Best DJ Turntables for Beginners: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re looking to start your journey as a DJ, finding the best turntables for beginners can be a daunting task. There are so many options available in the market, and choosing the right one can make or break your DJing experience. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best DJ turntables for beginners, so you can start spinning with confidence.
Understanding DJ Turntables
Before we dive into the best DJ turntables for beginners, let’s first understand what a DJ turntable is and its components. A DJ turntable is an electronic device used to play and manipulate music. It consists of a platter, tonearm, cartridge, and stylus. The platter is where the record is placed, and it rotates to produce sound. The tonearm holds the cartridge, which reads the sound from the record’s grooves, and the stylus translates that sound into an electrical signal that is amplified and played through speakers.
Things to Consider Before Buying DJ Turntables
Before buying a DJ turntable, there are a few things you should consider to ensure you get the right one that meets your needs.
Price
DJ turntables come in a wide range of prices, and it’s essential to determine your budget before making a purchase. While you may be tempted to go for the cheapest option, it’s crucial to invest in quality turntables that will give you value for your money.
Direct Drive vs. Belt Drive
Direct drive and belt drive are the two main types of turntables available in the market. Direct drive turntables have a motor directly attached to the platter, making them more responsive and durable. On the other hand, belt drive turntables have a motor that drives the platter through a belt, which can reduce vibration but may need occasional belt replacements.
Analog vs. Digital
Analog turntables use vinyl records, while digital turntables use software to manipulate music. Analog turntables offer a unique sound quality that cannot be replicated by digital turntables. However, digital turntables offer more versatility and ease of use.
Features
Different turntables come with different features such as pitch control, USB connectivity, and built-in preamp. It’s essential to determine the features you need and choose a turntable that meets your requirements.
Top 5 Best DJ Turntables for Beginners
Now that we have a good understanding of DJ turntables let’s dive into the top 5 best DJ turntables for beginners.
1. Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB is an excellent choice for beginners looking for a high-quality turntable that won’t break the bank. It features a direct drive motor, pitch control, USB connectivity, and a built-in phono preamp. It also comes with a replaceable stylus and a switchable cartridge.
2. Pioneer DJ PLX-500-K
The Pioneer DJ PLX-500-K is another great turntable for beginners. It features a direct drive motor, a high-torque platter, and a USB output for digitizing your vinyl collection. It also has a built-in preamp, making it easy to connect to powered speakers.
3. Numark PT01 Scratch
If you’re looking for a portable turntable, the Numark PT01 Scratch is an excellent option. It’s a belt-drive turntable that features a built-in scratch switch, pitch control, and a USB port for digitizing your vinyl collection. It’s also battery-powered, making it perfect for outdoor events.
4. Stanton T62-B
The Stanton T62-B is a budget-friendly turntable that comes with a direct-drive motor, pitch control, and a built-in preamp. It also has a straight tonearm that provides excellent tracking and sound quality. The Stanton T62-B is an excellent option for beginners looking for a reliable turntable without breaking the bank.
5. Reloop RP-4000 MK2
The Reloop RP-4000 MK2 is a high-quality turntable that features a direct-drive motor, pitch control, and a sturdy build quality. It also has a quartz-driven pitch lock, which makes it easier to match the BPM of tracks. The Reloop RP-4000 MK2 is an excellent choice for beginners looking for a durable and reliable turntable.
Conclusion
Choosing the best DJ turntables for beginners can be a challenging task, but with this guide, you can find the right turntable that meets your needs. Remember to consider your budget, type of turntable, features, and brand reputation before making a purchase.
FAQs
- What is the difference between direct-drive and belt-drive turntables? Direct-drive turntables have a motor directly attached to the platter, making them more responsive and durable, while belt-drive turntables have a motor that drives the platter through a belt, which can reduce vibration but may need occasional belt replacements.
- Do I need a preamp for my turntable? It depends on the type of turntable and speakers you have. Some turntables have a built-in preamp, while others require an external preamp to connect to speakers.
- Can I use digital software with analog turntables? Yes, you can use digital software with analog turntables, but you will need additional hardware such as a mixer to connect them.
- Do I need to replace the stylus on my turntable? Yes, the stylus on a turntable can wear out over time and will need to be replaced to maintain optimal sound quality.
- Can I use a DJ turntable for listening to music at home? Yes, DJ turntables can be used for listening to music at home, but they are designed for DJing and may not have all the features you need for casual listening.