The Best DJ Turntables for Professional and Amateur DJs
As a DJ, your turntable is the most critical piece of equipment in your setup. It’s the tool that allows you to create the beats and rhythms that keep the party going all night long. However, with so many options on the market, choosing the right one can be daunting. In this article, we’ll explore the best DJ turntables for both professional and amateur DJs.
What is a DJ Turntable?
A DJ turntable is a specialized record player designed for DJs to manipulate and mix music on vinyl records. A typical DJ turntable consists of a rotating platter, a tonearm with a stylus, and pitch control. These components allow DJs to scratch, mix, and manipulate the music in real-time, creating new sounds and remixes on the fly.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a DJ Turntable
When choosing a DJ turntable, there are several factors to consider:
1. Drive Type
There are two main types of turntable drives: direct drive and belt drive. Direct drive turntables have a motor directly connected to the platter, which provides faster start-up and more consistent speed control. Belt drive turntables use a belt to connect the motor to the platter, which provides smoother playback but can be less responsive.
2. Torque
Torque is the force that drives the platter and determines how quickly it reaches its intended speed. High torque turntables are ideal for scratching and mixing, as they can quickly adjust to changes in speed.
3. Tonearm
The tonearm is the part of the turntable that holds the cartridge and stylus. It should be sturdy, well-balanced, and have adjustable counterweights to ensure accurate tracking and minimize record wear.
4. Cartridge and Stylus
The cartridge and stylus are essential for reproducing sound accurately. Look for a high-quality cartridge and stylus that match your music style and provide excellent tracking and sound quality.
5. Pitch Control
Pitch control allows DJs to adjust the speed of the platter, making it easier to beat match and mix tracks seamlessly. Look for a turntable with adjustable pitch control and a wide range of pitch adjustment.
Top DJ Turntables for Professional DJs
1. Technics SL-1200MK7
The Technics SL-1200MK7 is a classic turntable that has been a favorite of professional DJs for decades. It features a direct drive motor, high torque, and excellent pitch control, making it perfect for scratching and mixing. Its sturdy build and exceptional sound quality make it a reliable choice for any DJ.
2. Pioneer DJ PLX-1000MK2
The Pioneer DJ PLX-1000MK2 is a direct drive turntable designed for professional DJs. It has high torque and adjustable pitch control, allowing for precise mixing and scratching. Its sleek design and excellent sound quality make it a top choice for DJs who want a reliable and stylish turntable.
3. Reloop RP-8000 MK2
The Reloop RP-8000 MK2 is a versatile turntable designed for professional DJs. It features a hybrid torque system that combines direct drive and belt drive, allowing for smoother playback and more responsive scratch performance. It also has an adjustable pitch control and a built-in MIDI controller, making it a great choice for DJs who want to incorporate digital tools into their setup.
4. Denon DJ VL12 Prime
The Denon DJ VL12 Prime is a high-end turntable designed for professional DJs. It features a direct drive motor with high torque, adjustable pitch control, and a rugged build that can withstand heavy use. Its innovative isolation feet and low-noise motor make it ideal for DJ performances in noisy environments.
Top DJ Turntables for Amateur DJs
1. Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB is an excellent entry-level turntable for amateur DJs. It features a direct drive motor, adjustable pitch control, and a built-in preamp, making it easy to connect to any sound system. Its sturdy build and affordable price make it a great choice for beginners.
2. Numark PT01 Scratch
The Numark PT01 Scratch is a portable turntable designed for scratch DJs. It features a belt drive motor, adjustable pitch control, and a built-in scratch switch, making it easy to scratch and mix on the go. Its compact size and battery-powered operation make it perfect for outdoor performances and impromptu scratch sessions.
3. Stanton T.62 M2
The Stanton T.62 M2 is a reliable turntable designed for beginner and intermediate DJs. It features a direct drive motor, adjustable pitch control, and a sturdy build that can withstand heavy use. Its affordable price and excellent sound quality make it a great value for amateur DJs.
4. Pioneer DJ DDJ-200
The Pioneer DJ DDJ-200 is a digital turntable designed for beginner DJs who want to incorporate digital tools into their setup. It features a built-in mixer, customizable effects, and wireless connectivity to popular DJ apps. Its compact size and affordable price make it a great choice for DJs who want to learn the basics of DJing with a digital turntable.
Conclusion
Choosing the best DJ turntable depends on your skill level, music style, and budget. Professional DJs should look for high-end turntables with direct drive motors, high torque, and excellent pitch control. Amateur DJs can start with entry-level turntables with direct or belt drive motors, adjustable pitch control, and a sturdy build.
Whichever turntable you choose, make sure to consider factors like torque, tonearm, cartridge, and pitch control to ensure the best possible performance. With the right turntable and plenty of practice, you can become a skilled DJ and keep the party going all night long.
FAQs
- Can I use a DJ turntable for regular listening?
- What’s the difference between direct drive and belt drive turntables?
- Do I need a preamp for my DJ turntable?
- How do I clean and maintain my DJ turntable?
- Can I mix and scratch on a digital turntable like the Pioneer DJ DDJ-200?