CDJ or Controller? What's your take?

So how do you use a controller without software then?

its only a matter of time before controllers have software built in much like the cdj does

I believe controllers will replace CDJ's

Yes, and no. Like Jester said above, new CDJs have nearly all of the functionality of controllers if not the same. So while I agree with you that there's little to no difference between the twos' capabilities, there is still the tactile difference.

Offtopic, but would you be able to use the CDJ-2000nexus and a mixer hooked to a laptop and use traktor?

Controllers on the other hand, do absolutely promote the use of the sync button. You NEED the software to use them, and the software itself promotes the use. I'm not saying you have to use it, but its certainly too easy to just hit sync.

That said, I am not anti-sync button either. If you have the ability to beatmatch, then the sync button is a handy tool to have. And frees up more time for creative flair and other skills to be utilised. But my personal opinion is that if you NEED to use the sync button for beatmatching, then you are missing an essential skill that would allow you to play on any gear you might come across in the "field".

Absolutely.

But since the new CDJ 2000's have a "SYNC" button arent you contradicting yourself there??

You see my point though? its only a matter of time before controllers have software built in much like the cdj does, alright its not technically a controller then, much like cdj's aren't often used for playing cd's anymore But these are just our points of view, we could argue all day, then tomorrow a something new might come out and replace everything. But the CD is outdated, and its only time before CD is dropped from the players name. I honestly believe we will eventually see truly portable setups, like an audio focused tablet and a controller of your choice, it will be much more versatile than separate cdj's or players of any name.

p.s. Im quitting smoking, these nicotine patches make me argumentative, no offence meant anywhere bud

But since the new CDJ 2000's have a "SYNC" button arent you contradicting yourself there??

Offtopic, but would you be able to use the CDJ-2000nexus and a mixer hooked to a laptop and use traktor?

But since the new CDJ 2000's have a "SYNC" button arent you contradicting yourself there??

First off I'd suggest a search - there are quite a few threads on this topic.

That said, here's my take:

Most pro DJs have been at this for years. Many of said DJs have been doing this longer than Traktor/etc. have been around, so they're used to CDJs and stick to what they're used to. Aside from that, the higher end get to specify riders; they get to tell venues what gear to have for them, so if they want a DJM 2000 and 4 CDJ 2000s they get it. However, you're not getting your own rider any time soon.

Unfortunately, having a controller is often the mark of a newer/younger DJ, because the older ones will tend to be on CDJs (not strictly true, but it's the stereotype). Controller setups are cheaper, so they tend to be the entry-level option, which furthers this stereotype. The clubs I've been to in my area have all had DJs playing there using a variety of controllers and/or CDJs/TTs. I haven't heard of controllers being much of an issue in my area, though it does feel like a slight bias against them exists. Realistically I don't believe using a controller would prevent you from getting many gigs in Boston/Rhode Island, but I couldn't really tell you about PA as I've not been.

CDJs have practical advantages; most clubs will have a pair of CDJs and a mixer so if you're comfortable mixing on those, you don't have to hook anything up when you show up to your gig; a controller setup means connecting a soundcard which can be a pain for changeovers. Convenience doesn't sound like much in the context of a bedroom, but if you can avoid having to plug into the back of the mixer (not always the easiest thing to access) in the middle of someone else's set - that's kind of a big deal. Long-run I plan on investing in CDJs and I've done the whole controller thing for years.

Real talk though: From a financial/business perspective, if you're not gigging out often enough to make a return, then this is kind of irrelevant. Buying CDJs will not make you a pro in and of itself and probably won't make the difference you're expecting them to. They do promote better habits as far as encouraging proper beatmatching instead of syncing as well as arguably more careful music management, but they won't make the difference in workflow and sound that something like a mixer will. If you just want the most enjoyable setup that will potentially last you the longest, CDJs could be a solid option. They're really expensive though, so if you're not prepared to drop around 4k for a pair of nice CDJs and a mixer to go with them you might rebelieve the idea. If you don't believe you'll make that amount of money back by getting more gigs because you use CDJs, you're spending 4 grand on a hobby; just make sure you realize that. If money's more of a concern, I'd suggest grabbing a mixer and two technics 1200s. I grabbed my techs for 300 apiece and honestly, they're as fun or to mix on with Traktor Scratch as with 2 CDJs. This left me enough money within my budget to get a DJM 900 nexus (which honestly is excessive for my use; I didn't say I practice what I preach, but I enjoy it).

Side note: The next time I wanted to upgrade I grabbed an RMX-1000 which, next to Traktor, has been my single best DJ-related investment as far as the improvement in my sound goes. It's not perfect, but it fits my workflow beautifully and is a hell of a lot of fun.