Pioneer DJ
PLX-500
Best direct drive turntable for aspiring DJs and home listeners.
The Pioneer DJ PLX-500 is a direct drive turntable that offers a warm, clear analog sound, inheriting the layout of the professional PLX-1000. It's an ideal choice for those looking to start playing vinyl or enjoy their record collection at home. The turntable features excellent sound design with the shortest possible audio routing to reduce distortion, and a phono/line output switch for direct connection to sound systems or powered speakers. It also allows for easy digital recording of vinyl collections to high-quality files via its USB output. For DJs, it can be used for mixing and scratching, or combined with rekordbox dvs, a compatible DJ mixer, and Control Vinyl for performing with digital files. The dust cover includes a sleeve stand for displaying record artwork.
$449.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.4
/ 5
Category Rank
417
/ 631
#417 in Turntables & Record Players
Price vs Category Average
-90%
Below average
Drive Type
Direct drive
/ Direct drive
Who it's for
- Aspiring DJs and home listeners on a budget
- Music enthusiasts wanting to archive their record collection
- Casual listeners and beginner DJs seeking reliable performance
Who should skip it
- Professional DJs requiring high-performance scratching capabilities
- Audiophiles and experienced DJs seeking superior sound reproduction
- Club DJs performing in high-vibration environments
Key Specs
Drive Type
Direct drive
Playback Speeds
33 1/3 RPM, 45 RPM, 78 RPM
USB Output
Yes
Phono/Line Output Switch
Yes
Cartridge Included
Yes
Dust Cover Included
Yes
Tonearm Type
S-shaped
Features
- Excellent sound design for warm, clear vinyl playback
- Easy digital recording via USB output
- Versatile for DJ mixing and scratching
- Integrated sleeve stand for record cover display
- Includes all necessary accessories to start
- Direct connection to sound systems or powered speakers
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the PLX 500 for its exceptional value and solid build quality, especially considering its accessible price point. Many highlight its straightforward setup and reliable performance, making it an excellent choice for both aspiring DJs and home listening enthusiasts. Users appreciate the clear sound reproduction and the robust feel of the platter and tonearm. It is frequently noted as a dependable entry into the world of vinyl playback and DJing, offering a premium experience without the premium cost.
Know before you buy
Yes, the turntable comes out of the box with a pre-installed cartridge, stylus, slipmat, and all necessary cables. You will only need to connect it to a set of powered speakers or an amplifier to begin listening.
Absolutely. The built-in USB output allows you to connect the turntable directly to your computer, making it simple to record your vinyl into high-quality digital audio files.
While it is designed for home use, the PLX-500 features a high-torque direct drive motor that makes it capable of mixing and scratching. It is also compatible with rekordbox dvs if you want to perform using digital files.
No, you do not. The PLX-500 features a built-in phono/line output switch, allowing you to connect it directly to powered speakers or a standard line-level input on an amplifier without needing an external preamp.
Yes, the included dust cover is designed with a built-in sleeve stand. This allows you to prop up your record jacket while the vinyl is playing, turning your turntable setup into a display piece.
Yes, the PLX-500 supports three playback speeds: 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM, giving you the flexibility to play a wide variety of record formats.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$449