Buying Guide for the Best Dj Turntable
Choosing the right DJ turntable can significantly impact your performance and overall experience. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned DJ, understanding the key specifications and how they align with your needs is crucial. This guide will help you navigate through the essential features to consider when selecting a DJ turntable, ensuring you make an informed decision that suits your style and requirements.Drive TypeThe drive type of a turntable refers to the mechanism that spins the platter. There are two main types: direct drive and belt drive. Direct drive turntables have a motor directly connected to the platter, providing quick start-up times and consistent speed, making them ideal for scratching and mixing. Belt drive turntables use a belt to spin the platter, which can offer better sound quality but slower start-up times. If you're into scratching and heavy DJing, a direct drive turntable is the way to go. For home listening or light mixing, a belt drive might suffice.
PlatterThe platter is the part of the turntable that holds and spins the record. A heavier platter can help maintain consistent speed and reduce vibrations, which is crucial for accurate playback and mixing. Platters can be made from various materials like aluminum, steel, or even acrylic. For DJs who perform live and need precision, a heavier, high-quality platter is recommended. For casual use, a lighter platter may be adequate.
TonearmThe tonearm holds the cartridge and stylus, guiding them across the record. There are straight and S-shaped tonearms, each offering different benefits. Straight tonearms are better for scratching as they provide better tracking, while S-shaped tonearms are often preferred for general mixing and sound quality. Consider your primary use: if you plan to scratch a lot, go for a straight tonearm; for mixing and overall sound quality, an S-shaped tonearm might be better.
Cartridge and StylusThe cartridge and stylus are responsible for reading the grooves on the record and converting them into sound. They come in various types and qualities, affecting sound clarity and durability. Moving magnet (MM) cartridges are common and offer good sound quality and ease of replacement. Moving coil (MC) cartridges provide superior sound but are more expensive and harder to replace. For beginners, an MM cartridge is a good start. More experienced DJs might prefer the enhanced sound of an MC cartridge.
Pitch ControlPitch control allows you to adjust the speed of the turntable, which is essential for beatmatching and mixing tracks seamlessly. The range of pitch control can vary, with common ranges being ±8%, ±10%, and ±16%. A wider range offers more flexibility but can be harder to control precisely. If you're new to DJing, a standard ±8% range should be sufficient. More advanced DJs might prefer a wider range for greater control over their mixes.
Build QualityThe build quality of a turntable affects its durability and performance. Look for turntables made with high-quality materials like metal and heavy-duty plastic. A well-built turntable will withstand the rigors of transport and heavy use, which is especially important for professional DJs. For home use, build quality is still important but may not need to be as robust as for a touring DJ.
ConnectivityModern DJ turntables often come with various connectivity options, including USB ports for digital recording and RCA outputs for connecting to mixers and speakers. Some turntables also offer Bluetooth connectivity. Consider how you plan to use your turntable: if you want to digitize your vinyl collection, look for a turntable with USB output. For traditional DJ setups, ensure it has reliable RCA outputs.
