The much-anticipated Pioneer CDJ 2000 has finally arrived, but its release may prove to be bittersweet for some lovers of digital turntables. 

First things first, Pioneer has added some very interesting new features to this model that will surely be met with enthusiasm.  The ability to connect up to four CDJ 2000s while playing from a single source of music is probably the most impressive aspect about this model.  It’s amazing to think that a DJ could turn up with single thumb-drive and rock a set with four decks.  Another highly impressive feature is the built-in support for programs like Serato, Ableton and Traktor, and the ability of the CDJ 2000 to function as a MIDI controller for those and other DJ tools.  These additions are certainly impressive, but sadly this is where the novelty of the CDJ 2000 begins to wear off.

Pioneer has included its new Rekordbox music management software which enables users to do the usual stuff, such as setting cue and loop points, but doesn’t really offer anything to make it stand out of a crowd of similar and better-established software.  It’s also a proprietary program, with software keys available only with purchases of new units.  This decision seems to ensure that Rekordbox will never be adopted by more than the small niche of users who use CDJ 2000s at home. 

Many improvements have been made to the unit’s display, however it still doesn’t come close to the navigational ease of computer-based applications like Serato and Ableton.  It’s a great improvement over the CDJ 1000 MK3, but seems lacking next to emerging platforms.  The new model is also constructed out of plastic, which gives the CDJ 2000 a certain sense of vulnerability.  This may dissuade potential buyers as the retail price of a single unit is nearly $2000. 

Overall I would say that the CDJ 2000 is an impressive effort from Pioneer, but it doesn’t really offer enough for such a high price.  Many users will never need the added features that are included, or are already utilizing similar functions through Serato, Ableton or Traktor.  I’m a huge fan of the CDJ 1000 MK3s and I was sad to hear that they have been discontinued - especially considering the high price of the CDJ 2000.  The ability to link four decks to one source of music is incredibly impressive, but it’s just not worth the exorbitant price.  Expect to see these limited to large and commercial venues.