XDJ-RX3 vs CDJ-3000 + DJM-900NXS2: All-in-One DJ System or Club Setup?
· 4 min read · Party Backline
If you're hiring DJ equipment for an event, you'll usually choose between two Pioneer DJ setups: an all-in-one DJ system like the Pioneer XDJ-RX3, or a club-standard setup of two CDJ-3000 players and a DJM-900NXS2 mixer. Both play the same music from the same USB, so what's the difference, and which one should you hire?
The short answer
- Choose the XDJ-RX3 for house parties, weddings, birthdays and corporate events, especially with a single DJ who wants a simple, compact setup.
- Choose the CDJ-3000 & DJM-900NXS2 Set for club nights, professional DJs with a rider, back-to-back sets and events with multiple DJs.
What is an all-in-one DJ system (XDJ-RX3)?
The XDJ-RX3 combines two decks and a 2-channel mixer in a single unit, with one large 10.1" touch screen in the middle for browsing tracks and viewing waveforms. You plug in a rekordbox USB, or connect a laptop running rekordbox or Serato DJ Pro, and play.
- One unit: faster to set up, fewer cables, takes up less space.
- Club-style layout: controls are laid out like Pioneer's CDJs and DJM mixers, so DJs feel at home.
- Great value: $220 per event.
What is a CDJ + DJM setup?
A club setup uses separate components: two Pioneer CDJ-3000 media players and a Pioneer DJM-900NXS2 mixer. This is the combination you'll find in the DJ booths of most clubs and festivals, and it's what most professional DJ riders request.
- CDJ-3000: each player has its own 9" touch screen, a full-size jog wheel and Pioneer's latest playback features.
- DJM-900NXS2: a 4-channel professional mixer with Beat FX, Sound Color FX, the MAGVEL FADER PRO crossfader and a built-in sound card.
- Pro DJ Link: the players are networked so they share a USB library and beat information. Our set includes the router and all LAN cables.
- Price: $500 per event for the full set, or hire the CDJ-3000 and DJM-900NXS2 individually.
XDJ-RX3 vs CDJ-3000 + DJM-900NXS2 compared
| XDJ-RX3 | CDJ-3000 + DJM-900NXS2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Format | All-in-one, single unit | 2 players + separate mixer |
| Mixer channels | 2 | 4 |
| Screens | One 10.1" central touch screen | 9" touch screen on each player |
| Jog wheels | Compact | Full-size, club standard |
| Plays rekordbox USB | Yes | Yes |
| Serato DJ Pro | Yes | Yes |
| Setup time and space | Quick, compact | Larger, needs a proper booth or table |
| Matches club DJ riders | Sometimes accepted | Yes, the standard request |
| Hire price | $220 / event | $500 / event |
When the XDJ-RX3 is the better choice
- House parties and birthdays where a friend or hobby DJ is playing.
- Weddings and corporate events with one DJ and limited space.
- Mobile DJs who want one unit to set up and pack down quickly.
- Budget-conscious events. You get a professional, rekordbox-ready system for less than half the price of the club setup.
When to choose the CDJ-3000 and DJM-900NXS2
- Your DJ has a rider. Most professional DJs specify CDJ-3000s and a DJM-900NXS2 (or similar), because it's what they practise and perform on.
- Several DJs or back-to-back sets. Separate players make it easy for DJs to swap over, and the 4-channel mixer leaves room for extra sources.
- Club nights, launches and festivals where the DJ setup is part of the show.
- DJs who rely on advanced features: per-deck screens, full-size jogs and the DJM's effects.
Don't forget speakers and the booth
Neither setup includes speakers. Pair your DJ gear with a set that has a subwoofer, such as the Dance Set, Ultimate Set or Array Set. Not sure which size you need? Read what size PA system do I need. For a clean, professional look, add our foldable DJ booth.
Still deciding?
If your DJ has sent a rider, forward it to us and we'll match it. Otherwise, tell us about your event and we'll recommend the right setup from our DJ equipment range.
