Today, we will learn about the best turntables for sampling as well as digitizing vinyl. All of the products we will mention here are the perfect ones for a music producer. Also, they are ideal for those who want high-quality samples for beats and composition. Choosing the right model for sampling may be a challenge if you do not know what you are going for. Keep reading our writing to learn about the most important things to look for when choosing a turntable for sampling. Also, we will give you the top five best turntables for sampling you can consider selecting.
How to Choose the Best Turntables for Sampling
Record players come in different kinds. However, not all of them are perfect for sampling and digitizing your vinyl collection. Therefore, you have to get it right from the start. Here are some factors to look out for:
Types of Turntables
Turntables are available in two main categories: belt-drive turntables and direct-drive ones. Both of them mention the way the model spins the record on the platter. For belt-drive models, they use a belt that is attached to a motor turning the platter. On the other hands, the direct-drive ones come with the motor that is connected directly to the platter itself.
Speed
Turntables are available in three main speeds, including 33 1/3, 45, and 78rpm. The most commonly used speed is the 33 1/3 that can be used to play LP records. For playing singles, you can use the 45. Another one is far less common.
Pitch Control and Shift
You can commonly see them in a direct-drive model. These features can change your turntable’s speed to make the pitch correct. If you want to select a unit with pitch control, we recommend you to choose a higher pitch-shifting range.
Torgue Power
If you intend to do any scratching, you should choose a higher torque instead of a lower one. It allows the turntable to recover its speed quickly after stops.
Quartz Lock
With quartz lock, you can lock your time very accurately. Therefore, it is ideal for mixing between tracks in a party setting.
Magnetic Cartridge
The magnetic cartridge is where the needle is housed. Your vinyl needs to produce sound. Moreover, this feature is also upgradable. If you are looking for an excellent cartridge, you can consider choosing the Shure M44-7.
Top Five Best Turntables for Sampling Reviews
Pioneer Pro DJ PLX-1000
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O8U3ZI2
This model has the flexibility of doing a little DJing on the side. Although this model is not the cheapest one, it gives some standard features for sampling. This one is a high-end professional turntable.
It comes with a Wow and Flutter. Moreover, it has a high torque of 4.5 kgf-cm that can deal with scratching. The model also includes a quartz lock servo drive. Therefore, it can lock your speeds with ease.
Pros
- Simple to set up and maintain
- Clean sound quality
- Lots of extra controls
- Beautiful design
Cons
- Requires a cartridge with purchase
Audio-Technica AT-LP60XUSB
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N3X7KPW
It is one of the most popular turntables out there. You can connect this one to your PC with ease. Moreover, this one has a phono preamp that allows you to connect the turntable to your computer.
You can use it with ease. It also does not require you to move the tonearm. You will have to take some time to set up; it is still simple to use and connect with others. Therefore, it is perfect for sampling.
Pros
- Simple to use
- Excellent balanced sound
- Allows for converting records into perfect digital files
Cons
- Limited record speeds
- Not perfect for mixing or scratching
Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IIMXATU
If you focus on sound quality when choosing the best turntables for samplings, you can select this model. It brings excellent quality. Also, it has a high belt-drive motor as well as a high-end tonearm.
It is made of high-quality material. Besides, the unit comes with a low noise precision belt drive. It ensures to make a higher quality for sampling. Also, there is a big platter for stability.
It also allows you to change the speeds from 33 1/3 to 45 rpm. However, the model needs some level of manual operation.
Pros
- Excellent platter and tonearms
- Affordable price
- Great build and design
- High-quality cartridge
Cons
- No USB connection
- Requires some level of manual operation
Stanton STR8.150 Digital Turntable
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XH97S91
If you are finding a durable turntable for sampling, you should not miss the Stanton STR8.150. It is a good option for professional DJs. You can play it at 33, 45, and 78 rpm. Moreover, it also allows you to play rare cuts.
There is a very powerful motor as well. Thus, you will get consistent speeds. It also offers an additional S/PDIF output that you can connect directly to a sound card. Plus, the model is sure to support most modern units.
Pros
- Adjustable pitch select
- Strong torque motor
- Excellent record speeds
Cons
- No cover
- Very heavy
Numark PT01USB
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001ECQ6PG
The Numark PT01USB is an affordable turntable for sampling. It is a portable model. Therefore, it is easy to carry around with you. Moreover, it allows you to connect directly to a computer.
Besides, this one has its internal monitoring speakers. There are three speeds available: 33, 45, and 78 rpm. Also, it comes with the cartridge. This model is perfect for players who are frequently on the move.
Pros
- Affordable price
- USB connection
- Portable
- Pitch control capability
Cons
- Plastic construction
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need pitch correction for a sampling record player?
You can do pitch correction and shift on your computer via your DAW and plugins. Therefore, it is not essential to get a turntable with pitch control if you have to transfer high-quality samples.
- What is the best tonearm length?
A longer tonearm length brings less tracking errors for many reasons. The longer tonearms means the greater mass and resonance. We recommend you to choose the tonearm of 9 inches.
- How to know when placing a turntable needle?
First, you need to clean a turntable needle. Then, place it on your turntable. If you get any distortions or the poor sound quality, you need to get a new needle.
Conclusion
We hope this article can help you find the best turntables for sampling. You can get the right one based on your budget, intended use of the deck, as well as the mixing style. We recommend you to try different settings, tables, and brands. Then, you can decide which one to purchase more quickly.