AlphaTheta has unveiled its latest flagship DJ player, the CDJ-3000X, which aims to modernise the DJ workflow with more wireless connectivity and an expanded touchscreen.
According to AlphaTheta, “The “X” in its name embodies multiple meanings: transformation in the evolution of media, expanded connectivity with various devices and platforms, and extraordinary reliability and sound quality that surpasses the CDJ-3000.”
Originally launched in the mid-’90s under the Pioneer DJ brand, the CDJ range became the defining DJ players of the CD era, gradually taking over from Technics turntables as the industry standard in DJ booths around the world.
Despite CDs themselves becoming outdated tech, the CDJ range has remained a dominant force, adapting to modern times by incorporating portable media and, more recently, streaming.
The CDJ-3000X follows the CDJ-3000, which launched in 2020 and was the first in the range to ditch CD compatibility entirely. While losing the CD/DVD drive isn’t so shocking – after all, there’s few who’d argue that USB drives or SD cards aren’t a far more convenient solution for playing back digital music – what might raise a few eyebrows is the fact that where the CD input once sat, the CDJ-3000X now has a contactless NFC plate that allows users to tap their smartphone in order to access their music libraries.
This feature works in tandem with the CDJ-3000X’s big feature addition – built-in WiFi. This allows users to connect directly to cloud libraries and streaming services without the need for a LAN connection. The idea is that DJs can either tap a smartphone equipped with AlphaTheta's rekordbox app or scan an onscreen QR code for instant connection with the cloud library. This does, however, mean a step further into the realm of subscription models in order to make use of these capabilities.
The CDJ-3000X primarily makes use of AlphaTheta’s rekordbox application, and those with a subscription to its Cloud Option or Professional subscription tiers can access their music library remotely directly from the player. The device is compatible with Google Drive and Dropbox cloud storage as well as Beatport and Tidal streaming platforms.
Fortunately, there are also upgrades here for those that prefer not to rely on subscription services. The CDJ-3000X adds a USB-C port for faster connection to USB storage devices or Macs/PCs. All users will also benefit from the enlarged touchscreen, which can now display up-to 16 tracks on screen at a time, and promises quicker navigation and smoother control.
AlphaTheta has also made improvements to the browsing workflow, allowing users to edit playlists from the device as well as copy and paste track info into the search bar.
The CDJ-3000X also introduces a new Hot Cue workflow, enhancing ways in which DJs can perform with cue points. This adds so-called Touch Cue functionality, whereby users can monitor any point in a track through their headphones by touching its waveform on the touchscreen. Gate Cue, meanwhile, only plays sound from a cue point while the associated button is held down, opening up potential new ways to play and perform with cues.
Elsewhere, the CDJ-3000X brings technical improvements. The play and cue buttons have been redesigned for improved durability. New digital-to-analogue converters promise improved sound quality too, while a new power supply is said to lower noise and enhance low frequency power.
According to AlphaTheta: “The sound tuning of the CDJ-3000X was refined through on-site testing in various club environments and developed with input from professional sound engineers, ensuring exceptional audio performance in any setting, from intimate venues to large-scale outdoor festivals.”
The CDJ-3000X is available now, priced at € 2,799/£2,399/$2,999. Head to the AlphaTheta site for more.
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