I used to have a pair of Gemini XL-600 tables as a backup to my Technics SL-1200. No complaints, but you get what you pay for in the end. A Technics turntable has superior craftsmanship and functionality.
If Technics are out of your price range, I recommend the Stanton STR8/SL series (STR8 = straight arm, SL = S-curved arm) models 80, 100, and 150 as a backup option.
They are quite well constructed. I own three Stanton STR8-80 models, all of which perform admirably.
Because I’ve had my STR8-80 tables for a few years, the Stanton models I outlined are good. They’ve never failed me since I got them used. I’m not familiar with the remaining brands, and I wouldn’t want to waste anyone’s time on this board by going any farther.
In This Article...
What is the standard turntable in the industry?
The industry standard for DJ turntables has long been Technics’ SL1200 and SL1210 series, thus Panasonic’s relaunch of the turntable series in 2015 and subsequent release of the state-of-the-art MK7 model in 2019 were reason for excitement in the dance music world. Especially since the previously favored MK2 model dates from 1979 and later editions in the series were notoriously tough to come by, relying heavily on the secondary market. Unless you have 2,799 to spend on the redesigned SL-1200G, which was released in 2016 and retailed for 2,799.
The SL-1210MK7 came in at a lot more reasonable 799, with a slew of new features and enhancements that made it ideal for DJs. These include a magnetic coreless direct drive motor that is highly reliable and does not require parts replacements, providing powerful torque and precise rotation over an extended period of time, and a two-layer platter structure with vibration-damping rubber across the back surface that eliminates unwanted resonance and detrimental vibration. One mark of quality assurance that distinguishes Technics decks is their toughness and dependability; knowing that they will operate in almost any situation is why DJs rely on them.
Are Audio Technica turntables of high quality?
The Audio-Technica LP 120X is designed after the discontinued Technics 1200, which is undoubtedly the most iconic turntable of all time. It actually replaces our experts’ favorite LP 120 (which is still in stock here, despite being discontinued), which Mark Steinberg, B&H Photo and Video’s chief technologist and turntable specialist, says he’ll recommend to any customer but especially to those new to vinyl who want something a little nicer to play their records on.
The magnet-powered “direct drive” is a major feature of this record player, which is generally only seen in professional-grade turntables or other, more expensive machines. A direct drive, unlike turntables with a “belt drive” (a motor powered by replaceable belts that wear down with use and may need to be swapped depending on the type of record you play), will rarely, if ever, require service, according to Prestige, who claims it can handle records of all sizes without any tinkering under the hood. “If I were starting over right now, I’d probably acquire this,” says the 20-year DJ, citing the value for money. “I bought a 120 for my nephew and he loves it,” Davis says, despite having never used the 120 or the 120X. He also bought one for a friend who like it.”
This record player ticks a lot of boxes for Steinberg, Prestige, and Davis. Its manufacturer, Audio-Technica, has a good reputation in the industry; it has a built-in preamp, so all you need is a powered speaker to use it; and it has a USB output, so you can link it to your computer to archive your vinyl.
And it’s even better now. “The 120X has a more efficient motor,” according to Steinberg, “so it uses less energy and gets up to speed faster.” According to Steinberg, Audio-Technica pays close attention to user feedback, and the 120X reflects that with a smaller profile, a stronger pre-amp, and a power source incorporated into the charging cord rather than the turntable itself. It’s also $50 less expensive.
What’s the best way to set up a Gemini TT 900?
The device is ready to use once the pickup is mounted and the cables are connected. A dedicated volume control can be used to alter the system’s volume. The playback speed can be changed via pitch control. The RPM can be changed from 33/45 to 78.
Gemini turntables are built in the United States.
DJ CD players, DJ turntables, DJ mixers, professional amplifiers, loudspeakers, wireless microphones, and DJ audio effects are among the products offered by Gemini Sound Products Corporation, a maker of professional audio and mobile DJ equipment.
The company is situated in New Jersey, USA, and was founded in 1974.
It announced in June 2006 that it would change its name to GCI Technologies, an acronym that stands for Gemini, Cortex, and iKey, the company’s three divisions. In 2006, Cortex, a spinoff of the Gemini brand that focused solely on mass-storage based controllers for embedded systems, made its debut. GCI Technologies’ Gemini DJ brand is the company’s most popular.
What are your favorite ways to use ion vintage vinyl?
The addition of a classic LP to your home entertainment system is a pleasant surprise. Simply connect the Classic LP to your audio/video receiver via the RCA outputs and listen to your favorite records once more. Classic LP can easily play all of your vinyl LP albums and 45 singleseven old 78swith warmth and clarity thanks to its fixed-weight tonearm, ceramic cartridge, belt-driven platter, and precision circuitry. Classic LP, on the other hand, accomplishes a great deal more.
To safeguard your records, Classic LP includes a hinged dust cover and a felt slip-mat. The superior piano-black finish on the non-resonant oak base blends perfectly with any dcor.
Is there a difference between Audio Technica and Technics?
It has a very familiar appearance. You could be forgiven for doing a double take when looking at the Audio Technica turntables. Yes, they look suspiciously like the infamous Technics SL1200 turntables, and there’s a reason behind it. The Audio Technica turntables are made in many of the same manufacturers as the 1210s.
What are the best scratching turntables?
Scratching Turntables: The Top 5
- Numark PT01 Scratch DJ Turntable is a portable DJ turntable by Numark. Great Portable Affordable Turntable – Affordably priced option.
Audio Technica AT-LP1240 XP
In every way, this terrific bargain club-ready turntable is a true heavyweight, with phono/line/USB outs, 33/45/78RPM speeds, and a stunning gloss black finish to its curved metal body. It contains a second start/stop button for scratching when spun 90 degrees, pitch ranges of 10% and 20%, a pitch reset (disable) button, and start/stop speed knobs. For $449, you can have it without the cartridge and stylus.
Denon DJ VL12 Prime
This is a well-built, heavy turntable for usage in the toughest, loudest conditions, as befits its price. For creative DJing, it boasts a pitch range of +/-50 percent, the industry’s most powerful motor, an ergonomic and unique tonearm resting cradle, and a torque adjustment switch for two “feels” when DJing. You can even change the color of the RGB lighting around the platter’s edge. However, the output is phono exclusively. A slipmat is included, but no dust cover, cartridge, or stylus are included.
Technics 1200/1210 Mk7
This looks and feels exactly like a Technics 1210, with only a pitch reset (disable) button distinguishing it from the 1200/1210Mk2 in terms of functionality. It does contain extra features, such as the ability to change the illumination from red to blue, reverse, brake, and torque adjustment, but they are controlled via switches hidden beneath the platter. It, too, has removable cables, as do the others. However, the unit is too light, which poses problems in noisy surroundings.
Pioneer DJ PLX-1000
The Pioneer DJ’s take on a high-end turntable offers an 8 percent, 16&, and 50 percent pitch range, as well as a reset (disable) button; otherwise, it’s pretty comparable to the Technics model above in terms of functionality but it’s much heavier, which implies far better isolation in loud places. However, many users have complained about excessive tonearm bearing rattling, so keep an eye on the quality and it appears to be costly when compared to the Audio Technica above. There is no cartridge or stylus included, however it does come with a dustcover and a slipmat.
Reloop RP-7000Mk2
A well-made, weighty (and hence adequately isolating) and likable turntable in the old Technics style, but with a plethora of accessories. So there’s a reverse button, a second start/stop button, torque and brake adjust controls, three speeds, a pitch range of +/-50 percent, and a pitch reset button (disable). It also features a built-in phono preamp, but no USB output. There’s no dust cover, which is a pity, and no cartridge/stylus, which is also a pity (pretty usual at this level).
Stanton STR8.150 MkII
A sturdy, well-isolating, appealing turntable with some good design accents (we like the strobe light, for instance). It has a good range of pitch ranges, three speeds (including reverse), and, of course, the straight tonearm that some scratch DJs prefer (it’s also available with a more typical S-shaped arm as the ST.150 Mk2). The output can be switched between phono and line. It includes a slipmat and a cotton cover, but you must provide your own cartridge and stylus.
Is Audio-Technica responsible for the deterioration of records?
Q: I’d like to build a system for listening to vinyl albums, but I don’t have a lot of money. I’ve seen you caution people about using USB turntables and integrated systems made of plastic. What is the cheapest way for me to enjoy records without buying junk?
A: Not long ago, I would have estimated that you would require between $350 and $400. However, with some research and trial, I was able to put up a system for $169.57 utilizing brand-new equipment.
You are correct in your assessment of my past warnings. For years, I’ve warned readers to avoid the $100 to $200 plastic USB turntables available in stores, as well as the single-piece machines with built-in speakers. They not only sound horrible, but they can also destroy your recordings.
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB is a well-made turntable with a built-in phono preamp with a USB connection, good sound, and the ability to upgrade it later with better cartridges for $249. It’s one of the best audio bargains, and I consider it the starting point for high-quality vinyl record listening.
I had given up hope of finding a truly inexpensive, good turntable, but after some persuasion from Audio-public Technica’s relations department, I evaluated the AT-LP60, which retails for $99 and includes a cartridge and integrated phono preamp. For $30 extra, you can get a USB version.