Around my household music is enjoyed by everyone, but like me, my eldest son takes his music very seriously. To be sure, many of us start out like my son, taking hand-me down components and adding something new occasionally to build a system. My son's system consists of a pair Sound Dynamics R-65 two way bookshelf speakers, an Onkyo TX-8211, 50 watt AM/FM stereo receiver and a Music Hall MMF-2.1 turntable with a Goldring Tracker MM cartridge. Most of his CDs are played through a JVC portable or through my old Sony CDP-C50 disc changer and hence he does most of his critical listening by spinning vinyl. A good sounding budget turntable costing less than $200.00 would certainly be a welcomed revelation for those looking to spin records on the cheap. So I began my search in earnest for a great budget table. After several weeks of looking I purchased this Pro-ject 1.2 review sample in good condition on Audiogon for $165.00.
- TurnTable 3.2.5 MAS macOS 4 mb. TurnTable allows you to browse and play your music collection in a new kind of music interface. Play your life in the most compelling way. Like the new iTunes. The first music experience true to the art. Visually, a full artists chart, flip-through records, and an albums-collection view.
- Disc 1 Track1-6, Track15 Licensed by Sony Music Labels Inc. Disc 1 Track7-11 Licensed by Smile Publishers Inc. Disc 1 Track12-17, Disc 2 Track1-14, Disc 3 Track2-25 Licensed by TENDERBERRY & HARVEST INC. Disc 3 Track1 Licensed by Walt Disney Records.
Music Hall MMF-2.3 Turntable - Black. Add to Wish List Add to Compare. Pro-Ject RPM 5 Carbon Turntable. Add to Wish List Add to Compare. VPI Cliffwood Turntable.
Pro-Ject 1.2 turntable review
The first thing I wanted to see was how a used budget table would sound when compared side by side with my son's fairly new MMF-2.1. For this portion of the review I mounted the speakers on a pair of 24' high Plateau speaker stands securing them with DAP 'Fun Tak' which is similar to, but much less expensive than 'Blue Tak'. The stands are filled with lead shot and sand for mass loading and were placed 2 feet from the back wall and 6 feet apart. I toed the speakers in slightly towards the listening position which placed my ears 6 feet back from the front plane of the speakers. For speaker connections I used a 10 foot pair of Zebra ZC SP12SD speaker cables.
The Czech made Pro-ject 1.2 is made in the same factory that produced my son's Music Hall MMF 2.1. Both turntables are utilitarian in design with solid MDF plinths, metal platters and rubber suspended belt drive motors. Speed selection is made by removing the platter and moving the belt from the larger 45RPM pulley or smaller 331/3 RPM pulley. The power switch is on the left hand side of the table under the plinth on the Pro-ject and on the top of the plinth on the Music Hall. The notable differences between the two turntables are the size and weight of the respective platters and the use of two different tone arms. The Pro-ject comes with a hefty full size 12 inch platter and a slightly longer aluminum tone arm than the MMF 2.1, the MMF 2.1 uses a 10 inch platter that is about half the weight of that used on the Pro-ject table additionally it uses a shorter tone arm that has a plastic head shell. Additionally the MMF 2.1 uses a Goldring Tracker Cartridge and the Pro-ject uses a Sumiko Oyster cartridge, accordingly I knew there would be some differences, but I was really surprised how great they were.
Listening Pro-Ject turntable
I warmed up the system by listening to some of my favorite jazz standards and then used some specific recordings for critical listening, first up was Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers Blue Note 4003. The first cut on the second side is actually 3 jazz tunes called 'The Drum Thunder Suite', which is usually is a fairly dynamic recording when played on my reference system but it was not nearly as detailed or energetic when played through the MMF-2.1. Switching to the Pro-ject 1.2 brought out more of the life of the recording. Benny Golson's sax sounded smoother and richer, the drums sounded much more powerful with a more lively presentation. The depth and width of the soundstage were also much greater than when I listened to the MMF 2.1. I switched recordings again, this time cueing up Meet Betty Carter and Ray Bryant Epic Reissue LN3202. My favorite track is 'Moonlight in Vermont', Betty Carter provides a special performance of this jazz standard, she has a rich and smooth voice though at times the recording can sound bright. The thinner sounding Music Hall MMF 2.1 had a compressed sense of space around the vocalist when compared to the Project which again provided a more spacious and dynamic presentation of the music.
One of my favorite Tom Petty albums is Southern Accents. I especially enjoy track one on the album, 'Rebels', which is very well recorded when compared to most of the rock music produced in the eighties. When assessing the performance of both turntables you become much more engaged when listening to the Project 1.2. It produces a sound like rock should sound, more dynamic and powerful. Next I set up the Project 1.2 through my ARC SP16 reference system phono stage. My reference system consists of a VPI HW-19 MKIV turntable, Audio Research SP16 vacuum tube preamplifier, Audio Research VS110 vacuum tube amplifier, Paradigm Signature S2 monitors mounted on Target, lead and sand filled stands. The Speaker Cables of choice are a 10 foot pair of Discovery Cables Essential speaker cables and I also use Discovery Essence interconnects throughout the system. I have my reference turntable set up using a Rega RB600 tone arm and a Clearaudio Beta S MM Cartridge. Presently my listening room is located in our basement it is 13' X 18' with 7'8' ceilings. I have positioned the speakers out from the rear wall 42' and away from the side walls about a foot, toed in sharply, on axis to the listening position.
The Project 1.2 sounded quite nice when played through my reference system. It didn't have the air and sparkle of the VPI HW-19 but it did acquit itself quite nicely, presenting a wide and deep soundstage. I played a copy of the Blue Note 1590 reissue of Candy by Lee Morgan. The VPI HW-19 had a much greater sense of 'being there' compared to the Pro-ject 1.2 but there was still a great analog feeling conveyed by the Pro-ject that is almost never present when listening to CDs. While listening to the VPI, Lee Morgan's Trumpet had a more presence, Doug Watkin's bass had more weight, Sonny Clarks piano had more clarity and Art Taylor's cymbal's had a clear detailed shimmer that floated in space.
I installed a Shure M97XE cartridge on the Project to see what improvement it would make. This ended up being a huge sound improvement over the Sumiko Oyster especially in the areas of resolution and bass response. The Pro-ject 1.2 was much better at conveying the music with the cartridge upgrade.
Conclusion about Pro-Ject 1.2 Turntable
The VPI yields better detail, weight, presence and musicality across the listening spectrum than the Pro-ject 1.2 and not by a small margin, which is as is should be. That said, the Project 1.2 I listened to was superior in every way to the Music Hall MMF 2.1. Regardless of the cost, the Pro-ject 1.2 is a great starter table that can be purchased for a few dollars that would be a great way to move into vinyl playback. Or if you have an older Japanese direct drive turntable in your system, the Project will definitely extract more music from the grooves! If you can find one on Audiogon or e-bay for the right price, it will definitely be worth your while!
Associated Equipment.
- Audio Research SP16
- Preamplifier Audio Research VS110
- Amplifier
- Audio Research SP5 Preamplifier Audio Research D52 Amplifier Primare D30.2 CD Player
- Oppo DV970HD Universal Player
- Pro-ject 1.2 Turntable
- Shure M97XE MM Cartridge Sumiko Oyster MM Cartridge VPI HW19 MKIV Turntable Rega RB 600 Tonearm
- Clearaudio Beta S MM Cartridge Paradigm S2 Signiture Monitors Krix Equinox Monitors
- Discovery Essence Interconnects
- Discovery Essential Speaker
- Cables Eichmann Express
- Six Interconnects Zebra ZC SP12SD
- Speaker Cables Zebra ZC SP14DBI Speaker Cables
external link: Pro-Ject Audio
from affordableaudio, By Todd Arthur
A turntable is an essential item for serious DJs. With a turntable, you can complete control over the music. Also, it allows you to accomplish complex scratches as well as sound manipulation. However, keep in mind that it is not easy to DJ with turntables.
Of course, you will concern about the record skipping or any damage with your records sustaining. Therefore, you need to familiarise yourself with the proper equipment for the job. In this post, we will share with you all the info you should know when choosing the best turntables for scratching.
Top Five Best Turntables for Scratching Reviews
Numark PT01 Scratch Turntable
This product is a portable vinyl turntable. It has three different speeds. Also, it comes with a built-in scratch slide switch that is adjustable and replaceable. Moreover, this model allows you to adjust it to your preference with ease.
This one is lightweight and portable. You can plug it into a wall outlet. Besides, it can also perform on its six batteries. You can use it once you are on the move. Plus, you can use it right out of the box, thanks to a pre-balanced tonearm.
It is not essential to concern about assembling the tonearm. You can easily replace the cartridge. Additionally, the model has an array of features. It does not require you to get an external speaker since it comes with a built-in speaker.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
- Simple to set up
- Simple to replace the cartridge
Cons:
- May need an external amplifier.
_https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LEZMDH2
Stanton T62 DJ Turntable
If you are going for a professional quality turntable, you should invest in the Staton T62 DJ turntable. It comes in two playback speeds, 33 and 45 rpm. Also, it has a direct-drive motor. Therefore, it ensures to give you accurate sounds as well as playback speeds.
It comes with an all-black top. Also, there are grey controls. It includes a pre-mounted 300 cartridge along with a straight tonearm. It is an excellent choice for scratching because of its tonearm's design.
You will get many enjoyable features from this turntable. It gives you a manual pitch fader, RCA stereo outputs with cables, and dual start/stop switches for scratching. However, there is no headphone output you can find on most turntables out there.
Pros:
- High-quality cartridge
- Many excellent features
- Little sound distortions
Cons:
- No USB
- No 75 rpm speed selection
_https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XHFQSRT
Crosley C200A-BK Turntable
Turntable 3 2 1/2
This model allows you to switch from the belt-driven model to a direct drive. Therefore, it ensures to give you a more accurate sound. This one can remove unexpected noise. The model comes with a sharp Audio-Technica magnetic cartridge.
This product has a modern design. It brings a resilient S-shaped tonearm with a hydraulic lift control, height adjustment, anti-skate, as well as lockable rest. Plus, it is easy to set up and use this turntable.
Besides, it offers you several excellent features. It comes with adjustable pitch control. Therefore, you can adjust the tempo and pitch with ease.
Pros:
- An excellent feature for beginners and professionals
- S-shape tonearm
- Simple to use and set up
Cons:
- The preamp is not high quality
- Shorter RCA cables
_https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01AT3G2OU
Stanton T92 USB DJ Turntable
This turntable is durable. It can resist a great deal of punishment. At the same time, it can offer accurate playback speeds. This one comes with a high-torque direct-drive motor. Also, there is a pitch control fader, and S-shaped tonearm, start/stop switches, and RCA stereo outputs.
There are three speeds available, 33, 45, and 78 rpm. This model has a smaller failure rate compared to a belt-driven motor due to a direct drive motor. Besides, you will also get USB and S/PDIF outputs. Therefore, you can transfer your music from vinyl to your PC/Mac.
With this turntable, you can also edit your music files. You can also get detailed instructions on using the software from the manual.
Pros:
- Portable and lightweight
- Excellent sound quality
- Great USB capabilities
Cons:
- The high frequencies are too Analog-sounding
_https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00292BREU
Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB Turntable
This turntable appeals to professional DJs. It comes with many knobs and switches. As a direct drive player, you can access to a pitch control with this model. Also, it can automatically change playing speeds.
Turntable 3 2 12
You needn't worry about vibrations or motor noises. This option is the right one for DJs since it can resist rougher and prolonged use. Moreover, the unit comes with excellent USB connectivity.
It is ideal even when you use it frequently. It also comes with an adjustable tacking force/counterweight, a removable universal cartridge mount, as well as an anti-skate adjustment.
Pros: Logic pro x 10 4 0 download free.
- Durable Aluminium tonearm
- USB connectivity
- A high-torque direct-drive motor
- No USB
- No 75 rpm speed selection
_https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XHFQSRT
Crosley C200A-BK Turntable
Turntable 3 2 1/2
This model allows you to switch from the belt-driven model to a direct drive. Therefore, it ensures to give you a more accurate sound. This one can remove unexpected noise. The model comes with a sharp Audio-Technica magnetic cartridge.
This product has a modern design. It brings a resilient S-shaped tonearm with a hydraulic lift control, height adjustment, anti-skate, as well as lockable rest. Plus, it is easy to set up and use this turntable.
Besides, it offers you several excellent features. It comes with adjustable pitch control. Therefore, you can adjust the tempo and pitch with ease.
Pros:
- An excellent feature for beginners and professionals
- S-shape tonearm
- Simple to use and set up
Cons:
- The preamp is not high quality
- Shorter RCA cables
_https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01AT3G2OU
Stanton T92 USB DJ Turntable
This turntable is durable. It can resist a great deal of punishment. At the same time, it can offer accurate playback speeds. This one comes with a high-torque direct-drive motor. Also, there is a pitch control fader, and S-shaped tonearm, start/stop switches, and RCA stereo outputs.
There are three speeds available, 33, 45, and 78 rpm. This model has a smaller failure rate compared to a belt-driven motor due to a direct drive motor. Besides, you will also get USB and S/PDIF outputs. Therefore, you can transfer your music from vinyl to your PC/Mac.
With this turntable, you can also edit your music files. You can also get detailed instructions on using the software from the manual.
Pros:
- Portable and lightweight
- Excellent sound quality
- Great USB capabilities
Cons:
- The high frequencies are too Analog-sounding
_https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00292BREU
Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB Turntable
This turntable appeals to professional DJs. It comes with many knobs and switches. As a direct drive player, you can access to a pitch control with this model. Also, it can automatically change playing speeds.
Turntable 3 2 12
You needn't worry about vibrations or motor noises. This option is the right one for DJs since it can resist rougher and prolonged use. Moreover, the unit comes with excellent USB connectivity.
It is ideal even when you use it frequently. It also comes with an adjustable tacking force/counterweight, a removable universal cartridge mount, as well as an anti-skate adjustment.
Pros: Logic pro x 10 4 0 download free.
- Durable Aluminium tonearm
- USB connectivity
- A high-torque direct-drive motor
Cons:
- You should replace the included cartridge
_https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002S1CJ2Q
How to Choose the Right DJ Turntables
Know Your Budget
Sure, everyone cares about the budget when choosing a DJ turntable or controller. Macfamilytree 8 8 2 3. Thankfully, you can find the most modern models at just $100. However, sometimes you need to put some budget down in a high-quality pair of headphones.
One or Two Turntables
One turntable is ideal for those who are scratching with vinyl for their tracks. On the contrary, two or more turntables are necessary for those who want to perform live. Many people may begin with two turntables. Then, they add more as they progress.
We recommend you to choose ones with options for future expansions to avoid being stuck with a turntable that does not perform well with others.
Modern or Vintage
Most DJ turntables out there are modernized. However, many DJs still like vintage turntables. Some people think that it is a good idea to begin with an old school gear since it allows you to learn true DJ-ing.
Your choice depends on you. However, it is best to choose a modern setup for a contemporary & modern music producer who wants to optimize time and work smart. This model has USB connectivity and RCA connections.
Additional Gear
Sometimes, you may need additional gears, such as speakers, headphones, DJ controllers, cables, audio interfaces, plugins, as well as other software. Keep it in mind to make sure you spend your money wisely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you scratch on a direct drive turntable?
A direct-drive model removes belts. It employs a motor to drive a platter where a vinyl record rests. It is for scratching since the motor will go on spinning at the right RPM.
Can you DJ with any turntable?
If you are scratching with vinyl, you should start with one turntable. On the contrary, you should go with two or more if you plan to perform live, as mentioned previously.
How long does a turntable belt last?
A turntable bels can last from 3-5 years before stretching out. However, some cheap ones on cheap devices may last somewhat longer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a turntable is a must-have item in DJ. These devices give you complete control over your music. However, there is a great variety of products out there to choose from. Most of them offer a myriad of features for your scratching within different price points. You should choose ones down to personal preferences.
- Tags:Best Turntables for Scratching
