Using CDJs with Timecodes

[Nunz]

I probably should have been more clear about my original intent of the question:

Most CDJs (newer) offer MIDI capability. So why do some use the timecode, when it is midi capable? Even with the CDJ 2000, it is compatible with Serato, yet most DJs go with the timecode.

[guiltyblade]

I have CDJ 400s and a DJM 700. I spin without software and with depending on the situation. I have timecode to play out at places incase I want to use my laptop. Certain things cannot be used unless mapped when a midi. So some CDJs have built in effects, or loops or other things that can't be used unless you timecode, but those are built into the CDJ. Software can do all those things for you. I can tell you that if you map a CDJ to traktor it can be powerful controller that is very versatile to take USBs, and CDs. So literally you can play almost everything and anything. I find a lot of comfort in that as I like having back up, I actually had to do that the other as my comp crapped the bed and I had to divert to just thumb drives and mixing. So as home use I love having 400s and a 700. If I could get 2000s, or even 900s I'd be so happy.

[mynameisjonthenoob]

Well in a club or even at a party, you sort of look like a tool if you're using a tiny midi controller. It doesn't matter how good of a set you play, you might look like a fool amongst your peers. (Depending on what they're perception is.) I personally use CDJs but at the time I didn't realize how pointless it was to run them with Traktor. I agree that it's a little weird but I bought them without really knowing how it would be with Traktor. I still use them but mostly when I'm just mixing CDs on their own. I still occassionally use them with Traktor but I bought a pair of cheap Gemini XL turntables which I use for scratching on with traktor. I also love the classic feel although I did grow up in the age of CDJs.

[Nunz]

Actually next time I play out, I'm going to use them in HID mode, would make for a sick set.

Coming across another idea. Since HID streams music data both ways, is it possible to hook up two CDJ 900/2000 to a laptop running Traktor in HID mode, then not have to use a soundcard? Then just use the club mixer to do any crossfading. Here's how I see it: If both CDJs are hooked up to the club mixer and Traktor, where do you need a soundcard in this setup?

It may not work, or it could be too confusing what I'm saying, but it could work.

[haze324]

Actually next time I play out, I'm going to use them in HID mode, would make for a sick set.

Coming across another idea. Since HID streams music data both ways, is it possible to hook up two CDJ 900/2000 to a laptop running Traktor in HID mode, then not have to use a soundcard? Then just use the club mixer to do any crossfading. Here's how I see it: If both CDJs are hooked up to the club mixer and Traktor, where do you need a soundcard in this setup?

It may not work, or it could be too confusing what I'm saying, but it could work.

Yes this works. If you are using a macbook you need to aggregate the soundcards so that traktor only reads one. I've done the same with CDJ-400's.

To answer your question why some use timecode instead of HID with the 900's/2000's when both are supported. Well honestly, they all have bugs and are not fully supported just yet. I'm also guessing many DJ's who switched to DVS's were using CDJ-1000's and timecode. So switching to HID is a change in workflow, the addition of a powered USB hub, etc. But in both SSL and last I checked the TSP forums folks were still having issues.

I use my CDJ 400's in HID and love them with Serato. In Traktor the same CDJ in HID has Horrible platter response (in comparison).

To add what guiltyblade said. yes the flexibilty of being able to use CD's, Timecode, HID, USB's etc. is awesome. I've been messing around more and more with the USB sticks and the idea of rekordbox with the 900/2000 and just a USB stick is very appealing to me. So much more fun and interaction without the software. I imagine the rekordbox features and 900/2000's are a happy medium.

[Nunz]

Thanks so much. I'm going to have to experiment with this.