OK the successor to this, the XDJ-AZ, has been announced today. Am I sorry I didn't wait? Well no. It costs more ($6829 vs $4369 I paid for this in AUD with a bonus power conditioner). It has a better screen. You gain wifi and bluetooth, but lose 2x network ports and separate line/phono inputs. You also lose a stereo 1/4 send for a proper connection to the DJS-1000 or any other sampler and an additional AUX in. You get 4x Deck mixing in standalone if that's what you were waiting for. 3 new beat FX on the AZ, Triplet Roll, Triplet Filter and Mobius Saw. It's a small thing but I also prefer the Pioneer branding on the XZ to the Alpha Theta on the new AZ. Serato support coming but not available now. The new features aren't that important to me, is it worth the extra to you?
Hey, thanks for your video. I was deciding between an RX3, XZ or the new AZ, coming from a DDJ-400. Almost pulled the plug on the AZ, however, after thinking about it, the price of €3300( ~3600 USD) didn't justify itself, being almost a €900 (~1000 USD) higher with not that much improvements. Ended up getting a new XZ. How long do you think the XZ will be relevant for, before technology outpaces it? (If ever?) Although being 6 years old, I see people still praise it for being one if the best. What are your thoughts?
I'm looking to get a stand alone controller at the end of this year and I did consider getting the RX3. The fast response in loading music with hot cues and that big screen is very impressive but just like you I kept running into people having issues with the sound quality. Also people were complaining the most on how bad the sound quality is when recording their sets onto USB. With all the great reviews on the XZ it's clearly the best choice until the recent leak of the XDJ-AZ and possibly coming out Feb. 2025. The XZ is a well-proven Workhorse but I have a strong curiosity in seeing what the AZ will bring to the table.
I just saw that leak on a facebook page actually, it will probably add some things and take away others, you might see discounts on this unit though if it's announced. I've only tried AIFF and WAV files day one and don't see any delay loading tracks from USB though so that needn't put you off the XZ - the RX3 has more CPU power to render the waveforms quickly on the higher resolution screen, but I know I'd feel ripped off getting one given it doesn't have as good sound quality as the Denon Prime Go even at half the price :)
@@WH3 sound quality is my number one priority. The XZ has proven itself many times over and I see that as an advantage over the up coming AZ. Plus I don't see the XZ going away anytime soon as I still see the NXS2 setup in a lot of clubs.
@@DJ.B_74 One of my fav DJs here upgraded her mixer to the A9 but stuck with the CDJ-2000 NXS2, you can't get them new anymore and not everyone is keen on the newer model. Browsing and such is exactly the same on this XZ as it is on the 2000 NXS2 and plenty of clubs will keep them I'm sure
I've been rocking this unit since it first came out, and it was an outstanding choice. Absolutely no regrets. Even now that it's 4 years old, I never feel like I'm missing out on any features. My dream system would be an Allen & Heath Xone PX5, two CDJ-3000s (four would even be better), and Cardinia box for cue features. However, I'm in no rush!
This is the first time im hearing about sound quality issues on the RX3. From someone who uses the RX3 and the XZ regularly, they sound very much the same. The FLX10 on the other hand has significantly worse sound quality in comparison. My take XDJ vs DDJ if you want superb sound quality and features. The RX3 and XZ are both amazing units.
@@EuroRSN Here's a Reddit thread on sound quality for the RX3. Plenty of people report that the EQ and soundstage overall seems to vary depending on the firmware. Maybe 1.18 fixed it? The XZ also has a master EQ where the RX3 doesn't. Aside from that I hear a difference myself when I listen to sets other DJs perform even with TH-cam compression. Interesting to hear that about the FLX 10, that is not a cheap controller! www.reddit.com/r/PioneerDJ/comments/16rmvqt/xdj_rx3_poor_audio_quality_performance/
Thanks for the video! Looks like you know what you are talking about! :) I've been DJing at private parties and underground radio stations for a few years with prime4 and it has been amzing but also its littel bit more sensitve and it more multitaskning on prime 4 when you use 3-4 channels. XZ and CDJ2000-3000 feel much more easier to do multitaskning on and if something goes wrong you can always use another deck. I'm planning to start playing in bars and some clubs abroad otehr countrys soon. It’s tough to bring equipment, so I've used the Prime4, which has everything I need. However, I feel like I should practice and switch to using CDJ2000-3000 or maybe the XZ since I'll be performing in bars and clubs. Do you agree?
If you already have a Prime 4 and like it but it's too heavy to travel with, take a look at the Pioneer DDJ-FLX4. You can use that to prepare tracks on Rekordbox, try out the Pioneer way of doing things with effects and looping and then take your USB stick and plug it into club gear, the controller itself is cheap and with a laptop is good enough for a small venue. The XZ is just about the biggest bit of gear I'd want to carry around and does it all for around the price of just one CDJ 3000, yeah for practice or performing in your studio it's great :)
'Tis a lovely unit, I walked into a deaf woman's bedroom, as part of my job, and there was an XDJ-XZ. Hell, to that point I was still two Stanton STR8 150s and unaware of the controller revolution. I was amazed. She showed me the basic operation and let me have a spin, and I was blown away. Immediately bought a 2nd hand Traktor S4 mk2, some control vinyl and am now LOVING life mixing vinyl, DVS, and digital. However, the XZ id defo in my sights. The S4 just being a stepping stone due to financial constraints which my wife assures me exist!!! Is there a mapping for Traktor Pro 4 software and the XZ or must we really switch to Rekordbox or Serato?
The mapping for Traktor 2 & 3 should work on 4 as well, can find one here: maps.djtechtools.com/mappings/10305 . I think the Traktor S4 mk3 is a significant upgrade to what you have though and the XZ is maybe three and a half times the price?
Since I have Traktor 3 already I just tried it, it's a bit of a hack job and not worth struggling with IMO. I would upgrade to Traktor 4 IF they add proper support for the XZ though. Otherwise a DJM-450 from Pioneer or a Xone PX5/96 from Allen and Heath paired with a couple of Rane Twelves or something is a much better Traktor setup. If money is no object, there is always a Pioneer V10 mixer with 2x CDJ 3000s and 2x Reloop RP8000mk2s turntables with time code vinyl.
@@PilzE. Yeah IKR, I'd recommend taking a look at the new X1 mk3 if you haven't already, if you like Traktor and add it to turntables then it gives you lots of control, pair that with a Xone 23c (or 43c for four channel) and that is a great vinyl setup with hot cues, effects and a much better filter without breaking the bank. I did have that mixer and it's good - just that I'd suggest buying a new one because Allen and Heath mixers do get noise on the inputs if they are abused.
@@WH3 Sweet advice, Brother, thank you for taking the time out. I'll check them all out, and who knows, maybe the missus will let me access some of my wages!!! Take care.
@@WH3 aieee I normally feed from the computer. Since I have a battery speaker I can do my events anywhere in Jamaica without electricity.. all of these need ⚡️?
Yes, actually this is where the XDJ-XZ is better than Pioneer mixers, you don't need a network switch because it has 3 lan ports so 2x CDJs can plug directly in. You miss out on digital coaxial ins though and have to use RCA jacks
The AZ is coming out in a few months and will be loads better than this very old tech I hope. I always thought this unit was useless in the fact that it only does 2 channels standalone and couldn't justify it over the rx3. The 1000 was good, better build quality than the flx10 I thought. Currently I use a flx4 and it's fine bar the crap Tempo faders and having to use a laptop. So I'm just waiting for the AZ now which I guess will be within the next 5 months or so
If four deck mixing in Stand alone mode is important, you've only got the Prime 4 from Denon or the Opus Quad. I cut out comparisons to the Opus Quad actually but even if they were the same price I'd pick this for reasons I go over. A newer model could cost the same as the XZ, or it could cost more and they keep making these, time will tell
To all guys dont buy this standalone model a new xz will come in 2025 at the name of xdj-az, a paper of the controler has been leaked by the FCC, if u cant wait buy the xz but the az will be fire as f… ❤️🔥
OK the successor to this, the XDJ-AZ, has been announced today. Am I sorry I didn't wait? Well no. It costs more ($6829 vs $4369 I paid for this in AUD with a bonus power conditioner). It has a better screen. You gain wifi and bluetooth, but lose 2x network ports and separate line/phono inputs. You also lose a stereo 1/4 send for a proper connection to the DJS-1000 or any other sampler and an additional AUX in. You get 4x Deck mixing in standalone if that's what you were waiting for. 3 new beat FX on the AZ, Triplet Roll, Triplet Filter and Mobius Saw. It's a small thing but I also prefer the Pioneer branding on the XZ to the Alpha Theta on the new AZ. Serato support coming but not available now. The new features aren't that important to me, is it worth the extra to you?
Hey, thanks for your video. I was deciding between an RX3, XZ or the new AZ, coming from a DDJ-400.
Almost pulled the plug on the AZ, however, after thinking about it, the price of €3300( ~3600 USD) didn't justify itself, being almost a €900 (~1000 USD) higher with not that much improvements.
Ended up getting a new XZ.
How long do you think the XZ will be relevant for, before technology outpaces it?
(If ever?)
Although being 6 years old, I see people still praise it for being one if the best.
What are your thoughts?
I'll keep my XZ.
I'm looking to get a stand alone controller at the end of this year and I did consider getting the RX3. The fast response in loading music with hot cues and that big screen is very impressive but just like you I kept running into people having issues with the sound quality. Also people were complaining the most on how bad the sound quality is when recording their sets onto USB. With all the great reviews on the XZ it's clearly the best choice until the recent leak of the XDJ-AZ and possibly coming out Feb. 2025. The XZ is a well-proven Workhorse but I have a strong curiosity in seeing what the AZ will bring to the table.
I just saw that leak on a facebook page actually, it will probably add some things and take away others, you might see discounts on this unit though if it's announced. I've only tried AIFF and WAV files day one and don't see any delay loading tracks from USB though so that needn't put you off the XZ - the RX3 has more CPU power to render the waveforms quickly on the higher resolution screen, but I know I'd feel ripped off getting one given it doesn't have as good sound quality as the Denon Prime Go even at half the price :)
@@WH3 sound quality is my number one priority. The XZ has proven itself many times over and I see that as an advantage over the up coming AZ. Plus I don't see the XZ going away anytime soon as I still see the NXS2 setup in a lot of clubs.
@@DJ.B_74 One of my fav DJs here upgraded her mixer to the A9 but stuck with the CDJ-2000 NXS2, you can't get them new anymore and not everyone is keen on the newer model. Browsing and such is exactly the same on this XZ as it is on the 2000 NXS2 and plenty of clubs will keep them I'm sure
I've been rocking this unit since it first came out, and it was an outstanding choice. Absolutely no regrets. Even now that it's 4 years old, I never feel like I'm missing out on any features.
My dream system would be an Allen & Heath Xone PX5, two CDJ-3000s (four would even be better), and Cardinia box for cue features. However, I'm in no rush!
This is the first time im hearing about sound quality issues on the RX3. From someone who uses the RX3 and the XZ regularly, they sound very much the same. The FLX10 on the other hand has significantly worse sound quality in comparison. My take XDJ vs DDJ if you want superb sound quality and features. The RX3 and XZ are both amazing units.
@@EuroRSN Here's a Reddit thread on sound quality for the RX3. Plenty of people report that the EQ and soundstage overall seems to vary depending on the firmware. Maybe 1.18 fixed it? The XZ also has a master EQ where the RX3 doesn't. Aside from that I hear a difference myself when I listen to sets other DJs perform even with TH-cam compression. Interesting to hear that about the FLX 10, that is not a cheap controller! www.reddit.com/r/PioneerDJ/comments/16rmvqt/xdj_rx3_poor_audio_quality_performance/
Thanks for the video! Looks like you know what you are talking about! :)
I've been DJing at private parties and underground radio stations for a few years with prime4 and it has been amzing but also its littel bit more sensitve and it more multitaskning on prime 4 when you use 3-4 channels. XZ and CDJ2000-3000 feel much more easier to do multitaskning on and if something goes wrong you can always use another deck.
I'm planning to start playing in bars and some clubs abroad otehr countrys soon. It’s tough to bring equipment, so I've used the Prime4, which has everything I need.
However, I feel like I should practice and switch to using CDJ2000-3000 or maybe the XZ since I'll be performing in bars and clubs. Do you agree?
If you already have a Prime 4 and like it but it's too heavy to travel with, take a look at the Pioneer DDJ-FLX4. You can use that to prepare tracks on Rekordbox, try out the Pioneer way of doing things with effects and looping and then take your USB stick and plug it into club gear, the controller itself is cheap and with a laptop is good enough for a small venue. The XZ is just about the biggest bit of gear I'd want to carry around and does it all for around the price of just one CDJ 3000, yeah for practice or performing in your studio it's great :)
'Tis a lovely unit, I walked into a deaf woman's bedroom, as part of my job, and there was an XDJ-XZ.
Hell, to that point I was still two Stanton STR8 150s and unaware of the controller revolution. I was amazed. She showed me the basic operation and let me have a spin, and I was blown away. Immediately bought a 2nd hand Traktor S4 mk2, some control vinyl and am now LOVING life mixing vinyl, DVS, and digital.
However, the XZ id defo in my sights. The S4 just being a stepping stone due to financial constraints which my wife assures me exist!!! Is there a mapping for Traktor Pro 4 software and the XZ or must we really switch to Rekordbox or Serato?
The mapping for Traktor 2 & 3 should work on 4 as well, can find one here: maps.djtechtools.com/mappings/10305 . I think the Traktor S4 mk3 is a significant upgrade to what you have though and the XZ is maybe three and a half times the price?
Since I have Traktor 3 already I just tried it, it's a bit of a hack job and not worth struggling with IMO. I would upgrade to Traktor 4 IF they add proper support for the XZ though. Otherwise a DJM-450 from Pioneer or a Xone PX5/96 from Allen and Heath paired with a couple of Rane Twelves or something is a much better Traktor setup. If money is no object, there is always a Pioneer V10 mixer with 2x CDJ 3000s and 2x Reloop RP8000mk2s turntables with time code vinyl.
@@WH3 “If I had a little money, it's a rich man's world!” 🥺
@@PilzE. Yeah IKR, I'd recommend taking a look at the new X1 mk3 if you haven't already, if you like Traktor and add it to turntables then it gives you lots of control, pair that with a Xone 23c (or 43c for four channel) and that is a great vinyl setup with hot cues, effects and a much better filter without breaking the bank. I did have that mixer and it's good - just that I'd suggest buying a new one because Allen and Heath mixers do get noise on the inputs if they are abused.
@@WH3 Sweet advice, Brother, thank you for taking the time out. I'll check them all out, and who knows, maybe the missus will let me access some of my wages!!! Take care.
Solid enough to carry to the beach to do my dj set? 🏖️
Yes if you don't need a battery powered unit and the size and weight is manageable for you, not flimsy at all 👍
@@WH3 aieee I normally feed from the computer. Since I have a battery speaker I can do my events anywhere in Jamaica without electricity.. all of these need ⚡️?
It also supports Nexus, so you can add 2 more CDJS (you'll need a cheap switch) but means you can get a huge amount of mixing estate.
Yes, actually this is where the XDJ-XZ is better than Pioneer mixers, you don't need a network switch because it has 3 lan ports so 2x CDJs can plug directly in. You miss out on digital coaxial ins though and have to use RCA jacks
Awesome video. This is what I need prior to purchasing the RX3
Press shift and the pad modes to get xtra functions welcome to the xz club
The AZ is coming out in a few months and will be loads better than this very old tech I hope. I always thought this unit was useless in the fact that it only does 2 channels standalone and couldn't justify it over the rx3. The 1000 was good, better build quality than the flx10 I thought. Currently I use a flx4 and it's fine bar the crap Tempo faders and having to use a laptop. So I'm just waiting for the AZ now which I guess will be within the next 5 months or so
If four deck mixing in Stand alone mode is important, you've only got the Prime 4 from Denon or the Opus Quad. I cut out comparisons to the Opus Quad actually but even if they were the same price I'd pick this for reasons I go over. A newer model could cost the same as the XZ, or it could cost more and they keep making these, time will tell
Leffler Station
all this stuff is going to be obsolete shortly, no longer club standard, if you are a proper DJ you should be able to mix on anything FACT
XDJ AZ
Yeah it's official now and we have the details, gave my thoughts in the pinned comment for anyone comparing the two
To all guys dont buy this standalone model a new xz will come in 2025 at the name of xdj-az, a paper of the controler has been leaked by the FCC, if u cant wait buy the xz but the az will be fire as f… ❤️🔥
Yeah it's official now and we have the details, gave my thoughts in the pinned comment for anyone comparing the two
You're gonna missTraktor.
I like having a tempo slider 😆