The Pioneer CDJ-200 is a compact disc player designed for professional DJ use, offering a range of functions and performance features suitable for disco clubs. It aims to provide superior performance, sound quality, and functionality compared to analog players.
Function Description:
The CDJ-200 is equipped with a Digital Jog Break feature, which provides original sound effects. It includes three individual remix assist functions: JET, ZIP, and WAH. By selecting one of these functions and operating the jog dial in time with the music, users can create new remix experiences.
The device features a large 100 mm diameter Jog Dial that allows for corrections to uneven beats, mimicking the feel of an analog turntable. This jog dial supports Pitch Bend, which alters the music tempo based on the direction and speed of rotation. In pause mode, the jog dial enables Frame Search, moving the pause position in frame units (1/75 sec). For faster navigation, Super-Fast Search can be performed by turning the jog dial while holding down the manual search or track search buttons.
Tempo Control is managed by a 100 mm long, high-precision slider, allowing for free speed adjustment. The digital display shows tempo adjustments calibrated in 0.02% units (within a ±6% range), making adjustments easier and more accurate. The Tempo Control Range can be set to three variable ranges: ±6%, ±10%, and ±16%, to suit different operating environments. The Master Tempo function maintains the sound's pitch while changing the music tempo.
The CUE function includes Back Cue, which allows users to return to and start from a stored cue point by pressing the CUE button during playback. Auto Cue automatically skips non-recorded parts at the beginning of a track and enters standby mode at the track's starting point, enabling instant playback when the PLAY/PAUSE button is pressed. The Cue Point Sampler allows playback to be started with a single touch from a stored cue point, useful for confirming start points and as a sampler.
The Real Time Seamless Loop function simplifies setting and canceling loops. Loops can be set instantly during playback. An ADJUST mode is included for one-touch adjustments to the loop-out point, facilitating loop operation. The RELOOP function allows users to return to a set loop position any number of times after canceling loop play. Combining loop ON and OFF with the track's rhythm can create new sound effects.
The Playing Address feature uses a bar graph to visually represent track playback progress, similar to checking the needle position on an analog record. The graph's length indicates the current position, and it flashes to signal the track's end.
The Slot In mechanism allows discs to be inserted without opening trays or doors, enabling quick track selection.
Fader Start functionality is available when connecting the CDJ-200 to compatible DJ mixers (DJM-500, DJM-600, DJM-300, DJM-3000, DJM-909, or DJM-707). This enables QUICK START and BACK CUE functions using the mixer's fader.
Relay Play allows two CDJ-200 units to be connected in tandem for automatic relay playback. When one player's track playback stops, the other player automatically exits standby mode and begins playback.
The unit features OIL DAMPER FLOAT construction, which helps resist shakes and impacts, reducing distortions and sound breakup caused by operational impacts and floor vibrations.
Multi Read support allows playback of CD-R and CD-RW discs. However, some discs may not play properly due to special characteristics, dirt, or damage.
CD TEXT functionality displays CD TEXT information on supported discs.
Usage Features:
Power Control: The rear-panel POWER switch turns the unit ON/OFF. It's important not to force a disc into the unit when the power is OFF to prevent damage.
Disc Loading/Unloading: Discs are inserted label-side up into the front panel disc loading slot. For 8 cm discs, an adapter must be used. Only one disc can be loaded at a time. The EJECT button removes the disc. If ejection fails, a pin can be inserted into the forced ejection hole.
Playback Control: The PLAY/PAUSE button (▷/II) starts and temporarily interrupts playback. When paused, the PLAY/PAUSE indicator and CUE button indicator flash. Pressing it again resumes playback. If left paused for over 100 minutes, disc rotation stops automatically.
Navigation:
- SEARCH buttons (◄◄, ►►) perform fast-forward and fast-reverse with sound during playback.
- TRACK SEARCH buttons (◄◄, ►►I) change tracks in forward/reverse.
- FOLDER SEARCH buttons (←, →) are used to navigate folders on CD-ROMs with folder layers.
Tempo Adjustment: The TEMPO control slider adjusts the track's tempo. The TEMPO control range button (±6/±10/±16) cycles through variable tempo ranges. The MASTER TEMPO button/indicator turns the Master Tempo function ON/OFF.
Digital Jog Break: JET, ZIP, and WAH buttons activate respective sound effects, which respond to jog dial rotation. The HOLD/RESET button preserves the effect of the Digital Jog Break.
Cue Point Settings: Cue points can be set during playback by pausing and using the jog dial or SEARCH buttons for precise positioning. The CUE button stores the cue point. REALTIME CUE sets the current playback point as a cue point instantly.
Loop Playback:
- To create a loop, press IN/REALTIME CUE/HOT LOOP at the loop-in point and OUT/OUT ADJUST at the loop-out point during playback.
- Auto BEAT LOOP starts loop playback with an automatically set loop-out point based on the track's BPM.
- LOOP CUTTER halves the loop length.
- HOT LOOP returns to the loop-in point and restarts loop playback.
- RELOOP/EXIT exits loop playback, continuing playback from the loop-out point.
- The loop-out point can be adjusted using the SEARCH buttons or jog dial during loop playback.
Relay Play: Two CDJ-200 units can be connected via a control cable for automatic alternating playback. Both players' auto cue function should be ON, and the DJ mixer's Cross Fader control set to its center.
MP3 File Playback: The CDJ-200 supports MP3 files conforming to specific format requirements, including MPEG-1 and MPEG-2, with various sampling frequencies and bit rates. It displays file names, artist, and album names for ID3 tags but not ID3 tag titles. It supports a maximum of 8 folder levels and 999 files per folder. Multi-session discs are not supported, and only the first session is played. Recording should follow ISO9660 CD-ROM file system, Disc At Once or Track At Once methods.
Maintenance Features:
Cleaning: The player should be cleaned with a polishing cloth or a soft dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, a soft cloth moistened with a weak solution of neutral detergent (diluted in five to six parts water), wrung well, can be used, followed by a dry cloth. Volatile liquids like benzine or thinner should not be used as they can damage the unit.
Disc Handling:
- Discs should be stored in their cases vertically, away from high heat, humidity, or extreme temperatures to prevent warping.
- Discs should be kept clean by wiping gently with a soft cloth from the inner edge toward the outer edge.
- If a disc is very dirty, dampen a soft cloth with water (wrung out well) and wipe gently, then remove water drops with a dry cloth.
- Record cleaning sprays, anti-static agents, benzene, thinner, or other volatile solvents should not be used on discs.
- Discs should be held by the edges or by one edge and the center hole to avoid touching signal surfaces.
- Gummed labels or tape should not be affixed to the disc surface.
- Damaged, cracked, or warped discs should not be used.
- Only circular discs should be played; specially shaped discs may cause malfunction.
Lens Cleaner: The player's pickup lens should not normally get dirty. If it does, contact a PIONEER authorized service center. While commercial lens cleaners are available, caution should be exercised as they may damage the lens.
Location and Ventilation: The player should be installed in a well-ventilated location, away from direct sunlight, stoves, radiators, or other heat-generating sources to prevent overheating and adverse effects on internal components. Avoid damp or dusty environments. It should be placed on a level and stable surface, ensuring it does not touch vibrating materials to prevent disc skipping.
Interference Prevention: Install the player as far as possible from tuners and TV sets to avoid noise or picture degradation. If an indoor antenna is used and noise is noticeable, use an outdoor antenna or turn off the CD player. In loud-sound environments, place the unit away from speakers or reduce listening volume to prevent sound skips.
Power Cord Care: Handle the power cord by the plug. Do not pull the cord, touch it with wet hands, place objects on it, or pinch it. Avoid knots or tying it with other cords. Regularly check the cord for damage and replace it if necessary through a PIONEER authorized service center or dealer.
Nonuse Periods: Unplug the power cord from the outlet if the appliance will be unused for a long period.
Safety Checks: After any service or repairs, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to ensure proper operating condition.