CDJ-350 and DJM-350 sound card vs. CDJ-850 and DJM-800 sound card

@martin > Firstly - there is no sound card on the DJM-800 or DJM-350. ;)

Second - It depends on what method you're going to be using to DJ with your gear to determine if the built in sound cards will even matter on the player. How were you planning on playing the music with the CDJ's? CD's, USB devices, Control software such as Traktor or Serato?

Third -  There is a difference in the highest possible sound quality between the CDJ-850 and CDJ-350, but I believe that is by using either CD's or USB devices. I don't know for sure about the built in sound cards between those 2 models, but I'm guessing the CDJ-850 might have a higher quality one.

Just my personal opinion - I would base my purchase on more than just the sound quality of the product, seeing as they are both so extremely high, I have no idea who in the world would be able to tell the difference. I know it's not fair for me to say, but it's honestly true when you think about how many people you actually think would notice it. What is more important in my opinion, would be the headroom on the mixer, the quality of the EQ, quality of effects, and overall what you need to make your mixing sound great and take it to the next level. ;) Some may say you need the DJM-800 with the CDJ-850's, others are more than overwhelmed with their CDJ-350's and DJM-350. It's really what you think would suit your style and needs better. Don't forget that if you get a gig and want to take your own gear, you're going to have to lug all that heavy stuff! lol Just something to think about on top of it. ;)

Thanks for the insight Foster, appreciate it!

1) Well I would primarily be playing the CDJ's with CD's, or flash drives that have songs in .wav format. Considering that with my current set up I don't have the ability to use USB, I can't really say if I would pick one or the other. I'll start with CD's and then i might switch to USB based on ease of use, but this can change based on my personal preference after mixing with both. I currently use virtualDJ, but with this new setup I plan on moving onto Traktor; however, I've used Serato's intro DJ and may give it another try with this new setup and see which I prefer.

2) Primarily my big concern is that I plan on recording my mixes in .wav format. Knowing that .wav is higher quality then mp3's. Reason being... I plan on taking my recorded remixes to production software such as ableton live and fl studio.

3) The less weight compared to the other CDJ's and mixers would make it a bit easier when it comes to gigs. On another note, I know people are calling the CDJ-350 and DJM-350 "entry-level" DJ equipment. I am planning on this setup to last for several years and eventually be my backup down the road. Where I currently play my gigs at house parties and small bars/clubs. I am leaning more towards the 350's to save money but I worry that I may find myself dissatisfied with the 350's not being advanced grade and limited by its capabilities. Considering that I have only ever used Numark, I don't really know what to expect from Pioneer's equipment besides people commenting on its sound quality and sturdy build.

@martin > Consider the DJM-250; it's a new, compact 2ch mixer -- and while it falls under the "entry level" banner, it's a fantastic mixer with pro-grade connections, build and reliability.

Dear Martin,
I am no professional on this topic, but I would like to share some insights since I own a 350 set for several months now. After playing with some DJ controllers, I wanted to take the next step and wanted to invest in a set. My initial decision was similar and in order not to be disappointed later with my investment I have decided to go small and bought the 350s. They are great for home use, however even after couple months of DJing, you end up wanting for more. First of all, I do not think it is a great idea to take 350s to a bar, since DJM350 does not even has a XLR connector. ok you can get by with RCA maybe, but even this tells that they are designed for home use.. Secondly, they are very limited in effects.. And thirdly, 850 boasts 4 channels, while you are limited to 2 in 350. And you want that extra channel, to throw in some excitement.. As you can see I am already looking into investing in some higher end equipment and I would definitely recommend you to consider DJM850 and CDJ900s.. Even those are not made for playing in clubs since the built quality is average. for club use you would probably need either MK3s or 2000s to endure that eventual splashes of beer :)
Good luck with your decision..
Cheers,
Berkay