turntables for djing

LAB EXCLUSIVO: all orders include FREE Lab Turntable Pack which includes a TTL Carbon Fiber Record Brush and (1) high-quality TTL PH Slipmat  (a 30.00 value! ships separately)

OVERVIEW

Updated USB version of Audio-Technica's direct-drive turntable. With Technics prices at an all-time high, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120 USBs offers a secondary, more inexpensive option with features the 1200 does not have. Firstly, you will notice that the AT-LP120s looks very similar to the 1200. Audio-Technica has basically "borrowed" the 1200's popular layout and design. The major difference is that the AT-PL120s' body is mostly constructed of plastic (vs. the metal of the 1200); however the key parts remain metal (platter and tonearm). In addition, the AT-LP120 USBs retain some of the 1200s most popular features including a high-torque direct drive motor and 3-way adjustable tonearm assembly. Additionally, the AT-PL120 features direct USB connection for digitizing vinyl (software included), built-in pre-amp, -/+ 20% pitch adjustment, 33/45/78 options, and reverse play button; and includes a cartridge, slipmats, and dust cover.

FEATURES

USB Connectivity: Connect the ATLP120 USBs directly to your Mac or PC (no interface required) and easily digitize your vinyl with included Audacity software. Plug & play, no driver installations required.

Direct Drive Motor: The ATLP120 USBs features a high torque direct drive motor that is suitable for DJing. The motor also features quick start-up, a reverse button, and options for 33/45/78 rpm.

Built-In Preamp: The ATLP120 USBs features a switchable built-in pre-amp which allows you to directly connect either into an AUX input (found on most stereos or computers) or a phono mixer. The switch is located underneath the platter.

Pitch Control: The Pitch Control of the ATLP120 USBs is selectable between -/+20% and the standard -/+10%.

Tonearm + Cartridge: The S-shape tonearm features 3 adjustable controls including anti-skate control, tonearm height, and tonearm weight. The ATLP120 USBs includes a Audio-Technica AT95E cartridge and headshell.

OUR OPINION

The ATLP120 USB is one of the more professional USB turntables we carry; definitely a viable alternative to 1200s with some excellent features for recording and listening (not found on the 1200). Having the pre-amp and cartridge included also made setup much easier and the added USB connectivity makes digitizing vinyl a snap.

KEY FEATURES

• USB output connects directly to your computer for plug-&-play use
• included Mac and PC-compatible Audacity software digitizes your vinyl
• direct drive high-torque motor
• selectable 33/45/78 RPM speeds
• professional cast aluminum platter with slip mat
• integral Dual Magnet phono cartridge with replaceable stylus
• balanced tone arm with soft damping control
• switchable built-in pre-amplifier with line-level RCA output cables
• stroboscopic platter speed indicator
• forward and reverse play

COMES WITH

• cables connect to your stereo or powered speakers
• Mac
• and PC-compatible Audacity software
• USB cable
• Adapter cables
• cartridge + stylus

LAB POINTS

• viable, cost-effective alternative to Technics 1200
• LAB EXCLUSIVO: all orders include FREE Lab Turntable Pack which includes a TTL Carbon Fiber Record Brush and (1) high-quality TTL PH Slipmat  (a 30.00 value! ships separately)
  
• suitable for all types of DJing including heavy scratching
• powerful, high torque direct drive motor
• dampening, cast-aluminum platter
• accurate pitch control
• button for quartz speed lock (speed goes to 0)
• 3 way adjustable tonearm
• RCA + power cords are detachable
• closed design under the platter offers dust protection
• USB output for direct to computer connection
• built-in preamp
• high gloss black finish
• rubberized base
• includes dust cover
• cartridge sold separately

OUR OPINION

Finally, here's a viable, cost-effective alternative to the Technics 1200 (which is now discontinued). Audio-Technica has always been known for their turntables and turntable accessories, but this is their first turntable specifically designed for DJing. In terms of base features that are key for DJing, the AT-LP1240-USB hits all necessary marks: solid construction, powerful motor, accurate pitch / speed control, and a skip resistant tonearm. Check out the video below for our test of these features. The AT-LP1240-USB will definitely meet your DJ needs whether you are just beat match mixing or scratching doubles.

The key to AT-LP1240-USB's design is that it borrows its key functionality and design from the Technics 1200. The cast metal platter and rubberized base give the turntable that essential "heaviness feel". Even the black gloss finish seems more solid than the standard plastic top turntable faceplate. The high-torque motor rivals the force of the 1200, and the adjustable tonearm features similar controls (tracking weight, anti-skate, height adjustment) to the 1200. The quartz lock button is a popular feature borrowed from the 1200 MK5 model.

In addition, the AT-LP1240-USB includes many deluxe features that you will not find on the Technics 1200. The USB output and built-in pre-amplifier are excellent features for those who are ripping vinyl. The removable cords and under-platter closed design address some of the 1200's biggest flaws. The reverse play, dual start / stop buttons, and start / stop controls will appeal to DJs that need more control.

AT-LP1240-USB vs. TECHNICS 1200

Is the AT-LP1240-USB as good as the Technics 1200? The AT-LP1240-USB is a viable alternative to 1200 for DJ usage, however, it is not in the top class of the 1200. The 1200 features superior construction, more metal parts, and a higher quality tonearm. When you factor in price and availability, the AT-LP1240-USB becomes the realistic choice for many DJs. In addition, the look may not be the classic 1200, but the AT-LP1240-USB's sleek design beats out most of its current competitors.

LAB's OWN EDDIE IXL TESTING THE AT-LP1240-USB

KEY FEATURES

• reverse play button
• S-shaped tonearm with adjustable tracking force, height adjustment, and anti-skate adjustment
• powerful, high torque direct drive motor
• hydraulic arm-lift mechanism
• 33 / 45 / 78 rpm speeds
• dual start / stop buttons
• start + brake control adjustments
• adjustable feet for leveling
• weights 12.5kg / 27.6 lbs

COMES WITH

• slipmat
• headshell
• 45 adapter
• removable RCA cables
• removable stylus target light
• USB cable
• Audacity recording software for MAC + PC

LAB POINTS

• currently unavailable, 1200/1210mk5 models still available
• LAB EXCLUSIVO: all orders include FREE Lab Turntable Pack which includes a TTL Carbon Fiber Record Brush and (1) high-quality TTL PH Slipmat  (a 30.00 value! ships separately)
  
• industry standard direct drive turntable
• powerful, high torque motor
• heavyweight construction
• built to last

OVERVIEW

The Technics 1200MK2 has been the industry standard for 25+ years. The Technics 1200 remains the preferred choice for all types of djing.

FEATURES

This is the turntable that first established the type of high torque (motor strength), accurate pitch (speed control), quality tone arm (aids in skip resistance), and superior sound that is required by djs; and after 25+ years it is still the standard by which all other turntables are judged. Every other turntable that has come since has patterned their design off this legendary piece of equipment, and the reason is simple: the 1200MK2 is about as close to perfection as you can get with a piece of machinery. It functions beautifully and the durability and construction are unmatched. The body and major components are made of steel. The bottom of the body is made of a dense rubber that eliminates distortion and feedback and adds extra weight for stability. Most of the basic parts are readily available and user replaceable.

MK2 vs. MK5

The differences between the MK2 and the newer MK5 versions are fairly minor and mostly aesthetic. They are as follows: the MK2 still has the "click" at zero on the pitch control;  the MK5 has a protected, inset on/off switch; the MK5 has an extra tonearm adjustment knob; the MK5 includes a slipmat; and the MK2 includes dust cover hinges. Other than that, they perform identically.

OUR OPINION

Our #1 recommendation. There is simply no replacement for a Technics 1200 turntable, and it's almost cooler to have this original MK2 model, without the unnecessary "new features" of the newer M3D and MK5 models. Regardless of model number, Technics still makes the best turntable available, and they are used in 99% of all venues. Resale value is also very high. Some newer turntables may have more features, but this is the superior overall product. When you use a 1200, you know you are using the best.

reviewed by the MGMNT

TECH SPECS

• +/- pitch control
• 33 / 45 rpm
• height adjustable tone arm with anti-skating control
• pop-up turntable light

INCLUDES

• dust cover with hinges
• headshell
• rubber mat
• 45 adaptor
• does not include cartridge / needle

VOLTAGE NOTICE

This is the multi-voltage version of Technics 1200MK2, which features a switch underneath the platter for changing between 110V and 220V.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Click here to read our Technics 1200 turntable guide.

LAB EXCLUSIVO: all orders include FREE Lab Turntable Pack which includes a TTL Carbon Fiber Record Brush and (1) high-quality TTL PH Slipmat  (a 30.00 value! ships separately)

OVERVIEW

The 1210 M5G is subtitled the "grand master" and takes over the top of the line position for Technics' line of turntables. The major improvement here, and the feature which is exclusive to the 1210M5G, is the pitch control. It is now completely digital, which means you should never have the problem of mismatched pitch ranges, and it also gives you the ability to choose between two separate pitch ranges: the standard +/-8 range and the larger +/-16 range. The color scheme, style and finish are also exclusive to the M5G and includes a blue stylus pop-up light, blue lights for both pitch ranges, a unique metallic black finish, and brushed steel hardware for everything down to the 45 adaptor.

Other than that, the M5G includes the same improvements that the MK5 made over the M3D: include 1) the tonearm construction has been improved, which should lead to better skip resistance 2) the brake adjustment is now more accessible. Simply remove the record and slipmat and it's possible to adjust the platter's breaking time with a screwdriver.

OUR OPINION

The Technics 1200 turntable is still our #1 recommendation, in any model number. This "grand master" edition has finally made some serious improvements to the basic 1200 scheme, with the digital pitch control a particularly useful step. Aside from that, the M5G is the most unique 1200 this side of the limited edition gold 1200s and retains all the strengths of previous models. The feel and durability are unmatched. It is the best turntable available, and one that is used in 99% of all venues. Some newer turntables may have more features, but this is the superior overall product, and is the preferred choice for all types of djing. The high torque (motor strength), accurate pitch (speed control), quality tone arm (aids in skip resistance), and superior sound are the standards by which all other turntables are judged. The body and major components are made of steel (whereas most other turntables are made of plastic). The bottom of the body is made of a dense rubber that eliminates distortion and feedback and adds extra weight for stability. Most of the basic parts are readily available and user replaceable. The resale value is also very high.

KEY FEATURES

• includes a switch to change voltage between 110/120 and 220
• features European prong plug with US adaptor
• +/-8 and +/-16 pitch control
• pitch control reset button
• 33/45 rpm
• height adjustable tone arm with anti-skating control and better skip resistance
• easy brake adjustment
• blue pop-up stylus light

INCLUDES

• dust cover (without hinges)
• high quality slipmat
• 45 adaptor
• headshell with weight

VOLTAGE NOTICE

This is the multi-voltage version of Technics 1200M5G, which features a switch for changing between 110V and 220V.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Click here to read our Technics 1200 turntable guide.

LAB POINTS

• industry standard direct drive turntable
• LAB EXCLUSIVO: all orders include FREE Lab Turntable Pack which includes a TTL Carbon Fiber Record Brush and (1) high-quality TTL PH Slipmat  (a 30.00 value! ships separately)
  
• powerful, high torque motor
• heavyweight construction
• built to last

OVERVIEW

The Technics 1200 has been the industry standard for 25+ years. The 1200MK5 replaces the 1200M3D, making a couple improvements along the way: 1) the tonearm construction has been improved. 2) the brake adjustment is now more accessible. Simply remove the record and slipmat and it's possible to adjust the platter's breaking time with a screwdriver. Other than that, this is exactly the same as the M3D, which had these differences from the original MK2: 1) power switch is sunken to prevent accidental turn-off 2) includes a button which overrides the pitch control to zero (regular speed) 3) no "click" at zero on the pitch control 4) comes with a high quality Technics 2 piece slipmat 5) Dust cover does not include hinges.

FEATURES

This is the turntable that first established the type of high torque (motor strength), accurate pitch (speed control), quality tone arm (aids in skip resistance), and superior sound that is required by djs; and after 25+ years it is still the standard by which all other turntables are judged. Every other turntable that has come since has patterned their design off this legendary piece of equipment, and the reason is simple: the 1200MK2 is about as close to perfection as you can get with a piece of machinery. It functions beautifully and the durability and construction are unmatched. The body and major components are made of steel. The bottom of the body is made of a dense rubber that eliminates distortion and feedback and adds extra weight for stability. Most of the basic parts are readily available and user replaceable.

OUR OPINION

Our #1 recommendation. There is simply no replacement for a Technics 1200 turntable. Regardless of model number, Technics still makes the best turntable available, and they are used in 99% of all venues. Resale value is also very high. Some newer turntables may have more features, but this is the superior overall product. When you use a 1200, you know you are using the best.

TECH SPECS

• +/- pitch control
• 33 / 45 rpm
• height adjustable tone arm with anti-skating control
• pop-up turntable light

INCLUDES

• dust cover without hinges
• headshell
• rubber mat
  
• slipmat
• 45 adaptor
• does not include cartridge / needle

VOLTAGE NOTICE

This turntable is available as a 110V model and a multi-voltage version, which features a switch underneath the platter for changing between 110V and 220V. This is the 110V model.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Click here to read our Technics 1200 turntable guide.