Top 16 Best DJ Turntables in 2023

You could be excused for assuming that the turntable is practically extinct in 2023 considering the prevalence of digital technology among DJs nowadays, whether they are spinning records from laptops or USB devices. Although many DJs still use turntables today, whether to play records or employ DVS (digital vinyl) to operate DJ software, history teaches us that great things rarely completely disappear.

You might be in the market for a set of turntables in 2023, whether for nostalgia, scratching, learning properly this way, or simply because you love the vibe of an "old school" DJ. You can even be looking for a single turntable if you want to rip songs or add a little turntablism to your sets or music compositions.

Whatever your motivations, we've compiled our top %product count% recommendations in this post for DJs of all types who want to buy turntables in 2023. Whether you're a novice looking for great value, a dedicated enthusiast, or a pro, we can help you find the best DJ turntables. 

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1. Technics SL-1210 MK7

For decades, the SL-1200 has been the leader of stellar DJ performance. Some even say that this DJ turntable takes sole responsibility for creating the club DJ culture. Its stunning design, modern features, and fantastic performance are known and trusted by many people. 

The turntable’s most popular component is probably its direct-drive motor. First released in 1970, the direct-drive system of the SL-1200  The turntable’s direct-drive motor is probably its most famous component. The direct-drive technology of the SL-1200, which was first introduced in 1970, set a standard for durability and reliability. It has remained that way ever since and continues to operate consistently.

With the exception of a few adjustments to the cabinet and the addition of insulator feet to further reduce vibration, the design hasn't changed much in over  40 years. Be aware that this DJ turntable is slightly expensive. So if you are on a budget, it’s better to look elsewhere. . If you Buyer beware, this turntable costs a pretty penny. If you are short on cash, you may want to look someplace else. The Technics SL-1200 MK7 is meant for serious and professional DJs. 

Reasons to Buy: 

• Coreless direct-drive motor

• Professional quality

• Aluminum S-shape tonearm

• Fortified cabinet

• Dual-layer platter

Reasons to Avoid:

• No cartridge provided

• Relatively costly

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2. Pioneer DJ PLX-500-K

Many DJs' ears perk up when they hear the word Pioneer. For many years, the firm has dominated the DJ industry. It manufactures some of the best players, controllers, and mixers available today. No matter what level of Pioneer items you choose, you get exceptional quality and amazing features.

The Pioneer PLX-500-K is a competitively priced, high-quality DJ mixer that is aimed at new DJs. The audio output is outstanding, generating lively, warm analogue sound.

It's a high-torque deck designed for scratching that includes everything you need to start playing records right out of the box.

Using the USB feature, you can mix digital files off vinyl by integrating a DVS device or record vinyl Could these therefore be the Best DJ Turntables for Novices?

Reasons to Buy: 

• Perfect for Vinyl enthusiasts

• Superb analogue vinyl audio output

• Audio routing is minimized

• Can be plugged directly into speakers 

• Vinyl recording with USB input 

• Integrated Rekordbox DVS

• S-shaped tonearm that’s statically balanced 

• High torque Servo direct drive

Reasons to Avoid:

• Acceleration time is slow

• Plastic material

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3. Reloop RP-2000 MK2

Despite being a beginner turntable, the Reloop RP-2000 MK2 might not look that way from its build. It has a relatively professional look, with a stunningly black metallic finish. It’s probably the best turntable for beginners thanks to its outstanding construction and consistent performance. 

Despite the lack of attractive additional features on this device, you receive the most value for the money.There’s no bells or whistles on this unit, but you get the most bang for your buck.  Most of the time, the tried-and-true method works. The controls operate flawlessly and complete the task at hand without any issue. Any DJ who aspires to spin perfect vinyl sets will benefit from it.

Reasons to Buy: 

• Quartz direct drive motor with high power

• Die-cast platter that has been precisely engineered

• Heavy duty

• S-shaped tonearm that is statically balanced

• Needle illumination

• Shock-absorbing feet

Reasons to Avoid:

• Doesn’t make as much torque as other premium models

• Lacks USB input

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4. Pioneer DJ PLX-1000

Pioneer is at it again, producing astoundingly perfect products. The same applies to  the Pioneer PLX-1000. Thanks to its versatile connectivity, several tempo controls, astonishing high-torque drive, and meticulous sound design, this turntable might have what you're looking for. The PLX1000's price is very reasonable given its high quality.

Pioneer incorporates all of their audio expertise into this product, building on their 50 years of experience designing high-end turntables. The firm incorporated a few significant innovations that have a massive impact.

The direct-drive capacity of the Pioneer DJ turntable should be marketed as having "super duper powerful torque drive" because it has a staggering 4.5kg of torque power that reaches 33 RPM in just 3 seconds. This is only one example of how the PLX-1000 excels above many competing models.

Reasons to Buy: 

• High-level performance

• Extremely high torque direct drive

• Sturdy design

• Die-cast, heavy-mass zinc chassis

• Multiple tempo controls

• Interchangeable audio and power cables

• S-shaped tonearm for precise stylus tracking

Reasons to Avoid:

• No stylus provided

• Slightly heavy

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5. Reloop RP-8000 MK2

The Reloop RP-8000 might probably be the most developed turntable we’ve seen yet and absolutely our best pick for a DJ turntable under $1000. It’s a hybrid device that gracefully combines analogue and digital features.

For beginners, the motor accommodates controllable break speed and torque amount. Never before have turntables offered this level of control.

The pad area of Serato DJ Pro is yet another "new-new" for turntables. With them, you may manage 7 various performance modes. The true pleasure lies in layering the effects.

The doorway to 22 scales and 34 notes is opened by the inventive platter pitch control. With the RP-8000, you would be running both a record player and a musical instrument. The turntable is a front-runner on this list thanks to its powerful creative tools and titanic construction.

Reasons to Buy: 

• Familiar FX and performance pads

• Variety of creative tools

• 8 performance pads

• Digital LCD screen

• Potent quartz-driven motor

• Changeable break speed time

• Enhanced casing

• Newly designed tonearm.

Reasons to Avoid:

• Due to the number of digital options, it might be hard for analogue die-hards to run the device.

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Even the best DJ turntables aren’t something easy to comprehend and use. The appeal of vinyl lies in both its excellent sound and the desire to study and perfect the art. Whether you are a seasoned DJ or just getting started, we hope you found some knowledge or a product that will help you make the most of your vinyl experience.

The Technics SL1210/1200 MK7 is the turntable that we consider to be the best in the world. It will continue to be at the top unless another model emerges and significantly changes the industry. DJs that mix and scratch on the 1200 receive musical energy from legendary DJs. It feels almost metaphysical. However, don't just take our word Choose a model you like, then continue to hone your craft. Everyone has their own sense of style and preference, but one thing that's commonly true is that buying a vinyl turntable is just the beginning. The process's next critical step is proper maintenance. But it's all worthwhile to obtain the joyful sound waves that digital sources are unable to duplicate.