Getting your first set of DJ turntables can be a hard process.
This is due to the fact that you can't DJ and therefore can't evaluate turntables for your needs and budget. Turntables are one of the most important pieces of DJ equipment.
For a long time (20 years) Technics Turntables have been the safe (but expensive) option. I got a set of Technics turntables when I started and I have never regretted the buy.
However over the last few years there have been a number of quality turntables released from Numark, Vestax and Gemini that not only rival but excede the performance and features of the Technics SL 1200/1210.
This page is for those new to DJing who want some good tips for selecting turntables. I'll take you through what I think are the best turntables on the market for DJing.
1. Drive mechanism:
There are two different types of turntables. Expensive direct drive and cheap belt drive. Direct drive is far superior and I won't consider any belt drives here.
2. Torque:
This is the strength of the drive on the platter. More torque is better, it makes your start ups faster and lets you make precise changes in the mix. Manufacturers claim torque figures but do you know what 1.5 Kg/m feels like? Technics turntables have plenty of torque for mixing and the Vestax PDX 2000s have even more. Once you get certain level of torque the limiting factor becomes you skill at mixing.
3. Pitch adjustment:
All the turntables below allow you to adjust the tempo of tracks by adjust the speed of the platter. Some allow you to adjust it more than others. The + or - 8% that Technics turntables have is plenty.
4. Tone arm:
Straight tone arms are apparently better for scratching since the needles will jump less. Jumping needles is a real pain in the ass when your in the mix so I am all for things that reduce it. However, my Technics turnmtables have an "S" shaped arm and they never jump when I have needles in good condition on them.
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