For DJs, certain features in their equipment are non-negotiable. When it comes to media players, the standard size CDJ jog wheel is paramount. Anything smaller compromises the tactile feel crucial for scratching and precise control, while larger units become cumbersome and less portable for gigs. This sets the stage when considering professional DJ equipment, and often leads to the industry benchmark: the Cdj 2000 Nexus 2 Pioneer.
One of the critical aspects of modern DJing is efficient track searching and performance features. The XDJ-1000, while positioned as a more accessible player, shares a surprisingly important feature with its high-end counterpart, the CDJ 2000 NXS2: the 7-inch screen. This seemingly small detail offers a very similar visual interface, which is a significant advantage for DJs accustomed to the Pioneer ecosystem. Crucially, like the CDJ 2000 Nexus 2, the XDJ-1000 incorporates performance mode access to hot cues and beat skip functions directly on this screen, ensuring a fluid and intuitive workflow.
Fast track searching is essential in a live DJ setting. Both the XDJ-1000 MK2 and the CDJ 2000 Nexus 2 prioritize speed in manual track searches. The inclusion of an on-screen QWERTY keyboard is a game-changer. This feature drastically improves search speed compared to older models like the original CDJ-2000 Nexus or CDJ-900, which relied on slower A-Z touch bar systems. For DJs who value rapid track selection in the mix, this similarity between the XDJ-1000 MK2 and CDJ 2000 Nexus 2 is a major point of consideration.
Looping is another fundamental function for any DJ deck. Here again, the XDJ-1000 MK2 mirrors the CDJ 2000 Nexus 2 in its operational logic. Loop controls are implemented in a very similar manner, allowing for seamless transitions and extended mixes. While there are some technical differences – the XDJ-1000 MK2’s auto loop maxes at 16 bars and beat skip at 4 beats, compared to the CDJ 2000 Nexus 2’s 32 bar loop and 16 beat skip – these are often within practical DJing ranges. Many DJs rarely utilize extremely long 32-bar loops in their sets, making the XDJ-1000 MK2’s capabilities more than sufficient for typical performance needs.
When considering the landscape of professional DJ gear, the CDJ 2000 Nexus 2 remains highly sought after. Even though production has ceased, its price in the resale market remains elevated, reflecting its status as the gold standard in CDJ/USB players. Many argue that no subsequent model, even from Pioneer DJ themselves, has surpassed the CDJ 2000 Nexus 2 in terms of overall features and performance.
In contrast, the CDJ-900 NXS2 is less prevalent in professional settings. A key differentiator is the absence of dedicated hot cues and the reliance on a less efficient search function without an on-screen QWERTY keyboard. These limitations make it less desirable for DJs accustomed to the advanced workflow offered by the CDJ 2000 Nexus 2 lineage.
It’s worth noting a technical specification difference: the Digital to Analogue Conversion (DAC) in the XDJ-1000 MK2 is not identical to that found in the CDJ 2000 Nexus 2. Specification sheets reveal that the CDJ 2000 Nexus 2 boasts a lower distortion value, which audiophiles might perceive as a subtle improvement in sound quality. However, in typical club or live sound environments, this difference may be negligible for most listeners.
In conclusion, while the CDJ 2000 Nexus 2 Pioneer remains the aspirational benchmark for professional DJs, the XDJ-1000 MK2 offers a compelling alternative. It mirrors many of the key functionalities, particularly in jog wheel feel, screen interface, search speed, and looping capabilities, making it a strong contender for DJs seeking a professional experience without the premium price tag of a CDJ 2000 Nexus 2 on the resale market.
