The turntable has been the oldest form of entertainment for people over the years. With technological advancements and science, this type of turntable is being upgraded, and Pioneer is known for offering high-quality turntables. Pioneer makes just about every conceivable component and accessory in the audio and video realm. It released car navigation systems, laserdisc players, car CD players, and more.
Pioneer products are very reliable and durable, which is the reason why many DJs use them. Their dedication to advanced technologies and building quality promise to deliver the best sound, visual and live performance.
Table of Contents
7 Best Pioneer Turntable
DJ mixers and turntables are among Pioneer’s high-end products. Besides speakers, headphones, controllers, and more DJ equipment, this brand also offers DJ accessories. Audio setups are easy to use. Check out the following table, which includes some of the Pioneer turntables.
Name
Image
Features
Price
Pioneer PLX-1000
Universal type S-shape tone arm Gimbal-supported type bearing structure Static balance type
Pioneer PLX-500-K Turntable
Professional Sound Design.Easy Digital Recording.Smooth DJ Play.
Pioneer CDJ-2000-NXS
The Pioneer CDJ-2000- NXS is a professional DJ player that is designed for club use.
Pioneer PL-30-K
Belt Drive System.
DC Servo Motor.
Static Balance Straight Type Tone Arm.
Pioneer P-990
Full-Automatic Operation. Built-in Phono Equaliser.
CDJ-1000MK3
File Formats. CDA; MP3 (MPEG-1 32Kbps – 320 Kbps, MPEG-2 16 Kbps – 160 Kbps)
Pioneer PL-990
Full-Automatic Operation DC servo motor.Belt drive system.
Pioneer PLX-1000
Best Choice
SPECIFICATIONS
Width:453 mm Height:159 mm Depth:353 mm Weight:14.6 kg Outputs:1 ANALOGUE (RCA) Overhang:15 mm Effective Length:230 mm Tracking Error:Within 3° Height Adjustment Range:6 mm Signal-to-Noise Ratio:70 dB Braking System:Electronic brake Starting Torque:> 4.5 kgf・cm Rotation Speed:33⅓-45 rpm Rotation Adjustment Range: ±8, ±16, ±50 % Stylus Pressure Variable Range:0-4 g (1 scale 0.1 g) Proper Cartridge Weight:2.5-12 g (includes mounting materials) Drive Method:Quartz lock, servo-type, direct drive Platter:Aluminium, die-casting diameter: 332 mm Motor:3-phase, brushless DC motor Wow, and Flutter:< 0.01 % (Signal obtained from a frequency generator built into the motor assembly.)
Pros
✓High-torque direct drive
✓Ensures stable rotation
✓Exceptional control
✓Die-cast zinc chassis
✓Vibration-damping material
✓It prevents resonance and vibrations
✓Rubber-insulated tonearm
✓Reduces howling effects
✓Multi-tempo control
✓Interchangeable power
✓Pro-grade gold-plated RCA jacks
✓Low impedance
✓Very strong motor
✓Amazing sound quality
✓Excellent build quality & construction
✓Detachable power and audio cables
Cons
✗Tonearm bearings are slightly loose
Turn The Tables
Because of high-torque direct-drive power, the PLX-1000 is exceptionally stable during rotation and can provide excellent control; for instance, it can reach 3313 RPM within 0.3 seconds.
Control Of Tempo Superb
One can instantly slow down the tracks or pick them up using the built-in multi-tempo to *8%, *16%, and a maximum of *50%. A simple reset button automatically returns the tracks to *0% after those tempo changes.
Flexible Connectivity
Easily replace and connect the power cable and audio cable. To create high-quality sound, gold-plated RCA jacks provide low resistance.
Excellent Sound Design
Zinc chassis provide heavy mass to prevent resonance and vibration. It has a base made of nine mm of vibration-damping material and eight mm of resin at the bottom. Rubber-insulated tone bodies reduce howling effects, and rubber and springs were used to absorb extra vibrations by dampening parts of the insulators.
Designed With Perfection
A heavy-weight, zinc-die-cast chassis is part of the PLX-1000 design. All of the rubber-wrapped tonearm and 8mm of resin reinforce the thickness of the lower leg. The result is that unwanted vibrations are reduced.
Heavy-duty Construction
The PLX-1000 incorporates some next-generation innovations and features professional heavy-duty construction. A feature of this instrument is that it can control multiple pitches, and it has detachable power and audio cables. Lines and phono outputs are available for connecting the sound system.
Pioneer PLX-500-K Turntable
Value Choice
SPECIFICATIONS
Width:450 mm Height:159 mm Depth:368 mm Weight:10.7 kg USB:1 USB B port Outputs:1 PHONO/LINE (RCA) Overhang:16 mm Effective Length:230.5 mm Proper Cartridge Weight:< 9.5 g Cartridge type:VM Tracking Error:Within 3° Height Adjustment Range:6 mm Motor:3-phase, brushless DC motor Drive Method:Servo-type direct drive Starting Torque:> 1.6 kgf・cm Start Time:Within 1 sec (at 33⅓ rpm) Rotation Adjustment Range:±8 % Wow and Flutter:< 0.15% WRMS Signal-to-Noise Ratio:50 dB Braking System:Electronic brake Rotation Speed:33⅓, 45, 78 rpm Stylus Pressure Variable Range:0-4 g (1 scale 0.1 g) Tone Arm – Height Adjustment Range:6 mm Platter: Aluminium, die-casting diameter:332 mm
Pros
✓High-quality vinyl sound
✓Direct drive motor system
✓Easy digital recording
✓Cover art display
✓Servo-type direct drive
✓Clear analog sound
✓Solidly built
✓Built-in USB connectivity
✓Headshell (with cartridge)
✓Dust cover with jacket stand
✓Precise audio playback
✓Excellent vibration damping
✓Balance audio conversion
✓Rekordbox compatible
✓Switchable phono/line output
Cons
✗Starting time is lengthy by up to a second
PLX-500’s crisp, clear analog sound makes it an ideal professional turntable. The portable player is available in two different shades to play vinyl or even listen to old melodies at home. Besides being easy to use, this model also provides a high level of sound quality. It reduces distortion. With the phone/line output switch, it can also allow connecting to the sound system.
Our high-torque deck features excellent vibration damping and accurate audio playback, as well as a USB input so you can record your vinyl collection digitally using our free rekordbox software. Additionally, using the PLX-500 with a mixer and RB-VS1-K Control Vinyl, the rekordbox DVS Plus Pack is used to play and scratch with digital files.
Furthermore, the model comes with a headshell that includes a cartridge. A high-torque motor makes this mix-and-scratch model ideal.
Excellent Sound Design
PLX-500 produces vinyl sounds of the same top quality as the PLX-1000. Distortion is reduced by routing the audio from the stylus as close as possible to the outputs.
It does not require additional amplifiers to connect directly to the sound system; it can be connected directly to the phone/line output switch.
Cover Art Display
With the record cover sleeves standing inside, it allows for displaying LP records while listening to them.
Because the PLX-500 includes a sleeve stand inside the dust cover, enjoy vinyl sounds and record covers simultaneously.
Easy Digital Recording
Connect the turntable to the computer or Mac via the USB output to convert the vinyl to high-quality digital files. When connected to a computer or Mac, the turntable has a USB output to record and create digital files.
Smooth Dj Play
Play and perform with your digital files using the PLX-500, a DJ mixer, and the RB-VS1-K Control Vinyl, and mix the vinyl records.
Three speeds are available on this particular turntable: 33, 45, and 78 RPM.
Pioneer CDJ-2000-NXS
Most Expensive Choice
SPECIFICATIONS
Width:320 mm Height:113.2 mm Depth:414.4 mm Weight:5.7 kg Distortion:< 0.0018 % Soundcard:24-bit/96 kHz Signal-to-Noise Ratio:115 dB Frequency Range:4 – 40000 Hz Audio Output Level:2.0 Vrms (1 kHz, 0 dB) Processor Asahi Kasei DAC:(AK4490EQ)
Pros
✓Professional multi-player
✓Midi control
✓Large full-color LCD touchscreen
✓Fast track selection
✓Qwerty keyboard and search filters
✓Rekordbox enhanced track information
✓Best possible club sound
✓Multiple media playback options (USB, SD, CD, REDBOX)
✓Crisp, high-resolution audio
✓Quantize snaps cues
✓Fully compatible with Redbox
✓Dj player with Wi-Fi source connectivity
✓Slip mode and quantize are performance functions
Cons
✗Wireless connectivity requires running a cable to the router
Taking all the best elements of its predecessor, the CDJ-2000NXS2 makes a significant leap forward from that model. It comes with a 6.1-inch LCD screen with 480×234 pixels, making it an excellent collection. The device comes with a QWERTY keyboard and search filters in addition to a bright, touch screen with five levels of zoom.
To make it easier to select tracks faster, there is a multicolor touch screen with a Qwerty keyboard.
Hot Cues are available in two banks of four, offering a greater degree of creative control. The card also supports FLAC/Apple Lossless Audio (ALAC) and 96 kHz/24-bit sound cards.
Improved Sound Design
The sound card is 96 kHz/24-bit, and the DSP and Digital Out have been optimized for the best possible club sound. A high-performance 32-bit D/A converter and a separate analog power supply reduce analog noise in this device. FLAC, Apple Lossless Audio (ALAC), MP3, WAV, AAC, AIFF, and WAV files support high-quality, high-resolution audio.
Using this software, loops, and cues are synchronized with rekordbox beat grids to ensure consistent sound is produced.
Pro DJ Link
It is possible to connect up to four players, turntables, or laptops over a LAN connection. Rekordbox is compatible with this add-on, which provides enhanced track information and performance features such as Beat Sync, Beat Countdown, Beat Jump, and Phase Meter.
Large Touch Screen
Touchscreen technology allows intuitive access to the favorite features thanks to a 7-inch, full-color screen. The Wave Zoom and Needle Countdown feature, as well as the Phase Meter, are included within. Searching and selecting the tracks is easier and faster with Keyword Search and Track Filter modes.
8 Hot Cues
Color-code cue points in Rekordbox to match the style. The Hot Cues feature four banks of 4 color-illuminated cue points for instant playback.
Rekordbox DJ
The DJ performance software Rekordbox DJ can control this device. This pack contains Hot Cues, Samplers, Slicers, Beat FX, Beat Jump, and Pad FX.
The music management software works perfectly with Rekordbox to organize music, prepare tracks, and deliver an optimal listening experience.
Three-Position Lever
To engage Slip Reverse, Forward, and Reverse, simply tap the three-position lever.
The shortcut button gives you direct access to the Browse mode and My Settings on the player’s touch screen.
Rekordbox allows setting, naming, and color-coding cues and accessing the corresponding information directly from the player’s interface.
Pioneer PL-30-K
Audiophile Stereo
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions:15 x 17 x 4 inches Weight:12.30 lbs Motor:DC Servo motor Signal-to-Noise Ratio:60 dB (DIN-B) Rotation Speed:33 1/3 rpm, 45 rpm Output:1 x Stereo RCA Type:Static-balance straight-type tonearm Effective Arm Length:221.5 mm Overhang:19 mm Cartridge Type:MM type Power Requirements:120 VAC, 60 Hz Power Consumption:2 W Stylus Pressure Variable Range:0 to 4.0 g (1 scale 0.1 g) Drive Method:Belt-drive system Wow and Flutter:0.1% or Less WRMS (JIS WTD)
Pros
✓Dual-layer Chassis
✓Built-in Phono Equalizer & Pre-amp
✓Aluminum Die-cast Plate And Tonearm
✓High Inertia Aluminium
✓Driven By High Torque
✓Thick Rubber Matt
✓Prevents External Vibrations
✓Straight-tone Arm
✓High-tracking Accuracy
✓Anti-skating Mechanism
✓Balance Weight
✓Head-shell With Cartridge
✓Spare Lead Wires
✓Assembly Instructions With Manual
✓Dc-servo-controlled Motor
Cons
✗Not available
A pre-mounted and ready-to-play stereo phono cartridge is included with this turntable, giving it a lot of value. It does not require tedious mounting since it is already precision installed.
There is an on/through selector and phono equalizer built right into the PL-30K; this makes it the perfect turntable for systems that don’t contain a built-in phono stage, such as preamps, integrated amps, or receivers. Play the PL-30-K by plugging it into an auxiliary RCA input and selecting “On.”
High-quality Playback
A dual-layered chassis with a four-millimeter thick metal plate is used for a heavy-duty turntable that weighs more than 12 pounds. With a low center of gravity, this device allows for smooth playback and sounds free from feedback and reverberation that would come from unintentional feedback.
Ultimate Listening
For vinyl enthusiasts who already have a phono system, this turntable allows them to upgrade. The thrill of collecting vinyl records takes on a new meaning for new-generation music listeners, who can engage with music in a way that is uniquely vinyl-centric.
Phono Eq
The Phono Equalizer features an On/Through selector, serving as an alternative to the Phono Terminal in cases when external phono equalizers are being used.
Belt Drive
A high torque DC motor drives a 5-1/3 speed and 33-1/3 speed aluminum die-cast platter with high inertia. The mat supports a 5mm thickness to prevent external vibrations while providing excellent care for the beautiful vinyl.
Static-balanced Straight Tone-arm
High tracking accuracy is achieved with the use of a straight tonearm. Vinyl records are also tracked accurately since the anti-skating mechanism prevents them from slipping.
Pioneer PL-990
Cheapest Choice
SPECIFICATIONS
Power Consumption:2 W Dimensions:420 x 100 x 342 mm Weight:2.65 kg Stylus pressure:3.5 g ± 1 g Motor Type:DC servo motor Drive System:Belt drive system Rotation Speed:33-1/3, 45 rpm S/N Ratio:More than 50 dB (DIN-B) Platter:Diameter Φ295 mm Cartridge type:MM type Replacement stylus:PZP 1004 Stylus:0.6 mil diamond Power Requirements:AC 220-240 V, 50/60 Hz Output voltage (with equalizer amplifier):112-270 mV
Pros
✓2-speed fully automatic operation
✓Fully automatic operation
✓Low-mass straight tonearm
✓Highly sensitive
✓Aluminum platter
✓Resistant to resonance
✓Track records better
✓Precision dc servo motor
✓Low-vibration, belt-drive design
✓Rubber platter mat
✓Stable hanging engine ends spindle wobble
✓Accurate platter rotation
✓Universal-type cartridge connector
✓Phono EQ included
✓P-mount cartridge
✓Vibration-absorbing feet
✓Hinged dust cover
Cons
✗No headphone jack
The PL-990s retro 1960s aesthetic mimics the classic simplicity of turntables. A reasonably small entry-level vinyl player, the PL-990 is a sufficiently small player for current standards. Sound quality is its top priority rather than appearance. It is a clean, versatile, and crisp pre-amp that pairs well with any good system.
Connecting this device to any receiver or speaker system is possible; however, phono connections cannot be combined since there are no phono connectors on this product. Vibration levels on this turntable are significantly lower than those of direct drive devices.
Thanks to the powerful motor, it ensures a constant speed. The turntable also comes with a cartridge that does not require running records.
CDJ-1000MK3
Digital Vinyl Turntable
SPECIFICATIONS
Net Weight:4,2 kg Dimensions:320 x 370 x 105 mm ( WxDxH ) Product Type:CD Player for DJs Type of Disc:12cm Disc Format:MP3CD, CD, CD-R, and CD-RW Frequency Response:4Hz ~ 20kHz Distortion:0.006 % (JEITA) Signal to Noise Ratio line:115 dB Power Supply:AC 220-240V, 50/60Hz Power Consumption:27 W The folder tree is max.8 levels deep Multi-speed within:20-30 seconds
Pros
✓Anti-Vibration
✓Legato Link Conversion
✓Auto Cue and Jog Mode
✓Pitch Bend, BPM Counter
✓Tempo Control
✓Master Tempo
✓VBR Support
✓Multi-Read Format
✓Cue Stutter Continue
✓“Wide” Pitch Control
✓Hot Cue & Hot Loop
✓Loop In / Out Adjust
✓Tempo Control Reset
✓Real-Time Seamless Loop
✓Fader Start / Back Cue Start
✓Folder Search & MP3 Playback
✓Eject Canceling & Auto Resume
Cons
✗Too expensive
A Pioneer CDJ-1000MK3 CD turntable is available in its CDJ-1000 series. Pioneer offers only one model that can be called a CDJ, and that is this model. CD-R and CD-RW mediums can be played back with it, making it different from conventional vinyl records.
Many other features have been added to the CDJ-1000MK3 to help meet the needs of the DJ and promote professionalism. These features include MP3 compatibility, a HOT LOOP feature, a JOG wheel “feeling adjust,” in addition to SD card storage. Furthermore, better DJ performance is improved through higher-resolution displays on the raised jog wheel display and the main show.
Improved Jog Dial
DJs will be able to adjust the resistance easily and instantly thanks to the 7-inch jog dial’s new metallic ‘non-slip’ finish. With increased brightness and closer proximity to the Jog surface, the Jog Dial Display provides a more comfortable viewing experience. As well as 45-degree markers at the center, visual cues are also offered.
Reverse
By switching the toggle switch, the reverse is instantaneous. Effortlessly integrated within any track, it works without stopping or starting, without affecting the tempo or pitch.
Hot Cue (sampler)
Records the cue points for up to 3 CDs. The A, B, or C buttons are then used to recall these points. Using this function is a great way to add creativity to any DJ set by adding vocals, stabs, or breaks. A new feature of the MK3 is the ability to store loops as hot cues.
Real-Time Seamless Loop
Using a loop while the track is playing is a quick and straightforward process. Continually looping the loop or exiting it will trigger the ReLoop / Exit button. This release of the switch allows the route to continue playing uninterrupted. It is possible to retrigger the loop at any time by clicking the ReLoop button.
Eject Button & CD Lock
CDJ-1000’s eject button is protected from accidental press with a guard. CDs are automatically locked when the track ends. Deactivating this will also allow quick mixes to be performed. A new Quick Return feature allows playback from where you left off if you accidentally ejected a CD. Put the CD back into the player when you accidentally removed it.
Pioneer PL-990 – Automatic
Stereo Turntable
Pros
✓Two speeds, LPS, and 45s
✓Fully automatic operation
✓Low-mass straight tonearm
✓Highly sensitive
✓Resistant to resonance
✓Built-in phono equalizer
✓P-mount cartridge
✓Low-vibration
✓Belt-drive design
✓Rubber platter mat
✓Vibration-absorbing feet
✓Hinged dust cover
✓Track records better
✓Universal-type cartridge connector
✓Moving magnet cartridge included
Cons
✗Short RCA built-in cable
The PL-990 is a modestly sized SCAD player for entry-level use by modern standards. Sound quality is more important than style. This preamp sounds crisp and clear and is versatile enough to work with most systems. However, it cannot be connected to a phono input system and cannot only be connected to a receiver or speaker system. There is less vibration from the turntable than from direct drives.
There is an excellent height and solid feel to the tonearm. There is an automatic function. When it is playing, the toner can move and return to its previous position. Even though this seems like an insignificant feature, many entry-level turntables are mechanical and lack this capability. It’s a bit of a hassle to upgrade the cartridge since it’s fixed.
Fully Automatic Operation
The ability to operate automatically is indeed a great feature. When the record has been finished, the tonearm can automatically return to its starting position.
A Built-in Phono Equalizer
It is an excellent option for connecting directly to sound systems.
Decent Cartridge
PL-990 comes with a cartridge that plays records without damaging them.
A Decent Motor
The belt-driven record player is fitted with a strong motor, which allows the player to maintain the same speed over time.
A Pioneer CDJ-1000MK3 CD turntable is available in its CDJ-1000 series. Pioneer offers only one model that can be called a CDJ, and that is this model. CD-R and CD-RW mediums can be played back with it, making it different from conventional vinyl records.
Many other features have been added to the CDJ-1000MK3 to help meet the needs of the DJ and promote professionalism. These features include MP3 compatibility, a HOT LOOP feature, a JOG wheel “feeling adjust,” in addition to SD card storage. Furthermore, better DJ performance is improved through higher-resolution displays on the raised jog wheel display and the main show.
Improved Jog Dial
DJs will be able to adjust the resistance easily and instantly thanks to the 7-inch jog dial’s new metallic ‘non-slip’ finish. With increased brightness and closer proximity to the Jog surface, the Jog Dial Display provides a more comfortable viewing experience. As well as 45-degree markers at the center, visual cues are also offered.
Reverse
By switching the toggle switch, the reverse is instantaneous. Effortlessly integrated within any track, it works without stopping or starting, without affecting the tempo or pitch.
Hot Cue (sampler)
Records the cue points for up to 3 CDs. The A, B, or C buttons are then used to recall these points. Using this function is a great way to add creativity to any DJ set by adding vocals, stabs, or breaks. A new feature of the MK3 is the ability to store loops as hot cues.
Real-Time Seamless Loop
Using a loop while the track is playing is a quick and straightforward process. Continually looping the loop or exiting it will trigger the ReLoop / Exit button. This release of the switch allows the route to continue playing uninterrupted. It is possible to retrigger the loop at any time by clicking the ReLoop button.
Eject Button & CD Lock
CDJ-1000’s eject button is protected from accidental press with a guard. CDs are automatically locked when the track ends. Deactivating this will also allow quick mixes to be performed. A new Quick Return feature allows playback from where you left off if you accidentally ejected a CD. Put the CD back into the player when you accidentally removed it.
Conclusion
There are several advanced turntables on the market today, but the PLX-1000 provides a noticeable and resounding alternative. It is the winner of our Pioneer Derby, hands down because it is the most stylish, rugged, and competitively priced.
Vinyl records usually only take one play on a new turntable to make you addicted. It’s also an expensive hobby. A form is an excellent way to listen to favorite music, but music is beautiful. We’ve listed the best Pioneer models available at the moment, and these are the ones to pick from. The calculations will be different when choosing another brand over Pioneer.