Here you will find stories about games, music, gadgets and technology as well as my monthly DJ mixes, game ideas and anything else on my mind…

Bolstering their already incredible CDJ line-up, Pioneer have recently announced their latest CDJ-850 model.

Sitting just under their CDJ-900 and CDJ-2000 turntables, the new CDJ-850 is basically their entry level ‘Professional’ spec turntable. It features the same 206mm jog dial as the 900 and 2000, so it’s the ideal product at this price point to prepare you for the feel and functions of the industry standard CDJ-2000.

With so many fantastic CDJ’s in the range now, it’s getting quite difficult to know which model to go for. Each model has a price point to suit all types of DJ, whether you’re new, a bedroom / party DJ, a club DJ or a Professional there is definitely a CDJ out there!

To give you an idea of what differences you can expect, Pioneer have created this comparison video.

At around £750 it’s £150 cheaper than the CDJ-900. It’s also compatible with Pioneer’s music management software Rekordbox. Unfortunately I cannot offer a first hand review of any of these new CDJ’s as I’ve not spent long enough playing around with them, however I’ll be sure to post my findings once I’ve decided which model to go for myself or when Pioneer sends me over some demo units!

FEATURES

• Pro-series Design and Exacting Features – The CDJ-850 integrates a large 206mm jog dial for continuous free and easy control along with a rotary selector and browse buttons integrated within the display.
• Compatible Media and Formats – The CDJ-850 is compatible with MP3, AAC, WAV and AIFF digital audio formats recorded on USB storage devices or CD-R/RW discs.
• Free Rekordbox Music Management Software Included – Pioneer’s proprietary music management software organizes and catalogs a DJ’s entire music library. When music files are imported to rekordbox,the software analyzes each file and prepares them for use specifically with the new CDJ turntables.
• USB Export Capability – DJs using the rekordbox software can easily export their music files and custom managed data onto a USB device and quickly plug in directly to the CDJ-850 and access tracks without the need to be linked to a PC. Play histories on the CDJ-850 are automatically recorded onto rekordbox via connected USB device for the DJ’s next session which makes the cycle of music file management, DJ play and preparation for future sessions very simple.
• User Interface – The display and user interface of the player is designed for quick and fluid music selection. Combined with its rotary selector, navigation through music lists (title, artist, BPM, etc.) is extremely fast and easy. The WAVE display enables smooth DJ play because the user can visually analyze the flow and dynamics of the entire song.
• DJ Software Control and Audio Interface – The CDJ-850 multi-media player features MIDI, enabling control of various DJ software running on a laptop. With the use of the built-in USB HID interface, the CDJ-850 can also control more complex operations of DJ software without the need for a control disc. For additional versatility, the player can also be used as a PC audio interface.
• Tag List Function – Equipped with an editable Tag List functionality, users of the player can easily register tracks during play or preview to add to their playlist queue. The song order in the Tag List can be altered and saved as a playlist in rekordbox.

CDJ-850

The CDJ-850 player adopts many of the technical advances made in the industry standard pro-series versions and invites all levels of DJs to create, perform and share mixes like a professional. Pioneer is dedicated to bringing DJs the best audio/video and live performance products. For newer DJs looking to elevate and greatly enhance their performance and creativity, Pioneer’s CDJ-850 delivers enhanced mixing features, excellent audio quality and a new platform for them to share their music.

More Info. available here: www.Pioneerelectronics.com