Which Is \u2018Better\u2019?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, the answer isn\u2019t so simple as one being better than the other, they both suit different DJs who find themselves in different situations. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s important to remember that hardware, and software for that matter, isn\u2019t everything; your skill and professionalism aren\u2019t decided by your hardware and software, it\u2019s based on how you use it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Just watch Kaytranada\u2019s Boiler Room in Montreal 2014: A DJ who is very skilled and proficient is using an entry-level controller and a laptop and still crushes it performing in a headline slot at one of the most prestigious promotions in dance music today. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moreover, I’ve seen DJ sets that are worse than this and they are on CDJs. So, my point is, hardware isn\u2019t everything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although hardware isn\u2019t everything, the CDJ is still considered the industry standard. So this means that if you do want to be the DJ who performs at clubs and venues, then you should consider getting used to this type of controller. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The CDJs do have some great advantages such as being able to have as many CDJs as your mixer allows, which means the potential of unlimited channels. Moreover, you can also rig up your CDJs with actual vinyl turntables and still mix them using the same mixer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some professional DJs love this feature as it allows them to go between physical vinyl and digital tracks seamlessly, all while still mixing them together. However, the CDJs do have their own issues – they just aren\u2019t hugely accessible to even intermediate DJs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Buying a CDJ isn\u2019t just a one purchase consideration, you need at least two CDJs in order to mix as well as a mixer. Not even mentioning speakers, some of which won\u2019t be compatible with CDJs inputs. CDJs, for good reason, are also pretty expensive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
One CDJ is equivalent to the price of an XDJ, and you need at least two, as well as a mixer. So this is a big consideration if you are an independent DJ. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To move from an entry-level controller to a CDJ can be quite daunting, this is exactly why Pioneer created the XDJ in 2015.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The XDJ, on the other hand, has utilized the same engineering as the CDJ to create a more professional alternative to the entry-level controller, for the home DJ. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
What is meant by this is that the XDJ is pretty perfect for someone who only really DJs at home for their friends and at house parties and other independent venues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The XDJ is optimized for home mixing and independent venues as it requires the least amount of auxiliary hardware in order to mix, you just need speakers and a memory stick. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you aren\u2019t bothered about getting used to the industry-standard hardware, then the XDJ is potentially your roof in terms of hardware. The other potential downsides of the XDJ are how it clings onto entry-level techniques such as the SYNC button and hot cues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some DJs love these features and don\u2019t see the need to drop them. However, some DJs, even those who don\u2019t want to play clubs and venues, seek to get as close to vinyl mixing as possible while using digital hardware.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nAs mentioned, the CDJ is not better than the XDJ on an objective level. It totally depends on your goals with mixing, and how\/where you perform. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The CDJ is definitely more culturally and historically important for the culture and is certainly the industry standard for a reason. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, they can be a little inaccessible to most DJs who don\u2019t have the money to splash out on the extensive setup required and are also a big step up from the entry-level controller. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pioneer engineered the XDJ for a reason, as an inexpensive stepping stone to the CDJ, or simply an optimization of the home DJ controller.<\/p>\n\n\n