Pioneer DJ
Pioneer DJ PLX-500
Best entry level direct drive turntable for home listening and aspiring DJs.
The Pioneer DJ PLX-500 is a high-torque, direct-drive turntable designed for both home listening and DJing. It offers stable rotation and high-quality sound reproduction, making it a versatile choice for vinyl enthusiasts. The turntable features a classic design and robust build, ensuring durability and reliable performance for various audio applications. Its direct-drive motor provides quick start-up and consistent speed, essential for accurate playback and mixing. This model is ideal for those looking to enjoy their vinyl collection or start their DJ journey with a dependable and capable turntable.
$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 seeking an affordable, reliable turntable.
- Music enthusiasts wanting to digitize their vinyl collection effortlessly.
- Beginners and casual users desiring immediate plug-and-play vinyl enjoyment.
Who should skip it
- Professional DJs or heavy users needing extreme durability and vibration dampening.
- Scratch DJs or performers requiring high torque for precise manipulation.
- Experienced DJs demanding exact tempo matching for intricate mixes.
Key Specs
Drive Type
Direct Drive
Pitch Control
Yes
Operation Type
Manual
Playback Speeds
33 1/3 RPM, 45 RPM
Built-in Speakers
No
Features
- High-torque direct drive motor
- Stable rotation for accurate playback
- Classic design and robust build
- Quick start-up and consistent speed
- Suitable for home listening and DJing
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Pioneer DJ PLX 500 for its impressive build quality and excellent value. Many appreciate its robust construction, feeling substantial and durable for its price point. The sound reproduction is frequently highlighted as clear and enjoyable, making it a strong contender for both casual listening and aspiring DJs. Its direct drive motor is often cited as a key benefit, offering reliable performance without breaking the bank. This turntable delivers a premium feel and sound experience, exceeding expectations for its accessible cost.
Know before you buy
Yes, the PLX-500 includes a pre-mounted cartridge, stylus, and headshell, so you can start playing records as soon as you set it up.
Yes, the PLX-500 features a built-in phono equalizer, which allows you to connect it directly to powered speakers or an amplifier without needing an external phono preamp.
While the high-torque motor is excellent for mixing and home use, it is primarily designed as an entry-level professional deck. It is a great starting point for learning to DJ, though heavy-duty scratch performers often prefer the higher torque of the flagship PLX-1000.
No, this is a fully manual turntable. You will need to manually place the tonearm on the record and lift it once playback is finished.
Yes, the PLX-500 includes a USB output, allowing you to connect it to your computer and use recording software to convert your vinyl records into high-quality digital files.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.