Unfortunately, software support for the CDJ-400 isn’t currently available but Pioneer inform us that the new compatible version of its own DJS software will be out in January 2008 – at an extra cost – closely followed by an update to Serato Scratch LIVE later in the year. So for this review I’ll be focusing on the Pioneer’s CD and MP3 playing capabilities. Designed for DJs by DJs and drawing inspiration from our industry standard CDJ-1000 series, the CDJ-400 is a flexible, affordable performance player for the aspiring club DJ to use at home. The CDJ-400 allows you to play your MP3 collection off CD-R/RW discs as well as music from mass storage USB devices, such as USB keys, external hard drives and portable media devices.

Tempo resolution is also very good, with steps of 0.02% at ±6% range which is ideal for keeping those long beat mixes in sync. Otherwise the slider moves in steps of 0.05% when set to ±10 or ±16%, and steps of 0.5% when set to WIDE. One function that is missing is a ‘brake’ effect that simulates the slow wind-down and start-up sound on a vinyl turntable, but you can always improvise using the Tempo slider in the WIDE mode. With power turned OFF, remove any connected USB memory or computer, and confirm that no discs are loaded. While simultaneously holding the TIME MODE/AUTO CUE button and RELOOP/EXIT buttons, set power to ON. Aimed at aspiring club DJs to use at home, the Pioneer CDJ-400 will play standard audio CDs as well as MP3s off CD-R/RW discs, but not DVDs. It will also play music directly from mass storage USB devices such as USB keys and external hard drives. Of course, like any gadget worth its salt these days, the CDJ-400 works fully with an iPod.If the update was performed from USB memory, turn the power OFF before disconnecting the USB memory. If the update was performed from a disc, the disc holder will open automatically to eject the disc; remove the disc and turn the power off. Copy this file to your USB memory device or disc (it is essential that you do not change the file name).