WAV, AIFF, AAC
Audio sources: USB storage (FAT, FAT32, HFS+), iOS or Android, Mac or Windows PC
Ports: 1 USB A, 1 USB B, 2 analog RCA, 1 LAN (Ethernet 100Base-TX)
Sound card: 48kHz/24-bit
Frequency range: 4 - 20,000 Hz
115 dB Signal-to-Noise Ratio
Output level: 2.0Vrms
Distortion: < 0.003%
Power consumption: 14.4W

Pioneer DJS-1000

Release Date: October 2017

The DJS-1000 is a performance deck that offers the DJ additional creative possibilities. Instead of playing full songs, this deck is used for sampling, sequencing, and looping sounds in various ways... and adds a bit more of "live" elements to the set.

With a similar form factor to the CDJ-2000NXS2 and the ability to sync with a Pioneer system via Pro DJ Link, the DJS-1000 adapts and plays well with the rest of the gear.

Sample input sounds and automatically synchronize them with the current sequence. Play them in a loop or sequence them into your own beat. The possibilities of live remixing are endless.

Pioneer DJS-1000 Features

Use the 16 multicolor step buttons to program new grooves "on the fly"
The buttons change color to provide visual feedback
Large rubber pads with velocity sensitivity allow for precise playing of sounds or drums
Sample sounds and synchronize them instantly with the active sequence
Tap the large 7" touchscreen to instantly access one of three screens: Home, Sequence, and Mixer
Use the touch strip to adjust pitch, play an automated drum roll, or activate a custom parameter
Comes with a library of Loopmaster samples
Fully compatible with projects created with DJS-TSP Project Creator or TORAIZ SP-16
Sync with an existing CDJ/XDJ setup via Pro DJ Link

Specifications

Music formats: WAV and AIFF
Audio sources: USB storage (FAT, FAT32, HFS+)
Frequency range: 20 - 20,000 Hz
Distortion: < 0.003%
Power consumption: 26 W

Discontinued and No Longer Available CDJ Models

Pioneer CDJ-350

The CDJ-350 offers a very affordable entry into the Rekordbox ecosystem at an accessible price.

The purpose of this player was to provide entry-level equipment on a standardized setup, with some pro-level features included, at a price point that was affordable.

It's a sturdy, yet straightforward player... a CDJ-200 brought into more modern times.

An interesting feature is the BPM lock: hold down the button and select a master tempo for your mix. Any track loaded (from any medium) will automatically be set to this tempo. Not quite the same as syncing, just a time-saving feature.

Pioneer CDJ-500

Released: 1994

The model that started it all! This was the first CDJ and offered a range of industry-first innovations.

The top-loading, flat-top design was suitable for DJs looking to transition from the world of vinyl. It was designed for instant playback without latency (for precise cueing) and was the first Pioneer CD player with a Jog-Dial.

These early players even featured fader start (a feature allowing you to start music playback with the crossfader or a channel fader on a compatible DJM model mixer), looping, and "Master Tempo" (key lock). Pioneer truly earned their name by conceptualizing this piece of history.

Pioneer CDJ-500II

Released: 1996

In fact, the Mark-2 model of the original, the CDJ-500II (and the similar CDJ-500ii Limited) had only minor improvements.

Its performance was slightly faster, it had an adjustable "Loop-Out" point (another industry-first innovation), and the maximum loop length was increased to ten minutes.

Pioneer CDJ-500S & CDJ-700S

Released: 1997

The CDJ-500S (Europe) was released as the CDJ-700S in the United States, hence they are listed together here.

The "S" in 500S stands for "small". Pioneer had learned a few things since introducing the CDJ in 1994... like the fact that space in DJ setups was often limited! These players also featured a pre-fabricated mounting system, allowing for mounting on traditional turntables... and two side-by-side players could be mounted in a standard 19-inch rack.

Pioneer also improved reliability and introduced the oil-damped damping system, still used on modern CDJs.

Pioneer CDJ-100S

Released: 1998

In 1998, Pioneer introduced the first "Bedroom-DJ model" of the CDJ line. The 100S (this time the "S" stands for "Silver") ditched the top-loading CD tray for a front-loading slot.... a design feature that would remain even in the following years.

The 100S introduced three integrated sound effects (Jet, Zip, and Wah). Other than that, the 100S was a very simple and affordable model intended for home use.

This model was eventually succeeded by the CDJ-200 as the low-end model.

Pioneer CDJ-1000

Released: 2001

The legendary Pioneer CDJ-1000 was the first DJ CD player capable of emulating the proven vinyl turntable. Features included the ability to scratch for the first time like one would scratch a record. Thanks to the beautiful, new 7″ Jog Wheel Design, which would become the foundation for all high-quality Pioneer CDJs.

An indicator was introduced in the middle of the jog wheel, transmitting position information.... a handy tool for precise cueing. For the first time, a (very simple) waveform display was introduced, and now you could even reverse playback or simulate turntable start/stop. You could store up to 3 cue points per CD and save them on an MMC card.

Shortly after the turn of the millennium, the idea of music downloads and burning your own CDs became a familiar, achievable notion. DJs no longer had to crack open original sealed CDs to play exclusive/rare tracks (which would wear out after several plays).... now they could burn it onto a CD and leave the original untouched. Not only that, but DJs could now shape tracks just as they could with a real turntable.

The CDJ-1000 was a true gamechanger!

Pioneer CDJ-1000MK2

Released: July 2003

This version didn't differ drastically from the original but had a few optimizations: an improved jog wheel, a +/- 100% pitch range, and faster response time. You can now use the digital output for actual DJing (in the original, you could only use it for regular CD playback and not for track manipulation).

The MK2 had a silver target ring around the jog wheel.... a subtle but stylish design change.

Pioneer CDJ-1000MK3

Published: March 2006

The MK3 was a significant leap as it introduced the capability of MP3 playback from CD-R and CD-RW media.

Other improvements included a larger, brighter 100-point waveform display (instead of the previous 50-point waveform) and the ability to record loops in Hot Cue slots instead of just cue points.

The resistance of the jog wheel was adjusted to different handling styles. Additionally, the unit was modified to handle SD card media (for storing cues and loops) as opposed to the previous MMC format.

Pioneer CDJ-800

Published: November 2002

This player helped bridge the gap between the "pro" club player and the CDJ-100S hobby DJ . Though the device was designed similarly to the 1000 and functioned similarly, the form factor was slightly different and it came in a silver finish. Unlike its larger sibling, it could only store a single cue point and loop at a time.

Other differences include a center click for absolute pitch control (as opposed to the 1000's override button), an Auto-Beat function, and a slightly different jog wheel. The CDJ-800 has a "quick return" that (when activated) would stop playback and return to the cue point when the top of the jog wheel is pressed.

This player allowed DJs to get a fairly standard club setup at a much .

Pioneer CDJ-800MK2

Published: February 2006

This model, released concurrently with the MK3 version of the CDJ-1000, was a minor update to keep things in line with the times. Primarily, MP3 playback was now possible on the CDJ-800.

This model included an improved jog wheel (from the CDJ-1000 MK2), slightly improved displays, CD-Text support, a slightly larger buffer, and (of course) MP3 playback.

This also differed from the original in that you had to press the Play button when scrubbing back and forth a track to continue playback rather than returning to the cue point. For this reason, some people actually preferred the MK1 where you simply had to release the jog wheel to continue playback (which felt more akin to turntable behavior).

Pioneer CDJ-200

Released: 2004

Pioneer likely began to realize that, though established in the club market, they hadn't released a true budget CDJ for home use since 1998. Thus, the CDJ-200 was born.

This replaced the CDJ-100s and was very similar in many respects. It still had three built-in sound effects: Jet, Wah, and Zip, though the audio quality of these effects was improved. And like its predecessor, the 200 didn't support vinyl emulation. This marked the first time Pioneer produced a CDJ where you couldn't do scratching since 1998.

For this reason, the CDJ-200 became very popular among dance/electronic DJs more interested in tracks. This was facilitated by the fact that it now had the same 0.02% pitch resolution available in the high-end market.

Pioneer CDJ-400

Released: 2007

This short-lived experiment by Pioneer was packed with beautiful and surprisingly modern features.

The CDJ-400 was the first model by Pioneer that could be used as a MIDI or native (HID) controller for DJ software like Traktor or Serato without timecode. It also allowed switching from controller mode to CDJ mode without interrupting the music.

It seems possible that this was intended to replace the CDJ-200 with a scratch-friendly unit (note the same three effects... Jet, Roll, and Wah) and modernize it a bit, but Pioneer had other plans for their lineup... (such as Rekordbox support).

The 400 introduced a series of features. It was the first to enable playback from a USB stick, the first to enable native software control without timecode, and the first to include an integrated sound card. It was also the first player to display a rotation direction indicator without using the middle Jog display (instead opting for an outer Jog ring).

Additionally, a limited edition model was released, replacing the orange illumination with cobalt blue.

Pioneer CDJ-2000

Released: September 2009

The CDJ-1000 had a great run, but Pioneer needed to keep up... especially with all the features becoming increasingly accessible via laptops and controllers.

So came about a new nightclub standard... the CDJ-2000. Dubbed as the "Professional Multiplayer," the 2000 can play CDs, CD-Rs, DVD-Rs, MP3/AAC/WAV/AIFF on CD/DVD, USB stick, or SD card and also supports native (and MIDI) software control of standard DJ software without using timecode.

Each unit has its own built-in sound card. The CDJ-200 features a large WQVGA 6.1-inch full-color LCD panel with 480 x 234 pixels to display song titles and detailed track information, allowing DJs to select songs at a glance. The player also supported the then-new Rekordbox software bringing it into the modern era of music management.

The 2000s also included the Needle-Search function and an integrated quantization function to ensure cue points were set accurately and automatically.

Pioneer CDJ-900

Released: September 2009

The 900 was introduced as a successor to the CDJ-800 series but was more of a slightly cheaper CDJ-2000 (released simultaneously).

The 900 shares some of the features of the 2000s: DVD+/-R playback, SD card playback, the LCD screen (though with 4-line text), Hot Cue, Needle Drop/Search, Loop Cutting, Jog Wheel Tension Adjustment, Decks Lock, illuminated Cue and Play buttons, and illuminated Jog Wheel Ring. The CDJ-900 also removed the Hot Loop buttons in favor of an Auto Beat function, though this functionality was later added to the 2000 through a firmware update.

The CDJ 900 was the first to introduce Pioneer users to the "Slip Mode", which wasn't even present in the CDJ-2000.

Pioneer CDJ-2000NXS

Released: September 2012

The "Nexus" version of the CDJ-2000 replaced the original in 2012 and added some features.

This version includes some enhancements such as WAVE ZOOM (allowing you to expand/contract waveform display). Also included is an enhanced 6.1-inch full-color LCD display offering some GUI features that were previously reserved for laptop DJs. Now you can zoom in not only on waveform and track list but also waveform, beat count, phase meter, etc. Additionally, the display highlights tracks that are in compatible keys.

In a controversial move at the time, the new flagship included the Sync button, allowing the DJ to fully exploit the capabilities of multi-deck mixing and Rekordbox's Slip Mode.

Additionally, Master Tempo, the new My Settings feature, and the ability to play music stored on tablets, smartphones, and laptops via Wi-Fi were greatly improved.

Pioneer CDJ-850

Release Date: August 2010

These sturdy players are spiritual successors to the CDJ-800mk2, incorporating many features inherited from the 900 series. Designed with bedroom/home use in mind, the top portion resembles a CDJ-900, except the screen is flat instead of angled. It boasts full Rekordbox support, the excellent 0.02% pitch resolution of the 900 (as opposed to the 0.05% of the 800), and USB playback support.

However, it's worth noting that it doesn't support Pro DJ Link. This means, unlike its bigger siblings 900 and 2000, you need a separate USB stick for each player. It also lacks the on-deck sync or quantization available in higher-end models... and of course, doesn't support on-screen waveforms.

Otherwise, the CDJ-850 operates similarly to the larger Nexus systems but without the hefty price tag.

Pioneer CDJ-850-K Features

Manage your tracks and ensure smooth transitions by preparing your music in Rekordbox.
The CDJ-850 plays MP3, WAV, AAC, and AIFF files from USB devices.
Use the CDJ-850 "as a controller" to gain full control over your favorite DJ software.
Utilize HID mode in Traktor, Serato, or Pioneer's own Rekordbox DJ software.
Press the Auto Beat Loop buttons to set 1, 2, 4, or 8 beat loops that snap precisely to Recordbox's beat grid.

Specifications

Music Formats: MP3, WAV, AIFF, AIFF, AAC
Audio Sources: USB storage (FAT, FAT32, HFS+), iOS or Android, Mac or Windows PC
Ports: 1 USB A, 1 USB B, 2 analog RCA, 1 Control (mini-jack)
Frequency Range: 4 - 20,000 Hz
115 dB Signal-to-Noise Ratio
Output Level: 2.0Vrms
Distortion: < 0.003%
Power Consumption: 21 W

Pioneer CDJ-Tour1

Release Date: May 2016

The ultimate flagship of CDJs, designed for mass production rather than home users or nightclubs. It shares the layout and features of the CDJ-2000NXS2, but includes some upgraded audio components and a large fold-out screen.

In addition to the integrated 7-inch touchscreen, you also get another 13-inch fold-out touchscreen. This gives the DJ "more control" over things like track browsing and allows viewing waveforms from up to 4 CDJs simultaneously. It comes with tilt adjustments and sunshades for outdoor use.

The CDJ-TOUR1 also features a high-end D/A converter from ESS Technologies (for incredibly low distortion/noise levels at insane volumes), reinforced side panels, isolator feet, and lockable LAN ports. Combine this with a DJM-TOUR1 mixer for the ultimate (expensive) festival or arena setup.

Features Pioneer CDJ-TOUR1

96kHz/24-bit sound card and a special 32-bit D/A converter by ESS Technologies enable distortion-free output at high volumes.
Separate power supply helps further reduce interference.
FLAC and ALAC support (for lossless playback).
Qwerty keyboard display allows searching or filtering tracks based on Rekordbox information like name, BPM, or keys.
Full-color display with waveform zoom.
Tilt the 13" screen according to your preferences or fix the screen for outdoor use.
Isolator feet for stability on any surface.
Reinforced sides.
NEUTRIK etherCON® connectors for locked LAN ports.
Share a music source across four players and activate synchronization, countdown, and other transport functions.
View parallel waveforms from up to four players on a common screen.
HID support: Use your CDJs as "controllers" in Traktor, Serato, djay PRO, or Rekordbox DJ.
RGB USB port: Select a color for a specific device (e.g., green for Drum-n-Bass, purple for Trance, etc.) and it illuminates that color when connected.
"My Settings" allows you to carry your preferences while traveling. Your personal settings are activated as soon as you load tracks.
8 color-coded Hot Cues and new Memory Cues let you name and color-code your cue points.
DDJ-SP1 compatibility: Add-on controller with instant access to more Hot Cues, Loops, or Slip Mode.
Synchronization and improved quantization (choose between ⅛, ¼, and ½ Beat Quantize). Quantized Beat Jump allows jumping back or forward by 1 Beat from the current position.

Specifications

Music Formats: MP3, WAV, AIFF, AAC, FLAC, ALAC
Audio Sources: USB storage (FAT, FAT32, HFS+), SD card, iOS or Android, Mac or Windows PC, optical drive (CD, CD-R/RW, DVD±R/RW/RW/R-DL)
Ports: 1 USB A, 1 USB B, 1 digital (coaxial) output, 2 analog RCA, 1 LAN (100Base-TX Ethernet)
Dimensions (upper display closed): 385 x 451 x 178 mm
Dimensions (upper display standing): 385 x 457.2 x 418 mm
Dimensions (upper display fully open): 385 x 693.9 x 203.1 mm
Sound Card: 24-bit/96kHz with a 32-bit ESS Technologies DAC
Frequency Range: 4 - 40,000 Hz
115 dB Signal-to-Noise Ratio
Output Level: 2.0Vrms
Distortion: < 0.0018%
Power Consumption: 51 W

Pioneer CDJ-2000NXS2

Release Date: February 2016

The pinnacle of recent years is the CDJ-2000NXS2 and literally the standard other players need to reach. This reissue of the original CDJ-2000NXS has added modern features and places great emphasis on sound quality.

With a 96kHz/24-bit sound card, FLAC/ALAC support (lossless music), an improved digital output, a 32-bit D/A converter, and a separate analog power supply.... the audio playback is as detailed as possible.

While the price puts the player out of reach for many.... the rugged design, professional build, advanced features, and focus on sound quality show why it truly is the industry standard player.

CDJ-2000NXS2 Features

96kHz/24-bit sound card and 32-bit D/A converter allow for high-resolution output and eliminate distortion/noise.
An improved digital output and separate power supply help further reduce interference
FLAC and ALAC support (for lossless playback).
The QWERTZ keyboard display allows you to search or filter tracks based on Rekordbox information like name, BPM, or Keys.
Full-color waveform display with waveform zoom
Needle Countdown allows you to touch a point in the track to see how many beats it is away.
8 color-coded Hot Cues and new Memory Cues allow you to name and color your cue points.
DDJ-SP1 compatibility: add-on controller with instant access to more Hot Cues, Loops, Slip Mode, and browsing on up to four CDJ-2000NXS2s.
Synchronization and improved quantization (choose between ⅛, ¼, and ½ Beat Quantize). Quantized Beat Jump allows you to jump back or forward 1 beat from the current position.
Share a music source across 4 players and activate synchronization, countdown, and other transport functions.
Beat Grids that work microsecond-precise
HID support: use your CDJs "as controllers" in Traktor, Serato, djay PRO, or Rekordbox DJ.
RGB USB port: select a color for a specific device (e.g., green for Drum-n-Bass, purple for Trance, etc.) and it will glow that color when connected.
"My Settings" allow you to take your preferences on the go. Your personal settings are activated as soon as you load tracks.
Key combination enables direct access to Browse Mode or "My Settings"
Wi-Fi Music: play music from your smartphone, tablet, PC, or Mac wirelessly through Rekordbox

Specifications

Music formats: MP3, WAV, AIFF, AAC, FLAC, ALAC
Audio sources: USB memory (FAT, FAT32, HFS+), SD card, iOS or Android, Mac or Windows PC, optical drive (CD, CD-R/RW, DVD±R/RW/RW/R-DL)
Ports: 1 USB A, 1 USB B, 1 digital (coaxial) output, 2 analog RCA, 1 LAN (100Base-TX Ethernet), 1 Control (mini-jack)
Sound card: 24-bit/96kHz with a 32-bit Asahi Kasei DAC
Frequency range: 4 - 40,000 Hz
115 dB signal-to-noise ratio
Output level: 2.0Vrms
Distortion: < 0.0018%
Power consumption: 41W

Pioneer CDJ-900NXS

Release Date: December 2013

As the successor to the original CDJ-900, the NXS version entered a more modern Rekordbox era.

The CDJ-900NXS offers a more comprehensive Pioneer Rekordbox experience than its predecessor, including a full-color LCD display with zoomable waveforms, beat countdown, phase levels, etc. It also supports Beat Sync, Quantization, Slip Mode, and Beat Roll effects via the Beat Divide switches.

By eliminating some features that many DJs won't use at home, you can get a similar experience to the flagship 2000NXS2, but save about €800.

CDJ-900NXS Features

48kHz/24-bit sound card and S/PDIF coaxial connections ensure pro-level sound.
Full-color waveform display with waveform zoom
Includes beat countdown, phase meter
Display and edit Rekordbox beat grids
Control Rekordbox DJ software and unlock performance features like Hot Cues, Sampling, Color FX, and more.
Connect multiple players or laptops and share a single music source.
Access saved loops and cues, sync the beat, and other Rekordbox features on each CDJ player.
HID support: use your CDJs "as controllers" in Traktor, Serato, djay PRO, or Rekordbox DJ.
Wi-Fi Music: play music from your smartphone, tablet, PC, or Mac wirelessly through Rekordbox
Active Loop: set automatic loops via Rekordbox so you're never caught unprepared at the end of a track.

Specifications

Music formats: MP3, WAV, AIFF, AAC
Audio sources: USB memory (FAT, FAT32, HFS+), iOS or Android, Mac or Windows PC, optical drive (CD, CD-R/RW)
Ports: 1 USB A, 1 USB B, 1 digital (coaxial) output, 2 analog RCA, 1 LAN (100Base-TX Ethernet), 1 Control (mini-jack)
Sound card: 48kHz/24-bit with Wolfson DAC processor
Frequency range: 4 - 20,000 Hz
115 dB signal-to-noise ratio
Output level: 2.0Vrms
Distortion: < 0.003%
Power consumption: 33W

Other Pioneer DJ Players Overview

CMX-5000 and CMX-3000

The Pioneer CMX-5000 was a 19" rack dual CD player and was Pioneer's first attempt in this market segment. It consisted of a 2U section with 2 slot drives and a 3U "controller" section with jog dials and other controls.

Shortly after the launch of the CDJ-1000, the CMX-3000 was released as a new option for rack mounting. Although it didn't quite have the same feature set as the 1000, it was much more modern (it had a vinyl emulation, meaning it could be used for scratching, although it wasn't particularly suitable for this task).

Due to better pricing, many CMX-3000s found their way into mobile DJ setups and as backups in nightclubs.

Pioneer DMP-555

Published: April 2002

The DMP-555 was a single-deck CD player with several innovations, such as playing SD cards and MP3 playback from memory cards or CDs.

The device was even capable of cueing and playing from the same media source, allowing for editing two tracks from a single device.

Despite these impressive features, the success was in many ways hindered. The product was plagued by a lack of updates and support, the SD card had a 2 GB limit, and MP3s couldn't be written directly to the card.

A special Pioneer author was required to transfer the music to alleviate concerns about copyright infringement by music labels.

DVJ-X1 and DVJ-1000

Released: 2004, 2006

The DVJ-X1 was a DVD-based "CDJ", allowing VJs to scratch and mix videos like a vinyl record. It offered real-time scratching, looping, and hot cueing of videos and could synchronize audio/video streams together. It also played audio CDs, with similar functionalities as the CDJ-1000.

In 2006, the DVJ-1000 was introduced as a successor to the original DVJ device. Unlike the larger X1, it had roughly the same size as the Pioneer CDJ-1000 decks and could fit into the same cases.

The enhanced unit featured brighter displays, loop settings, auto-looping, and several new outputs (S/PDIF, Composite, Preview Video, and Control).