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How to use Rekordbox analysed USB on Pioneer CDJs, The Ultimate Guide for Aspiring DJs

  • Writer: Anish Anand
    Anish Anand
  • 17 hours ago
  • 6 min read

Updated: 1 hour ago

This blog is your ultimate step-by-step guide to preparing playlists, exporting music playlist from rekordbox Dj software to a pen drive, connecting pen drives on to the USB port of a CDJ, selecting your USB on CDJs, browse your playlist and strat performing like a pro on Pioneer CDJ-3000 and DJM-A9 and finally how to use rekordbox USB on Pioneer CDJ.


how to used sb on pioneer cdjs 3000
Dj Console with USB: CDJ 3000 [pair] & DJM A9

For aspiring DJs ready to transition from using DJ controllers to professional Pioneer AlphaTheta gear like the CDJ-3000 and DJM-A9, the journey can feel a little intimidating. Many DJs call DJ Training Academy to practice on professional DJ setups before their gigs — and we totally get it why!


This guide will explain:


  1. The differences and similarities between DJ controllers and CDJ/DJM setups.

  2. A step-by-step guide to creating a playlist in rekordbox dj software, arranging your tracks, and exporting them to a USB pen drive.

  3. How to plug in and use your USB pen drive on Pioneer CDJs during your performance.


Whether you're preparing for your first club gig, festival set, or a private event, this article is your ultimate blueprint to perform like a pro on CDJs and DJMs.


 

1. DJ Controllers vs CDJs & DJMs – What’s the Difference?


Let’s start with understanding the gear.


✅ Similarities:


  • Track playback, tempo control, looping, hot cues, and EQs – all work the same.

  • Both setups use rekordbox Dj software for organising music.

  • Performance techniques like beat-matching, mixing, and FX usage are applicable to both.


❌ Differences:

Feature

DJ Controller

CDJ-3000 & DJM-A9

Connectivity

Laptop required

Standalone with USB, an be connected to a laptop

Workflow

Software-based (rekordbox/Serato)

Hardware-based with in-built screens

Feel & Layout

Compact, unified

Modular, club-standard layout

Jogwheel Sensitivity

Lighter

Lighter & Heavier [both adjustable], more accurate

Audio Quality

Good

Superior 32-bit sound on DJM-A9

🎯 Pro Tip: If you know how to DJ on a controller, you already know 90% of what you need to rock a CDJ setup. The rest is just familiarisation.

 

2. How to Create & Export a Playlist in rekordbox dj software (Step-by-Step)


Before heading to your gig or practice session, prepare your rekordbox USB correctly. Make sure to fresh format the USB according to CDJs i.e. Mac OS Extended [Journaled] if you are using Mac and if on Windows format using FAT 32.


USB format for Mac: Mac OsExtended [Journaled]
USB format for Mac: Mac OsExtended [Journaled]

✅ Step 1: Download & Install rekordbox

  • Go to rekordbox.com.

  • Install rekordbox (free version works) for playlist creation and USB export.


✅ Step 2: Import Your Music

  • Open rekordbox.

  • Drag your tracks into the Collection.

✅ Step 3: Create a Playlist

  • Right-click on “Playlists” > Create New Playlist.

  • Name it something like “Sunset Set” or “Tech House Vibes” according to your preference.


✅ Step 4: Add Tracks & Arrange Order

  • Drag and drop your tracks into the playlist.

  • Rearrange tracks by dragging them up or down to define your DJ set flow.

  • KNDLY NOTE: The tracks can only be re-arranged when the numbered column which is labled as "#" is blue in colour. If its white then you wont be able to re-arrange the tracks according to your preference.

re-arranging tacks in rekordbox dj software
Re-arranging tacks in rekordbox dj software

  • You can also use Comments, Colours, and Ratings to label breakdowns, bangers, or openers [if only necessary] otherwise re-arranging is enough.


✅ Step 5: Analyze Tracks

  • After you create your playlist, the rekordbox immediately and automatically start analysing the tracks, If any case the tracks are not analysed then you can do it manually. Select your playlist > Right-click > Analyse Tracks.

  • Choose “Normal” analysis to prep BPM, waveforms, grids.


✅ Step 6: Export to USB

  • Insert your USB stick (format it as Mac OS Extended [Journaled] or FAT32 if needed case to case).

  • In rekordbox: Right-click USB icon > Format Device (optional but recommended).

  • Select playlist you want to export from the playlist section on left > Right Click > Export Playlist to > Select your pen drive

exporting songs playlist on to a usb pen drive from rekordbox dj software to a pen drive
Exporting songs playlist on to a usb pen drive from rekordbox dj software to a pen drive

  • Another way to export is - Drag your playlist to the USB device icon in rekordbox.

  • rekordbox will export your tracks with cues, loops, metadata.


💡 Pro Tip: Always eject your USB safely to avoid corrupted files.

 

3. How to use Rekordbox USB on CDJ-3000 & DJM-A9 – Step-by-Step USB Workflow


Let’s get you gig-ready. Here’s how to plug in and play like a pro.


✅ Step 1: Insert & Detect Your USB on CDJ 3000

  • Plug your rekordbox-prepped USB into the USB port on the top left corner of any CDJ-3000.

  • If you're using two CDJs and one USB, connect the players via PRO DJ LINK (Ethernet cable) – this allows sharing one USB across both CDJs.

  • Press the SOURCE button on CDJ [1st button, above the screen], and on the screen click on your USB name [the screen is touch screen] and select your pen drive.


KINDLY NOTE: By clicking on source you are basically telling the CDJs the source your library.


screen and buttons on pioneer cdj 3000
Upper screen part of the Pioneer CDJ 3000

✅ Step 2: Browse Your Playlist

  • Press the BROWSE button on the CDJ [2nd button after SIURCE, above the screen]

  • Rotate the Selector Knob to navigate to your USB > Select your Playlist.

  • Select your playlist either by Pressing on to the touch screen of the player or push the selector Knob to open the playlist.


✅ Step 3: Load Tracks

  • Use the Selector Knob to highlight the track you want.

  • Press the LOAD button near the jog wheel on Deck 1 or Deck 2.


✅ Step 4: Set Your Cue Points (Optional)

  • If you didn’t prep cue points in rekordbox, press CUE at the start point of your track.

  • You can also use the HOT CUE buttons to set instant jump points.


✅ Step 5: Start Mixing! - Thats how to use Rekordbox USB on Pioneer CDJ

  • Now you're good to go.

  • Use the DJM-A9 mixer to EQ, apply FX, and switch between channels.

  • Add Color FX like filter, echo, and noise for dynamic mixing.


💡 Pro Tip: Always carry extra thumb drive with playlist backup.
🧠 Remember: The CDJ-3000 is super intuitive — spend 15 minutes exploring and you’ll feel like a club headliner in no time!

 

Final Thoughts: Practice Like a Pro Before You Perform


Every DJ gear and DJ software is more or less same. At DJ Training Academy, we understand how crucial it is to practice on professional DJ gear like the Pioneer CDJ-3000 and DJM-A9 before a major event. That’s why we make our students thoroughly understand core of a DJ hardware & software so that our students can perform on any dj equipment they get in front of them.


Whether you're shifting from a Pioneer DDJ-400 or DDJ-800 to full-scale AlphaTheta DJ gear, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.


Thats how to use rekordbox USB on Pioneer CDJ


 

Thanks for reading


That’s all, folks! Thank you for reading, and remember, the key to becoming a great DJ or a mUsic Producer, starts with the right foundation. Here at DJ Training Academy, we make sure to provide that right kick start to your DJ & Music Production journey.


If you found this review helpful, don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to our blog for more tips, tutorials, and reviews. We would love to hear from you. So do comment, and share your experience if you have used the product before.


 

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 


 

Why Choose DJ Training Academy New Delhi for DJ Courses?

DJ Training Academy, New Delhi, is committed to helping DJs of all levels master industry-leading equipment. Our dedicated team offers a range of courses, including beginner & advanced course modules in Djing & Music Production specialized sessions focused on using cutting-edge industry standard education. Students gain access to hands-on training, real-time guidance, and tips to get the best out of the latest DJ controllers, mixers, and production tools.


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