AlphaTheta
AlphaTheta launches CDJ-1500X, a compact CDJ-3000X priced at $1599
AlphaTheta has launched the CDJ-1500X, a compact DJ multi-player, that brings the 10.1-inch capacitive touchscreen of the flagship CDJ-3000X into a slightly smaller unit. At 252.1 × 374.7 × 116.5 mm and 3.6 kg, it is roughly 60% the weight of the CDJ-3000X and is positioned for bars, small clubs and venues where booth space is limited.
The unit retains the streaming and cloud playback capabilities of the CDJ-3000X. StreamingDirectPlay supports Apple Music, Beatport Streaming and TIDAL via a compatible rekordbox subscription, while CloudDirectPlay allows access to music libraries stored on Dropbox or Google Drive. Quick login is available via QR code or NFC.
On the physical side, the CDJ-1500X carries USB Type-A and USB Type-C ports, a LAN port for PRO DJ LINK, and a single RCA analogue output. Unlike the CDJ-3000X, there is no digital coaxial output. Supported formats include MP3, AAC, WAV, AIFF, Apple Lossless and FLAC.
CoBeat
CoBeat is a new feature added to the CDJ-1500X. It allows audience members to send song requests and messages directly to the player’s screen via their smartphones in real time. DJs can view these through dedicated Request and Message screens on the touchscreen, giving them a live read on dancefloor mood without stepping away from the booth.
Customisation
The CDJ-1500X brings a new docking station for USBs. The LED in the docking station can be set to any of 12 colours, and optional side panels are available separately for a look that blends with the booth aesthetic. The display also offers Dark and Light modes, switchable to suit the lighting conditions of the venue. On connectivity, the unit includes a USB Type-A port for storage devices alongside two USB Type-C ports — one for storage and one for PC connection.
Key features
- 10.1-inch capacitive full-colour touchscreen with dark and light display modes
- Built-in Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac) and wired LAN for cloud and streaming access
- StreamingDirectPlay: Apple Music, Beatport Streaming and TIDAL via compatible rekordbox subscription
- CloudDirectPlay: Dropbox and Google Drive support
- QR code and NFC login for fast access to cloud and streaming services
- CoBeat compatibility — audience members can send song requests and messages to the player’s screen via smartphone
- 12 front-panel LED colour options; optional side panels available separately
- USB Type-A x1 and USB Type-C x2 (storage and PC connection)
- OneLibrary compatible
- Compatible software: rekordbox (Mac/Windows/iOS/Android), djay Pro, Serato DJ Pro
- Supported formats: MP3, AAC, WAV, AIFF, Apple Lossless, FLAC
CDJ-1500X vs CDJ-3000X
| CDJ-1500X | CDJ-3000X | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 252.1 x 374.7 x 116.5 mm | 344.6 x 490.4 x 130.1 mm |
| Weight | 3.6 kg / 7.9 lb | 6.0 kg / 13.2 lb |
| Display | 10.1-inch capacitive touchscreen | 10.1-inch capacitive touchscreen |
| Audio output | RCA (analog) x1 | RCA (analog) x1 + Digital coaxial x1 |
| S/N ratio | 105 dB | 115 dB |
| THD | 0.003% | 0.0018% |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz – 20 kHz | 4 Hz – 40 kHz |
| DAC | Not specified | 96kHz/32-bit (ESS Technologies) |
| Power | AC adapter (DC 12V/3.0A) | Direct mains (AC 100-240V) |
| CoBeat | Yes | No |
| Front LED colours | 12 | Not available |
| Streaming | Apple Music, Beatport, TIDAL | Apple Music, Beatport, TIDAL |
| Cloud | Dropbox, Google Drive | Dropbox, Google Drive |
The CDJ-1500X gives up a few things to achieve its price tag. Audio performance is stepped down from the CDJ-3000X — the S/N ratio drops from 115 dB to 105 dB, THD rises from 0.0018% to 0.003%, and the frequency response narrows from 4 Hz–40 kHz to 20 Hz–20 kHz. There is no digital coaxial output, and the CDJ-3000X’s 96kHz/32-bit ESS Technologies DAC is not carried over. Performance features Gate Cue, Preview Hot Cue, and Smart Cue have all been carried over except Key Sync and Key Shift.
Compatible software at launch includes rekordbox for Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android, djay Pro and Serato DJ Pro. AlphaTheta has confirmed that the rekordbox Mac/Windows update adding CDJ-1500X support is scheduled for July 9, 2026.
Price: €1,699 including VAT / $1,599 excluding tax / $1,699 (Only in the U.S., excluding sales tax)
