AlphaTheta has recently unveiled the XDJ-AZ, an all-in-one standalone device featuring four built-in decks. In this article, I will provide an overview of the unit, share my initial impressions, and discuss its mixing capabilities. Standalone devices are gaining prominence in the digital DJ gear realm, and I will also explore the positioning of the AZ within this competitive market. Continue reading for more insights!
The XDJ-AZ from Alphatheta/Pioneer DJ has been a widely discussed topic recently. Initially rumored on Reddit around two months ago, its existence was later confirmed by industry insiders, and wow i must say, what a spot on prediction.
I have long been eager for a XDJ-RX style device that allows for four deck mixing. The XDJ-AZ's announcement was a letdown, as it was marketed as "four decks!" but in reality required "four channels or purchasing Rekordbox and bringing your laptop along." The business strategy behind Rekordbox and DJ hardware sales is intriguing (refer to the "That Price Tho" section below), and it seemed like Pioneer DJ would never challenge their own top-tier products.
However, Alphatheta recently announced XDJ-AZ. While they did provide me with any demo unit, this review is not sponsored at all. The views expressed here are entirely my own. These facts are totally based on my search results.
Is the Pioneer XDJ-AZ a good purchase?
Let me make my thoughts clear and concise from the start:
If you want a four-deck mixing experience similar to club-style gear as DDJ 3000/ DJM A9 and if you are looking for an all in one unit, then the XDJ-AZ is the right choice. Mixing on it is enjoyable, it provides essential features, and I believe it will become the leading XDJ model in the coming years.
If you recently purchased a different standalone device: If you desire the ability to mix on three or four decks without additional equipment, I suggest selling your current unit and upgrading. While older models tend to hold their value well, Pioneer DJ devices are known for this, it's always best to sell your old gear as soon as possible.
If you prefer sticking to mixing on two decks only, then the XDJ-AZ may not be the best fit for you.
Many of the impressive features on the AZ are essentially retaining the successful elements from the XDJ-AZmodel. The XZ has garnered a strong following for a reason, and the product designers have clearly acknowledged this in the latest release.
Lets dive into the main Key Features of Pioneer XDJ-AZ
Standalone 4-decks Playback
With 4-deck playback support on the XDJ-AZ, you have the freedom to enhance your mix, create live mashups, collaborate with another DJ, or prepare tracks for perfect timing. The flexibility allows you to seamlessly incorporate CDJs into your setup without the need to switch decks. Thanks to PRO DJ LINK™ compatibility, beat and on-air information syncs across players, keeping you in complete control of your performance.
Naturally, you can use them for mixing. They perform as expected and are dependable. The deck controls follow a "layer swap" style, where each side can control either 1/3 or 2/4. In my opinion, when it comes to mixing with four decks, most DJs may consider it excessive for solo mixing, but nearly every DJ can see the benefits of having a third deck for their mixing style. It's worth mentioning that the channels are labeled from left to right as 3, 1, 2, 4. This arrangement is designed to keep 1 and 2 in the center of the mixer as the primary decks, although it may feel unfamiliar to those accustomed to setting up four CDJs and a mixer, where the channels are usually labeled as 1, 2, 3, 4.
Every aspect aligns with DDJ 3000 & DJM A9
The XDJ standalone series offers a seamless transition for most up-and-coming club DJs, as the skills and familiarity gained on the XDJs easily transfer to the CDJ setup. The AZ model further enhances this compatibility by aligning various controls with the CDJ-3000, such as looping, beat jump, key sync, and the user interface workflow, along with the adjacent browse knob.
The XDJ-AZ replicates the design and tactile experience of the top-of-the-line CDJ-3000 and DJM-A9 to offer a user-friendly interface. This setup enhances your performance by providing a seamless connection with the decks, enabling more innovative presentations. Equipped with full-size jog wheels akin to those on the CDJ-3000, the XDJ-AZ ensures smooth pitch bending and scratching. The mixer section mirrors the user-friendly layout of the DJM-A9, placing all controls for optimal playability. Additionally, it includes easily accessible buttons for assigning Beat FX, allowing you to express yourself through the music. Mastering the XDJ-AZ will familiarize you with the operation and feel of professional club equipment, facilitating top-notch performances in club settings.
Three Band Master Out EQ/ Isolator
Another useful feature is the 3-Band EQ on Master signal, allowing you to adjust the output sound based on the venue's acoustic properties. This is one of the standout aspect of the XDJ-AZ, an ability to manipulate the main out EQ.
This provides a convenient method to either enhance your mix with additional performance elements similar to using isolators or perform quick EQ adjustments on a basic PA system lacking sound engineering support, mixing console, or dedicated processing equipment beyond your DJ setup. It truly gives the sensation of mixing on full-size decks rather than a scaled-down unit.
Tactile Experience with large OLED screen Jog-Wheels on Pioneer XDJ-AZ
The Pioneer XDJ-AZ comes with a full-color jog display that provides a familiar experience akin to using a CDJ-3000. It includes the same tension adjustment and mechanical action, guaranteeing that reloads and rewinds are executed perfectly.
Built-in Wi-Fi® and support for various media types to suit your DJ style
With rekordbox CloudDirectPlay compatibility, you can access your cloud-based rekordbox library directly from the XDJ-AZ. This feature enables you to utilize the most up-to-date versions of your playlists and performance data, including Hot Cue information, and even make updates from the unit itself. This functionality not only guarantees a smooth DJing experience but also allows you to handle all your preparation tasks exclusively from your all-in-one system.
NOTE - To use rekordbox CloudDirectPlay, you must have a subscription to the rekordbox Creative or Professional plan, or the Cloud Option.
StreamingDirectPlay Compatibility
By integrating Beatport Streaming, the StreamingDirectPlay function allows you to play songs directly from Beatport's extensive collection of dance music and the most recent playlists tailored to specific genres. Additionally, you will have access to analytical data like waveform, BPM, and grid details, facilitating the seamless blending of new and varied music in your performances.
NOTE - In order to utilize StreamingDirectPlay on the XDJ-AZ, you must sign up for either the Beatport Streaming Professional or Advanced plan.
Compatibility with a wide range of devices and DJ applications
In addition to playing music from USB drives, you have the option to DJ by linking to your PC/Mac or mobile device. Furthermore, for those looking to express their unique style even more, you can incorporate audio from external devices such as turntables and samplers. The device features a USB Type-C port for connecting to PCs/Macs, allowing you to utilize rekordbox for Mac/Windows in Performance mode or Serato DJ Pro [Coming December 2024], without requiring a paid subscription plan for either software. By utilizing the Wi-Fi® connection for rekordbox Link Export, you can easily access tracks from your PC/Mac or mobile device wirelessly, eliminating the need for physical cable connections.
NOTE - Performance Mode for Serato DJ Pro is set to be released in December 2024. Additionally, you will have the option to utilize Link Export in rekordbox for Mac/Windows or rekordbox for iOS/Android. It's important to note that Link Export in rekordbox for Android does not support wired connections.
Large Intuitive Touchscreen
The capacitive touchscreen on the XDJ-AZ, measuring 10.1 inches, not only provides more visual information but also enhances control functionality. It can display up to 13 tracks simultaneously, a significant increase from the 8 tracks on the XDJ-XZ, allowing users to access more music and locate songs more efficiently. Additional advanced features include Playlist Bank, where users can store up to 4 playlists for quick access, Touch Preview for previewing tracks without loading them, and Touch Cue for previewing upcoming sections of tracks playing on the deck. These features streamline track selection, while the ability to view the status of selected Performance Pad and Beat FX settings simultaneously enables performers to quickly access essential information.
DJ headphones compatible with SonicLink for ultra-low-latency wireless monitoring
Thanks to the built-in SonicLink transmitter, you can experience ultra-low-latency wireless monitoring using the professional DJ headphones HDJ-F10. By simply pressing a button to pair the XDJ-AZ with the headphones, you have the freedom to move around the DJ booth or stage without worrying about cable entanglement. SonicLink is AlphaTheta's exclusive ultra-low-latency wireless technology, transmitting audio 20 times faster than the commonly used Bluetooth® SBC codec. This ensures there is no noticeable delay between your actions and the sound output.
NOTE - The XDJ-AZ does not support wireless connectivity with the WAVE-EIGHT portable wireless DJ speaker.
Professional Club Standard Audio
Those who know the previous XDJ-XZ will recognize the improvements in the design of the XDJ-AZ. The integration of a 32-bit D/A converter from ESS Technology has greatly improved the sound quality, resulting in clear and dynamic audio suitable for large venues and clubs.
Onscreen Detailed Mixer Settings
And the unit features a dedicated button for the mixer settings, so you can quickly check and adjust the mixer’s status on-screen.
Other features
Hardware Unlock - The XDJ-AZ is a Hardware Unlock device. Simply plug the XDJ-AZ into a PC / Mac running the rekordbox application and you can use the software.
Serato DJ Pro - Simply plug the XDJ-AZ into a PC / Mac running the Serato DJ Pro application and you can use the software. (Coming December 2024).
3 USB ports - Perform back-to-back with another DJ and hand over smoothly thanks to the 3 USB inputs (2 top-loading for USB devices and 1 laptop connection).
rekordbox Link Export - Play tracks directly from your PC/Mac or mobile device by connecting via a USB cable, LAN cable, or wireless connection.
Performance Pads - Hit the 8 back-lit rubber Performance Pads to trigger Hot Cues, Beat Loop, Slip Loop and the Beat Jump.
Gate Cue - Experiment with your pad play using Gate Cue, which plays the music from the cue point only when you press the pad. Take your finger off the pad and the music stops instantly, and silently returns to the cue point.
Easy to carry - Be ready to play at a moment’s notice. The single-unit design with grab handles makes carrying and setup easy.
High-quality audio - The mic input circuit produces crystal-clear sound, even with a high input level.
Firmware Update Manager - You’ll be automatically notified when firmware updates become available. You can download the Firmware Update Manager here.
AlphaTheta Care - An extended product warranty service ensures longer and more reliable use of your products. Click here for details.
Pioneer XDJ-AZ Specifications
Maximum Dimensions (W × D × H) | 895 × 504.1 × 133.4 mm / 35.24” × 19.85” × 5.25” |
Main unit weight | 13.5 kg / 29.8 lbs. |
Frequency response | 20 Hz - 20 kHz (USB) |
S/N ratio | 115 dB (USB) |
Total harmonic distortion | 0.0018 % (USB) |
Accessories | Power cord Quick Start Guide Precautions for use Warranty (for some regions) |
Compatible software | rekordbox for Mac/Windows rekordbox for iOS/Android Serato DJ Pro (Coming December 2024) |
Terminals
Inputs | LINE / PHONO × 2 (RCA) MIC × 2 (XLR & 1/4” TRS jack) |
Outputs | MASTER × 2 (XLR × 1, RCA × 1) BOOTH × 1 (1/4” TRS jack) PHONES × 2 (1/4” stereo jack × 1, 3.5 mm stereo mini jack × 1) |
USB | USB Type-A × 2 USB Type-C × 1 |
Others | LAN port (100BASE-TX) × 1 |
Wireless LAN
Supported standards | IEEE 802.11 a / b / g / n / ac |
Frequency band used | 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz |
Bluetooth
Wireless system | Bluetooth ver. 5.3 |
Compatible codecs | SBC, AAC |
SonicLink
Frequency band used | 2.4 GHz |
Performance Control
Channels | 4 |
Deck Control | 4 (USB Storage Device) 4 (DJ Software Control) |
Jog Wheel | 206 mm |
Jog Feeling | ✓ |
Sound Color FX | ・DUB ECHO ・NOISE ・SWEEP ・FILTER ・SPACE ・CRUSH |
Beat FX | ・DELAY ・ECHO ・PING PONG ・SPIRAL ・REVERB ・TRANS ・FILTER ・TRIPLET FILTER ・FLANGER ・PHASER ・ROLL ・TRIPLET ROLL ・HELIX ・MOBIUS |
Our Verdict on Pioneer DDJ GRV6 by Alphatheta
In my honest opinion, AlphaTheta seems to have made a strong comeback with their latest developments. The introduction of rekordbox 7.4 upgrade, followed by the release of DDJ GRV6 and now the XDJ-AZ, definitely showcases their success. It appears that the company is now more attentive to the needs of DJs. I am particularly impressed by the Pioneer XDJ-AZ, and once it becomes available in the Indian market, I plan to upgrade my equipment at DJ Training Academy.
I believe that many DJs have been eagerly anticipating a product like this. The real question is: will this impact the sales of their flagship models, DDJ 3000 & DJM A9, or the Opus Squad? Personally, I believe it will. Instead of investing around ₹8.5 to ₹9 lakhs for a set of DDJ 3000 & DJM A9, I would opt for the XDJ-AZ priced at approximately ₹3.2 - ₹3.5 lakhs [approx.]. Similarly, considering the cost of the Opus Squad, I find the XDJ-AZ to be the superior choice in this category.
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Disclaimer:
The information presented in this blog has been carefully gathered from various reputable online sources. Our team is dedicated to delivering accurate and up-to-date news and insights on the latest gear releases, software updates, and topics relevant to DJing and music production, with the goal of serving our DJ and producer community. If at any point you come across information that you believe to be incorrect or misleading, we kindly request that you reach out to us at djta.delhi@gmail.com
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