Pioneer DJ just announced its new HDJ-X5BT Bluetooth headphone. It’s the same spec and sound quality as last year’s HDJ-X5 entry-level DJ headphone, but with the addition of Bluetooth for wireless connectivity while listening on a smart device or laptop. It packs 40mm speaker drivers, a folding design, and comfortable ear pads that offer noise isolation. It’s got a built-in rechargeable battery and a three-hour charge can get you up to 20 hours of battery life, perfect for long commutes and travel. It also comes with a 1.2m coiled cable that automatically deactivates Bluetooth when connected, allowing you to use them as traditional DJ headphones when you’re spinning.
If you’re asking why you can’t just spin with Bluetooth enabled, it’s nearly impossible because of Bluetooth’s latency, which results in a slight delay between the sound coming out of your playback device and what you’re hearing in your cans. That’s why a wired connection is preferred by practically all DJs (up until perhaps a wireless device with almost no latency like the Natus One hits the market).
That said, the HDJ-X5BT looks like a practical solution for DJs who need a versatile pair of headphones they can use both in and outside the club. The included coiled cable means you can use it for practice sessions as well as gigs, and Bluetooth connectivity makes casual listening a breeze particularly if you’ve got a smartphone without a headphone jack. Watch out for our review of it soon.
Check out the photo gallery and promo video below.
Promo Video
Photo Gallery
• The Pioneer DJ HDJ-X5BT will be available from October 2018 for US$149. Check the Pioneer DJ site for more details.
What are your thoughts on these headphones? Think the Bluetooth connectivity is a nice addition, or is it unnecessary? Let us know below.
Joey Santos
