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Forum: General Discussion

Topic: Beginner Turntables

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Hey there guys. I've been using Virtual DJ on my BCD 2000. Pretty basic thing but I wanted something basic to get started with =]
I'm ready to bump up to some turntables. I'm looking to pay well under $1000 but I'm not entirely sure what to look for. =O I also have a few questions! A question being...

Can all turntables made these days be used with software like Virtual DJ/Serato with time coded vinyls?
If so, they obviously can play regular vinyls right?

Does anyone recommend any turntables for a beginner? Anything I should watch out for? Tips while shopping around?
Any input is appreciated!

Thanks!!


 
Posted Thu 20 Mar 08 @ 12:50 am
with 1000$, you have alot to play with

the standard these days are technics 1200s. they are famous for their stability, durability, quality, etc. you will not find a more used turntable
these you can find from 450 up per new
cheapest technics - http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Technics-SL1210MK2-Turntable?sku=807058

Numark is also a good brand, known especially for having i think the motor with the most torque
their quite reliable as well, though some think there is a bit too much plastic
good deal at 200 per - http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Numark-TT200-DirectDrive-Turntable?sku=800390

Stanton is more the value leader, pretty dependable, high torque... kinda midpack for every feature
250 per - http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Stanton-T.80-Digital-Direct-Drive-Turntable-with-Stanton-500B-Cartridge?sku=804018

good features you should look for
- forward reverse
- 33, 45 speeds
- even 2 stop start buttons for battle position

keep in mind you still need to spend 100 or more for needles... so i suggest the stanton i listed for your budget, with sure m44-7 needles (75 to 100 each)

edit - also look for line outputs like the stanton, dont need a preamp input

and yes, any can play records al well too provided you have needles lol
 
Take alook at the TT500s from numark ,they feature the same high quality motors as our TTX range but do not have the digital bpm display so cost less as you will be using the timecoded vinyls you dont really need these digital displays.

The TT200 is more of a mid range turntable for general useage.

Its important to get a Good quality direct drive motor for timecode.

You should also look at getting Ofteron Digitrack Cartridges.

You should aslo consider a sound interface like Virtual Vinyl box or similar as the BCD200 is not a good soundcard for this.
 
Look at the Vestax range.
 
I would go for the TT 500 from numark if you are on a budget. Or not...They are good solid turntables. I have had 1200 for years and you can't go wrong with them. But the TT 500 are quaility built and do an excellent job.
 
I have a TT500 and I LOVE IT! I don't take it anywhere though because that sucker is heaver than a 1200.
 
vestax is good
 
Let me add my 2 cents also.. A freind of mine bought 2 Numark cdx tables. They are cd players that have the same large vinyl platter feel. Its a cd player with a large 12 inch vinyl. I already dj yed 2 gigs with him using them and they are very good. I own 2 pioneer cdj 1000 mk3 and the cdx's are really good. Before you buy something, check out the Numarks.
 
Numark CDX's have a reputation for poor CD READ lasers.

At least the first gen had them. the design is a few years old now so they might have better ones in them now.
 


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