In 2021, 82 thousand turntables were sold in the United States. DJing with turntables is a time-honoured tradition that is still going strong today. If you’re interested in learning how to DJ, or you’re looking for some new turntables to add to your setup, here are five things you need to know before buying DJ turntables.
1. What are turntables, and what are the different types DJs use?
Turntables are devices that DJs use to play records. There are two main types of turntables – belt drive and direct drive. Belt drive turntables use a belt to connect the motor to the platter, while direct drive turntables have the motor connected directly to the platter. Most DJs prefer direct-drive turntables because they offer more torque and better control over the record.
Turntables are basically record players, used for playing vinyl records, but they have a few key features that make them ideal for DJing. Firstly, they have a pitch control, which allows DJs to speed up or slow down the record without affecting the pitch of the music. They also have a slipmat, which helps to prevent the records from slipping while they’re being played.
2. What is belt drive vs direct drive, and which is better for DJs?
Belt drive turntables use a belt to connect the motor to the platter. This can cause some problems because the belt can stretch over time, causing the turntable to run slower than it should. Belt drive turntables are also more susceptible to outside vibrations, which can affect the sound quality.
Direct drive turntables have the motor connected directly to the platter. This gives them more torque, which is important for DJs who need to be able to start and stop the record quickly. Direct-drive turntables are also less likely to be affected by outside vibrations.
One thing DJs are renowned for is the scratching technique, which is only possible with a direct-drive turntable.
3. How do you choose the right turntable for your needs as a DJ?
Regardless of the type of music you’ll be playing, if you are a DJ, you will want a direct-drive turntable. As we mentioned before, the direct-drive turntable offers more torque, making it easier to start and stop the record quickly. It also gives you more scope if you plan to get into scratching.
Of course, there are other factors to consider when choosing a turntable. Turntables can range in price from around $100 to $2000 or more. If you’re just starting out, you may want to opt for a less expensive model. But if you’re serious about DJing, you’ll want to invest in a high-quality turntable that will last you for years to come.
The most popular turntable of all time is the Technics SL-1200, which was first released in 1972. The SL-1200 is a direct-drive turntable that is widely considered to be the best turntable for DJs. It’s built to withstand heavy use and it has a very smooth, accurate platter.
With a price tag of over $1,000, a pair could be out of your budget as a beginner DJ. But there are many less expensive brands that make excellent turntables, such as Audio-Technica, Numark and Crosley.
4. What accessories do you need for your turntables,?
In order to use your turntables, you’ll need a few key accessories. Firstly, you’ll need a slipmat to help keep the record from slipping while you’re DJing.
Next, you’ll need a dust cover to keep your turntable clean and free of dust. Dust covers are also available online or at your local turntable store.
Finally, you’ll need a cartridge and stylus. The cartridge mounts on the tonearm of the turntable and holds the stylus, which is the needle that actually comes into contact with the record.
5. How do you set up your turntables?
Ideally, you will want a pair of turntables so that you can play two records at the same time, either simultaneously, or mixing from one to the next.
You will then need a mixer to connect your turntables to. The mixer will allow you to control the volume, EQ and other aspects of the sound. Some have more features than others.
Once you have all of your equipment, it’s time to set up your turntables. First, place the slipmats on the platters. Then, mount the cartridges on the tonearms and connect the styli.
Next, connect the power cables to the turntables and plug them into an outlet. Finally, connect the audio cables from the turntables to the mixer.
Read Next: How to use a DJ Mixer
Even if you’re just starting out as a bedroom DJ, you will want some speakers to hear your music, though you could use some headphones plugged into your mixer. But if you’re planning on DJing at a club or party, you will need some professional-grade speakers that can handle a lot of power.
Now that you know the basics of DJ turntables, you’re ready to start shopping for the perfect set-up for your needs!
Conclusion
Now that you know the basics of DJ turntables, you’re ready to start shopping for the perfect set-up for your needs! Before you buy, make sure to consider the type of DJing you want to do, your budget and the space you have available. We’ve provided some tips on how to choose the right turntable for your needs, as well as what accessories you’ll need. So get out there and start shopping for your perfect set-up!
Q&A
Do I need a pair of turntables?
Ideally, you will want a pair of turntables so that you can play two records at the same time, either simultaneously or mixing from one to the next.
What is a direct-drive turntable?
A direct-drive turntable is a type of turntable that has the motor located beneath the platter. This design is considered to be superior for DJing because it provides more power and is less likely to skip.
How much do turntables cost?
Turntables can range in price from around $100 to $2000 or more. If you’re just starting out, you may want to look for a less expensive model. But if you’re serious about DJing, you’ll want to invest in a high-quality turntable that will last you for years to come.
Do DJs still use turntables?
Yes, DJs still use turntables! In fact, many consider them to be an essential part of the DJing experience.
What are DJ turntables called?
DJ turntables are commonly referred to as decks, but they are also known as record players.
Do turntables really sound better?
Turntables offer a warmer, more natural sound than CDs or digital music. They are also less likely to skip, which is important for DJs.
What are the different types of turntables?
There are two main types of turntables: direct-drive and belt-drive. Direct-drive turntables have the motor located beneath the platter, while belt-drive turntables have the motor located in the base of the unit. Belt-drive turntables are generally considered to be better for home use, while direct-drive turntables are more popular with DJs.
What is the most popular turntable?
The Technics SL-1200 is a direct-drive turntable that is popular with DJs. It is considered to be one of the best turntables on the market.
Can you use any turntable for DJing?
Yes, you could use any turntable for DJing, however, it is recommended that you use a professional, direct-drive turntable for the best results.
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