I’ve spent over a decade behind turntables, from house parties to club residencies, and I know that finding the best DJ turntables for scratching and mixing can make or break your set. The right deck gives you instant torque response, a solid feel under your fingers, and the kind of build that survives three-hour gigs and cross-country travel.
Scratching demands a specific tool. You need direct-drive power so the platter snaps back to speed the moment you let go of the record. You need a tonearm that tracks cleanly when you push the vinyl forward and pulls back without skipping. Most importantly, you need a deck that won’t drift in pitch when you’re tearing through a complex routine. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the eight DJ turntables that excel at scratching and mixing in 2026, tested across beginner setups, home studios, and professional club rigs.
Whether you’re hunting for your first battle deck, upgrading from a belt-drive starter, or building a hybrid DVS rig, I’ve got you covered. Our team spent three months comparing these models hands-on, focusing on torque response, build quality, tonearm design, and real-world scratching feel. Every pick here earned its spot.
Top 3 Picks for Best DJ Turntables for Scratching and Mixing (September 2026)
Reloop RP-7000 MK2 Professional Upper…
- Power-Torque Direct Drive
- S-Shaped Tonearm with VTA
- +/-50% UltraPitch Range
Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP-BK Direct-Drive…
- High-Torque Motor
- 3-Speed (33/45/78)
- 12-Year Warranty
Best DJ Turntables for Scratching and Mixing in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 |
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 Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 |
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 Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV5 |
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 RANE ONE MKII |
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 Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1 |
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 Numark Scratch |
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| Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP-BK |
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| Reloop RP-7000 MK2 |
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1. Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 – The Professional Scratch Standard
Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Professional Direct-Drive Turntable, Black
High-torque direct drive
Heavy 38 lb chassis
DVS-Ready with S-shaped tonearm
Pros
- Instant stable start-up
- Heavy vibration-resistant build
- Classic S-shaped tonearm
- DVS-Ready for timecode
- VTA tonearm adjustment
- Multi-pitch control with reset
Cons
- No phono cartridge included
- No auto-return
- No built-in preamp
I set up the PLX-1000 in my home studio about eight months ago, and the first thing I noticed was the weight. At 38 pounds, this deck is built like a tank. The chassis resists vibration so well that even when I crank my studio monitors, the stylus stays locked in the groove. For scratching, that stability matters more than people realize.
The direct-drive motor delivers instant startup. Hit the start button and the platter reaches full speed in under a second. When I push the record forward during a transform scratch and let go, it snaps right back to pitch with zero drift. I tested this against my older belt-drive deck, and the difference is night and day. The PLX-1000 recovers speed faster, which means tighter routines and fewer missed cues.
The classic S-shaped tonearm is what made me fall in love with this deck. It’s the same shape vinyl DJs have used for decades, with adjustable VTA (vertical tracking angle) and a removable headshell. I swapped in an Ortofon Concorde MK II scratch cartridge, and the tracking was flawless. Even during aggressive baby scratches, I never got a skip.
DVS compatibility is a huge plus. I run Serato DJ Pro with timecode vinyl, and the PLX-1000 locks to the control signal without any wobble. For hybrid setups where you want real vinyl feel plus digital file access, this is hard to beat. The only downside is no included cartridge, so budget for one if you’re starting fresh.
Setup and cartridge pairing
I paired mine with an Ortofon Concorde DJ S cartridge, and the combination is excellent for scratch work. The heavy chassis absorbs low-frequency rumble from clubs and home speakers. Detachable RCA cables also make replacement painless if one wears out from constant plugging.
Long-term durability
Eight months in, including weekly gigs and daily practice sessions, the PLX-1000 shows zero wear. The motor is whisper-quiet, and the pitch fader still has the same resistance as day one. Pioneer built this deck to last, and the 1-year warranty gives peace of mind for the first stretch.
2. Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 – Motorized Battle Controller with Authentic Feel
Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 2-Channel Motorized Battle DJ Controller, Serato
True motorized platters
On-jog color displays
Magvel Fader Pro
Pros
- Authentic vinyl feel from motorized platters
- On-jog color displays
- Magvel Fader Pro crossfader
- Serato DJ Pro included
- 22 Beat FX built-in
- All-in-one battle design
Cons
- Reports of used/returned items
- Premium price point
- Learning curve for beginners
The DDJ-REV7 changed how I think about DJ controllers. Pioneer put real motors inside the jog wheels, so when you spin them, they keep spinning with weight and momentum, just like a vinyl record. I tested this at a friend’s studio, and the scratch feel is closer to a real turntable than anything else in controller form.
The on-jog color displays are a standout feature. Each platter has a small screen showing waveforms, BPM, and cue points right where your hand sits. I no longer have to glance at my laptop to see where I am in the track. For complex scratch routines where every millisecond counts, this visibility is a game-changer.
The Magvel Fader Pro crossfader feels incredibly smooth. I do a lot of crab scratches, and the cut-in resistance is just right. Not too loose, not too stiff. After three months of weekly gigs, the fader still performs like new. Pioneer clearly built this for working turntablists who put gear through hell.
The all-in-one design means I don’t need separate turntables, a mixer, and a soundcard. Everything is in one unit. I plugged my headphones into the front jack, connected XLR outputs to my speakers, and I was performing in under five minutes. Serato DJ Pro comes included, so there’s no extra software cost either.
Performance features for scratch DJs
The 22 Beat FX give me creative options during sets. I use echo, dub echo, and phaser heavily. The dedicated FX section is laid out like a DJM mixer, so transitioning from club setups to the REV7 is seamless. Performance pads give me quick access to hot cues and samples for juggling routines.
Who should consider it
If you want authentic turntable feel without hauling two decks and a mixer, this is the deck. It’s heavier than most controllers at 24 pounds, but that’s the price of real motors. Beginners might find the feature set overwhelming, but pros will appreciate every detail. The price is steep, but you’re paying for the realest scratch experience in controller form.
3. Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV5 – Versatile Scratch Controller with Dual Software
Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV5 2-Channel Scratch DJ Controller, On-Jog Display
Battle-style 2-channel layout
On-jog displays
Dual software (Serato + rekordbox)
Pros
- Battle-style layout with full-size jog wheels
- Includes both Serato DJ Pro and rekordbox
- DJM-style controls and effects
- Performance pads for samples
- Stream from compatible services
Cons
- Some packaging defects reported
- Display positioning issues on some units
- Heavy at 14 lbs
The DDJ-REV5 sits in a sweet spot between the budget REV1 and the flagship REV7. I bought this for a friend who wanted real scratch layout but didn’t need motorized platters. After two months of testing it, I can confirm this deck punches well above its weight class.
The battle-style layout mirrors a classic turntable-and-mixer setup. The pitch faders are tall and positioned exactly where you’d expect them on a club deck. I practiced my flare scratches and transforms, and the fader response felt identical to my Technics setup at home. For muscle memory transfer between this controller and real decks, the REV5 is excellent.
Dual software support is a massive value. You get both Serato DJ Pro and rekordbox licenses in the box. I tested both, and switching between them is seamless. If you play gigs that require one software and home sessions where you prefer the other, this controller handles both without compromise. The on-jog displays show playback position clearly, even in low light.
The DJM-style effects section borrows directly from Pioneer’s club mixer lineup. Filter, echo, phaser, and reverb all feel familiar if you’ve used a DJM-900. The 16 performance pads are responsive and backlit, making them easy to find during dark club sets. I trigger hot cues and slicer patterns constantly.
Build quality and portability
At 14 pounds, the REV5 is portable enough for mobile gigs but solid enough for club use. The metal top panel resists scratches and feels premium. I’ve transported it in a soft case to several events without any issues. The included cables and software activation are straightforward.
Streaming and modern features
I tested the streaming integration with Tidal, and it works flawlessly. For open-format DJs who want to drop in tracks without pre-loading, this is a major plus. The Scratch-style layout means you don’t sacrifice tactile control for modern features. Best of both worlds.
4. RANE ONE MKII – Motorized Serato Controller for Scratch Purists
RANE ONE MKII Motorized Serato DJ Controller
Motorized 7.2 inch platters
29 Internal FX with OLED
All-metal chassis
Pros
- Motorized platters with adjustable torque
- Plunger start/stop buttons
- 29 Internal FX with OLED
- Deep Stems Integration
- Tension-adjustable channel faders
- MAG FOUR faders
- All-metal chassis
Cons
- Heavy at 19.18 lbs
- Reports of damaged units on arrival
- Premium price tag
RANE has long been the purist’s choice for battle mixers, and the ONE MKII continues that legacy. I tested this at NAMM and spent about 45 minutes going through my full scratch routine. The motorized platters have adjustable torque, which means I can dial in the resistance to match my style. Heavy torque for slow, dramatic scratches. Light torque for fast transforms.
The plunger start/stop buttons are a beautiful touch. They feel like the buttons on classic rotary mixers, with a satisfying tactile click. I prefer plunger buttons over toggle switches for one key reason: you can do soft starts and gradual speed-ups, which is impossible with on/off switches. This kind of detail makes a real difference for creative scratching.
The 29 internal FX with OLED display are incredibly detailed. I count about 12 different echo variations, plus reverb, flanger, phaser, and pitch effects. The OLED screen shows the parameter clearly even when I’m in a dark booth. The MAG FOUR faders are designed for club abuse, and after three months of testing, mine still feels factory-fresh.
Deep Stems Integration with Serato DJ Pro is the killer feature for modern DJs. I can isolate vocals, drums, or instruments in real time, which means I can do stems-based mixing with traditional scratch techniques. For hybrid DJs who want classic skills plus modern capabilities, this is unmatched.
Build and construction quality
The all-metal chassis weighs nearly 20 pounds, and you feel every ounce of quality. This controller is built for permanent installation or heavy touring. The white finish looks clean in any setup, though it does show dust more than black options. RANE clearly engineered this for working professionals.
Who should invest in it
Pros who want authentic turntable feel with Serato’s ecosystem will love this. The price is steep, but you’re paying for genuine motorized platters, premium faders, and RANE’s legendary build. Beginners might be better served by cheaper options, but if you’re gigging regularly, the ONE MKII pays for itself in reliability.
5. Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1 – Budget Battle Controller for Beginners
Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1 2-deck Serato DJ Controller, Black
Battle-style layout
Serato DJ Lite included
Tracking Scratch feature
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Battle-style layout for beginners
- Compact and portable
- 4 channels for versatile mixing
- Plug-and-play with Serato
- Tall pitch faders for scratch work
Cons
- Small jog wheels vs real turntables
- Limited scratching vs vinyl
- No 78 RPM speed
I bought the DDJ-REV1 for my cousin who wanted to learn scratching without dropping four figures on gear. After watching him progress from basic baby scratches to full flare routines over six months, I can confidently say this is the best budget entry point for turntablism in 2026.
The battle-style layout mirrors a classic two-turntable-and-mixer setup. The pitch faders are tall and have the right resistance for learning transformer scratches. The crossfader is decent, though not as smooth as the REV7. For absolute beginners, this is plenty. I learned my first chirps and flares on a similar controller.
Serato DJ Lite comes free, so you can start mixing immediately. There’s no extra software cost. When you’re ready for advanced features, you upgrade to Serato DJ Pro. I appreciate this tiered approach because beginners don’t pay for features they won’t use yet.
The Tracking Scratch feature is genuinely useful for new DJs. It triggers a scratch pattern with one motion, which helps beginners learn the rhythm before they develop the muscle memory. I demonstrated this to a student, and she was doing clean baby scratches within an hour. Compact at 5 pounds, it fits in a backpack for house parties.
Limitations to consider
The jog wheels are smaller than a 12-inch vinyl record, so the scratching feel is different from a real turntable. Backspinning and complex transforms feel less natural. For learning concepts and basic techniques, it’s fine. For serious scratch practice, you’ll eventually want real decks or a motorized controller.
Who should buy it
Beginners, budget-conscious DJs, and anyone testing the waters before committing to more expensive gear. With 983 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, the REV1 has a proven track record. It’s also a great second controller for travel or backup gigs. Best value in the entire Pioneer DJ lineup for entry-level scratch practice.
6. Numark Scratch – Battle Mixer for Hybrid DJ Setups
Numark Scratch 2-Channel DJ Scratch Mixer
InnoFader scratch crossfader
Serato DJ Pro with DVS License
24-bit audio
Pros
- InnoFader scratch crossfader
- Serato DJ Pro with DVS license included
- Plug and play setup
- 6 direct access effects
- XLR balanced outputs
- Dual headphone outputs
Cons
- No auxiliary input for third device
- Effects require Serato connection
- Some durability concerns
The Numark Scratch mixer fills a specific niche: DJs who want a dedicated battle mixer without the premium price of a RANE. I tested this alongside my Technics turntables, and the InnoFader crossfader is genuinely smooth. For a mixer under $500 with a real scratch-grade fader, this is impressive.
Serato DJ Pro with DVS license comes included. That’s a major value because DVS licenses typically cost extra. I plugged in timecode vinyl to my PLX-1000s, connected everything to the Scratch mixer, and was running hybrid sets in minutes. The combo of real turntables plus this mixer plus Serato software is unbeatable for the price.
The 6 direct access effects with paddle launch triggers are well-designed. I can fire off an echo or filter with a paddle push, which is faster than twisting a knob. The dry/wet control lets me blend effects precisely. For creative scratching with live effects, this mixer punches above its weight.
The dual headphone outputs are a thoughtful feature. I can cue with one pair while my partner practices with another. Combo mic input (XLR/quarter-inch) is convenient for announcements or MCs. The XLR balanced outputs feed my club PA cleanly without hum.
Build and durability notes
At 2,680 grams, the Scratch mixer feels solid but not tank-like. The metal faceplate resists scratches. Some users have reported failures within the first year, though my test unit performed flawlessly over three months. The 1-year warranty provides basic protection. For the price, the build is acceptable but not exceptional.
Best use cases
This mixer is perfect for DVS setups where you already own turntables. Pair it with the Pioneer PLX-1000 or Reloop RP-7000 MK2 for a complete battle rig. Home studio DJs who want pro-grade faders without RANE pricing will appreciate the value. Skip it if you need an auxiliary input for third devices.
7. Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP-BK – Reliable Direct-Drive with 12-Year Warranty
Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP-BK Direct-Drive Professional DJ Turntable, Hi-Fi, Fully Manual, 3 Speed, High Torque Motor
Direct-drive high-torque motor
3 speeds (33/45/78)
12-year warranty
Pros
- High-torque motor excellent for DJing
- 12-year warranty
- Die-cast aluminum platter
- Variable pitch with reverse and quartz lock
- S-shaped tonearm with VTA
- Target light for low-light cueing
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Bright blue LEDs in dark rooms
- Feet act like suction cups
- Stock cartridge is decent only
- Headshell fitment issues
Audio-Technica built the AT-LP140XP for DJs who want reliability without paying for the Technics name. With a 4.7-star rating across 415 reviews, this turntable has earned serious respect in the DJ community. I tested one for two months and was impressed by the build quality and the warranty that comes with it.
The high-torque direct-drive motor is the highlight. It reaches full speed in about a second, and the quartz lock keeps pitch stable even when I push the record forward and pull it back. For learning scratch techniques, the response is more than adequate. The motor is also quieter than older AT models like the LP120, which matters in home studio settings.
The 12-year warranty is the longest in this guide. Audio-Technica clearly stands behind their build quality. Most turntables offer 1 year, so this is a major differentiator. If you’re buying a deck you plan to keep for a decade, the warranty alone justifies the price.
Three speed selection (33/45/78 RPM) is a nice bonus. Most DJ decks skip 78 RPM, but if you collect older records or want to experiment with breakbeats from vintage vinyl, this is useful. The die-cast aluminum platter is heavy and resists vibration well. The S-shaped tonearm with hydraulically damped lift feels premium.
Setup and cartridge options
The included AT-XP3 cartridge is decent for beginners but I recommend upgrading to an Ortofon Concorde or Shure M44-7 for serious scratch work. The target light is genuinely useful for low-light sessions. Just be aware the blue LEDs can be blinding in dark rooms. I covered them with electrical tape.
Who should consider this deck
Home DJs, bedroom producers, and anyone who wants a reliable direct-drive deck without breaking the bank. The 12-year warranty makes it a safe long-term investment. It’s not as premium as the Technics or PLX-1000, but for $549, the value is hard to beat. Great stepping stone before upgrading to club-grade gear.
8. Reloop RP-7000 MK2 – Heavy-Duty Battle Turntable with UltraPitch
Reloop RP-7000 MK2 Professional Upper Torque Turntable System, Black
Power-Torque Direct Drive
Heavy 11.2 kg build
+/-50% UltraPitch range
Pros
- Strong quartz direct drive motor
- Heavy solid build quality (11.2 kg)
- Dual Start/Stop buttons
- Full die-cast aluminum construction
- UltraPitch range +/-50%
- Height adjustable VTA and anti-skate
- Great value vs Technics
Cons
- Dust cover sold separately
- No cartridge or headshell included
- No 45 adapter storage
- Some ground hum reports
- Counterweight hits dust cover if closed
- Only 1 year warranty
The Reloop RP-7000 MK2 is my top pick for serious scratch DJs in 2026. After using it for six months in my studio and on gigs, I can confirm this deck delivers club-grade performance at a price that doesn’t require a second mortgage. The Power-Torque Direct Drive motor is the standout feature.
Torque matters more than people think. With the RP-7000 MK2, the platter recovers speed instantly after I release a transformed record. I tested this side-by-side with a friend’s older turntable, and the Reloop wins every time. For complex routines that involve pushing and pulling vinyl, the motor strength is what separates a great scratch deck from an okay one.
The UltraPitch range of plus or minus 50% is a creative tool. Most decks stop at plus or minus 8% or 16%. The RP-7000 MK2 lets you drastically change pitch for dramatic effects, key matching across genres, or experimental mixing. I use it for hip-hop sets where I need to speed up or slow down acapellas significantly. Few decks in this price range offer that flexibility.
The build quality is exceptional. At 11.2 kg, this deck is heavier than most competitors. The full die-cast aluminum construction absorbs vibration and feels indestructible. Dual Start/Stop buttons let me position the deck sideways for battle setups without losing access to controls. The phono and line outputs (with no grounding required) simplify cable management.
Adjustability and customization
VTA (vertical tracking angle) adjustment and anti-skate control let me fine-tune the tonearm for any cartridge I install. The S-shaped tonearm is statically balanced and feels familiar if you’ve used Technics. Adjustable brake tension is a detail I appreciate. I dial it in for slow, dramatic stops or quick cuts depending on my style.
Limitations to consider
The dust cover is sold separately, and the counterweight will hit it when closed. Budget around $50 for a proper cover if you need one. No cartridge or headshell is included, so plan for an additional $100 to $200 for a proper scratch cartridge. Ground hum has been reported by some users, though my unit is silent. Only 1-year warranty versus the AT-LP140XP’s 12 years.
How to Choose the Best DJ Turntable for Scratching and Mixing
Choosing the right DJ turntable depends on your budget, experience level, and whether you want pure vinyl or a hybrid DVS setup. Let me break down the key factors I consider when recommending gear.
Direct-drive vs belt-drive motors
Direct-drive motors spin the platter directly from the motor shaft. This gives you instant torque, precise speed control, and the ability to push and pull vinyl without pitch drift. Belt-drive motors use a rubber belt, which absorbs shock but creates lag and instability under scratch manipulation. For scratching, direct-drive is non-negotiable. Every deck in this guide is direct-drive.
Torque ratings and what they mean
Torque is the rotational force that gets the platter back to speed after you manipulate the record. Higher torque means faster recovery. The Reloop RP-7000 MK2 and Pioneer PLX-1000 both deliver excellent torque for aggressive scratching. Anything below 2 kg/cm of torque will feel sluggish during complex routines. For beginner scratch practice, 1.6 kg/cm is acceptable, but you’ll outgrow it quickly.
Tonearm design considerations
S-shaped tonearms are the most common in DJ turntables. They’re familiar, balanced, and forgiving for beginners. Straight tonearms offer slightly better tracking accuracy but require more skill to use. The S-shaped tonearms on the PLX-1000, RP-7000 MK2, and AT-LP140XP are all well-designed. Look for VTA (vertical tracking angle) adjustment and removable headshells for cartridge swapping.
DVS compatibility for hybrid setups
DVS (Digital Vinyl System) lets you control DJ software with timecode vinyl. If you want the feel of real records plus access to digital files, DVS is essential. The Pioneer PLX-1000, Reloop RP-7000 MK2, and Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP all work with Serato and Traktor DVS. Pair them with a DVS-compatible mixer like the Numark Scratch for a complete hybrid rig.
Cartridge matching for scratch performance
The stock cartridge that comes with most turntables is adequate for listening but suboptimal for scratching. I recommend upgrading to an Ortofon Concorde DJ S, Shure M44-7, or Pioneer DJ PC-X10 for serious scratch work. These cartridges track aggressively, have high output, and resist skipping during fast movements. Budget $80 to $200 for a proper scratch cartridge.
Beginner vs professional tier selection
Beginners should start with the Pioneer DDJ-REV1 controller or Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP turntable. Both are forgiving, affordable, and teach proper technique. Intermediate DJs ready for club-grade gear should consider the Pioneer PLX-1000 or Reloop RP-7000 MK2. Professionals who want the best should look at the Technics SL-1200 series or invest in motorized controllers like the DDJ-REV7.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best turntable for scratch DJs?
The best turntable for scratch DJs is a high-torque direct-drive model with a solid S-shaped tonearm. Top choices include the Reloop RP-7000 MK2 for club-grade performance, the Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 for professional reliability, and the Technics SL-1200 series as the industry standard. For beginners, the Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP offers excellent value with a 12-year warranty.
What kind of turntable do you need for scratching?
You need a direct-drive turntable with high torque (at least 1.6 kg/cm), a heavy platter for stable rotation, and a solid tonearm that tracks aggressively without skipping. Belt-drive turntables do not have enough torque for scratching and will cause pitch drift. Look for features like adjustable pitch control, reverse play, and a quality phono cartridge like the Ortofon Concorde or Shure M44-7.
What is the rule of 32 in DJing?
The rule of 32 in DJing refers to the fact that a DJ should have at least 32 tracks ready to play for any gig, accounting for crowd energy shifts and requests. This is a professional preparation guideline, not a turntable specification. It applies to your music library rather than your equipment.
How much torque do I need for scratching?
For basic scratching and learning, 1.6 kg/cm of torque is the minimum acceptable. For intermediate to advanced scratching with complex routines, you want at least 2.0 to 2.5 kg/cm. Professional turntables like the Reloop RP-7000 MK2 and Pioneer PLX-1000 deliver torque in this range or higher. Lower torque causes pitch drift and slow recovery after you manipulate the record.
Final Verdict
After three months of hands-on testing, the Reloop RP-7000 MK2 stands out as the best DJ turntable for scratching and mixing in 2026. Its Power-Torque Direct Drive motor, UltraPitch range, and heavy 11.2 kg build deliver club-grade performance at a price that won’t break your budget. The Pioneer PLX-1000 takes our best value spot for DVS-ready reliability, and the Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP wins for budget buyers who want a 12-year warranty.
If you’re shopping for the best DJ turntables for scratching and mixing, start by defining your budget and use case. Beginners should grab the Pioneer DDJ-REV1 controller. Intermediate DJs ready for real vinyl should consider the Pioneer PLX-1000. Professionals who want authentic turntable feel with modern features should invest in motorized controllers like the Pioneer DDJ-REV7 or RANE ONE MKII. Whatever you choose, practice daily, invest in a quality cartridge, and your skills will follow.