Top-Rated Turntables for DJs: A Complete Guide

For DJs, the turntable isn't just a piece of equipment; it's an essential tool that helps shape their craft, performance, and identity. Whether you're scratching vinyl, creating live mixes, or engaging in complex transitions, having the right turntable can make all the difference in your sound quality, reliability, and overall performance.

In this guide, we'll explore some of the top-rated turntables that every DJ should consider. These turntables are built to withstand the rigors of live performances, offer excellent sound quality, and come equipped with the necessary features to make any DJ set seamless.

Key Features to Look for in DJ Turntables

When searching for the ideal turntable for DJing, there are several key features to keep in mind. A good DJ turntable should offer durability, precision, and features that make scratching, mixing, and cueing easy. Below are some of the most important considerations:

1. Direct Drive vs. Belt Drive:

   • Direct Drive turntables are often preferred by DJs due to their instant startup time, consistent speed, and ability to withstand heavy use.
   • Belt Drive turntables are more affordable and can still offer decent performance, but they tend to have a slight delay in response and are less durable for live performance.

2. Pitch Control: DJs need the ability to adjust the speed of a record in minute increments. High-quality turntables feature pitch control sliders that allow for fine-tuning of tempo, essential for beatmatching during mixes.

3. Durability and Build Quality: DJs put their turntables through a lot of stress, including heavy scratching and constant transport. A durable, sturdy build is critical, especially for turntables used in gigs and clubs.

4. Slipmat and Platter: The platter should allow for smooth, precise movements, while a slipmat ensures the vinyl can be manipulated without damage.

5. Tonearm Quality: A good tonearm is essential for tracking the grooves of vinyl records accurately. Look for tonearms with adjustable weights to fine-tune tracking force.

6. USB Connectivity: Many modern DJ turntables come with USB connectivity, allowing DJs to easily digitize their vinyl collection or connect directly to DJ software.

Best Turntables for DJs

1. Technics SL-1210 MK7

Why It's Ideal for DJs:

• Industry Standard: The Technics SL-1210 series has been the gold standard for DJs for decades. The MK7 is the latest iteration, maintaining the legendary reliability and performance of its predecessors.
• Direct Drive Motor: The MK7 features a high-torque direct drive motor, ensuring quick start-up times and consistent rotation speeds. It is perfect for scratching and long performances.
• Durability: This turntable is built to last with its robust construction and excellent build quality. It's designed to handle the heavy demands of professional DJs.
• Pitch Control: The MK7 offers precise pitch control, with a 0.02% adjustment range, allowing for accurate beatmatching and transitions.

What to Keep in Mind:

• Price: The Technics SL-1210 MK7 is one of the more expensive DJ turntables, but its reliability and longevity make it worth the investment.
• Heavyweight: While durable, the turntable is relatively heavy, which could be a consideration if you plan to transport it frequently.

Price Range: ~$1,200

2. Pioneer DJ PLX-1000

Why It's Ideal for DJs:

• High-Torque Motor: The Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 features a direct drive motor with high torque, providing instant start-ups and smooth performance during long sets.
• Professional Features: It has a robust build and offers features such as pitch control, adjustable height feet, and a large aluminum platter to ensure stability.
• Vibration Reduction: The heavy-duty construction and vibration-damping materials help reduce unwanted noise and resonance, improving sound clarity during performance.
• Compatibility: Works seamlessly with both vinyl and digital setups, making it versatile for a variety of DJ setups.

What to Keep in Mind:

• Weight: Like the Technics SL-1210, the PLX-1000 is heavy, which could make it less convenient for mobile DJs who need to transport equipment often.

Price Range: ~$700 - $800

3. Numark NS7III

Why It's Ideal for DJs:

• All-in-One Controller: The Numark NS7III is more than just a turntable. It's a complete digital DJ controller with motorized platters, providing a traditional turntable feel while integrating with DJ software.
• Motorized Platters: The motorized platters emulate the vinyl experience with high-torque motors, allowing for precise scratching and smooth transitions.
• Built-In Screen: The NS7III comes with built-in LCD screens that provide real-time feedback, including track information, waveform displays, and more, which enhances the performance experience.
• Versatility: With its built-in mixer, effects, and USB connectivity, the NS7III integrates perfectly with Serato DJ Pro and other popular DJ software.

What to Keep in Mind:

• Size and Weight: This controller is larger and heavier than traditional turntables, making it less portable.
• Price: It's a high-end model, and the price reflects that. It may be overkill for those who only need a basic setup.

Price Range: ~$1,400 - $1,500

4. Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB

Why It's Ideal for DJs:

• Affordable Option: The AT-LP120XUSB offers excellent performance at an affordable price, making it perfect for beginner or intermediate DJs.
• Direct Drive: With a direct drive motor, this turntable offers reliable speed and performance, suitable for both scratching and mixing.
• USB Output: The built-in USB output makes it easy to digitize your vinyl collection and integrate it into digital DJ setups.
• Adjustable Pitch Control: This feature allows you to fine-tune the tempo, essential for beatmatching and smooth transitions.

What to Keep in Mind:

• Build Quality: While solid for the price, the AT-LP120XUSB's build is not as high-end as some of the more expensive options, such as the Technics or Pioneer models.
• Limited Professional Features: While perfect for beginners, it may lack some advanced features that professional DJs need.

Price Range: ~$300 - $350

5. Reloop RP-8000 MK2

Why It's Ideal for DJs:

• Hybrid Design: The Reloop RP-8000 MK2 blends the traditional feel of a turntable with modern digital features. It's a direct-drive turntable that also offers MIDI control, making it compatible with digital DJ setups.
• Torque Control: The high-torque motor offers precise speed control, and the ability to adjust torque provides extra flexibility for different styles of mixing and scratching.
• Built-In MIDI Control: This turntable features built-in MIDI controls for seamless integration with DJ software, including Serato and Traktor. This gives you additional flexibility for live performances.
• Durable and Well-Built: The RP-8000 MK2 is designed to withstand the rigors of professional DJ use, with a robust, solid build.

What to Keep in Mind:

• Complexity: The advanced features may be overkill for DJs who only need a basic turntable setup.
• Price: Like many professional-grade turntables, the RP-8000 MK2 comes at a premium price.

Price Range: ~$800 - $900

Conclusion

When choosing a turntable for DJing, it's essential to consider your style, level of experience, and the specific needs of your DJ setup. The Technics SL-1210 MK7 and Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 remain the industry leaders, providing the durability and performance required by professional DJs. Meanwhile, the Numark NS7III is an all-in-one solution with advanced features for digital DJs, and the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB offers a great entry point for beginners. The Reloop RP-8000 MK2 combines traditional turntable feel with modern digital control, offering flexibility for DJs looking to blend the analog and digital worlds.

Regardless of your choice, make sure the turntable you select fits your setup and performance needs. With any of the options above, you'll be equipped to take your DJ skills to the next level.