Head to head
PLX-500 vs. AT-LP120XUSB
Both are Turntables in the same price bracket (€200 to €350) — which is why you genuinely hesitate between them. Here is what our register says about both, side by side, including what speaks against them.
Pioneer DJ
PLX-500
A direct-drive turntable in the classic DJ layout — the way into a vinyl setup.
For
- Direct drive, DJ layout
- Cartridge included
- USB output for digitising
Against
- You need two of these plus a mixer
- Unnecessary for digital DJing — see the buying guide
Audio-Technica
AT-LP120XUSB
Direct drive with a built-in preamp and USB — works with any mixer and any computer.
For
- Built-in preamp: works even without a PHONO input
- USB for digitising
- Cartridge included
Against
- Less torque than real club turntables
- The included cartridge is not meant for scratching
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The key facts side by side
| Feature | PLX-500 | AT-LP120XUSB |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Pioneer DJ | Audio-Technica |
| Price bracket | €200 to €350 | €200 to €350 |
| Our classification | Entry level | Entry level |
| Meant for | Vinyl setup | Vinyl setup, Laptop only |
Where they differ
- They suit different paths — someone starting with vinyl needs a different device than someone on a controller.
- Different manufacturers, so different software ecosystems, spare parts and control logic. If you already own gear from one brand, that is a reason in itself.
We deliberately crown no winner here. What we can back up is above; anything else would be a claim, and there are plenty of those on this question already.