Top 6 DJ Turntables for Every Performer
Are you ready to elevate your DJ game? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, having the right turntable can make all the difference in your performance. In this post, we’ll explore the top six DJ turntables that cater to every type of performer. From features and sound quality to portability and ease of use, you’ll find the perfect match for your unique style and needs. Let’s dive in!
Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 Controller – Graphite
The Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 is your ideal entry-level DJ controller, designed with a user-friendly layout that makes mixing a breeze. With its sleek graphite finish and professional feel, you can easily navigate through your sets while enjoying its multi-device compatibility. Whether you’re spinning at small gigs or recording in your bedroom, this 2-deck controller is a fantastic value for the price.
This versatile controller not only supports USB audio output but also seamlessly integrates with popular streaming services. Users have highlighted how easy it is to get started with Rekordbox, making it perfect for beginners eager to dive into the world of DJing. Its lightweight design and portable size mean you can take the fun with you, whether at home or on the go!
Numark Mixtrack Pro FX DJ Controller
The Numark Mixtrack Pro FX is your ultimate DJ companion, designed to elevate your mixing experience from day one. With its impressive 6-inch capacitive touch jog wheels, you’ll feel like a pro as you scratch and cue tracks effortlessly. The built-in 24-bit audio interface ensures crystal-clear sound quality, while the 16 performance pads allow you to unleash your creativity with hot cues, loops, and samples at your fingertips.
This controller is packed with features that cater to both beginners and seasoned DJs alike. Stream your favorite tracks directly from TIDAL or SoundCloud, and take full control of your mixes with dedicated FX paddles for instant access to effects like Echo and Reverb. Plus, its sturdy build and intuitive layout make it easy to navigate, giving you the confidence to shine during every performance. Whether you’re practicing at home or rocking a party, the Mixtrack Pro FX has everything you need to mix like a boss!
Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1 Controller
The Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1 is your ideal companion for mastering the art of DJing. Designed for seamless integration with Serato DJ Lite, this 2-deck controller features a fresh battle-style layout that will have you mixing like a pro in no time. With its sturdy build and professional feel, it mimics the classic DJM-S mixer and PLX turntable setup, making it perfect for both open-format and scratch DJs.
Equipped with a built-in microphone input and tracking scratch features, the DDJ-REV1 caters to the needs of both beginners and seasoned DJs alike. Reviewers rave about the high-quality jog wheels and customizable performance pads, giving you the flexibility to tailor your setup to your unique style. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a reliable backup unit, this controller offers exceptional performance at an unbeatable price!
Numark DJ2GO2 Touch USB DJ Controller
The Numark DJ2GO2 Touch is your go-to solution for on-the-go DJing, combining portability with powerful features. This compact controller comes equipped with touch-capacitive jog wheels, enabling you to mix and scratch just like on traditional turntables, all while fitting snugly in your bag. With its built-in audio interface, crossfader, and Serato DJ compatibility, it’s perfect whether you’re practicing at home or performing at lively parties.
With a sleek design and easy connectivity options, the DJ2GO2 Touch promises a hassle-free setup for any gig. You can connect it effortlessly to a variety of DJ equipment, and the included Serato DJ Lite software ensures you have everything you need to get started. Plus, with its vibrant backlit controls and responsive pads for cue points and effects, you’ll have all the tools to enhance your performance and keep the dance floor moving!
Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2
The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2 is the perfect companion for anyone eager to dive into the world of DJing. With its intuitive design, built-in light guides, and features like STEMS, you’ll easily learn the basics while having a blast mixing your favorite tracks. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your skills, this compact controller makes it easy to create unique mixes that showcase your creativity.
Packed with helpful resources, including DJ Academy video tutorials, this controller ensures you’re not just playing music, but mastering the art of mixing. Compatible with popular software like Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED, you can explore unlimited mixing possibilities and even integrate music from streaming services. It’s a fantastic tool for both beginners and those looking to elevate their DJ game!
Numark Party Mix II DJ Controller
The Numark Party Mix II is more than just a beginner DJ controller; it’s packed with professional features that make it perfect for aspiring DJs of all ages. With four performance pads on each deck, you can easily access cue points, loops, and effects, while the large jog wheels provide a tactile feel for mixing. Plus, the built-in audio interface ensures seamless connectivity to your speakers and headphones, allowing you to elevate your DJing experience right from the start.
What truly sets the Party Mix II apart is its vibrant built-in light show, which syncs to the beat of your music, creating an electrifying atmosphere for any gathering. It works seamlessly with Serato DJ Lite and popular streaming services, enabling you to access a vast library of tracks. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, this compact and portable DJ set is designed to inspire creativity and fun at every turn!
Explore Your Options
Your Essential DJ Turntable Questions Answered
Sure! The main components of a DJ turntable include:
- Platter: This is the rotating platform where the vinyl record sits. It spins at a consistent speed, typically 33 1/3 or 45 RPM.
- Tonearm: This part holds the cartridge and stylus (needle) and is responsible for tracking the grooves of the record. It can be adjusted for angle and weight.
- Cartridge: This device converts the mechanical vibrations from the stylus into an electrical signal. It’s crucial for sound quality.
- Stylus: Also known as the needle, this is the part that physically contacts the record grooves to read the audio information.
- Motor: The motor drives the platter’s rotation. Direct-drive motors are common in DJ turntables for their quick start-up times and reliability.
- Base: The structure that supports all the components of the turntable. It helps absorb vibrations to ensure better sound quality.
- Pitch Control: This feature allows you to adjust the speed of the platter, which is essential for beatmatching in DJing.
- Outputs: These are ports to connect the turntable to an amplifier or mixer, enabling you to amplify the sound and mix it with other audio sources.
These components work together to create the functionality that makes turntables an essential tool for DJs. Happy mixing!
Sure! If you’re looking into popular brands and models of DJ turntables on the market today, here are some top choices:
- Technics: The Technics SL-1200 series is iconic and widely regarded as a standard in the DJ world. The SL-1200 MK7 is the latest model, known for its durability and precision.
- Pioneer DJ: The Pioneer PLX-1000 is a favorite among DJs for its strong build quality and excellent sound reproduction. Pioneer also offers the DJM series mixers that pair well with their turntables.
- Numark: The Numark TTUSB and the Numark NTX1000 are popular for both beginners and professionals, offering great features at a competitive price.
- Reloop: The Reloop RP-7000 MK2 offers a direct drive system and is favored for its solid construction and performance, making it a good choice for DJs looking for reliability.
- Audio-Technica: The Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB is an excellent entry-level turntable that appeals to both DJs and audiophiles, featuring USB output for easy digitization of vinyl.
- Denon DJ: The Denon DJ VL12 Prime is known for its powerful torque and adjustable LED lighting, making it a hit for club DJs.
These brands and models are well-respected in the DJ community, so you can’t go wrong choosing from them! Happy DJing!
To ensure the longevity of your DJ turntables, it’s important to perform regular maintenance. Here are some key tasks you should keep in mind:
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the platter, tonearm, and cartridge to remove dust and debris. Use a soft, lint-free cloth for the platter and a specialized cleaning solution for the cartridge.
- Check the Stylus: Inspect the stylus for wear and replace it when necessary. A worn stylus can damage your records and affect sound quality.
- Adjustments: Periodically check and adjust the tonearm’s tracking force and anti-skate settings according to the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure optimal performance.
- Lubrication: If your turntable has moving parts, apply appropriate lubrication to keep them functioning smoothly. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the right type of lubricant.
- Belt Maintenance: For belt-driven turntables, inspect the drive belt for wear and replace it if it appears stretched or damaged.
- Storage and Environment: Keep your turntables in a stable environment, away from excessive heat, humidity, and direct sunlight. Use a dust cover when not in use to protect them from dust accumulation.
- Regular Use: Regularly using your turntables helps keep the components in good working order.
By following these maintenance tips, you can help ensure your DJ turntables stay in great condition for years to come!
Pro tip: Always test out the controllers at a local shop if you can. Sometimes the feel of the knobs and faders can really make or break your experience, even if the specs look good on paper!
That’s an excellent tip! Hands-on experience is crucial when choosing gear. Thanks for sharing your wisdom!
Just wanted to say how much I appreciate these insights! It really helps when trying to pick the right gear. Keep up the good work!
Thank you for the kind words! I’m glad you find the insights helpful. Your support means a lot!
I’ve tried the Numark Mixtrack Pro FX, but honestly, I found it lacking in build quality compared to my old gear. Anyone else feel the same way? Would love to hear some experiences!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Build quality can vary, and it’s great to get different perspectives. What did you find lacking in particular?
Could you provide more details on the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2? I’m curious about its features and how it compares to the others on the list.
Sure! The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2 is great for learning with its built-in tutorial features. It’s designed for beginners, which makes it unique compared to the others. Let me know if you need anything specific!
Are you planning to update this list in the future? I feel like new products come out all the time, and it would be cool to see how they stack up against these!
Great question! We do plan to keep the list updated periodically as new products are released. Stay tuned!
I respect your expertise, but I think the Numark DJ2GO2 Touch could use a bit more love. It’s super portable and perfect for on-the-go DJs. What do you think?
I appreciate your perspective! The DJ2GO2 Touch is indeed very portable and convenient for traveling DJs. It’s a great tool for what it offers!
Thanks for the roundup! I totally agree with the inclusion of the Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4. I’ve been using it for a while now, and it’s super user-friendly, especially for beginners! Definitely a solid choice for anyone starting out.
Thanks for your feedback! The DDJ-FLX4 is indeed a great option for newcomers. Glad to hear it’s working well for you!
You missed the Reloop Mixon 4! It’s an awesome controller that deserves a spot on this list. It’s versatile and has great sound quality!
Thanks for the suggestion! The Reloop Mixon 4 is indeed a strong contender and has a lot of features. I’ll consider it for future updates!