Digital Turntables: The Pros and Cons
Although the nostalgia for vinyl and CD turntables loom in many a DJ; the times, they are a-changing. Today, digital turntables have all but replaced the majority of turntables in use (although CD tables still hold strong). If you’re considering getting into DJing or have yet to buy your gear; consider these pro’s and con’s about digital turntables.
Pro: Portability & Size
The first thing you’ll notice about digital turntables are their relative small nature in size. Compared to a traditional set of vinyl turntables (which often means you’re carrying around a coffin as well); digital turntables are such a comfort as you’re able to toss the decks into your pack and move out.
Con: Some digital decks have cheap material
One thing you can’t deny about vinyl and CD turntables are their overall strength and durability. Digital turntables are often made with fairly flimsy plastic (although this is changing); but still, one drop and you could break a key component of your gear – putting you out of the game for the night.
Pro: Pricing is very affordable
Usually, you’d be advised to start with around $1,000 when setting up your DJ gear. Digital decks, on the other hand, can be picked up well below the $100 rate which is great for those beginner DJ’s that aren’t quite sure if DJing is for them or if they’d like to get them for a friend/family member.
Con: Price (sometimes) dictates quality
Like most products you buy, DJ gear is no exception to the rule of “you get what you pay for”. The higher end gear do command a higher price tag but that’s because of their overall use and quality in design. Digital turntables often lack some of the same, great features offered on different platforms.
Pro: They are often bundled with DJ software
Virtual DJ is all over the place but let’s not forget that there’s also Torq, Traktor and more. Many midi/digital turntables come bundled with DJ programs to get you started immediately. Once you boot up and load some songs in, you can play.
Con: Some prefer the hands-on
Talk to those that use vinyl or CD decks and they generally say the same thing: they love the feel of spinning vinyl. There’s something about being able to hold the music you’re about to play that really gets you into it all; something you can’t get from an MP3.
Conclusion
There’s certainly a lot to consider when you’re first starting up with DJing or buying the base gear. Digital turntables may be perfect for you if you’re low on space and lean toward the ability to use digital media. On the other hand, if you prefer the hands on feel during mixing than it may not be for you.
Either way; it’s great to get the pro’s and con’s out of the way before you dive into any particular decision on your DJ gear – a bit of knowledge can save you a lot of headaches in the long run.
