Amazon.com Product Description

Get into the groove with the fully automatic PS-LX250H turntable from Sony. Hook the turntable up to any stereo and reacquaint yourself with all of your old vinyl records. The turntable is compatible with all stereo receivers, even units without traditional phono input jacks.

The PS-LX250H doesn't require a lot of setup out of the box. A built-in preamplifier adjusts the audio output, giving you a terrific sound. The phono cartridge with a diamond stylus needle snaps right into place. Adjust the turntable EQ setting to your stereo receiver's input configuration and you are ready to go.

The PS-LX250H spins at 33-1/3 and 45 rpm, allowing you to enjoy albums and singles. A spindle adapter is included for your singles. All of the controls are on the front panel and easy to access. The fully automatic, belt-drive turntable features push-button controls that allow you to change the turntable speed and record size, and raise the tone arm automatically.

What's in the Box
Turntable, dust cover, 45 rpm record adapter, user's manual, warranty information. ... Read more

Features

• Convenient front-mounted controls for simplicity
• Fully automatic operation
• Supports 33-1/3 and 45 rpm playing speeds
• Belt-drive system
• Static balance tonearm

Reviews (27)

Awesome!
Husband was looking for a turntable to connect to our stereo system since our "old" turntable did not have it's own amp and wouldn't work without a pre-amp.I, not knowing diddly about any of the above ordered this turntable for his anniversary present.He is thrilled with it.Plugged it in, turned the amp or equilizer switch to the proper position and he was in heaven.Taught high school band for 18 years and wanted to listen to some of his old teaching tools after changing professions.Loved it!It's probably not heavy duty enough for serious vinyl lovers but it fits the bill for us.

Not Bad 4.25 stars
My only problem with this turntable is that it is a belt-driven system. the "belt" comes loose quite often. When the belt comes loose, the vinyl record doesn't not play correctly. After about 4 years, the belt came loose daily. It's not a bad turntable but Direct Drive systems are much better

Best inexpensive turntable anywhere!
I love this turntable! Sound quality is superb. Features are great. It has a start button so just put the album on and hit start and you're in bisiness! Of course, you can also manually put the needle on too. Just so you know, you will have to hook up the belt and set a equilization switch (depending on whether you have phono imput or not). Follow the directions closely and these two things will take only 10 minutes. I happen to have a phono input on my receiver, but for those who don't, that equilization switch could be a god-send. I like the fact that this turntable is super cheap yet still very good performance. Highly recommended!

Great turntable for the newcomer.
I'm a newcomer to the vinyl scene. With pretty much no knowledge about turntables I was looking for one that was pretty much idiot proof.

This bad boy fit the bill. Out of the box all you have to do really is attach the drive belt and attach the platter, and depending if you have a phono input on you're receiver, you have to click the built in preamp switch on or off. No calibration of speeds was necessary. Whole process from unpacking to playing LP took 5 minutes at most. My bedroom system consists of the following:


Sony STR-6045 Receiver (1974)
Sony PSLX350H Turntable
Klipsch SB-1 Bookshelf's
Monster Cable & Acoustic Research Interconnects

My receiver has a phono input, so I didn't have to use the built in preamp. The first 2 LP's I tested was a copy of Death Cab For Cutie "Transatlantiscm" and John Coltrane "A Love Supreme". I hit the "Start" button on the front of the turntable and the arm automatically went up, then down on the edge of the record...how easy was that?

Right of the bat I noticed that sound was spectacular. The highs were crisp and the bass was low and distortion free. It could be my particular setup, but I was really impressed. My receiver was built in 1974, so I can only imagine how it would sound through a modern day receiver. I have absolutely no complaints as far as sound quality.

I next hooked up the turntable to my PC to rip some 7" singles that I had acquired. I ran the turntable with the built in preamp on to my SoundBlaster Live! Card with a Monster Cable RCA to mini cable. I ripped the tracks using MusicMatch and encoded at 128kbps. The whole process went off without a hitch. The mp3s sounded great and the process couldn't have been easier.

Now onto my complaints:

1.The overall feel of this turntable is kind of cheap. It seems pretty much all plastic. But then again, at this price what do you expect?

2.The feet are not adjustable.

3.I have heard that replacing the stylus is a total pain. I have not yet had to do so, but it seems according to others that it is only available through Sony for $50. I do suspect that by going to www.needledoctor.com you will be able to find a suitable replacement though, and for considerably less.


To wrap it up, this is a great turntable for a beginner. Spectacular if you take the price into consideration. Right out of the box it was easy to set up and use. While the build quality is questionable, at the price you can't really complain. I do plan to upgrade to a higher quality manual turntable once I read up on how to properly calibrate and care for it.


For vinyl fans here are some cool links:

www.simplyvinyl.com
www.insound.com
www.needledoctor.com
www.sleevetown.com
www.vvinyl.com (If you live in NJ this is must shop
establishment. Support local independent
businesses!)

Not bad for a reasonably priced DISPOSABLE product.
Like most SONY products the PS-LX250H performs well. It is also very reasonably priced.

However, like the oil in your car, turntable stylus replacement becomes necessary with time and use. Suddenly, the bargain quickly disappears. The stylus which is only available directly from SONY currently costs $55.52 plus shipping and handling. If SONY would dramatically lower the replacement stylus cost, this turntable would rate 5 stars for it's price to performance value.

This model should serve well if only occaisonal, casual use is foreseen or if you don't mind paying $15,000 for an oil change. ... Read more

Product Description

High-torque, direct drive motor * quartz-controlled speed lock * manual, 3-speed operation (33, 45, and 78 rpm) * built-in selectable phono preamp * cast aluminum platter with slip mat ... Read more

Features

• S-shaped tone arm assembly with adjustable counterweight, antiskate adjustment, tone-arm height adjustment and lock
• Measures 17.8 x 6 x 13.9 inches (W x H x D)
• Selectable internal stereo phono preamplifier--choose from phono or line-level output
• Direct-drive, high-torque motor; includes professional cartridge and headshell
• Selectable 33-1/3, 45, and 78 rpm speeds; +/-10 percent or +/-20 percent pitch adjust; high-accuracy quartz-controlled pitch lock

Reviews (10)

Sent it back
I loved it until it started to hum.I sent it back..

You will fall in love with this turntable!
It's hard not to have the twinkle in your eye and Cloud 9 aura about you after buying this turntable.This gorgeous, solidly constructed turntable will seduce you with its sound and its aesthetic appeal.Assembly only takes a minute or two, and the instruction manual is well-written.This turntable does not feel like a plastic hunk of junk that will die in a few years.With the way this mostly-metal turntable was designed and constructed, I expect to grow old with it.Believe all these five-star reviews--it is easy to fall in love with this turntable.It looks and sounds great and is worth every penny!

Treat Your Ears!
The AT PL120 is a the best "bang for the buck" for a mid-priced good sounding home use table I've come across yet. It has DJ features like reverse, stylus light, up to 20% pitch adjustment etc-but it's not really a DJ table. I would characterize this machine as a good home system unit suitable for the non "audiophile" who nevertheless appreciates good sounding vinyl. The supplied cartridge sees to that quite well. It really sounds good on a variety of music. The tables DJ features are just uneeded "extras" in my opinion. The important stuff is the direct drive motor which is powerful with lots of torque. The quartz lock control is dead on-what you really need. All in all this is a good sounding good value no fuss home unit. If you're really a DJ get a Technics 1200 instead-don't waste your time with the AT PL120. However, if your reading this I'll bet your not a DJ but just enjoy listening to vinyl-if so go for it! You can't go wrong with this one!

Not up to par
I ordered the PL120 and I am surprised at the design flaws it has. For one thing the cables are the shortest length I have ever seen in a commercial turnatable(less than three feet). It has no rubber mat. It has a fabric slip mat, but that is supposed to sit on the bare aluminum platter. The motor has a plenty of torque and it seems to run quite steady. The tracking force adjustment is very touchy - it comes out of adjustment sometimes . The anti-skating does not seem to have much effect. The cueing has a height adjustment, but it is quite jumpy as well. This is not acceptable in an 'Audiophile' machine - much less a 'DJ Grade' turntable. The cartridge that comes with it is not high-end , but it is acceptable. It does look sharp though.

New life to my old records
I had an old Technics turntable that was cheap to begin with, and it needed parts to work, so I started looking around for a new turntable. I am surely glad I read the reviews posted here on Amazon, because they convinced me to buy the AT-PL120. The turntable arrived today 2-25-05, and I put it together almost immediately. I have never experienced a turntable of this quality before. I swear the old records sound much richer and clearer than they ever did before. I really appreciate the pre-amp, because my surround sound amp does not have turntable jacks. This was my first experience with a direct drive versus my belt drives of the past. What a huge noticeable difference. My wife and I kept all of our records, and it was very nice to listen to some of our old favorites in amazingly clear sound that is so rich. If you want to resurrect your old record collection and possibly hear that music in more detail than ever before, you should consider this very nice quality turntable. It far exceeded my expectations. ... Read more

Product Description

Product Description

DC servo motor * moving magnet cartridge * built-in RIAA equalizer * wow & flutter 0.15% ... Read more

Features

• Rename, move, copy, delete files, or make playlists on the fly--without a computer connection
• Ultra-portable digital music player with massive 3 GB hard drive and PlaysForSure compatibility
• Holds 750 songs or 50 hours of music at 4 minutes/128 kbps per song
• Autosyncs with Windows Media Player 9 or 10 so you can easily transfer songs and playlists from your PC
• ID3-tag compatible; plays MP3, WMA (including protected WMA), and CD-resolution WAV files

Reviews (3)

Good deal for the money
I've had this for a few weeks now and love it. It's a fine turntable for a casual listener: simple operation, good sound. Note: there is a switch to disable the built-in pre-amp (which provides a good signal) if your receiver has a phono input.

Much less plastic than other plastics for $150... And plays
You cannot buy REAL turntable for $150. You buy a crap. But Denon crap is much less crap that others within the same price range. It looks plastic, but plays pretty well. I had other piece of plastic, worth $150, reputable manufacturer, looking nicer, "silver" plated, lot of gadgets etc. I sold it on garage sale. 10 bucks.

I am using Denon to copy my 25 years old LPs to CD. Will not spend $500 or more for this. This model is perfect for this purpose. By the way, has the pre-amp built in. How many modern amplifiers have "phono" input?...

Junk
This turntable is about as sturdy as a piece of plastic - err, well, that's because it IS a piece of plastic.Not recommended. ... Read more

Features

• Strobe indicator and Aluminum Straight Tone Arm
• Direct-drive motor
• Comes with 500B cartridge mounted on headshell
• + / - 10 % pitch control
• Aluminum platter

Reviews (3)

good sounds
this thing works well.course i'm not into the scratching game, so i can't speak on that.but it spins stuff and makes pretty dust noises when i listen to dusty records.

Great for beginning!
I got two of these turntables right now at home. They are what you expect for the price. The price is irresistible.

If you expect high torque, good cartridges, don't bother buying. The Staton 30's have enough torque for the beginners but not for the pros.

I give the Stanton 30b's a 2.5/5 on torque, they could've made it alot better. If you need more torque look at the Stanton 80's or Numark TTX's for the pros.

This is great for starting and you will enjoy them for along time just like I have. I wouldn't suggest another turntable for the beginners.

If you get them you will enjoy them!

Amazin price quality product
I've got 2 of those STR8-30 theyre simply g8 for their catogery and price !
very nice turntable nice features ! Yet it ain't the best for scratchin but its very competitive ! strong needle very resistent !!
what can I say it is a dream ! you want a very good quality product , dont wanna pay too much !
Well you got it !!! worth buying ! almost as good/performent to a Technics turntable of the same category !
you find better @ that price ! go for it !!
Dj T from Paris ! ... Read more

Product Description

Who says you can't teach an OLD dog NEW tricks? Can your turntable do this? Play forward & reverse with the same amount of torque even at speeds up to 45 & 78 rpm? Allow you to plug directly into ANY mixer without a phono in or ground cable? How about connecting directly to your computer or other digital sampler? What about "Key Adjust" changing the tempo (bpm) without changing the pitch (note)? You can even use the MP3 line in sending audio through your turntable without having to even touch your mixer. Come on DJ's Get it STR-8...The New STANdards are coming from STANton: Completely re-inventing the wheel is not an easy job... But someone has to do it. So starting with the industry standards we have re-built the turntable, kept all of the desired features that today's DJ's need and even included some from the future. Introducing the STR8-100 and the ST-100, 2 super high torque turntables that include all the best features of both the analog and digital worlds. Once you have put your hands on deck.... you'll never look at turntables the same way again. New Digital Features: Key Adjust (Change the speed without changing the key) Digital output [S P/DIF] (Plug straight into MAC/PC or CD-R) Selectable phono or line output (Plug straight into a board with no phono in) 3.5mm line input (plug portable players into it) Manual pitch bend [up to 6%] Blue LED's & indicators Standard Features: High torque direct drive motor (2.2 Kgf-cm) Aluminum face- ... Read more

Features

• Connect directly to your computer or other digital sampler
• Plays forward and reverse (33, 45, and 78 rpm) with the same amount of torque
• Selectable phono or line output lets you plug directly into any mixer without a phono in or ground cable
• Use Key Correction to change the tempo (bpm) without changing the pitch
• Height adjustable skip-proof straight tone arm, retractable target light, and adjustable feet

Reviews (3)

Great product but (beware) comes without a cartridge!
Great product but comes without a cartridge! Make sure you order a cartdrige at the same time ...

Great tool for mixing, recording, DJing.
This turntable allows you to play 33 rpm, 45 rpm, and 78 rpm!
You can also touch a button, and the record will play in reverse (without missing a beat).
You can adjust the pitch way beyond the scope of other record players.
You can adjust the tempo, and keep the pitch consistant with the original tempo!!Think about that one for a minute...
Overall, you should check this out.And chuck that dinosaur you've got, whattaya call it, oh yeah, the technics 1200.

A professional tool
I haven't owned a turntable since the seventies, so this seemed like an excellent device to hook up to my computer and turn all those great old LPs into CDs. Much to my consternation, it ships without a needle ("cartridge" to you audiophiles). What's that about? For someone who has only purchased cheap all-in-one sound systems, this required a minor research project. Research project #2 will be how to get it connected to my computer. Yes, it has a "digital ouput" port -- S/P DIF (which means Sony/Phillips Digital Interface), with an RCA jack. All the ports on my sound card are 1/8" mini-stereo. What next? I have to admit that this is a beautiful piece of equipment-- elegantly designed, but clearly targeted at the knowledgeable DJ... But, help the beginner, unless, like me, your thrills come from climbing learning curves. I'll write another review when I get it working! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Good price, good beginner package
The best package for beginners. You don't have to spend a lot of money to start scratching and djing around. This battlepack has a good pair of decks TT1625 (Direct Drive not Belt Drive.. wow), one DM950 mixer, HF125 Headphones (Not the best..but good enough for beginners), a pair of slipmats and the best...needles to start playing immediately. Good, so good for the price. Good for beginners.

great decks great price!!
hey i just got my decks in the mail and i wana tell you i got a great price for them and there performance is outstanding for entry level dj's word of the wise if your intrested in djing these tables are great to strat of with dont get belt drive tables !!! get dirrect drive

why so cheap?
incredible... bought these for my bro n these turntables kick ass! jus as good as my stanton str8-100's, big thumbs up!!!! ... Read more

Features

• Dimensions -3-7/8 High x 14-3/8 Wide x 14-3/8 Deep
• With rare exceptions, integrated mini-sized stereo and home- theater sound systems no longer come with a turntable nor do they have a provision for adding one
• Many of these systems do have an auxiliary input port but the required signal is different than that of a turntable so this turntable has a special circuit that permits connection and operation with a mini-stereo
• Belt driven with an audio-performance speed regulator for superb tracking and performance
• Includes phono cartridge and dust cover

Reviews (2)

What Was I Thinking?
If ever I wanted to hear this one record that I own from my small record collection, I would have to buy a new turntable because that recording was made in 1966 and was never released in any other format. I thought the Teac P-988 at $90 would serve my purpose. What was I thinking? Even if I had been able to get this turntable to produce any sound I would not have kept it and I would still rate it 1 star because 0 star is not an option at Amazon. This unit is so cheap that it's embarassing. I returned it and got the Audio-Technica AT-PL120 at $220 from Amazon. Now there's a turntable that will make all your records sound super fine for just a few more dollars.

Great turntable for just listening to records

Its a pretty good belt-drive turntable which has a built-in pre-amp (on or off) under the metal platter. I bought this turntable because the replacement stylus is easily replaceable and not that expensive, unlike the Sony turntable's stylus that cost some $50 bucks to replace, this one only cost about $20 every 400 hours of usage. If you use it 2 hours a day it should last you the whole year.

I've hooked this up to my dvd recorder and have recorded 10 hours of music onto a dvd-r via the sylvania dvd recorder which i bought on Amazon recenlty). Nothing to it, i didn't even need a reciever or amp to run it thru, I just took the white and red audio wires and connected to the back of the dvd recorder and connected the yellow video wire on any blank directv channel for the video and started recording, I've transferred all of my 80s 90s and now 2004 12" vinyl singles which aren't available on cds directly to the dvd-r disc.

This is also a fully automatic turntable (not manual) which means it returns to the needle rest arm after a record is over playing. Since it does have the built-in pre-amp (which you can turn off or on) you can hook this up basically anywhere like your tv or mini audio system. ... Read more

Product Description

This Technics turntable is a semiautomatic, belt-driven turntable with DC a servo motor for accurate platter rotation. Also features a full gimbal pivot straight low mass tone-arm, the T4P plug-in connector system, and an anti-resonant/anti-vibration cabinet construction with TNRC and large insulator feet. Front controlled high-performance MM cartridge included. Black finish with clear cover. Imported. Total Dimensions: 21Hx16-1/2Wx8-1/2D". Weight: 10 lbs. ... Read more

Features

• Component measures 16.9 x 3.8 x 15.8 inches (W x H x D)
• Panasonic-Technics DC servo belt-drive semi-automatic turntable
• Auto return and auto shutoff; includes premounted P-mount cartridge
• Turntable plays at 33-1/3 and 45 rpm speeds using the included adapter for playing 45 rpm records
• Antiresonant base cuts down on vibration; all controls can be accessed with the turntable's protective cover closed

Reviews (6)

do not buy it!
..mine arrived with no belt for the turntable!..can not use it!ordered a panasonic~received a panasonic in a technics box
..instructions are marginal, at best!..a set of technics and a set of panasonic!

Last of the view budget tables
This and its pitch controllable sibling BD22 are the very last semi listenable semi automatic entry level turntables below 300 dollars on the market. If you are looking for a machine that will lift the arm at the end of the record, this is pretty much the only one left that will do it and not sound like a plastic cup string telephone. Not the worst I've heard, but PLEASE don't pay attention to die-hard "Technics is the best" fans. Most of them only read manufacturer's hype sheets and have never tried a Thorens, Dual, Music Hall, Project, etc, not even mentioning a real high end machine!
If you are on a strict budget, then for sure this is the best choice under 200 dollars, but don't expect exceptional sound. A good homebaked player to revive your vinyl collection, and take it as such.
If can you get yourself to get out of the chair at the end of the record to list the arm and return it, then look for a HiFi dealer that carries the contemporary audiophile turntables made by Music Hall or Project. You will have to spring around 300 dollars for their lowest offerings, but you get a real turntable - one that can accept standard 1/2 inch mount cartridges.
Even the factory cartridges on the Music Hall MMF 2.1 and the Project 1.2 (both use Goldring cartridges) will sound much better than the T4P style cartridge on the Technics BD20 (there is NO good T4P cartridge on the market) and if you need a new needle or want to upgrade to a better one, your selection will be much bigger down the line.

Almost forgot - Gemini, GLI-Pro, and Stanton have completely manual "DJ" tables for around 120 to 180 dollars on the ,arket, that are much sturdier, heavier, with a better platter and base, and thwey take 1/2 inch mount cartridges as well and allow full adjustment and balancing of the tone arm - for good listening DO NOT get the "straight" DJ tone arms though, you'll ruin your records! Get either the S shaped arms, or make sure the head is angled in.

Keep in mind that a stylus (the "needle") should be checked at least every 300 hours, and is likely due for replacement after 1000 hours, earlier if your records are worn and scratchy.
If you cannot tell the difference between a cheap portable Walmart pocket CD player plugged into your stereo and a good full sized CD player, then the Technics BD20 may be for you, but if you can tell any difference at all, then do yourself a favor: Save the 120 bucks for a better turntable - you won't end up throwing it to Goodwill like so many have done (i've been through a lot of turntables - it's a hobby, and I keep peeking around what's out there)
The problem with the new cheap machines is that they are too light. Flimsy platters, and light flexible bases mean a plasticky sound.
If you can't afford a new 300 dollar machine you are much better of buying an old used table. SOME of tyhe Technics player were good, the later and current 1200 series is overrated and over priced. Technics models 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1301 are suitable hifi players, never mind the DJ machines. Old Pioneer, Dual, Sansui, etc are all potentially good choices.

The bargain hunter's real secret for a cheap frills table are the OLD Sanyo, Hitachi, Pioneer, and a Dual semi auto model 510 is tue audiophile grade and can be on ebay for as little as 25 bucks and will not have the problems of the more complex full auto models!

Beware fully automatic stacking tables in any case. I love them and have a Dual belt drive collection, but they may take a lot of tinkering to get them to work right!
Look for a solid belt or direct drive machine with a platter weighing at least 2 pounds, preferrably with a floating chassis (the platter and arm are spring suspended). You can find them for under 50 dollars. Add a new cartridge (Audio Technica AT110, AT70, AT440, Shure M91, M97, or a Stanton - Ortofon is rated high, but always sounds dull to me) for around 50 to 100 dollars, and you have a much better setup. If that's too much see below for the Grado.
I have an Audio Technica OC-9 moving coil cartridge (expensive), but that is strictly used for burning CD copies. For daily listening the Audio Technica AT440 is hands down one of the best values, along with the Shure M97.
Grado has ONE offering worth the money, the "Grado Black", which retails for around 35 dollars - sensitive for feedback, but except for a slightly soft (but pleasant) base reproduction you can just about the grass grow with it! I say ONE offering, because the higher priced models are the same thing in a different wrapper. Wanna talk marketing???
Also keep in mind that you need a "phono" input on your stereo. If you have a modern stereo amp or receiver, chances are you don't have one. A so called phono-preamp will boost the player's signal for use in the "aux" input of your receiver. A good phono preamp is around 50 dollars.
So never mind the comments about built in phono preamps, the players that have them are mostly shoddy sounding.
Summary: the Technics BD20 is ok if you're on a budget, but you can do better with a little snooping and effort.

Excellent No-Fuss Turntable
Attempting to transcribe some rare soundtrack albums unavailable on CD, I discovered to my dismay that my venerable Dual automatic turntable - buried for more than ten years under several stacks of CDs - had given up the ghost.
No strobe light.No motion.No nothing.Dead.
I saw the Technics SL-BD20D at a refurbished sale recently and decided to take a chance.I'm very glad I did; this is a solid no-frills turntable that does all the basics right and will satisfy the needs of all but the most demanding audiophiles.
I did replace the cartridge that came with the machine.Surface noise seemed excessive and the sound seemed a little distant or hollow; in fairness, there was other evidence that the refurbishers might not have done their job properly, and perhaps I bought a unit with a worn needle.
At any rate, equipped with a Shure MP94E P-Mount Cartridge, the SL-BD20D sounds great.As I say, it handles basics superbly.This is a serious turntable that will treat your vinyl with respect, not one of those retro novelty machines you see advertised.
The SL-BD20D has a straight low-mass tone arm, and the playing geometry is correct.I don't hear the sibilance at the end of record sides that I have heard when a cartridge is improperly aligned or a tone arm improperly mounted.Surface noise is surprisingly low.The servo motor and belt drive provide good steady speed, with no audible hum, wow, or flutter.
I read a user griping that you can't set the tracking force or anti-skating on this machine.The whole idea of the P-Mount design is you don't need to; P-Mount cartridges are designed to track properly at this machine's pre-set 1.25 gram force.After several hours of playing records, the SL-BD20D with the Shure cartridge has tracked perfectly, never skipping once in either direction.
With the low-mass tone arm and anti-resonant base, bass is full but well damped.I am listening to Fleetwood Mac doing Rhiannon now, and it sounds as good as I remember ever hearing it - even with my beloved old Shure V-15 Type IV.
The SL-BD20D is a semi-automatic design; you lower the stylus onto the record with the well-damped cueing mechanism, and the machine returns the tone arm to rest and shuts off automatically at the end of the side.
As someone who grew up with generations of what we used to call record players, from Webcors to Garrards to Miracords to Duals, I have seen my share of eccentric and unreliable mechanisms.I am happy to report that the mechanism on the SL-BD20D works very quietly, with smooth and precise movements.Traditional Japanese attention to detail.
Otherwise, the SL-BD20D is handsome and comes with a hinged smoked dust cover, 45 adapter, and full-sized turntable to support your vinyl properly.It should be noted, however, that the unit does not include a preamp.
You can spend hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars on an audiophile turntable.But if you simply want first-class sound with a minimum of fuss and bother, you can have the SL-BD20D with a good cartridge that's a snap to install for well under $200.That's impressive indeed.

solid turntable , but no built-in pre-amp
This is a great basic turntable if you're just looking to play the old LPs, however, be warned that if you plan on hooking this up to a mini-stereo system without phono jacks, then you'll need to purchase a seperate pre-amp which runs around [dollar amount]. This brings the total cost of the unit to about [dollar amount] which is not worth it if you're just a casual user of LPs (plus this is only a semi-automatic). You'd be better off purchasing a cheaper system (e.g. the sony) with a built-in pre-amp so that it can connect to mini-systems.

Technics Stands the Test (For the Casual LP Listener)
I personally own this turntable. It is not a heavy duty dj constructed turntable such as their MK 2 series or the new M3D. It was designed by Technics for practical and casual in home use.It provides excellent and almost perfect accuracy with regard to very low wow and flutter (speed differences that would audibly affect playback).This is for the couch potato who likes to put an lp on and not have to worry about turning it off.The semi-automatic operation takes care of that.In addition, anti-skating and tone arm weight adjustments have already been pre set at the factory so there is no guess work for the owner.The plug in cartridge is easy to replace without having to gauge stylus contact and performance as with a pro dj turntable. However,heed my warning, here are the drawbacks:If you are a heavy vinyl user and enjoy adjusting anti skating or counter weight balance for optimal high end quality sound, this is not the table for that. Their MK2 or M3D are the tables that are suitable for those tasks.Also, I have been able to compare this table's tracking abilities using a slightly warped record (warped around the edge only) and the SLBD20D could not keep up. However, when I tried it on a Technics M3D I was able to adjust the counterweight balance and tracking force, anti-skating, etc. and low and behold the M3D stood its ground.Don't get me wrong, the SLBD20D is a well constructed table run by a very quietbelt-driven dc motor. It's a fine simple machine that sets out to do the simple operation of just playing a record. Also, not everyone can nor is willing (on a tight budget)to fork over several hundreds of dollars for a dj turntable if their lp collection is very limited. This is a great budget turntable with the feel of remarkable Technics engineering behind it !!! ... Read more

Product Description

The Technics Direct Drive Turntable is a modern blast from the past allowing you to play all your favorite LP records. Features a Quartz locked direct drive manual turntable with low-mass tone-arm 33-1/3 and 45 RPM, all quartz-locked variable slide-type pitch control (±8%), quick startup and 1 quick braking, wow and flutter 0.01% WRMS, pop-up stylus illuminator, strobe illuminator, gimbal pivoted tone arm with vertical tracking angle adjustment, and aluminum die cast cabinet. Cartridge not included. Silver finish with clear cover. Imported. Total Dimensions: 21Hx16-1/2Wx8-1/2D". Weight: 31 lbs. ... Read more

Features

• Quartz-synthesizer, direct-drive turntable (cartridge/stylus not included)
• Totally quartz-locked, continuous-pitch adjustment up to +/-8 percent
• Unwavering quartz direct-drive accuracy
• High torque for quick starts
• Highly sensitive, low-mass tone arm with gimbal suspension

Reviews (21)

The industry standard.
When a turntable remains the industry standard for more than 20 years, you should know there is good reason for it. A solid, reliable platform for any DJ's creativity. You don't need any of the fancy gizmos on the digital decks, all you need are these, some good tunes and a bit of imagination.
Seriously ragged.

I LIKE IT!
After years of contemplation I bought 2 Technics SL-1200MK2's. What a great descision! The first thing I noticed is how much better vinyl sounds than CD's. It takes long term exposure to digital audio to realize it, but the truth is that 44.1 16-bit or MP3's are both inferior to analog sound. This is especially true with my old records that were recorded, mixed, and mastered without digital compression technology.

I now realize why the Technics SL-1200MK2 is a world famous industry standard. Sonically it delivers a pure tone and it functions like a workhorse. It is very much appreciated that this model is still manufactured with such high quality. Technics has taken a stake to the industry that seems unbreakable. This product is one of the rare exceptions to the old saying: "They dont make them like they used to." The word on the street is that newer models may have problems and that only the SL-1200MK2 will do.

rolls royce of turntables
I have been a Mastermixer for a quarter of a century.To get to the bottom line this is a must item. No other turntable will do!!!!!

1200 mkII
The mighty 1200 will live on forever!! Yes, it does sound better than any CD player out there.

Proven and worth the price.
This is a fantastic turntable.

I've used it personally both for casual listening and for beatmixing.It has excellent sound-dampening.The wow and flutter is non-existant.It should be noted that the platter itself on this table is the motor, so that and the tonearm are the only moving parts.Thus - no resonant background noise from within the turntable exists whatsoever.

You can typically get excellent sound quality from this table as long as you use an average or better quality cartridge.

Unlike other "DJ" turntables, this turntable was designed as a home turntable first.It is a DJ turntable by accident.This is why the SL 1200 is one of those few products that will give you the best of both worlds!

If you are a DJ, this is one of the only DJ tables that gives you Quartz pitch lock throughout the full +/-8% of the pitch range.

If you're serious about vinyl, pay the money and get the best. ... Read more

Product Description

Remember what DJs used in the club before the 1200s? Nobody else does either. That's because their heavy-duty design, vibration-resistant construction, and mechanical precision make a lot of what those early DJs did possible. This deck was the first to feature a Direct Drive motor, quartz movement for total accuracy, adjustable tone arm weights, anti-skate control, a pop-up target light and a sliding pitch control. With each new improvement, as form follows function, the Technics turntable has become a thing of beauty. From the community centers at the beginning of the disco era to the clubs of today, Technics decks have been the standard for over thirty years. Vibration Resistant ConstructionA die-cast aluminum body, heavy rubber base, and a lack of unnecessary components or empty space allow the 1200MK2 to absorb unwanted vibrations that could otherwise interfere with the sound. Ultra-Low-Speed Motor / Super-High TorqueThe 1200MK2's ultra-low-speed motor and high torque (1.5kg/cm) allow for super quick start-ups (0.7 sec) and stops. Quartz Locked Pitch AdjustmentAllows for accurate quartz-locked pitch adjustments throughout its 16 percent (+/-8) range. Total Direct-Drive AccuracyInstead of just spinning the platter, the classic Technics Direct-Drive system actually incorporates it into the motor, reducing the number of parts that can malfunction and making consistent, accurate speeds possible. It's a system that has been providing fast start-up t... ... Read more

Features

• Quartz direct-drive
• Sliding pitch control with strobe
• Detachable headshell
• Accepts standard-mount cartridges
• Designed for professional and DJ applications

Product Description

The new TT-01 comes equipped with a special Straight Tone-Arm system, providing superior tracking and virtually skip-free performance, making this turntable an absolute must have for scratch enthusiasts. ... Read more

Features

• Fully adjustable counter weight & anti-skating controls
• Dual speed RPM (33/45)
• Target light adapter with RCA
• Removable head shell
• CN-1000 cartridge & felt slipmat included

Product Description

The Stanton STR8-80 is one of the most feature-laden turntables on the market. It starts with a direct drive motor and straight tone arm and adds reverse, a mini line input jack, key adjustment to maintain pitch with tempo changes, 3 speeds, and digital output. If that is not enough it also includes a dust cover and slipmat. ... Read more

Features

• High torque direct-drive motor
• Comes with 520 SK cartridge mounted on headshell
• Digital output [S P/DIF] Plug straight into MAC/PC or CD-R
• Selectable phono or line output, plug straight into a board/receiver with no phono in
• 3.5mm line input (plug portable players into it), Key Adjust (Change the speed without changing the key)

Reviews (6)

Great Turntable
I bought a pair of these turntables about a year ago. They were my first tables. I use them for mixing breakbeat and I use them to scratch. These are very good for scratching, within a month I was impressing myself and all of my friends. Very good for scratching. I have been practicing mixing on these tables also, but the only bad thing I can say about these tables are the wow and flutter on them. The records do not stay matched up for very long when you beat match, but the sound and features on them are great. Reverse, 33,45, and 78 speeds and the pitch control also comes in handy, especially when the records you are trying to mix start going out of sync you can adjust the pitch to sync them back up.

Awesome Starter/Intermediate tables
I have had my turntables for about 6 months now, and I love them.The reverse function is great for getting more sounds out of your records.The platter starts and stops in an instant, which is essential for good scratching.Also, I can lock the pitch of the record but still adjust its speed.That is crazy!!

Anyway, great buy, definately recommend.The guy below doesnt know what he's talking about.

Listen to the others below him.

terrible for scratch DJs
If you are into scratchin' do not buy this turntable.It skips way to much for a 250+ price range.For turntablism take some advice and invest a little more in a technics turntable or a numark TTX.

Old rocker says THANX to all you DJs!
We put the Stanton STR8-80 into our system about a month ago and since then our CD player has gotten downright lonely. Records I had previously considered almost unplayable sound pretty good, and records that are in good condition sound excellent. I'm not a DJ, I'm a music lover old enough that my music collection contains hundreds of hours on vinyl, but I'm really pleased with the DJ capabilities of this 'deck'. One major advantage of a DJ turntable is that the motor can withstand the resistance when I'm cleaning a record before play -- critical when many record in a collection are 30 to 50 years old. It tracks well, and the blue lights are really fun too. Also, if I want to play along with the record, the capability to adjust pitch but not tempo is very cool (yes it sounds a little weird, due mainly to the envelope distortion -- but way easier than retuning a piano). No hesitation, I'd recommend this highly.

Plays 78s!
Yes it costs more than other brands, but it plays the old 78s I got from my dad, and it plays them about as flawlessly as I could have hoped for, in records that are over 50 years old.I do not use it for any of the dj features nor have I tried to hook it up to my computer, but it is nice to know I can try to copy records to my hard drive and make .mp3s, whenever I have time.heck, I hardly have time to write a review.
This turntable was worth it for me, for the 78 speed. ... Read more

Product Description

Technics has taken the acclaimed SL1210 and added a number of new features! The tonearm has been modified to reduce skipping. Performance features include customizeable braking speeds so you can really fine tune your performance. They've even included a long-life LED stylus illuminator to make cueing up in low light a breeze. Quartz direct drive accuracy with continuous pitch adjustment up to ?8%Very high torque motor for quick start-ups (only 0.07 seconds stop to speed)Custom brake speed controlLED pop-up work lightBuilt-in anti-skate adjustment up to 6gArm-end scale for quick weight settingMolded aluminum diecast cabinet and heavy rubber base material help absorb unwanted vibrations from the dance floorProfessional Technics slipmatHighly sensitive low-mass tone arm with gimbaled suspensionIncludes removable hinge-free dust cover (not shown) ... Read more

Features

• Measures 17.84 x 6.78 x 13.97 inches (W x H x D)
• Direct-drive analog turntable with nonclick sliding pitch control
• Fully adjustable braking speed and high-torque start ups
• Recessed power switch and pitch reset to instantly set pitch to zero
• Long lasting LED stylus light

Product Description

Features: Quartz direct drive accuracy with continuous pitch adjustment up to ±8% Very high torque motor for quick start-ups (only 0.07 seconds stop to speed) Custom brake speed control LED pop-up work light Built-in anti-skate adjustment up to 6g Arm-end scale for quick weight setting Molded aluminum diecast cabinet and heavy rubber base material help absorb unwanted vibrations from the dance floor Professional Technics slipmat Highly sensitive low-mass tone arm with gimbaled suspension Includes removable hinge-free dust cover (not shown) Size: 17-13/16"w x 6-3/8"h x 13-7/8"h. 26.4 lbs. ... Read more

Features

• LED Stylus Light
• Quartz Synthesized
• High Torque Direct Drive Motor
• Silver
• Sensitive Tune Arm

Reviews (1)

Technics Lives On and On....
Basically a carryover of theSL 1200 M3D table (1999-2002) with a few friendly DJ minor adjustments (brighter,long life L.E.D. stylus pop up light, more antiskating for non-skipping during scratching and adjustable braking speed)...Is this Technics 'table worth it's weight in gold (I think between 30 to 35 pounds)? Without a doubt !It's built like a Sherman Tank to withstand vibrations from speakers or the dance floor which would otherwise cause the needle to skip around or transfer unwanted noise to the tonearm and out the speakers; an enclosed loop of unwanted noise. Heavy, heavy, construction of the anti-resonant plinth/chasis,platter speaks in volumes about the craftsmanship Technics puts into the "Wheel of Steel". Other than the build quality, what's the sound quality like?It can yield either professional (DJ use), near-audiophile (for that sound purist who wants to just listen to records or transfer to cd-r format) or club-quality scratching top grade sound (the direct drive motor and torque is built Chevy or Ford tough for the use and abuse).

HOWEVER, the sound quality also significantly depends upon the application the 'table is used for, whether you use a cheap $20 cartridge or the serious high quality type. Is this table going to be used for scratching, regular DJing, or just in-home use? All these factors have to be taken into consideration in getting the most out of the MK5. It is illogical to install an audiophile high end cartridge/stylus normally used for casual listening(jazz, classical, some pop/rock) if you're gonna scratch (vice versa). Simple rule of thumb---you use a DJ needle for club play and scratch and a good to excellent high grade cartridge and stylus for normal playback.It is impossible to tell you which cartridges are of substantial quality to high end because it can sometimes boil down to personal individual sound preference (some yield tight bass, some yield clear high frequencies, some sound neutral, musical, or colored---or a combo of these sound qualities)This can be costly and sometimes aggravating to figure out what to use.It takes trial and error and a bit of set up and experimentation and sound comparisons. Oh, yeah, feed the 'table some decently clean-dirt free records. Some will appreciate the dustcover sans hinges. Others would prefer actual hinges for the cover if used mostly at home.As for aesthetics, it's still the same high tech look that came about in 1979 (forget about the regular wood or mdf plinth and chasis look of the '70s so many other manufacturers used (Denon and Pioneer being the exceptions).Technics was way ahead of it's time in 1979 when creating the "looks" for this table. The same design still looks good in it's somewhat contemporary-modern design to this day.

Now listen up Panasonic/ Technics...the ONLY one request that I have is that SOMEDAY you will really and truly upgrade this particular turntable by giving it high end and fully automatic functions or features that so many in home couch potatos crave.Then, if the turntable is to be used in a dj set up, allow the owner to switch off the automatic functions to perform as a manual.Afer all, anyone who knows the history of the Technics 1200 series, this turntable has it's roots in being first designed as an in-home playback system; The clubbing,dj-ing, radio broadcasting applications came about by pure accident or simple choice! I'm not asking for much am I...Technics came close to making this turntable a successful and brilliant automatic with the SL 1700MK2 and the SL 1600MK2 back in the late 70's (semi-automatic,fully automatic).Now and then you will see these beauties on eBay up for grabs(but usually with a" buyer beware, automatic arm does not work" disclaimer. The only design flaw was a belt that controlled the auto return mechanism which would deteriorate after so much use and render the auto function useless (costly repair)...With all the focus on Technics "subtlely" upgrading about every 2 to 4 years the 1200 series they can finally use some of this state of the art modern technology for a high quality automatic/manual with no design or function issues !!!

P.S. I also highly recommend this website on Techics past and present products. It's an unofficial website that carries some awesome information on their turntables at www.vintagetechnics.com. My personal favorites and after owning some of these models over the years is anything in the SL 1200 series, the SL Q3, and the SL-5300 (this one built in 1979 was loaded with all the sweet full automatic features, bells and whistles for it's time---all of it's controls were on the outside of the cover) ! ... Read more

Product Description

The Stanton T.50 raises the bar for entry-level turntables. Aside from its striking new looks, this belt drive model boasts professional features like a skip-resistant straight tone arm, two Start/Stop switches, a pitch control slider and removable target light.Features:Affordable belt drive turntable with eye-catching designStraight tone arm for superior tracking when scratching2 Start/Stop switches for mix or battle setupPitch control slider with + / - 10% adjustment2 playback speeds: 33 or 45 RPM2 RCA outputs (cable included) and ground connector  ... Read more

Features

• Affordable belt drive turntable with eye-catching design
• Straight tone arm for superior tracking when scratching
• 2 Start/Stop switches for mix or battle setup
• Pitch control slider with + / - 10% adjustment
• 2 playback speeds -33 or 45 RPM

Amazon.com Product Description

The result of extensive research into the needs of professional DJs, the TTX1 deftly combines unmatched torque, incredible precision, and the world's first interchangeable tonearm design for optimal performance under all conditions. The turntable is sleek and attractive, with an ergonomic housing that weighs a hefty 28.6 pounds and accommodates the requirements of both beat mixing and scratching setups. It's specifically built with a solid core to fight vibration and unwanted noise while employing an anti-drag aluminum platter to reduce friction. The platter also boasts a quick-start setting with 6.2 lbs./inch of torque, though the start can be adjusted, as can the brake system.

It's the tonearm assembly that really shines, however. The tonearm is made from die-cast aluminum and is compatible with both S-shaped and straight tubes. DJs can use an S-shaped tube in conventional mode to mix and blend tracks, or they can turn the deck 90 degrees and attach the straight arm for scratching and battling. The latter setting is made more user-friendly by the beveled left-hand edge and the pair of stop/start buttons. Users can also swap the pitch fader with the control buttons for further accessibility.

DJs will delight in the backlit LCD display, which not only informs them of the motor's direction, but also includes tidbits such as the platter speed, pitch adjustment, key lock status (which changes song tempo without affecting the key), and beats per minute. Speaking of turntable speeds and pitch control, the TTX1 supports 33-1/3, 45, and 78 rpm vinyl and toggles between a pitch range of +/- 8, 10, 20, and 50 percent, allowing the DJ to mix endlessly with few restrictions. Additional features include switchable phono and line outputs, an S/PDIF output for digital devices, and an illuminated output bay. The assembly measures 18.1 by 5.3 by 14.6 inches (W x H x D) and carries a two-year warranty.

What's in the Box
TTX1 turntable, right-angle IEC power cord, right-angle RCA cord, S-shaped tonearm tube, straight tonearm tube, phono cartridge, warranty card, user's manual. ... Read more

Features

• Professional DJ turntable with unique interchangeable die-cast-aluminum tonearm design
• Use S-shaped tube for mixing and blending and straight tube for scratching and battling
• Quick-start platter with 6.2 lbs./inch torque; adjustable start and brake settings
• Supports 33-1/2, 45, and 78 rpm speeds and pitch range of +/- 8, 10, 20, and 50 percent
• Switchable phono and line outputs and S/PDIF digital output; 18.1 by 5.3 by 14.6 inches (W x H x D)

Product Description

The STR8-80X extends Stanton s exciting line of professional straight tone arm turntables to an awesome level of form and function. The STR8-80 employs Stanton s highest torque direct drive motor to date plus many features highly prized by today s professional DJs. Features: Skip-proof straight tone arm Reverse and motor off functions Built-in 3.5mm line input for portable CDs MDs or any other line source Key adjustment (change speed without changing the key) Quartz lock (AKA Zero Pitch) 3 speeds: 33 45 78 RPM Selectable pitch adjustment (± 8% 12%) Blue 33 and 45 RPM Pitch LEDs Remote Start S/PDIF digital output -- plug straight into Mac/PC or CD-R Includes dust cover and slipmat Dimensions 5.82 H x 17.7 W x 13.85 D ... Read more

Features

• Direct drive turntable with a straight tone arm and super-tight performance functions. It features a unique key adjustment (master tempo) and a slider style pitch control (±8% and ±12%).
• Cartridge Not Included
• For scratching effects, the reverse platter function and 3-speeds of 33-1/3, 45 and 78 RPM are hard to beat.
• Other features include digital line outputs, 3.5mm line inputs, pop-up target light and a skip-resistant tone arm.
• Also comes with a removable dust cover and slipmat.

Features

• Key Adjust (Change the speed without changing the key)
• Super high-torque direct drive motor , adjustable start & brake
• Digital output [S P/DIF] Plug straight into MAC/PC or CD-R
• Selectable phono or line output, plug straight into a board/receiver with no phono in
• Plays 33, 45 and 78 rpm and has Aluminum "S" Tone Arm

Product Description

The TT500 offers a user-replaceable pitch fader, and playback speeds of 33, 45, and 78 rpm. Direction is reversible via a dedicated button, and there are two start/stop buttons. The TT500 also has detachable power and audio connections. Like the TTX, the TT500 offers an interchangeable aluminum tonearm assembly complete with S-shaped and straight tonearms for heavy scratching or club style spinning. A newly designed super-bright aluminum target light assures visibility in low light environments. The TT500 also features an aluminum platter and steel top. Features: 4.5kg/cm ultra-high torque direct-drive motor Professional DJ turntable. Superior quality turntable that can accommodate any DJ style. Interchangeable aluminum tonearm assembly complete with S-shaped and straight tonearms for heavy scratching or club style spinning. A newly designed super-bright aluminum target light assures visibility in low light environments. Uncompromised quality construction with an aluminum platter and steel top. User-replaceable pitch fader, and playback speeds of 33, 45, and 78 rpm. Direction is reversible via a dedicated button, and there are two start/stop buttons. Detachable power and audio connections. ... Read more

Features

• Ultra-high torque (5.0 kgf/cm) quartz-controlled direct drive motor
• Interchangeable aluminum tonearm system includes both straight and S-shaped tonearms
• Designed especially for DJ battles and club use
• Precise cue, height, and anti-skate adjustments
• Removable aluminum super-bright LED target light and strobe