DJ Turntables
In the age of digital DJing and all-in-one controllers, there’s still something magical—almost sacred about spinning vinyl on a real turntable. Whether you’re a hip-hop scratch artist, a house DJ with deep crates, or a newcomer inspired by the legends,
DJ turntables remain a foundational piece of gear for any serious setup.
What to Look for and How to Buy the Right DJ Turntable
Not all turntables are created equal, and buying one isn’t as simple as picking the cheapest model on Amazon. From belt vs direct drive, torque and tonearms to digital integration and build quality, here’s what you need to know before dropping the needle (and your cash) on a new deck.
Why DJ Turntables Matter
Unlike consumer record players built for casual listening, DJ turntables are designed to take abuse and keep spinning. They’re built for precision, durability, and performance—whether you’re mixing, scratching, or beat juggling. A good turntable isn’t just a playback device—it’s an instrument.
What to Look for in a DJ Turntable
Let’s break down the essential features to consider when buying a DJ turntable.
Direct Drive vs. Belt Drive
This is arguably the most important decision.
- Direct Drive turntables use a motor directly under the platter. They offer high torque and quick start/stop times, which makes them ideal for DJing, especially scratching and live mixing.
- Belt Drive models use a belt to spin the platter. These are better for home listening due to lower motor noise but are generally not suited for DJ use—the torque is too low, and they can’t handle the physical demands of cueing and scratching.
✅ Go with Direct Drive if you’re DJing. Always.
Build Quality & Stability
You’re going to be touching the platter a lot. A DJ turntable needs to be:
- Heavy and vibration-resistant
- Sturdy under pressure (especially during live performance)
- Durable over time
Look for turntables with solid metal chassis or heavy composite materials. A lightweight, plastic body just won’t hold up when you’re cueing aggressively or scratching hard.
Pitch Control & Tempo Adjustment
For mixing and beatmatching, pitch control is essential. Most DJ turntables offer ±8% pitch range, but higher-end models may go to ±16% or even 50% for creative mixing.
Look for:
- Precise pitch sliders
- Quartz lock (reset to 0%)
- Stable platter rotation with minimal wow and flutter (pitch instability)
Price Range: What Should You Spend?
Here’s a rough breakdown of what to expect in different price ranges:
Budget ($200–$400):
Entry-level DJ turntables like the Pioneer PLX-500 or Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB. Great for learning, casual gigs, and home setups.
Mid-range ($400–$800):
Models like the Reloop RP-7000 MK2 or Stanton STX offer pro-level features at a more affordable price point. Good for club use and serious hobbyists.
High-end ($800+):
Technics SL-1200MK7, Pioneer PLX-1000, or the RANE Twelve MKII (a digital platter for Serato DJs). Built for touring, heavy performance, and long-term reliability.
Tips for Buying a DJ Turntable
- Buy two if you’re planning on mixing vinyl or using a DVS setup.
- Don’t skip on the cartridge—a bad stylus can ruin your records and your sound.
- Check for accessories like slipmats, dust covers, and cables included in the box.
- Try before you buy if possible—feel the torque, cue a record, and test the pitch control.
Torque: The Power Behind the Platter
Torque refers to how fast the platter gets up to speed. Higher torque means:
- Faster startup time
- More consistent tempo during heavy scratching
- Better response to your hand movements
Look for high-torque motors—especially if you’re into scratching or turntablism. Entry-level models like the Pioneer PLX-500 offer decent torque, while pro models like the Technics SL-1200MK7 are industry standards for a reason.
Tonearm Design & Cartridge Quality
A quality tonearm ensures accurate tracking and minimal skipping. There are two common types:
- S-shaped tonearms: More stable and gentle on records, better for general mixing.
- Straight tonearms: Offer superior tracking, great for scratching but can wear records faster.
Most DJ turntables come with a cartridge and stylus included, but upgrading to a high-quality DJ cartridge (like Ortofon Concorde or Shure M44-7 if you can find it) can make a big difference in sound and performance.
USB and Digital Features
If you’re a vinyl collector who also wants to digitize your records, USB-equipped turntables like the Pioneer PLX-500 or Audio-Technica AT-LP120 are a smart buy. Just plug them into your computer and start recording with the software of your choice.
If you’re a digital DJ using DVS (Digital Vinyl System) like Serato or Rekordbox DVS, make sure your turntable is DVS-compatible and pairs well with your interface or mixer.
Recommended Turntables for DJs
- Pioneer PLX-500 – Great balance of quality and price; USB recording and DVS support make it ideal for beginners and hobbyists.
- Technics SL-1200MK7 – The legend returns. Industry-standard durability, feel, and torque.
- Reloop RP-7000 MK2 – A feature-packed, club-ready turntable at a competitive price.
- Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB – A good starter deck with USB and solid DJ features.
- RANE Twelve MKII – For digital DJs who want a turntable feel with zero needles.
Choosing a DJ turntable is more than a purchase—it’s an investment in your craft. Whether you’re after the raw tactile thrill of vinyl, building a DVS hybrid setup, or just digitizing your old records, picking the right turntable is key to unlocking your full creative potential.
Do your research, know your needs, and buy with confidence. Once you’ve got the right deck under your hands, it’s only a matter of time before your mix game levels up.
