Best Direct Drive Turntable of April: Reviews & Buyers Guide
Bailey Pyman Apr 1, 2023 2:41 PM
If you're in the market for a new turntable, you'll want to consider a direct-drive model. Direct-drive turntables are by far the most stable and durable type and offer the best sound quality. Here's a look at some of the best direct-drive turntables on the market today.
Top Picks:
The Audio-Technica AT-LP5X Direct-Drive Fully Manual Turntable is perfect for DJs, audiophiles, and both novice and experienced listeners. It delivers professional performance with its low noise motor, high torque direct drive design, fully manual operation with three speeds - 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM - and a precision quartz locked speed control.
- 2. Cheapest: Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB-BK
Equipped with a high-torque DC servo motor, this turntable features a built-in pre-amp for easy connection to your audio system. With 33/45/78 RPM speeds and adjustable anti-skate control, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB has all the speed, pitch, and stability you need for professional recording and playback.
- 3. Best Overall: Audio-Technica ATLP1240USBXP Direct
Equipped with a high-torque DC servo motor, this turntable features a built-in pre-amp for easy connection to your audio system. With 33/45/78 RPM speeds and adjustable anti-skate control, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB has all the speed, pitch, and stability you need for professional recording and playback.
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB Direct-Drive Turntable is the ultimate in hi-fi audio, combining advanced technology with a design and construction that ensure you'll enjoy years of listening pleasure. The Direct-Drive Motor features an elliptical shape for reduced vibration and precise, high-speed rotation. Plus, it has a USB port so you can effortlessly switch between analog and digital playback.
- 5. Best Durable: Audio-Technica AT-LP5x Direct-Drive Turntable
Prepare for the next level in your analog turntable game. The AT-LP5x Direct-Drive Turntable from Audio Technica is a fully manual model that features a direct drive motor, precision phono cartridge and switchable 33/45/78 rpm speed.
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Audio-Technica ATLP1240USBXP Direct-Drive Professional DJ Turntable (USB & Analog), Black,
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Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB Direct-Drive Turntable Analog/USB, Black + Audio Immersion Bundle
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Audio-Technica at-LP120XUSB Direct-Drive Turntable (Analog & USB), Black, Hi-Fidelity, plays
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Source: Andrew Robinson
When it comes to buying the best direct drive turntable, there are a few key factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for a direct drive turntable:
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Motor: Direct drive turntables have a motor that rotates the platter. Look for a turntable with a high-quality motor that provides consistent and precise rotation.
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Platter: The platter is the part of the turntable that the record sits on. Look for a platter that is heavy and sturdy, as this will help reduce vibration and improve sound quality.
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Tonearm: The tonearm is the part of the turntable that holds the cartridge and tracks the grooves of the record. Look for a tonearm that is well-balanced and easily adjustable.
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Cartridge: The cartridge is the part of the turntable that houses the needle. Look for a cartridge that is high-quality and matches your listening preferences.
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Speed: Direct drive turntables typically have two speeds, 33 1/3 RPM and 45 RPM. Make sure the turntable you choose has both speeds and can switch between them easily.
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Build quality: Look for a turntable that is well-built and made from high-quality materials. This will ensure that the turntable lasts for a long time and provides excellent sound quality.
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Brand reputation: Look for turntables from reputable brands that are known for producing high-quality audio equipment.
Some of the best direct drive turntables on the market include the Technics SL-1200MK7, the Denon DJ VL12 Prime, the Pioneer DJ PLX-1000, and the Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP. Keep these factors in mind when shopping for a direct drive turntable, and you'll be sure to find a high-quality option that meets your needs.
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If you're in the market for a new direct-drive turntable, our top recommendation is the Planar PL-5. This turntable offers great sound quality and features a built-in amp that makes it easy to plug into any stereo system. Additionally, it's very lightweight and easy to move around, so it will fit in almost any space.
Bailey Pyman
I was having a boogy at The Breakfast Club in Melbourne with two of my closest homies, Hans and Joe, having a generally excellent time when a song came on that we could only describe in the moment as the happiest, most uplifting and feel-good techno track we had ever heard. The entire venue erupted. We were asking people around us if they knew what it was called to no avail. Shazam was coming up with nothing. We even waited until after the DJ’s set to ask him what it was, but he didn’t quite understand what song we were talking about as we attempted to explain it to him (heavily under the influence mind you). For months after that day, I would occasionally go on a hunt for the song, thinking to myself “I have to find it, it’s out there somewhere”. I dove into the club’s and the DJ’s soundcloud, sifting through all of the sets, but the song was nowhere to be found. 18 months passed and I’m partying on the other side of the world in Amsterdam. Hans and Joe, the same two homies, had recommended this particular event, gawking at the line-up and telling me I had to attend on their behalf, so attend I did. Featuring N’to, Joachim Pastore and Worakls, it was one of the best events I had been to up to that point, the crowd and vibe were awesome as each set surpassed the one before it as the best that I had danced to. It’s 5am and Worakls is finishing his set when out of the excellence, the song plays. The most uplifting track in existence. I’m gobsmacked and ecstatic as I turn to my Dutch friend Maarten and hysterically ask him if he knows it. “Yeah man, it’s one of Worakls’ own songs. Adagio For Square.” 18 months after I initially heard it with them, Hans and Joe sent me to an event where I watched the artist who made it play it in the peak of his set during Amsterdam Dance Event on the other side of the world. Pretty good music moment.
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