Pioneer CDJ-500II Review: Timeless Classic DJ Deck
In a world of ever-changing DJ technology, few pieces of gear have etched their legacy as deeply and permanently as the Pioneer CDJ-500II. This iconic CD deck helped define the transition from vinyl to digital, giving DJs the power to explore new horizons without losing that tactile connection to the music.
If you’re a modern DJ who appreciates classic gear, or a vinyl purist ready to experiment with digital sound, the CDJ-500II offers a nostalgic yet functional ride into what made DJing a global movement. Let’s dive into this timeless workhorse and why it still deserves a spot in your booth—or your collection.
The Rise of a Legend
Before we even get to specs and features, it’s worth painting a bit of history.
Released in the late 1990s, the CDJ-500II was one of the first serious CD players to bridge the gap between analog tradition and digital innovation. DJs who had once resisted compact discs began to see the potential: seamless looping, anti-skip protection, and tempo control—features that were barely dreams in the vinyl era.
This deck didn’t just bring CDs into the DJ booth—it legitimized them. And today, over 25 years later, it’s still being used, collected, and appreciated by DJs of all generations.
Built Like a Tank (And Styled Like One Too)
There’s something reassuring about the CDJ-500II’s build. With a solid metal chassis, intuitive layout, and a clean control panel, it screams professional. The jog wheel—larger than its predecessor—is tight, responsive, and durable. Whether you’re cueing or pitch-bending, it responds precisely the way you need it to.
The front-loading CD tray still feels smooth, with that satisfying soft eject. No plastic creaks. No cheap clicks. Just that 90s-era reliability that was made to last.
And let’s be honest: the minimalist industrial design looks vintage cool today. It’s like having a piece of DJ history on your table.
Key Features That Still Hold Up
Despite being a couple of decades old, the Pioneer CDJ-500II offers plenty of features that still feel surprisingly useful, especially for DJs looking to explore mixing without software or screens.
1. Master Tempo
This was revolutionary at the time. The CDJ-500II’s Master Tempo feature allows you to change tempo without affecting pitch—a must-have for seamless blends. While it’s common today, this was cutting-edge when it launched.
2. Auto Cue & Cue Point Memory
You can pre-load tracks and set cue points with precision. The auto-cue system waits for the first beat to hit before playback starts, giving DJs a perfect launch every time. It remembers the last cue point even after the CD is ejected—simple but smart.
3. Looping with In/Out Memory
Basic looping? Yes. Revolutionary? Also yes. This was one of the first CD decks that allowed DJs to loop on the fly with in/out points and even store them temporarily.
4. Pitch Bend Buttons
In addition to the jog wheel, the pitch bend buttons gave DJs precise control over tempo corrections—perfect for beat-matching those tricky transitions.
5. Anti-Skip Memory
This was huge in the days before SSDs. Thanks to onboard buffer memory, the CDJ-500II wouldn’t skip even if the booth shook or the stage bounced.
Real-World Performance: Classic Feels in a Digital Age
Using the CDJ-500II today is a bit like driving a classic car: you don’t do it because it’s faster—you do it because of the feel.
The jog wheel has just enough resistance to make cueing satisfying. The pitch fader is long and smooth, making beat-matching a joy (especially if you’re training your ear). And with no screens or waveforms, you have to listen—making this an excellent tool for DJs who want to sharpen their core skills.
This is gear that encourages real DJing—not sync-button pushing. You develop an intuitive sense of rhythm and timing. It’s tactile, deliberate, and immensely rewarding.
Who Is the CDJ-500II For?
While some might see it as a relic, others see it as a rite of passage.
- Beginner DJs who want to learn the fundamentals will benefit from the hands-on mixing style this deck encourages.
- Vinyl DJs transitioning to digital will find its layout familiar and accessible.
- Collectors and enthusiasts will appreciate its historical value and long-lasting build.
- Professionals might not use it for every gig, but it’s a great training tool or backup solution.
- Studio creators might use it for listening to CDs, practicing mixes, or sampling audio.
And yes—it still holds up in small gig environments or home setups.
Pricing and Availability (2025 Update)
Although discontinued, the Pioneer CDJ-500II is still widely available on the second-hand market. Due to its legendary status, it retains strong resale value, often priced between:
- £140–£250 GBP (depending on condition and included accessories)
- $180–$300 USD on average
Models in pristine condition or with original packaging/manuals may go even higher. If you’re lucky, you can score a bundle deal with a pair for under $500.
Sites like eBay, Reverb, or specialty audio stores are excellent places to check. Just be sure to test functionality if buying used, especially the jog wheel, pitch fader, and cue buttons.
What You Won’t Get (And Why That’s Okay)
Let’s be honest: the CDJ-500II doesn’t support USBs. There’s no Rekordbox. No waveform display. No hot cues. It doesn’t even support MP3 CDs—just audio CDs.
But that’s part of its charm. It forces you to be intentional. To prepare your music. To trust your ears. And to interact with the music in a way that today’s screens can’t replicate.
It’s not about speed. It’s about connection. To the music. To the crowd. To the craft.
Pros and Cons Summary
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Classic, durable build | No USB or digital file support |
| Excellent jog wheel | Only plays standard audio CDs |
| Master tempo and pitch control | No waveform or display screen |
| Encourages skill development | No hot cues or modern features |
| Affordable second-hand pricing | Heavier than modern models |
| Nostalgic appeal | Limited looping functionality |
Final Verdict: A Must-Have for the Right DJ
The Pioneer CDJ-500II is more than a CD player—it’s a symbol of an era when DJs were pushing boundaries with fresh tools and new ideas. It gave us the courage to let go of vinyl just a little and explore new ways to mix.
For today’s DJ, it’s both a training ground and a time capsule. It forces discipline. It rewards practice. And it still feels amazing to use.
If you’ve never touched one, you’re missing out on an essential piece of DJ history. If you have? You know exactly what we mean.
So whether you’re a collector, a student of the craft, or someone just starting out, the CDJ-500II still has something powerful to offer in 2025.
Ready to Own a Piece of DJ History?
Now’s the time to pick up your own Pioneer CDJ-500II. Whether you’re building your first setup or adding a classic to your collection, this deck won’t disappoint.
Buy Now and elevate your DJ journey with a legendary player: