🎧 Workflow for XDJ + Rekordbox
1. Before Exporting – Preparation
The XDJ-RX thrives when tracks are well-prepared.
Analyze Mistakes: Beatgrid check every track, set hot cues (intro, drop, outro), and store loops.
Export to USB: Format as FAT32 or exFAT → always export playlists, not just tracks.
Optimize export settings: In Rekordbox Preferences → Export → enable:
Hot Cues + Memory Cues
Waveform preview
My Tag & Rating info
💡 Pro Tip: Export playlists named by set flow (e.g., “Warm-Up 115BPM,” “Peak Tech 126BPM”) instead of just “Techno” or “House.” On the RX, this makes set navigation way easier.
2. USB Organization & Backup
Always carry two USB sticks (one backup).
Use folders/playlists inside Rekordbox → they mirror on the XDJ screen.
Rename USB with your DJ name (looks pro + avoids confusion in booths).
💡 Pro Tip: Add a hidden emergency playlist with tracks you know blend with anything (long intros, safe energy, versatile key). These save you in stressful moments.
3. On the Navigation Workflow
Use the rotary selector + screen for fast browsing → but get comfortable with Rekordbox playlists first so you’re not scrolling endlessly.
Tag List (button on RX) → while playing, tag possible next tracks instead of digging last-minute.
Info button → quickly check BPM/Key/Rating from Rekordbox.
💡 Pro Tip: Train yourself to pre-plan 2–3 tracks ahead using Tag List → avoids panic and makes your set flow smoother.
4. Mixing Workflow
Load with hot cues: Hitting Hot Cue A for intros saves precious seconds.
Phrasing: Practice 16- or 32-bar transitions the RX screen shows phrasing markers if set in Rekordbox.
Loop workflow:
Use auto-loops to extend intros/outros.
Save emergency 8-bar loops in Rekordbox → they sync seamlessly.
EQ discipline: RX EQ knobs are tight — learn bass swaps (kill bass on incoming track, swap cleanly).
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t overuse the crossfader. On club CDJs, most DJs use volume faders + EQ for smoother, more professional transitions.
5. FX & Filters
Sound Color FX (Filter, Noise, Crush, etc.) → simple but powerful. Filter is your best friend for transitions.
Beat FX (Echo, Delay, Reverb, Roll) → sync to BPM for dramatic transitions or echo-outs.
💡 Pro Tip: Less is more. Many DJs overdo FX on RX units. Instead, master one-knob filter transitions → club-ready skill.
6. Performance Tips
Slip Mode → lets you scratch or loop while track keeps playing underneath → great for creativity.
Quantize → keep loops and cues locked to grid (only if beatgrids are accurate).
Vinyl Speed Adjust → set brake/start times to your style (fast for techno, slower for hip-hop feel).
💡 Pro Tip: Keep Quantize ON for hot cues/loops in electronic music, but OFF if you’re mixing older tracks or tracks with drifting beats.
7. End of Gig / Session
Always eject USB properly (hold USB button).
After each session, update software playlist with tracks that worked and remove dead weight.
Tag new “go-to” tracks → they’ll become your core arsenal.
✅ Workflow Checklist
Prep & analyze tracks in Software.
Export playlists → USB (always 2 copies).
Plug into RX, navigate with rotary & Tag List.
Mix using hot cues, phrasing, loops, and filters.
Add FX sparingly, rely on EQ.
Review session → update software library.