Pioneer DJ XDJ-XZ Review - Serato & Rekordbox All In One Standalone System!

Check out Phil Morse's full review of the brand new XDJ-XZ from Pioneer DJ. It's USB, it's Rekordbox DJ and Serato DJ with a laptop, it works with CDJs, DVS... but will the two channel limit on standalone hurt it? Find out what we think...
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[@LimaoDesigns]

People that say this is overpriced and bad compared to the Prime 4 don't know who this is aimed at. This is actually excellent value for money, all things considered. This is for the clubs that perhaps can't afford a full CDJ/DJM setup, or DJs who want the experience of 2 CDJ2000s and a DJM 900 for a third of the price - and thats exactly what you're getting: A DJM900 with 2 free CDJs attached.

[@digitaldjtips]

Totally agree in regards to what you're getting for your money, actually decent in that respect from Pioneer

[@pajtimdj]

As I scrolled through the comments here in this video I read that many are complaining about pioneer XDJ-XZ that isn't 4 decks standalone. The XDJ-XZ has everything a dj would ever need.I haven't used the Denon Prime 4 till now so I can't have an opinion about it but I own the XDJ-XZ and it's an amazing piece of gear with professional looking and feeling.

[@digitaldjtips]

Yep we like it and most DJs don't use more than 2 decks for mixing anyway

[@What.iphhhh]

It really grinds my gears that they definetly can make useful and practical gear but for the sake of money they choose weird limitation to standalone things like two channels only?? I spend 2,199 for this controller and i can't use four channel without a computer?? My god

[@digitaldjtips]

I think it's just that to "develop new internals" is not straightforward - agreed though, this does feel a little like a "stopgap" for what will come next.

[@69sound81]

I think pioneer should make n release some type of cdj type peripherals to scale it up to 4 decks without the need of paying cdj2000 nxs2 pricetags. I mean, if they can make a kind of controller to snap on to it thst has the exact same deck layout with the pads and the jog on display and all of it it would be the ultimate standalone hybrid dj system with the ability to plugin cdj's, turntables, dvs, its own dedicated decks (3&4), play by usb, by link with rekordbox and as a controller. It would be the new platform of professional dj setup

[@aaronblack735]

Because pioneer ever give you less for more money , always it's like that

[@LyK0sa]

@@69sound81 they already exist, they're called xdj 1000s

[@hzkilla7551]

@@69sound81 sounds good that tbh

[@syazwanali7094]

I swear by pioneer only. I carry an XDJ-RX around to my gigs & there is a lot of respect & admiration i get from the crowd. Yea sure the price is a bit exorbitant but Pioneer products are built to last. There are clubs around the world who still uses 15 year old pioneer DJ products & it has never failed them. This controller will sell pretty well regardless of the hate it gets. I know i need to grind pretty hard to get this beautiful unit haha

[@digitaldjtips]

...and you're right, it'll probably also still be in service in 15 years from now.

[@phillipmarnik]

Perfect summary of this new system Phil. I understand what they have created here and like it a lot. I like the bling factor. I currently use a DDJ RX for mobile gigs and only use channels 3 and 4 for my wireless mics. I've been djing a long time and have never felt restricted by only having 2 decks when in a club. Understand others will feel differently but I'm being honest about my needs.

[@digitaldjtips]

80% of DJs in our experience never touch 3 and 4...

[@spudz27]

Terry Jackson not disagreeing but wondered why you say that?

[@spudz27]

Terry Jackson each to their own I suppose as I regularly play at local night for 6 hours or more on a RX2 with same screen, no issue.

[@Odyseuss08]

@@digitaldjtips I think you underestimate that a lot of DJs use a 3rd Deck for "parking" backup Songs or prepare something. so maybe 80% dont mix more then 2 decks simultaneously but that doesnt mean they dont use them in general for other purposes.

[@beatriceheinze2294]

I like to use deck 3 and 4 to be extra creative. Sometimes, I play the same track on deck 1 & 2 (with a delay of time), and than another track on deck 3 or you can use an acapella song, and a sample on deck 4 from usb for example. Or when I have new tracks on my usb that needs to be analysed, I can play on deck 1 & 2, and use deck 3 and/or 4 to analyse the new tracks. Parking tracks is also convenient as you wrote (@Odyseuss08) There are multiple possibilities for using 4 decks. Or mixing on 4 decks simultaneously like Carl Cox did in the past with his record players is also cool :-).

[@derekmatthew8908]

Its crazy how after 3 years and the release of the xdj rx3, this model is still consistently on back order. Im hoping to get mine in the next few months, upgrading from a sz2.

[@digitaldjtips]

It's a very popular model.

[@inconsistentsonic]

FIRST! I knew Digital DJ Tips would scoop the first video of this, nice one Phil! GOing to watch now, TAKE MY MONEY PIONEEER!

[@digitaldjtips]

Sounds like you're happy with this... :)

[@inconsistentsonic]

@@digitaldjtips Just what I've been waiting for! Very nearly bought a DDJ-1000 last week after saving for a year, glad i waited now!

[@digitaldjtips]

Have fun!

[@tommyoz777]

If you already have a pair of Nexus CDj's and need a NXS pioneer mixer, than this is it. You get two extra decks and now all 4 in standalone. You even have send and return (AUX). However, If you don't have anything and want a Pioneer set up, then I totally agree with you Phil. This is a great value.

[@digitaldjtips]

For sure, it'll be perfect for some DJs especially Pioneers fans

[@beatriceheinze2294]

Nice review! The master EQ on this controller is great indeed. But I'm glad I bought my Denon Prime 4 several months ago. I use the 4 decks intensively with my usb sticks, the built-in hard drive is really practical and the 10" touch screen is super. Also analyzing the usb's on the fly is very convenient. Till now, I managed to play without a laptop...that saves me some extra money :-).

[@digitaldjtips]

Judging from the number of units Denon DJ appears to have sold, you're not alone in loving the Prime 4! Now if they could only get Spotify onto it...

[@kai5ix724]

@@digitaldjtips use DJAY 2

[@arthureschner9319]

@@digitaldjtips apart from Algoriddim Djay who else has Spotify?

[@waynewilliams2266]

Sure, give DJ’s easier access to avoid having to buy the music they play. Streaming music in the US is still a violation of copyright laws.

[@waynewilliams2266]

Sure, give DJ’s easier access to avoid having to buy the music they play. Streaming music in the US is still a violation of copyright laws.

[@dj-peterofficial2753]

Nice to see Pioneer finally coming out with this 4 ch solution. I did put my money in to the Denon Prime 4, had it for a couple of hours and unfortunately found out it was a brick to me and lost a big chunk of money on that poor decision. DESPITE watching every review, including DDT's and MOJAXX, no one mentioned that the unit doesn't have cdj/vinyl mode. By that I mean the classic CDJ mode with stutter and where you can hear exactly on the frame where you set your cue point. Extremely vital when you like me do that on the fly, and who decided a long time ago that the vinyl mode is just an effect mode that I use accordingly. Other stuff, like a very bad layout on the screen with too little info and way too big fonts in browsing mode using horizontal wave forms. Six rows of tracks, scrolling needed to see more than half the file name, equals what's on the first CDJ-2000 that came out 10 years ago, on a 10'' screen? The free spinning Jog wheel with absolutely no feeling in how the movement relates to the track playing. Then there were the hidden key combo to do the switch to horizontal wave forms... Just the fact that Denon think that is OK, still makes me angry just thinking about it. I'm a pro DJ. I play up towards 25 gigs/month and rarely less than 16-17. In many of them I now need to bring my own DJ gear and I wanted something easy to bring and easy to setup that worked out of the box. The Denon Prime 4 was NOT that for me. Fortunately a DJ colleague heard about my experience and offered to buy it, so the unit now does the job it is supposed to. If the XDJ-XZ had been available a few months back, I'd probably bought it, but now I got the XDJ-700/DJM-450 setup, and I'm totally satisfied with that. Modular, small footprint and very light weight. The whole setup in a hard case is only 2 kg more than one of my CDJ-2000NXS2 in a hard case. If I only need to bring the players, without the foot stand they fit back to back in one hand. In the case I need booth out, I still have my old trustworthy DJM-800 to bring. As i also have the full NXS2 setup, the modular options outweighs the all-in-one solutions. My next update will be when they hopefully release the XDJ-700MK2 and make it up to par with the rest of the XDJ series, and of course a pro 2 ch mixer that is not for scratch DJ's, like a DJM-450 with the booth out option.

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks for sharing! You're right, we missed the vinyl/CDJ mode thing - I guess coming from a vinyl background rather than CDJs, when we "went digital" we always concentrated on how well the jogwheels/software replicated the feel of vinyl. We'll be sure to point this out in the future. Glad you finally settled on something!

[@BryantFC]

I just bought a pair of XDJ700s to pair with my DJM450 too! I play alot of mobile gigs and for the longest time, I was lugging my Technic SL1200s with the 450 using DVS. Got tired of lugging everything around and since I had the 450, I ended up snagging up the XDJ700s. I thought about returning my 700s and selling off some gear to get this unit but the more I think about it, I like the modular setup. If you want a booth out option, you can buy a cheap RCA volume knob adjuster and plug that into the Master 2 RCAs out as a "booth out" option.

[@DJKOOLBREEZE]

Digital DJ Tips can tou do a video on this short comming with the prime 4. I really did not see this or fully get what he is talking about. I am considering getting the prime 4 for christmas

[@digitaldjtips]

It's not really a short coming Telony, more a personal preference - if you don't know any different you'll most likely not have an issue

[@dj-peterofficial2753]

@@DJKOOLBREEZE I actually made a short video about it before selling it. Not professional, but it get the message out. The short coming for me is that I have since the CD-era started, for me that was in 1994, been using the CDJ mode found on every CDJ since 2001, and was the only mode from circa 1992 until Pioneer released the CDJ-1000 that had a vinyl mode worth using. This was also the mode that Denon and other brands used. When paused you hear a stutter where you can easily, even in the loudest dj booth, set a cue point on the exact frame of the beat you want or even the start of a vocal, because the stutter accentuate the sound of the frame that is in stutter mode. In vinyl mode the track goes silent when paused, and you have to push the jog back and forth the hear any sound. To find a beat without surrounding sounds is easy. When that beat is surrounded with other sounds, it becomes a little more difficult. When it is a vocal surrounded with other sounds it becomes very difficult or impossible. Of course you can set a cue and try and set it again and again until it's right, but I'm not prepared to go back to something i rejected as ''not as good' as' 18 years ago. I'm setting cues on the fly in seconds and get it right the first time every time and so I will continue to play. A few months ago Laidback Luke invited Dannic for a guest DJ set, and he also use the ''green mode'' (CDJ) throughout the whole set, also setting cue points on the fly the same way I do. He also did bring his own gear.

[@SehxualPanda]

Great review! But I’m sticking to my Denon Prime 4

[@digitaldjtips]

What is it particularly about the Prime 4 that you feel is the deal-maker?

[@parhamafshari7716]

I got a prime 4 and the biggest turn on is that it has 4 channels, bigger screen, fully standalone, wifi. Been using my prime for a month ans honestly the only downside would be the jogweels could be a bit bigger but everything feels so good and smooth. Also having an SSD IN your controller is huge.

[@brandonunger1689]

@@parhamafshari7716 , the wifi and ability to install an SSD on the Prime 4 is like....whoa. Not sure what Pioneer was thinking on this controller.

[@shawnhammond5237]

@@digitaldjtips Build Quality & Sound Quality of Denon, 4 deck stand alone, zone section

[@TheFunkloft]

So many people trying to justify the money spent on the Prime 4. Deep inside they all know how horrible the workflow is and that Denon is screwing them over with Engine Prime.

[@roshanbeni3601]

Iv had the rx and now I got the rx 2. I'm a wedding dj and I can't understand how Pioneer expect us to read the labels on the mic knobs when we can't see it. It should be UNDERNEATH the pot and not above.

[@digitaldjtips]

Good point Roshan, thanks for sharing.

[@gillewis100]

I think its a Great All in one Standalone System No laptop looks like the club version but in a all in one package.

[@digitaldjtips]

Cool, plenty to like about this one even if it's not what some were hoping for :)

[@OfficialDJWolve]

I’ll keep my DDJ 1000 thanks, I’ll just get the RMX 500 if I want more effects. Bit of a let down, I can’t see many good things that out way the DDJ 1000, the DJM 900 NXS2 style mixer is nice and the jogs, but the standalone feature is a huge let down. Thanks for the review though Phil, great video as always 👍

[@digitaldjtips]

You're welcome DJ Wolve!

[@BearingUK]

Exactly! I got a DDJ 1000 instead of a stand alone recently because of the cdj jogs and 4 mixer channels. The fact that this Stand alone has 4 channels yet you cant use them in a stand alone is literally pointless.

[@OfficialDJWolve]

BearingUK it’s a huge let down, again, Pioneer has the potential to beat Denon, they missed out big time... 🤦

[@echno4727]

I agree, the DDJ 1000 is amazing value for money and the best purchase ive ever made ( apart from my 1210s I bout 20 years ago😊)

[@markyruss]

@@BearingUK what do u mean the jogs. whats the diffence between yours and them?

[@johnparker8270]

The fact this won't play 4 channels from USB totally eliminates the reason for this device. Game set and match to denon.

[@digitaldjtips]

Not sure about "totally", but we hear you!

[@TheFunkloft]

You would not be talking like this if you actually owned a Prime 4.

[@patrykb9091]

@@TheFunkloft Agreed so many people are looking at stuff on paper.

[@TheFunkloft]

@@patrykb9091 Exactly what I mean. I owned one for months and sold it last week. The workflow is just horrendous.

[@patrykb9091]

The Funkloft I only tried it on a demo unit I ended up buying a DDJ 1000 instead. Just felt like a cheap plastic controller with a skinned tablet.

[@DJCesarAlas]

Pioneer trying to catch up to Denon! I thought I would never see the day!! 🤣

[@dezfyah]

You know what I'm saying? So true!!!!!

[@cassiusjb]

And only went halfway.

[@JonZarlengz]

Cesar Alas And yet, it’s still not even close to competing with it

[@TheFunkloft]

What do you mean, "catch up"? You are definitely one of those many people that didn't even own a Prime 4. You wouldn't be talking like that if you had worked with it.

[@digitaldjtips]

Still a way off from a power point of view

[@_caswell]

Feel this could’ve and should’ve been a prime 4 killer, but still has a little way to go, no dual layer, outdated GUI, no touchscreen, no internal hard drive, not as many options on performance pads and more expensive than P4. Do like the jog wheels though!

[@digitaldjtips]

Yeah, and the hardware FX are pretty cool!

[@rogerdy2647]

Not only that, theres also a 2 channel standalone instead of 4.

[@pajtimdj]

It is touchscreen but the fact that is two channel standalone only it's so disappointing. Dedon Prime 4 is 4 channel standalone

[@jamesdeanjr985]

@@digitaldjtips More isn't better. This is the most poor and uninspired crap pioneer has come out with, and that is including the reskinned 1000s/ST bs

[@jamesdeanjr985]

I've seen nothing in quite literally years that has shown me Pioneer can even keep up with Denon, let. alone give you the value Denon does.

[@Joaquin77]

The technology to use 4 channels may be there as it is in the case of the DDJ SX3 (but is not a stand alone). just press the button to flip to deck 3 or 4 and that's it. But for the XDJ XZ they may need a bigger screen or different format (vertical) waves to show the 4 tracks playing plus the information. Maybe on their second version of the product we will see it happening. Great review Phil, thanks for sharing.

[@Joaquin77]

And most djs only use 2 channels when mixing, the other 2 are always alone. Or have a RCA to mini jack plugged just in case. So don't be crying about the other 2 channels.. hehehe

[@digitaldjtips]

We think it's more a limit of processing power in the Pioneer units at the moment, like you say though many only use two channels anyway!

[@shortstuffstumpleson]

Yeah I was going to mention the same thing. I saw another review that showed pretty simply how you can go between all four decks and use them simultaneously. I'm sure it may be tricky bouncing between them all, but still a cool feature.

[@unhallowed45]

I don't understand why people are so angry about the new XDJ-XZ. More bells n whistles =/= Better product! It's basically 2 CDJ 2000 Nexus with a DJM 900 NXS smushed together. That's pretty huge! Also, the 4 decks with only 2 decks thing is rally awkward for most DJ's, so for me it's not a huge misstep. The other channels allow for more external players. It will take time but people will appreciate eventually.

[@digitaldjtips]

Yeah lots to like about this one, they must be expecting a few grumbles though as everyone is comparing it to the Prime 4 (funny how things change eh? lol)

[@Hadjas_Music]

Scott Shepard Exactly! And sad thing about those people is that 99,99% of them don’t know what to do with 4 decks...but main thing is they get as many as possible decks. 2 decks together with a sampler and some synth are way much better thing then 4 decks.

[@Hadjas_Music]

Everyone is complaining about 4 channel mixer and only 2 decks. Most of these people can’t even mix with 4 decks at once. I bought 2x XDJ 1000mk2, djm 750mk2 and Toraiz sp 16 back in 2018. If I didn’t, I would buy this unit because it would perfectly fit with Toraiz SP 16 or DJS-1000 + AS-1 or similar. If you like Denon Prime 4 - good for you. But don’t spit on Pioneer just because you can’t afford it. Pioneer is expensive, yes, but in my opinion it is worth the money, every cent. There are people who loves Android and there are others who loves iOS. Someone likes Fiat Panda and someone Audi RS3. Everything does it’s own purpose. Be happy with stuff what your have.

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this one, agreed that it's actually offering a lot for your money if you're a Pioneer diehard :)

[@shabberto]

As if you like crush more than sweep! Fair enough - but sweep is like HPF and LPF simultaneously when you move the silver nob to the right. Love it.

[@digitaldjtips]

Each to their own ;)

[@stevenluckybenson3468]

Congrats on the scoop Phil! Nice overview...Thank you as always :)

[@digitaldjtips]

Glad you found it useful Steven. What did you like the most about the unit?

[@stevenluckybenson3468]

@@digitaldjtips It seems to be a good device for basic to mid level performance applications. Having a capable stand alone device is always a plus for mobile DJ's and even certain installations; (theaters. lounges, etc.) I can also see a market segment of newly minted 'DJ enthusiasts' finding this useful. Although it lacks an internal drive bay, it is still useful as a stand alone device since portable drives & USB's are easily transported but it seems like a 'no brainer' to have included that option. It definitely needs faster response times to keep up with the ever growing demands of larger music libraries. The EQ on the main out is a great addition and I hope that Pioneer embellishes that feature on a pro level and introduces additional user adjustable dynamics.

[@digitaldjtips]

@@stevenluckybenson3468 Agreed!

[@janmotte2911]

Thx Phil, as always a very good and honest review, the controller doesn't bring what I was hoping for but DDJT does, again

[@digitaldjtips]

Ah that's kind of you to say, thanks Jan.

[@chaseandersen9029]

I really like this! Have a DDJ-SZ2 right now (same size); but, I really like this so I can still use Serato AND it will definitely help familiarize me with Rekordbox/CDJ set-ups/using USBs if I'm ever presented with that traditional club set-up! I'm interested to see how the Serato integration will look/work!

[@digitaldjtips]

Us too! Jan 2020...

[@doctorsoul6157]

Thanks for this great first review Phil 👍 ! Awesome piece of gear !

[@digitaldjtips]

Glad you enjoyed it DoctorSoul

[@renel5122]

I don't get all the complaining comments here. Ok, this is not a revolution but this is in fact a very complete copy of exact layout of CDJ2000NXS2 units plus the DJM900NXS2 for 1/3 of the price. It's Standalone, will probably run rock-solid and it can be build in a bar/club and people can use their USB Rekordbox stick to play (like on a NXS2 setup). This was not possible with DDJ1000. The Prime4 might be much more advanced and 4 channel but it in fact does not have all the features like the prime club setup and also no full size platters and a different layout than the prime players/mixer. So if users "train" with the Prime4 and find even a club with Denon prime setup there will be a difference. With XDJ-XZ and a NXS2 setup the difference seems not to be noticable (except the place where the display is located... how outdated it might look). So I think there is a big market for this thing. The real question is who will by a NXS2 setup for 6k in the future... NXS2 seems to have nothing more but missing the 8 hotcue/... pads which are definetely an argument.

[@digitaldjtips]

A good rebuttal of some of the most common complaints about this one Rene

[@carlo11marc1]

that's why i have never be a big fun of Pioneer have been in love with the Denon Prime 4 since the first day of presentation ,Denon all the way for life.

[@dobrescubogdan5740]

I really do not have time here to explain to everybody what is the difference between Pioneer vs. Xone mixers in terms of sound quality. The mixer is the brain of the sound and the only Pioneer mixer which can be realy compare with Xone 92/96 mixers is V10. Is just my opinion . Congrats for this review, is a complet review for who wants to by a little toy for his bedroom.

[@digitaldjtips]

Must be lonely up there. A9 is also a great sounding mixer, improves on 900nxs2 considerably.

[@DJFlowtunes]

I think it's safe to say Denon DJ is in the lead in the DJ all in one system (via Denon DJ Prime 4) and maybe the DJ media system (via the Denon DJ SC5000 and SC5000M) and it's only a matter of time before they take over the controller market and the entire DJ echo system...Who would have ever thought that Pioneer DJ will be playing catch up to Denon DJ...how tables turn...

[@digitaldjtips]

The Prime 4 is certainly awesome for the price

[@gerritm.1951]

I think Phil nailed it with his conclusion. This „Best of Pioneer“ Controller is good value with that pricetag. And it‘s a bit disappointing too. It shows what a good job Denon did with the Prime 4. Pioneer was not able to react to that within a givin developping period. Instead they focused on their strength and kept the price competitive. But the next Gen of Pioneer has to do way more I think. Denon doesn’t sleep either and will make the Prime 4 better, especially the engine software.

[@digitaldjtips]

Agree 100% with what you say Gerrit. It's what happens next that will be interesting...

[@TheFunkloft]

Yet here we are, years later and the Engine Prime software is still as horrible as it used to be.

[@allanmurray4156]

From what I’ve seen of this standalone controller so far, it’s aimed at the professional club dj to use at home for practicing there sets. Where as the prime 4 is aimed more at the mobile dj market with is streaming abilities etc. Would I buy this, probably not as you can get a ddj 800 along with either a brand new iMac or MacBook Pro for the same price.

[@digitaldjtips]

Not a bad assumption, this will definitely catch the eye of Pioneer fans that want something for home use :)

[@rosst5923]

I'll be sticking with my DDJ--SZ until Pioneer produce a more advanced standalone controller.

[@digitaldjtips]

The Mk2 of the XZ (whenever we get that) might be the answer!

[@funcle8572]

Biggest down for me is the lack of 4 channels with USBs. Even the smaller screen, no touch screen, lack of hdd, and lack of Wifi are only minor inconveniences. Won't be shelling out for their extra CDJs. Seems like Denon DJ Prime 4 did a real good job.

[@digitaldjtips]

Yeah that's definitely the sticking point for many

[@deiwar2994]

Almost perfect! Those other features other standalone club controllers have would have been the icing.

[@digitaldjtips]

Agreed, still a lot to like

[@duboi1475]

Feel a lot better About my SC5000's now. Denon is poised to take their Crown if they can get on the ball software wise.

[@TheFunkloft]

Unfortunately, they can't. Engine Prime has been this horrible for years now.

[@TheFunkloft]

@Grinsekator Preparation is everything. I know their hardware is top notch but without decent brains it's worthless.

[@duboi1475]

Grinsekator issue is that when you use RB prepped files it reads them, then engine rewrites all the BPM, Key info and 1\2 your cues vanish. if you could simply analyze in RB and it read them ... great. But sadly not the case

[@TheFunkloft]

@@duboi1475 Exactly! Most claiming otherwise don't even own the device.

[@cjpeeton]

I don't know what is wrong for many people with engine prime . I've neber had any problem so far . I just don't get it .

[@westcountryoddities8107]

If anyone could give me some advice id be really grateful. Ive always used my technics and mixed on vinyl, i did have some cdjs but they are in the loft, but i did buy the flx6 , only to realise that the 4 channel mixer would not accept my technics , so that is brand new in the box and i was going to sell it to go towards either this or put a bit more in and get the opus. My question is, what would make me want to spend best part of another grand to buy the opus over this? I feel that this is exactly what i will be presented with when playing in a club so what makes the opus so special? Id be grateful of any advice as i wasted my money on the flx and dont really want to feel dissatisfied when i buy most probably this unit. Thanks in advance, im old skool and i really want to join the world of digital positively rather than being overwhelmed.

[@digitaldjtips]

Firstly, we have reviews of both over at digitaldjtips.com, do check them out. The XDJ-XZ is older tech than the Opus Quad, so will be obsolete quicker. However, it is closer to "club" gear than the Opus Quad is. Ultimately, either will work with your existing decks.

[@djkeithjust]

I will be upgrading for 3 major reasons… the large jogs and filter on beat efx and mater eq. My only concern is wether they used a better cpu and or ram to speed up search, specifically search on usb sticks. But I’m definitely upgrading.

[@digitaldjtips]

In all honesty, probably not... but we haven't tested yet on a large collection (this is a "first look" review and we're honest about that) so we'll see...

[@billpatterson9361]

I own the xdj-rx2 and it's basically the exact system as this without Serato. 2 USB ports and record from one as well. $600 cheaper. To each their own.

[@digitaldjtips]

Basically, yes!

[@WodzirejTed]

1) connect MACA under gz The USB socket is located on the front of the device via a USB A-B cable, what does the song loading look like on a 3i 4 drive? Do I switch between computer and pen using REKORDBOX? 2) Whether in the function of the sampler function as in RZX - how to upload them.

[@P4boot]

3rd! Nice controller. The sooner they start making portable standalone controllers the better!

[@digitaldjtips]

You'd have to guess they're coming, right?

[@digitaldjtips]

A few people have mentioned wanting a much more portable standalone unit, would love to see that one day

[@lancefairchild8068]

It might have been made to compete with the prime 4 but its more of a competitor for the DJM-750mk2+XDJ-1000mk2 combo set up. Definitely getting this for my collective out in arizona since we were looking at getting that set up.

[@digitaldjtips]

Very true!

[@alecsunderdj]

Just ordered mine and hope in 2 or 3 weeks I will write a review about it

[@digitaldjtips]

Awesome :)

[@Mixxwizard]

Yesssss, look like the Sync button is gone. Now djs will have to beat match the real way with their ears. But they can still cheat if they know what they are doing by looking at the screen lining up the waveforms. Lol....I Love it🔥🔥🔥 Thanks Phil for the overview.

[@digitaldjtips]

It's still there...

[@Mixxwizard]

Dang, I thought it was removed. It still looks like amazing controller. Thanks for the update.

[@TheFunkloft]

@@Mixxwizard If you actually believe syncing is the essence of DJ'ing you clearly don't have a clue of what you're doing.

[@Mixxwizard]

Hey Funkloft, I was just being funny in making a statement about if the Sync button was gone. Then djs would have to go back to the old school ways of djing, that's all. Not to upset anyone, I started out djing before the original 1200s were even out. Putting coins on top of my needles to hold it down on the vinyl. It took me awhile to put down my 1200s to convert to a dj controller. I never owned a CD player for djing.

[@TheFunkloft]

@@Mixxwizard Oh OK, my bad then. I just hate people that think being able to sync two records by ear is the sole essence of DJ'ing while track selection is infinitely more important. I started on turntables as well so I know my way around. :D

[@robk5690]

I have an RX2 which I use for mobile work which is great - only two channels but there is an aux input as a backup. I'm sure it will appeal to certain people but I'll stick with the RX2 at the moment and wait for the next generation of that. Also, the RX2 is at the limit of what I want to carry around every weekend.

[@digitaldjtips]

Feeling you there on the size thing - this certainly is huge!

[@robk5690]

@@digitaldjtips Great review by the way !

[@pety1245]

For the master eq I use a separate behringer mixer, sure a really nice feature.

[@digitaldjtips]

Cool! Nice idea :)

[@sboothe23]

I have one. It's pretty good, very cool!

[@digitaldjtips]

Very cool

[@ClectaSkiMusic]

I liked the video because I like your channel Mr Phil but this controller is "Meh"

[@digitaldjtips]

Fair enough!

[@aaronblack735]

This could be the perfect controller if they give more than denon , but obvious they always give less

[@iAmBuddyFresh]

No Magvel Fader... Not a dealbreaker but was a little surprised they didn’t use it.

[@digitaldjtips]

Good point, us too actually now you mention it.

[@KIRPODCASTPLAYS]

Nice review but not being able to use all four channels on standalone mode sucks! But most djs don’t use all four channels anyways. But I believe in options and moving innovation forward. I assume they will make another one and make it a four channel on standalone , plus bigger screen.

[@digitaldjtips]

Most likely!

[@SebastianBlix]

Hubris. This controller is a Prime example of Pioneer DJ's hubris.

[@lightningrodriguez]

SEBASTIAN BLIX like what you did there ;)

[@civicguy2k]

Can't use 4 tracks in standalone = sticking with the RX2 I guess.

[@digitaldjtips]

Sure, that is one area where it doesn't advance over the RX2.

[@Debagio]

Seems like a major oversight . Wondered why the screen was so small.

[@Lee-zg3gx]

Mitch Bolton I’m sticking with the RX2 also, not that I would want to sell it anyway with only just buying it. I did think Pioneer would release a Denon Prime 4 competitor.....but this falls flat on a few aspects!

[@petrdvorak2113]

Why all of you care about the size of screen? For mixing tracks you need to use your ears instead of looking at beatmatching curves on display. It looks odd when dj is just looking at display and and not looking at the audience in front of him. It' s just my opinion, not offending to anyone. chears.

[@Debagio]

@@petrdvorak2113 More of a reference point really, so one can clearly see what's going on with all four decks. Obviously this doesn't matter now, seeing as 4 channels won't work in standalone mode.

[@owenmorgan3024]

I have just sold my RX2 as I wanted to upgrade to a three setup and with the RX2 you are just stuck with just the two channels. At least with the XZ you have the option to upgrade you setup when you are ready. For the cost of an extra £500 it's a no brainer in my opinion. I also agree with a lot of people that pioneer are being a little greedy by not allowing 4 decks. Cheeky buggers.

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks for weighing in Owen, always good to hear what the community thinks :)

[@jamesw2831]

So I've looked carefully at this. And I think for those who don't use 4 channels but must have a Pioneer all in one that is standalone, the XDJ-RR is probably the better choice. If they need more pads, they could get the Pioneer accessory with it. Not sure if the RR gets Serato support, but they may have to do that to combat the threat of the Prime 4's versatility. Should the Prime 4 add VDJ compatibility and mappings for DJay Pro (should it improve), then the argument for buying a Pioneer product drops. If a DJ needs 4 channels but doesn't mind a laptop and must have Rekordbox, DDJ-1000 and the SX2 provide more value for money than this. SX2 has Serato and Algoriddim support too so that may still be the best Pioneer controller for most users if they don't mind the dated layout. There's also the XDJ-RX2 if people want to expand their budgets that has the 4 channels. The question is...who does this exist for? And I don't think Pioneer did a good job with explaining who is this for given the above stuff I mentioned.

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks for weighing in James, certainly some good marketing is in order to sell it to the right people

[@jasonross8434]

Hi guys, nice video but you really need to turn off autofocus on the camera for your overhead shots of the eqpt. I started feeling queasy it was going in and out of focus so much as Phil moves his hands around the controller surface! 😉

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks Jason, if I remember rightly there was a very quick turn around on this one and it was missed, shouldn't be the case in very many of our other videos :)

[@digitaldjtips]

Yeah we know we didn’t have time to refilm it. Thanks for your support!

[@KevGee]

Been toying with either getting the ddj1000s or prime 4 for about 6 months. Will be home use only and I can plug into desktop studio pc. So don't really need stand alone. I've owned both Denon and pioneer products and they have both negative and positives. However I just can't see what extra benefit this unit has over the ddj1000 (features) or Prime 4. It's not just a big enough jump to beat a prime 4 imo.

[@digitaldjtips]

I'd go for the Prime 4, makes it easier if it ever does have a trip out of the studio

[@Lee-zg3gx]

I just purchased the XDJ-RX2 a few months ago and had an incline Pioneer would try and match the new Denon Prime 4. I was a bit gutted when I seen this just being released today...and I am now not so bothered after listening to this review. No Screen Res update, no analysing of the song KEYS from your thumb stick (big one in my eyes which the Denon has) and it just looks same old. This is a whole £500 more than the XDJ-RX2 and I’m glad I purchased the previous model to this now. There is nothing to justify that increase in price apart from the 4 channels. Oh Pioneer you missed a massive trick here compared to Denon Prime 4

[@digitaldjtips]

To be fair for the extra $500 over the RX2 you're getting much better jogwheels, a much better mixer section and standalone capabilities - that's not bad when you think how much a full CDJ setup costs

[@kutasimusic]

Well... I am a Pioneer-guy and love everything that they make (dj gear, home cinema, headphones...), but from the Pioneer XDJ-RX1 I don't think they did major upgrades with these all-in-one systems. This XZ is basically not that far from the previous generation. Of course there are 'tweaks', but I do think the software within remained the same... For first glance the screen is a bit small and dated. It would have been great to have two screens and maybe more functions available when touching them. That way they could even do this a real 4 channel controller... So no revolution here, but the large size, the look and some of the new features made this very appealing to me... I gonna write a letter to Santa... :D

[@digitaldjtips]

Fair assessment Zoltan, nothing new here (in regards to tech) but that doesn't make it a bad controller

[@kutasimusic]

@@digitaldjtips I didn't say it's bad one... Would rather get this then a Denon Prime 4 if the prices go a bit lower... :)

[@digitaldjtips]

Sorry we weren't saying you said it was bad, just agreeing with your overall take :)

[@Bradmopar]

It’s looks great. Maybe enough to upgrade my from great ddj-sz too. It’s not the prime 4, but I’m not really sure pioneer is super concerned with that right now. Any DJ store you go to and it’s mostly Pioneer stuff. I think Denon still has a lot of catching up to do. It’s great that it’s almost a NXS2 set up for a fraction of the cost. I’m sure they will sell a lot of them.

[@digitaldjtips]

We think they'll sell a lot of them, too...

[@julianharrison7832]

Got a XDJ XZ … trying to get my DVS working.. just can’t .. I have 2 x pioneer decks and can’t get this DVs working.. bloody annoying!

[@digitaldjtips]

It’s definitely possible, so I hope you figure it out

[@stevenluckybenson3468]

Honestly, controllers need to have a choice of dynamics plug ins (Compression, Limiting, Gating, 31 Band EQ....maybe even Reverb ) on at least the master output.

[@digitaldjtips]

Have you seen the Roland DJ707M? That's got some pretty advanced master output processing options...

[@dezfyah]

Preach it bro 👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿

[@whoami3485]

Steven Lucky Benson are you dumb? Why do you need to compress already mastered songs? LOL

[@Alexanderexpander]

Would be awsome if the master EQ, could be handled like Isolater EQ‘s like on analouge Rotary Mixer...

[@digitaldjtips]

Yeah it would! Although even as they are they're useful - they're not really meant as a creative tool as such.

[@spudz27]

Great review Phil as always!..... I’m an RX2 owner and love it.... prob 10% of playing out I wish I had another 2 channels BUT are you really say on this, the XZ you can’t use all 4 with USB/Rekordbox? If not, Pioneer really have missed a trick there. Also not loving them platters with the display in the middle.

[@digitaldjtips]

No, you can't use all four with USB/Rekordbox, only with a laptop.

[@spudz27]

Digital DJ Tips mmmm it falls well short then for me.

[@StuartBeesoon]

You can change it in the setting menu and you will get all the info in the jog screen like on the ddj-1000... 🙂

[@digitaldjtips]

Cheers! We didn't have this for too long before making the review, just wanted to share it with everyone :)

[@RaveeMattRavee]

Thats.... the only thing that was shelling me besides the 4 channel thing.... BUT if i have the funds later ill maybe still copp one for the living room.

[@RaveeMattRavee]

Already have cdjs in my room but im not trying to move em back and forth everytime i have friends over

[@Odyseuss08]

For 300 more at the moment you get 2 x SC5000M + 1 x 1800X.....*!*

[@frankiefakeera4642]

I was waiting for this but might aswell go for the denon sc5000m + mixer

[@scratch1200s]

That’s a solid set up, AND it’s sdj pro compatible too!

[@beatriceheinze2294]

That's exactly my thought too.

[@cjpeeton]

Go for it man . Won't be disappointed 😁

[@lsdave]

I wish he commented more on the feel of the construction. like how does it feel compared to a nexus setup?

[@digitaldjtips]

In a nutshell it feels like something made by Pioneer, no concerns at all over build quality

[@johnmorreale678]

@@digitaldjtips How does the crossfader compare to the DJM 900???? I noticed that the faders are not in a removable panel and therefore non replaceable..?

[@LouTullo]

Great review Phil.

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks Papa!

[@rcsilk]

pioneer makes a smooth and clean product whos mixing 4 decks on that flimsy prime no one any real djs got the standard

[@babyting7588]

Denons better build quality mate

[@roperem3480]

2:32 "theres no sampler..." Is that the case for any stand alone. So is there an option for me to be able to use my samples on this pioneer controller? I use my own sample wave file via serato sampler. I don't use a sampler device. I use drum beats via serato sampler.

[@digitaldjtips]

Engine DJ-powered standalones have a basic drop sampler. No Pioneer DJ ones do. However, the Hot Cue Bank feature can be used as a basic drop sampler for a workaround on the Pioneer units.

[@manny_f]

14:17 The two-decks-only is pretty stupid, they probably did it on purpose. Pioneer are known for deliberately cutting back on features that obviously should have been there. I was already thinking I might buy one but this is a deal breaker.

[@digitaldjtips]

We'd say it's probably just where they're at with R&D right now, rather than a cynical limitation.

[@Silkmaster4200]

Scoox it’s all cause the cost. That’s basically it. More kinda budget big all in one controller. If they did added more features. It probably be more cost than Pioneer DDJ-RZX.

[@raphymartinez]

Give me this hardware (especially the jog wheels) and the Denon software and screen on the Prime 4 and I’d be happy.

[@digitaldjtips]

A mix of the two would be a killer, though I'm sure there would be a lot of disagreement about which bits :)

[@churchillcoins8519]

Thank you for the overview Phil. Very informative. I’m looking forward to the Serato capabilities. Aside from needle search any of the screen touchable? When using the laptop/Rekordbox are the load buttons on the unit able to load track 3 and 4?

[@digitaldjtips]

Yes, you can load to decks 3 and 4 - double tapping shift switches layers, and there's also a touchscreen option for the same.

[@churchillcoins8519]

Digital DJ Tips thank you.

[@gazog1]

With this mixer, can I use a usb stick with all my tunes on plug it in and start mixing with out the use of my laptop

[@digitaldjtips]

Yes you can! On two of its four channels.

[@AWalYT]

This one's kind of strange...It's like they wanted to make a Prime 4 killer, but ended up with a misfit MCX8000 V2 of sorts. These strange limitations that really shouldn't be there always seem to bring a catch to their device's capabilities...I'll keep a keen eye, though; Waiting for some actual innovation from what should be the leader...

[@digitaldjtips]

We're waiting to see what comes next, too...

[@patrickcooke2266]

Can I use my technics 1210 turntables with this controller as it has 4 channels on the mixer, I haven't played in 20 years and the technology has moved on and I dont know what to buy, I have a 2 channel pioneer mixer with rekordbox so I'd like to use Pioneer and I really like these

[@digitaldjtips]

Yes, you can

[@serenitybase9888]

thanks mate, took a while to make this video, something Pioneer could of done , tut tut pionner :) be be nice to hear menu settings we all have, whats the Optimum settings to maximise everything this great unit has?

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks for watching Jeff and the suggestion!

[@joeydoherty2963]

As with most pioneer mixers all the faders are replaceable if something when wrong can you replace them on this controller?

[@garner_dj]

Hello! Your channel is incredible! I have a question and I hope you can answer it: For the DJ who cannot do without a notebook in his performance, always using Rekordbox or any other DJing software, is it worth purchasing the XDJ XZ to use it as a controller or is it Is it better to stay with DDJ RZ for the cost-benefit it can deliver?

[@digitaldjtips]

DDJ-FLX10 is the best choice for Rekordbox unless you have particular reasons to want the XZ.

[@garner_dj]

@@digitaldjtips That's my dilemma, I don't like small equipment. Thanks for answering.

[@yezzadezza]

Oh man, every time his hand comes in and out of the frame , auto focus just blurs everything on the unit. Really frustrating.

[@digitaldjtips]

Yeah, hands up on that one - we missed the setting!

[@yezzadezza]

@@digitaldjtips Great video though, the info is honest and straight forward. You guys always make top notch content 😎👍

[@digitaldjtips]

Cheers! We put this together pretty quickly to share with everyone so glad you enjoyed it :)

[@yezzadezza]

@@digitaldjtips I guessed as much 😅. Can't wait to see more videos with the XZ compared to the usual suspects. Keep up the great work 🙂👍

[@donniebeefromrome]

Great vid review! Thanks for posting :-) I've got a simply DDJ-RB and it's ok for me... LOL

[@digitaldjtips]

Does the job! :)

[@80cemeh]

I am in love in this controller 😍Do you think Pioneer will release an update in the near future, so all 4 channels can be used from a USB? This is only software issue not hardware 🤔

[@digitaldjtips]

No they won't, it doesn't have the processing power for that

[@80cemeh]

@@digitaldjtips Thanks for your answer! I am still want to buy it ))

[@djestrela2]

Phil, This will be a huge hit on exactly the groups of users you described. Did you test the software controller capabilities? rekordbox 5.8 was literally just updated to drive this controller

[@djestrela2]

Its bizarre that to swap layers you have to double tap the shift button. The shift button is very heavily used, the device is so big that they should have put a dedicated deck swap button.

[@digitaldjtips]

You have to have the latest Rekordbox update for this but it's ready to go :)

[@davidfigueroa9620]

Anybody having problems with the new rekordbox update for catalina? I tried loading a track into deck 2 and rekordbox froze. Track on deck 1 still playing but I couldn't interact with software 😔

[@frequenzymodulator5728]

All the controller djs hating this unit🤣 as a mobile dj I’m getting one!

[@digitaldjtips]

Yeah? It's huge is the only thing to watch out for lol

[@frequenzymodulator5728]

Digital DJ Tips I really don’t mind

[@fernandozuniga5116]

Hello, just i wanna know where's the sampler volume control ?

[@findike]

Nice one! Looks great : )

[@digitaldjtips]

What do you particularly like about it Findike?

[@findike]

@@digitaldjtips so far i have not tried it but i use DDJ1000 SRT for my personal use soon will be on that one!

[@cheefr0berts]

6:00 Stella & NTEIBINT - A State Nearby. Excellent track to play :)

[@digitaldjtips]

👌

[@pauldubyou78]

Change jog display to info in settings....same display as DDj1000

[@digitaldjtips]

Cheers!

[@TheGullyGreene]

I have about a £2000 budget. I need some dj decks that I’ll be able to connect an rmx-1000 with. Someone help me out pls. Would quite like 4 channels.

[@digitaldjtips]

No controllers/all-in-ones I can think of have send/return for FX, so you'd need a mixer and decks - it'll cost more than 2000 for that.

[@infodiscodjs8876]

No split headphone switch :/ I'll wait for the XZ2

[@digitaldjtips]

No but you can access the setting through the utilities menu

[@VintageTape1982]

Sorry It's me again. With another question. So I'm still thinking if I should buy the Prime 4 or the Pioneer XZ. Now the one thing that I don't like about Pioneer and rekordbox is that you need to purchase a rekordbox subscription for all functions. Logically you would expect that you don't need to do that with the XZ because it's a stand alone. But I use the sampler and I use a lot of effects. But you don't get the sampler. And you don't get all the effects in stand alone mode. You still need to hook up a laptop and you still need to purchase a subscription for Rekordbox. What makes me wonder. Should I not use the Pioneer DDJ1000 instead? Or does the XZ still has a lot more to offer then the DDJ1000? I also should mention that I like to enhance my setup later on. Maybe purchase N.I Machine or a Akai Sampler. And I don't know if the DDJ1000 allows me to do that just as much as the XZ. Now from what I understand. (please correct me if I am wrong) The Prime 4 however. has a computer in stand alone that is so powerful that it offers you everything that any DJ software offers right? You can do everything what you can do without a laptop. And you never have to purchase a monthly subscription. However I heard one reviewer say that the effects that the pioneer offers sounds nicer compared to the prime 4. But I don't know what that means. Does it sound cheap or what? Is that Pioneer feel and sound so much superior that it is worth buying the XZ then the Prime 4. That offers you more for less money. Because sometimes I get the feeling that some reviewers are just biased (perhaps unaware of it) Simply because it is has the pioneer logo on it. That has the reputation of that company that goes with it. Sorry for the very long story. But I am sure I'm not the only one that has the same questions. And I would love to hear your opinion. It really does influence my decision in what to purchase.

[@digitaldjtips]

Depends if you want standalone or you'll be using it with software.

[@gazog1]

Don’t know whether to get this or the rx3,,,,,,,,,,so confused

[@digitaldjtips]

Think about the size of the units (XZ is MUCH bigger) and what else you're likely to want to plug into them.

[@MrHandsomeferny]

Thankths for thes reviewths,

[@digitaldjtips]

No problem!

[@sdeejay]

Hi,you can use your laptop and usb together ?

[@djdaniel.e]

What is with the Preview Player in Recordbox. Is the signal linkt in the xdj-xz?

[@prspktvmusic]

I'm really torn right now... XDJ-700's and a DJM750MK2 or this..? There are pros and cons of both and I just can't decide.

[@digitaldjtips]

I'd get the XZ

[@StefanInstall]

There was no way Pioneer was going to introduce new technology on its controller or stand-alone systems, when it comes, it will come on the top of the line Nexus hardware first and hopefully that day is near. This is a great piece of kit though, especially if you ever intend on playing anywhere other than your bedroom, it works just like the club standards; why would you want to hone your skills on something that has a totally different workflow to any club you're likely to play in? I nearly pulled the trigger on a Prime 4 (or the SC5000s) a few times but didn't want to lock myself into the Denon workflow and make it harder to play out so I was considering a pair of XDJ1000Mk2s and a DJM750 but this is better than that combo (better mixer, better decks) and is a grand cheaper! Yes full stand-alone four deck capability would be great but having to plug a laptop in the back and add a CDJ/XDJ to get it is not the end of the world.

[@digitaldjtips]

A very fair summary I think Stefan!

[@sergerizkallah6147]

Hello Thank you for the review. may i ask you about USB capacity ? Does it work normally with 32 GB / 64 GB ? Any problems on this topic. Please advise? Thank you in advance

[@digitaldjtips]

There are limits, but they're pretty high - I wouldn't worry about it (32/64GB is fine, for instance).

[@MrHachasGonzalezDjAndre]

Saludos desde Uruguay!!

[@digitaldjtips]

Buenos dias

[@korospds]

does the usb support Arabic language please help

[@guyocantu807]

Looks good can i use 4 decks with Rekordbox ?

[@digitaldjtips]

Yes!