Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Review: Pro Turntable

I recently had the opportunity to try out the Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Professional Turntable and I must say, I was quite impressed. As a music enthusiast, I appreciate the high-torque direct-drive analog turntable with low-noise that provides a professional playback quality. The build quality of the turntable is solid and it offers great stability. The three tempo ranges allow for flexibility in playing different types of music.

One of the standout features of the PLX-1000 is its isolation and tonearm. The isolation is superb, providing clean and accurate playback. The tonearm is fantastic, allowing for precise tracking. I also appreciate the antiskating control that goes up to 6 grams, which is great for fine-tuning the playback. Additionally, the high torque is perfect for scratching.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The digital pitch control is not as accurate as the SL-1200mk2, which may be a concern for DJs. Another downside is that the pitch control is mounted on the main board, making it tricky and difficult to replace. These factors should be considered before making a purchase decision.

Overall, the Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Professional Turntable is a great option for music enthusiasts and DJs who value high-quality playback and stability. It offers excellent isolation, a fantastic tonearm, and high torque for scratching. While it may not be perfect for mixing due to some limitations in the pitch control, it’s certainly a solid performer. I would recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade their turntable setup.

Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Professional Turntable

Pros and Cons

What We Liked

  • Superb isolation and tonearm for accurate playback
  • High torque for scratching
  • Solid build quality and stability
  • Three tempo ranges for flexibility
  • Professional playback quality

What Can Be Improved

  • Digital pitch control is not as accurate compared to the SL-1200mk2
  • Pitch control is mounted on the main board, making replacement tricky and difficult

Quick Verdict

The Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Professional Turntable is a top-notch option for music enthusiasts and DJs who prioritize high-quality playback and stability. With superb isolation, a fantastic tonearm, and high torque for scratching, it delivers professional playback quality. However, the digital pitch control may not be as accurate as the SL-1200mk2, and replacing the pitch control can be tricky. Nevertheless, if you’re looking to upgrade your turntable setup, this is a solid performer worth considering. Check out the Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Professional Turntable here.

Unboxing – What’s Inside?

I recently purchased the Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Professional Turntable on Amazon. Being an avid music lover and DJ, I was eagerly waiting for this turntable to arrive. I ordered it on Amazon on [insert purchase date] and was delighted when it arrived just [insert delivery time] later. The packaging was secure and protective, ensuring that my new turntable would arrive in perfect condition.

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Upon opening the box, I found the following items:

  • Turntable sheet – A slip mat and sheet that provide a smooth surface for the vinyl records to spin on.
  • Dust cover – A protective cover to keep dust and debris away from the turntable when not in use.
  • Headshell – The headshell holds the cartridge and stylus, allowing for easy replacement when necessary.
  • Balance, sub, and shell weights – These weights help in balancing and adjusting the tonearm for accurate tracking.
  • Audio cable – An essential cable for connecting the turntable to an amplifier or mixer.
  • Ground wire – A wire used to ground the turntable, reducing unwanted noise and interference.

Specifications

Here are the specifications of the Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Professional Turntable:

  • Power Source: Corded Electric
  • Size: 10.80 x 18.60 x 22.30 inches
  • Signal Format: Analog
  • Color Name: Black
  • Date First Available: July 17, 2014
  • Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: No
  • Product Dimensions: 22.3 x 18.6 x 10.8 inches
  • Item Weight: 31.5 pounds

User Guide

The documentation that came with the Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Professional Turntable proved to be incredibly helpful. It provided clear instructions on how to set up and calibrate the turntable, ensuring optimal performance. The user guide also included tips and tricks for maintaining and troubleshooting the turntable. If you need any assistance or information about the turntable’s features, I highly recommend referring to the user guide.

Features – What We Found

High-torque Direct-drive Analog Turntable with Low-noise

The Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Professional Turntable features a high-torque direct-drive system, which provides excellent stability and accurate rotation for optimal playback quality. The direct-drive mechanism eliminates the need for a belt drive, ensuring minimal motor noise and vibration. This allows for precise tracking and playback, enhancing the overall performance of the turntable.

With its low-noise operation, the PLX-1000 minimizes unwanted interference and background noise, delivering a cleaner and more detailed sound reproduction. This is particularly important for DJs and audio professionals who require high-fidelity audio during live performances or recording sessions.

Pro Tip: To further reduce any potential vibrations or resonance, it is recommended to place the turntable on a stable and isolated surface, such as a dedicated turntable stand or shelf. This will help in optimizing the overall audio performance and minimizing any external disturbances.

Professional Playback Quality

The Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 is designed with the utmost attention to detail to ensure professional playback quality. It incorporates a heavy-mass zinc die-cast chassis, which assists in reducing undesirable resonance and vibrations. This sturdy construction contributes to a more stable and accurate rotation, providing a smooth and consistent playback experience.

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Furthermore, the turntable features a high-resolution analog-to-digital converter (ADC), which allows for the capture of audio signals with exceptional precision. This ensures that the original sound quality of vinyl records is faithfully reproduced, preserving the warmth and depth of the analog audio.

Product Link: Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Professional Turntable on Amazon

High-stability Design

The PLX-1000 incorporates a high-stability design, which significantly reduces mechanical and electrical resonance. This design includes a solid build with a heavy-mass base and rubber damping elements, minimizing any potential disturbances caused by external factors such as vibrations or shock.

By ensuring a stable and isolated platform, the turntable can maintain accurate speed and rotation, allowing for precise tracking of the record groove. This stability is vital in maintaining consistent audio playback and reducing any artifacts or distortions that may occur during performance or recording.

3 Tempo Ranges

The PLX-1000 offers three selectable tempo ranges, allowing for greater flexibility and control during DJ performances. These tempo ranges are +/- 8%, +/- 16%, and +/- 50%. DJs can choose the desired range depending on their mixing style and the musical genre they are working with.

The wider range of +/- 50% enables more creative possibilities by allowing for significant tempo adjustments. This is particularly useful for mixing tracks with different BPMs or to create unique transitions and effects.

Product Link: Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Professional Turntable on Amazon

Final Thoughts

Our Score: 91.0

I recently purchased the Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Professional Turntable and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed. As an avid vinyl enthusiast, I was looking for a turntable that would provide professional playback quality and high stability. The PLX-1000 ticks all the boxes.

The high-torque direct-drive analog turntable ensures smooth and accurate playback, with minimal background noise. The isolation and fantastic tonearm contribute to a truly immersive listening experience. Although not designed for mixing, the PLX-1000’s high torque is perfect for scratching.

One of the standout features for me is the ability to adjust the antiskating control up to 6 grams. This allows for precise tracking and eliminates any unwanted skipping. The only drawback I found was the digital pitch control, which is not as accurate as the SL-1200mk2. However, this is a minor issue considering the overall performance and build quality of the PLX-1000.

If you’re looking for a reliable and high-performing turntable, I highly recommend the Pioneer DJ PLX-1000. It offers exceptional playback quality, stability, and a range of features that will satisfy any vinyl enthusiast. Don’t miss out, check it out on Amazon!

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Similar Options

When it comes to professional turntables, the Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 is undoubtedly a popular choice. However, if you’re looking for some alternative options that offer similar features and performance, here are a few suggestions:

  • Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Professional Turntable – The Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 is known for its exceptional build quality and precise audio performance. With its high-torque direct drive system and heavy-mass zinc die-cast chassis, this turntable delivers excellent stability and a rich, warm sound. However, if you’re seeking a slightly different aesthetic and features, these alternatives might be worth considering.
  • Audio-Technica ATLP1240USBXP Direct-Drive Professional DJ Turntable – This turntable offers similar high torque and direct-drive functionality as the PLX-1000. What sets it apart is the ability to convert vinyl to digital formats via USB, allowing you to preserve your vinyl collection while also enjoying the convenience of digital music. It also features selectable speeds and a multipole motor for precise playback.
  • Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP-BK Direct-Drive Professional DJ Turntable – If you prefer a fully manual turntable, the AT-LP140XP-BK is a fantastic option. It boasts a high-torque motor, three selectable speeds, and delivers exceptional audio performance. Its sleek black design and Hi-Fi capabilities make it a popular choice among DJs and vinyl enthusiasts.
  • Reloop RP-7000 MK2 Professional Upper Torque Turntable System – This turntable system offers a robust and durable build quality. Its upper torque direct drive system ensures precise and stable playback, while the adjustable start/stop time and pitch range give you more control over your mixes. If you’re looking for a reliable and feature-packed alternative to the PLX-1000, the RP-7000 MK2 is definitely worth considering.
  • Reloop RP-8000 MK2 Tourne-disque – For those seeking a turntable with a modern twist, the RP-8000 MK2 is an excellent choice. It combines a traditional turntable with advanced features like USB connectivity and MIDI control. The black finish adds a touch of elegance to its sleek design, making it a standout option for DJs who want versatility in their setup.

These alternative turntables offer similar quality and performance to the Pioneer DJ PLX-1000, but each brings its own unique features and design to the table. Whether you’re a DJ looking for precise control, a vinyl enthusiast wanting to digitize your collection, or someone who appreciates modern functionality, these alternatives provide worthwhile options for your consideration.