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Description

Unleash your inner DJ with the Pioneer CDJ-2000. This professional multimedia player is designed as an all-in-one command center, crafted specifically to streamline your performance. It handles playback from various formats such as MP3, AAC, WAV, and AIFF. Equipped with the unique rekordbox software, it instantly catalogs your sounds and songs, enabling easy recall and selection via a user-friendly LCD display.

Key Features:

  • Professional multimedia player for DJ performance
  • Handles playback from MP3, AAC, WAV, and AIFF files
  • Onboard rekordbox software for instant cataloging of sounds and songs
  • User-friendly LCD display for easy song selection and recall
  • Designed as an all-in-one command center to streamline DJ performance

Product specs

Brand Pioneer
Model CDJ-2000
Finish Black
Year 2000s
Categories DJ Controllers

FAQs

What software is the Pioneer CDJ-2000 compatible with?

The Pioneer CDJ-2000 is primarily designed to work with Rekordbox, Pioneer's own music management software. It also supports HID mode for integration with popular DJ software like Serato DJ and Traktor.

Can I use a USB drive with the Pioneer CDJ-2000?

Yes, the Pioneer CDJ-2000 supports USB drives, allowing you to play digital music files directly from a USB flash drive or external hard drive.

How does the Pioneer CDJ-2000 connect to a mixer?

The Pioneer CDJ-2000 connects to a mixer via RCA cables for audio output. It also includes a digital output for high-quality sound and a LAN port for linking multiple CDJs.

Does the Pioneer CDJ-2000 have a touchscreen?

Yes, the Pioneer CDJ-2000 features a full-color LCD screen, though it is not touch-sensitive. The screen provides detailed track information and allows for easy navigation through your music library.

Is the Pioneer CDJ-2000 suitable for club use?

Absolutely, the Pioneer CDJ-2000 is a professional-grade DJ controller and is widely used in clubs around the world due to its robust build and reliable performance.

DJ Mag

DJ Mag

Pioneer CDJ-2000 Training - Part 2 (Hardware)

Video thumbnail for Pioneer CDJ-2000 Training - Part 2 (Hardware) by DJ Mag

Pioneer CDJ-2000 Training - Part 2 (Hardware)

DJ Mag

DJ Mag

Video thumbnail for CDJ-2000: Overview Tour by PioneerProDJMedia

CDJ-2000: Overview Tour

PioneerProDJMedia

PioneerProDJMedia

Video thumbnail for CDJ-2000: Overview by AlphaTheta / Pioneer DJ Global

CDJ-2000: Overview

AlphaTheta / Pioneer DJ Global

AlphaTheta / Pioneer DJ Global

Reviews

PROS

  • DACs offer amazing and sharp sound quality

  • Superior track browsing/latency compared to XDJ's

  • Versatile: excels with Serato SSL, DJ in Advanced HID, and Rekordbox integration

  • Lightweight, enhancing portability for live performances

  • High-quality, sensitive jog wheel ideal for scratching

  • Stable performance, considered the best media player on the market

  • Enhances skill development due to lack of a sync button

  • Intuitive use, revolutionizing DJ equipment upon release

  • No laggy mixes, ensuring smooth transitions

  • Solid and super reliable build quality

CONS

  • High cost may leave users without budget for other essential equipment

  • Customer service issues with returns and repairs reported

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Pioneer CDJ-2000.

Features and functionality

  • It's noted that the CDJ-2000 requires manual loading of hot cues for each track, which can be cumbersome compared to newer models with automatic features.

    Source
  • The CDJ-2000 allows saving loops up to 32 bars in Rekordbox, which is useful for DJs focusing on loops and acapellas.

    Source
  • The CDJ-2000 lacks modern features like sync, phase meters, and slip mode, making it better suited for DJs who prefer manual beatmatching.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The CDJ-2000 is particularly valued as a third deck for loops and samples, suiting users who do not rely heavily on visual aids.

    Source
  • Ideal for vinyl DJs transitioning to digital, as it encourages traditional beatmatching skills without relying on visual aids.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The XDJ-1000MK2 is often preferred for its modern features, but owners appreciate the CDJ-2000's physical buttons over touch screens found in newer models.

    Source
  • The CDJ-2000 is said to offer a more vinyl-like experience as it lacks visual waveforms, making it preferable for those who enjoy beatmatching by ear.

    Source
  • The CDJ-2000 is slower at loading tracks compared to newer models like the CDJ-2000NXS or XDJ-1000MK2, impacting mix speed.

    Source

Build quality

  • It's noted that USB and network ports can become flaky if not properly maintained, affecting connectivity during performances.

    Source
  • Owners report the necessity of replacing the play cue board due to wear, highlighting the ease of part replacement with readily available components like those found on eBay.

    Source
  • Some owners report intermittent display failures due to physical wear from heavy club use, which is a common issue with older models.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Using Rekordbox's export mode significantly speeds up track and waveform loading times, avoiding delays when using USBs without preparation.

    Source
  • It doesn't support all formats, unlike the more versatile CDJ-2000NXS and newer models.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners emphasize the importance of ensuring the tempo fader is fully functional, as it is a common failure point on both CDJ-2000 and CDJ-2000NXS models.

    Source
  • Users emphasize the importance of formatting USB drives to FAT32 for the CDJ-2000, noting difficulties in formatting drives larger than 32GB on Windows without third-party tools.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • There is a consensus that paying more than $800 for the original CDJ-2000 is excessive, given the availability of more modern alternatives like the XDJ-1000MK2 at similar prices.

    Source
  • The CDJ-2000 is less desired for rentals and doesn't appear on many current DJ riders, limiting its viability in professional settings.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users mention frequent "emergency loops" occurring due to worn USBs, suggesting the need for regular USB maintenance and backups.

    Source
  • DJs accustomed to controllers may find the CDJ-2000's static half-waveforms challenging for mixing without visual aids.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Pioneer CDJ-2000 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Pioneer CDJ-2000 is a groundbreaking digital media player that sets a new industry standard. Its standout features include a sizable 6.1-inch screen, touch-sensitive needle search, and integration with Rekordbox software, making it ideal for modern DJs. The CDJ-2000 excels in managing digital music libraries and seamlessly connects with laptops and MIDI. However, its large size and high price might be drawbacks for some. Despite these, its advanced connectivity options and performance features, like the needle search and four-beat loop, make it a powerful tool for professional DJs.

positive

Pioneer CDJ-2000 Review – DJBooth

djbooth.net

The Pioneer CDJ-2000 is hailed as a groundbreaking player, praised for its versatility, high-quality build, and exceptional jog wheel system. Its standout features include a vibrant 6.1” LCD screen and comprehensive media playback options, making it adaptable for any DJ setup. While the absence of Slip Mode and its steep price of $1900 per unit are noted drawbacks, the CDJ-2000 is still considered a top-tier choice for DJs of all levels, from club professionals to bedroom enthusiasts. Its robust construction and Pioneer’s reliability seal the deal as a premier, albeit pricey, investment.

positive

DJ & Studio Equipment: Pioneer CDJ-2000 review | Juno Daily

juno.co.uk
Add

5.0 out of 5

Based on 16 Reviews and 123 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
benjaminn

The club standard

So much more than just a CD player. I use these with Serato SSL and DJ in Advanced HID mode giving me the tightest control possible as well as feedback about the current and lined up tracks directly to the players screen. For audio only sets, the Rekordbox integration makes turning up to a venue with just a USB stick and a pair of headphones a breeze.

musique

Investing in top gear but left without a mixer budget

Lucky enough to own 2 of these to refine my mixing skills... except I wound up with no money left to buy a mixer lol! Using an old cheap Behringer mixer in the meantime...

refive

This rocks!

These things are unforgettable when playing live. You become one with them and ofcourse, Pioneer really gives the best quality if you ask me. They are amazingly light, which makes it easy to take them with you if you have to.

vlcty

what is more to say, But love it

Pioneer all the way, Takes some used to getting to. But like riding a bike with training wheels on every pedal and pushing ya down a steep hill of music wikedness

jamalball

Best turntable you will ever have

I am never going to use a different deck. This has all the goodies and more. The jog wheel is very sensitive (in a good way) and is very comfortable to scratch on.

chacho

great in my opinion

it works great and has a great visualizer on screen (more larger) and just like the Pioneer DJM-2000 Mixer it run very smooth and is great

caleb_burgess

Gets the job done!

The capabilities are there. The only better option is going wireless... Nexus

gaist

Simply the best media player available

without doubt the best media player on the market! Totally stable.

2uomusic

Great

It Doesn't have a sync button so everyone is able to learn how to mix with skill

jeroenmeijer

Live gear

ronny_87

you, sir, have a sick live and studio setup. how long have you been collecting gear? didn't see a DJ mixer, what do you use?

jeroenmeijer

Thanks man! i think a year now. i use a Stanton mixer, very easy but it's a good quality mixer:)

jeroenmeijer

i now use a djm-400 at home :) really happy with it!

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Martin Garrix uses Pioneer CDJ-2000

Martin Garrix

Music Producer

AREA21

...
Verified via YouTube

While DJing at a local radio station, Martin Garrix used a pair of Pioneer CDJ-2000s to perform. The lettering on the bottom-right corner of the unit can be seen, and differs from the Nexus model, distinguishing it as the standard 2000 model.

See how Skrillex uses Pioneer CDJ-2000

Skrillex

Music Producer

From First to Last

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Skrillex is seen using a CDJ-2000 (original model). You can tell that it is a CDJ-2000 from the lack of the sync and master buttons, which were featured on the CDJ-2000 Nexus.

See how Hardwell uses Pioneer CDJ-2000

Hardwell

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

From Hardwell's technical rider: "4x Pioneer CDJ 2000 all linked to each other." His rider can be found on Anna Agency's website (download link for the PDF is here).

See how Zedd uses Pioneer CDJ-2000

Zedd

Music Producer

ARE WE DREAMING

...
Verified via YouTube

At 2:47, one can see four CDJ 2000's in front of Zedd's 900 Nexus and Traktor.

See how Calvin Harris uses Pioneer CDJ-2000

Calvin Harris

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Calvin Harris DJs using Pioneer CDJ-2000s.

See how Armin Van Buuren uses Pioneer CDJ-2000

Armin Van Buuren

Music Producer

Major League

...
Verified via YouTube

Armin Van Buuren talks extensively about his live DJ setup. He uses 4 CDJ-2000s - two are used for the audio, and two for the SMPTE signal to synchronize his visuals.

See how Steve Aoki uses Pioneer CDJ-2000

Steve Aoki

Music Producer, DJ

Rifoki

...
Verified via Photo

Aoki's technical rider calls for "2 Pioneer CDJ-2000"

See how Madeon uses Pioneer CDJ-2000

Madeon

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, a Pioneer CDJ-2000 can be seen in Madeon's live setup.

See how Axwell uses Pioneer CDJ-2000

Axwell

Music Producer

Swedish House Mafia

...
Verified via Facebook

Axwell uses CDJ-2000s when playing live.

See how Flume uses Pioneer CDJ-2000

Flume

Music Producer, DJ

What So Not

...
Verified via Photo

At the 2014 Holy Ship!!! event, Flume was highlighted as a standout performer in the Australian EDM scene. A photo from Miami New Times shows Flume using the Pioneer CDJ-2000, emphasizing his role as a prominent DJ and collaborator.

See how Kaskade uses Pioneer CDJ-2000

Kaskade

Music Producer

Late Night Alumni

...
Verified via YouTube

Kasakde loves using CDJ-2000s in his live DJ sets, especially with the convenience of Pioneer's Rekordbox software. He says:

"[The CDJ-2000s] have been a staple in my set for a long time. The 2000s are what I've been performing on. Now with the 2000s it's great because with Rekordbox, I'm traveling so much and I'm always on my laptop. Rekordbox has been really huge for me, to organize my music and kind of setup DJ playlists and be able to categorize my music really well. So when I'm doing shows its easy for me to find stuff."

See how Kygo uses Pioneer CDJ-2000

Kygo

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Instagram

In an Instagram post, Kygo is seen using the Pioneer CDJ-2000 during his live DJ set at Electric Adventure, as he prepares for his performance at Lollapalooza.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Pioneer CDJ-2000, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
denizens

denizens

Gear IQ 101

1 alternative for Pioneer CDJ-2000, curated by the Equipboard community.

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