Best DJ Turntables for Beginners in 2024: Your Ultimate Guide
Starting your journey as a DJ can be both thrilling and overwhelming. One of the most crucial investments for any beginner is a good DJ turntable. With the right gear, you’ll be able to hone your skills, create seamless mixes, and develop your unique sound. In this guide, we’ll explore the best DJ turntables for beginners in 2024, providing detailed reviews, key features, and tips for making the right choice.
Why DJ Turntables Matter for Beginners
Turntables are the heart of a DJ setup, and for beginners, finding the right one can make the learning process smoother. A good DJ turntable offers ease of use, reliability, and essential features that help new DJs practice and improve. Whether you want to scratch, mix vinyl records, or simply learn the ropes, choosing the right equipment is key to building your DJ skills.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing DJ Turntables for Beginners
Before diving into the reviews, let’s take a look at some factors you should consider when choosing your first DJ turntable:
Direct-Drive vs. Belt-Drive: Direct-drive turntables are generally preferred for DJing because they provide better torque and more consistent speed control. Belt-drive turntables can be cheaper but are less suitable for scratching and beatmatching.
Build Quality: Durability is essential, especially for beginners who are likely to practice a lot. Look for turntables made from sturdy materials with solid build quality.
Torque: High torque is important for DJing, as it ensures that the platter spins at a consistent speed and responds quickly to adjustments.
USB Compatibility: Some modern turntables come with USB connectivity, allowing you to digitize vinyl records or connect directly to your computer for easy integration with DJ software.
Price: While it’s tempting to go for the most expensive option, you don’t need to break the bank for your first DJ turntable. Balance features with price to find the best value.
Top 5 DJ Turntables for Beginners in 2024
Price: $$
Best For: Overall versatility, USB functionality
Key Features:
Direct-drive motor
USB output for vinyl recording
Switchable phono/line output
Excellent build quality
The Pioneer DJ PLX-500 is a fantastic option for beginners due to its affordability, ease of use, and feature-rich design. Its direct-drive motor ensures consistent performance, making it great for mixing and scratching. The USB output feature is particularly handy for those looking to digitize their vinyl collection or record their mixes.
Pioneer is a trusted name in the DJ industry, and the PLX-500 lives up to their reputation for high-quality gear. This turntable is known for its durability, making it perfect for beginners who want a long-lasting piece of equipment that will grow with them as they improve their skills.
Pros:
USB connectivity for recording and digital use
High-quality sound and build
Reliable direct-drive motor
Cons:
Not as high torque as more expensive models
2. Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB
Price: $$
Best For: Budget-friendly option with solid performance
Key Features:
Direct-drive motor
USB output
Adjustable pitch control
Built-in phono preamp
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB is a top choice for beginners looking for an affordable yet professional-grade turntable. It’s equipped with a direct-drive motor, ensuring accurate and steady performance. Its built-in USB port allows for easy connection to your computer, making it simple to digitize records or use with DJ software.
This turntable is also user-friendly, with adjustable pitch control, making it easy for beginners to practice beatmatching. Its solid build quality, combined with a reasonable price tag, makes it a great choice for novice DJs.
Pros:
Affordable and feature-packed
USB output for easy digital integration
Built-in phono preamp simplifies setup
Cons:
Slightly less torque compared to higher-end models
Price: $
Best For: Entry-level scratch DJs
Key Features:
Portable design
Built-in adjustable scratch switch
USB output
Battery-powered option
The Numark PT01 Scratch is an ideal choice for beginners who want to dive into the world of scratch DJing. Its unique selling point is the built-in scratch switch, which allows users to practice their scratching techniques right out of the box. It’s also highly portable, making it perfect for DJs on the go or those with limited space.
Despite its compact size, the PT01 Scratch is packed with features like USB connectivity and the ability to run on batteries. This makes it a versatile option for those who want to practice anywhere, from home to outdoor parties.
Pros:
Compact and portable design
Built-in scratch switch for practicing techniques
Battery-operated option for flexibility
Cons:
Limited functionality for general mixing
Not as durable as larger, more expensive models
4. Reloop RP-2000 MK2
Price: $$
Best For: Mid-range direct-drive performance
Key Features:
Quartz-driven direct-drive motor
S-shaped tonearm
Pitch control with quartz lock
Strobe light for speed accuracy
The Reloop RP-2000 MK2 is a solid mid-range turntable with all the features a beginner DJ needs. Its direct-drive motor provides strong torque, making it reliable for mixing and basic scratching. The pitch control feature, along with the strobe light for speed accuracy, makes beatmatching easier, helping new DJs improve their timing and transitions.
The RP-2000 MK2 also features an S-shaped tonearm, which helps reduce wear on records and improves sound quality. While it may not have USB connectivity, it excels in terms of reliability and build quality, making it a worthy option for serious beginners.
Pros:
Great torque for mixing and scratching
Solid build quality and reliability
Precise pitch control
Cons:
No USB connectivity
Slightly heavier compared to other models
5. Gemini TT-1100USB
Price: $
Best For: Affordability with essential features
Key Features:
Belt-drive motor
USB output for recording
Anti-skating control for precise tracking
Durable aluminum platter
The Gemini TT-1100USB is a great entry-level turntable for those on a tight budget. While it’s a belt-drive turntable, it still offers many features that beginner DJs will appreciate, including USB output for recording and anti-skating control to ensure accurate tracking of records. The durable aluminum platter also ensures stability and longevity.
This turntable is easy to set up and use, making it ideal for complete beginners who are just getting started with vinyl mixing. While it may not be as feature-rich as higher-end models, it provides excellent value for money for those just dipping their toes into DJing.
Pros:
Affordable price point
USB connectivity for easy recording
Lightweight and portable design
Cons:
Belt-drive motor limits scratching ability
Fewer advanced features than direct-drive models
Beginner’s Guide: Tips for Getting Started with DJ Turntables
Now that you have an idea of the best DJ turntables for beginners in 2024, here are a few tips to help you get started:
Start with the Basics: Focus on learning the fundamentals, such as beatmatching, cueing, and mixing. These skills are the foundation of DJing.
Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to improving. Set aside time each week to practice your transitions, learn new techniques, and experiment with different styles of music.
Experiment with Software: If your turntable supports USB connectivity, try integrating DJ software into your setup. This will allow you to mix digital music and experiment with different effects.
Don’t Rush the Process: Learning to DJ takes time. Be patient with yourself and avoid the temptation to move too quickly into advanced techniques before mastering the basics.
Conclusion
Choosing the right DJ turntable as a beginner is an essential step in your journey to becoming a skilled DJ. The options we’ve highlighted—ranging from the versatile Pioneer DJ PLX-500 to the budget-friendly Gemini TT-1100USB—offer a variety of features that cater to new DJs at different price points. Remember, the best turntable for you will depend on your goals, whether that’s learning to scratch, mix vinyl, or integrate digital tools.
By investing in the right equipment and dedicating time to practice, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of DJing. Happy mixing!
