Numark PT01 Scratch | DJ Turntable Review

The world of DJing and vinyl scratching has come a long way, with technology evolving to make this once elite hobby accessible to all. Enter the Numark PT01 Scratch, a portable DJ turntable designed for both beginner and experienced DJs who want the freedom to scratch vinyl anytime, anywhere. Compact, rugged, and equipped with the essential tools for scratching, the PT01 Scratch offers a portable solution for those who want to practice or perform on the go. In this review, we’ll dive into its features, assess its performance, and see if it’s worth adding to your DJ setup.

The Numark PT01 Scratch is a portable turntable built specifically for vinyl DJs who love scratching. It’s designed with portability and convenience in mind, allowing DJs to take their scratching skills on the road or practice at home without the need for bulky equipment. The PT01 Scratch is battery-powered, making it an ideal option for mobile performances, impromptu sessions, or scratching in unconventional locations.

Numark, a brand known for its DJ equipment, has incorporated key features in this turntable to ensure it delivers the authentic scratching experience at an affordable price. Let’s take a closer look at what the PT01 Scratch offers and how it stacks up against other DJ turntables.

Main Features of the Numark PT01 Scratch

1. Portable and Battery-Powered

One of the standout features of the Numark PT01 Scratch is its portability. This compact turntable is designed to be carried anywhere, weighing just 4.3 pounds. It runs on six D-cell batteries, so you’re not limited to wall outlets. Whether you want to scratch in your backyard, at a park, or even during a live performance, this turntable makes it possible.

The durable plastic body and protective cover ensure that it can withstand rough handling, making it a great option for DJs on the go. The portability factor is enhanced by its rugged build, designed to handle the wear and tear of mobile use.

2. Scratch Switch for Seamless Scratching

The PT01 Scratch comes equipped with a scratch switch that mimics the functionality of a crossfader found on traditional DJ mixers. Positioned at the top of the turntable, this switch allows you to scratch with one hand and manipulate the vinyl with the other. It’s also reversible, meaning both left-handed and right-handed users can scratch comfortably.

While the scratch switch may not offer the precision of a professional DJ mixer crossfader, it’s a game-changer for portable scratching, providing DJs with a simple but effective way to scratch vinyl while away from their full setup.

3. Belt-Drive Turntable with 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM Speeds

The Numark PT01 Scratch is equipped with a belt-drive turntable that supports three different playback speeds: 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM. This flexibility allows you to play a wide range of vinyl records, from modern LPs to older 78 RPM records. The belt-drive mechanism ensures smooth operation while still offering the responsiveness needed for scratching.

The turntable’s auto-stop feature is another nice touch, helping to preserve your vinyl when the record reaches the end. This is especially useful during longer practice sessions when you might lose track of time.

4. Built-In Speaker for Quick Sessions

The PT01 Scratch features a built-in speaker, allowing you to scratch or listen to vinyl without the need for external speakers or headphones. While the sound quality of the internal speaker may not satisfy audiophiles or those performing in larger spaces, it works well for quick scratch sessions or practice on the go.

For those who want better sound quality, the turntable also includes RCA outputs for connecting to external speakers or a sound system. Additionally, there’s a headphone jack for private listening or practicing without disturbing others.

5. Aux Input and USB Connectivity

The PT01 Scratch also includes an aux input, which allows you to connect external audio sources, such as a phone or MP3 player, to scratch over any beat or backing track. This feature is ideal for DJs looking to integrate scratching into their live sets or practice routines with custom beats.

Moreover, the USB output makes it easy to digitize your vinyl collection. Using the included EZ Vinyl/Tape Converter software, you can record your vinyl scratches and performances directly to your computer, making it easy to edit or share your work online.

6. Replaceable Cartridge and Customizable Platter

Numark has made the PT01 Scratch user-friendly in terms of maintenance and customization. The turntable comes with a replaceable cartridge, so when the needle wears out, you can easily swap it out for a new one. The scratch-friendly slip mat on the platter ensures smooth vinyl manipulation, while the adjustable tone arm provides additional control over your vinyl scratching sessions.

For those who want to go further with customization, the PT01 Scratch allows for easy upgrades, making it a versatile tool for DJs of all skill levels.

Should You Buy at a Glance?

The Numark PT01 Scratch is a highly portable, feature-packed turntable designed specifically for DJs who love to scratch on vinyl. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, easy-to-use option that allows for mobility without sacrificing key scratching features, this turntable is a solid investment. While it may not replace a professional DJ setup, it’s perfect for practice, small performances, and on-the-go creativity.

Customer Opinion

The Numark PT01 Scratch has received mostly positive feedback from customers, especially among beginner DJs and those looking for a portable solution. Many users love the scratch switch feature, praising its responsiveness and ease of use. The portability and battery power are also frequently mentioned as standout features, allowing users to scratch wherever inspiration strikes.

The built-in speaker, while convenient, has received mixed reviews, with some noting that it lacks the depth and volume needed for serious performances. However, most customers appreciate that the turntable has RCA outputs, allowing them to connect to external speakers for better sound quality.

In terms of durability, users generally find the turntable sturdy enough to handle mobile use. The ability to upgrade the cartridge and customize the setup has been another selling point for many customers. Overall, it’s clear that the PT01 Scratch is a hit for DJs looking for a fun and functional portable scratching turntable.

Final Verdict

The Numark PT01 Scratch is an excellent option for DJs who value portability, flexibility, and affordability. Its battery-powered operation, built-in speaker, and scratch switch make it a versatile tool for both beginners and experienced DJs looking to practice or perform on the go. While the built-in speaker may not satisfy everyone’s audio needs, the ability to connect external speakers via RCA outputs ensures that you can still enjoy high-quality sound when needed.

For those who want to digitize their vinyl collection, the USB output and included software are a welcome addition, further enhancing the turntable’s versatility. The PT01 Scratch delivers solid performance for its price and serves as a fantastic tool for DJs who want to take their skills beyond the traditional club or home setup.

If you’re looking for an affordable, portable, and reliable turntable to hone your scratching skills, the Numark PT01 Scratch is definitely worth considering.

Ready to take your DJing skills to the next level with a portable, scratch-friendly turntable? The Numark PT01 Scratch offers an affordable and versatile solution for DJs on the go.

Buy the Numark PT01 Scratch DJ Turntable on Amazon today and start scratching vinyl anywhere, anytime!