AlphaTheta/Pioneer DJ has recently released two high-end, all-in-one DJ systems: the AlphaTheta XDJ-AZ and the Pioneer DJ Opus Quad. While both units offer four-channel standalone capabilities and Rekordbox/Serato compatibility, they cater to different DJ demographics. Let’s explore their key differences to help you decide which one may be right for you…should you have a cool three grand to blow on a top DJ set-up.
Watch the video
Prefer me to talk you through this? This comparison video pits the XDJ-AZ and Opus Quad units head-to-head, covering everything that will help you choose the right set-up for your style of DJing.
XDJ-AZ: The club-style powerhouse
The XDJ-AZ is designed for club and general DJs, essentially offering a compact version of a CDJ-3000 and DJM-A9 mixer set-up at a fraction of the cost. Key features include:
- SonicLink technology: Compatible with AlphaTheta’s HDJ-F10 wireless headphones for cable-free monitoring
- Pro DJ Link: Allows connection of up to two CDJ-3000s or similar via Ethernet for expanded physical deck control
- CDJ-3000 jogwheels: Inherits the same high-quality jogwheels as AlphaTheta’s flagship multiplayer
- Beatport integration: Built-in streaming from Beatport’s extensive electronic music library
- Gate cue mode: Offers controller-style hotcue behaviour as an option, a feature long requested by many DJs
Opus Quad: The stylish innovator
The Opus Quad targets high-end mobile DJs, trendy venues and prestigious home users with its striking design and all-in-one philosophy:
- Unique aesthetics: Features a curved design with orange and white colour scheme, and wood effect edges; like it or hate it, it’s definitely a visual centrepiece
- Integrated screens: Most info from the jogwheel displays is moved to the extra screens at the top of each deck, creating a sleek look
- CDJ-2000-style jogwheels: More mechanical feel compared to the XDJ-AZ
- XY effects pad: Offers more creative control over effects and filters
- Zone Output: Allows separate audio routing for multi-room set-ups, ideal for mobile DJs
DJ like a pro using ANY gear: The Complete DJ Course
Shared features
Both units offer:
- Four-channel standalone mixing, with two physical deck/CD inputs
- Large 10.1-inch touchscreens
- Rekordbox and Serato compatibility
- Similar input/output configurations
- CloudDirectPlay for accessing personal libraries remotely
Key differences
- Pro DJ Link: Only available on the XDJ-AZ, allowing expansion with additional players
- Streaming services: XDJ-AZ currently offers Beatport integration, while the Opus Quad lacks streaming options (as of October 2024)
- Design philosophy: XDJ-AZ mimics club-standard gear, while the Opus Quad offers a unique, eye-catching aesthetic
So which to choose?
The choice between the XDJ-AZ and Opus Quad ultimately depends on your specific needs:
- For those seeking a club-style experience with expansion options, the XDJ-AZ is the clear choice
- DJs prioritising unique design and an all-in-one solution may prefer the Opus Quad
Both units are priced identically, making the decision primarily based on feature preferences and intended use case. Bear in mind that the XDJ-AZ, being the newer release, may offer more future-proofing, potentially important for some users.
Read this next: AlphaTheta XDJ-AZ vs Denon DJ Prime 4+
Phil Morse
