Best Gear for Turntablist & Scratch DJ: Our Top Picks

For aspiring and seasoned scratch DJs alike, selecting the right tools is essential for pushing the boundaries of your creativity and mastering the art of scratching. In this guide, we delve into a curated selection of top-tier gear, each offering unrivalled quality, durability, and performance for scratch enthusiasts. Free Deejay Dj photo and picture

Pioneer DJ DDJ REV5 Controller

Pioneer's DDJ REV5 stands at the forefront of digital DJ controllers, offering unparalleled versatility and intuitive control for scratch DJs. With its responsive jog wheels, tactile performance pads, and robust construction, the DDJ REV5 empowers DJs to elevate their scratching techniques to new heights.Compatible with both Serato DJ Pro and rekordbox compatibility, this controller is a must-have for DJs seeking precision, flexibility, and innovation in their performances. This 2-channel unit offers an authentic scratch experience and innovative features including its large jogs, MAGVEL FADER, dedicated buttons for Stems control, the first-ever Auto BPM Transition, and Piano Play mode.

Numark PT01 Scratch Portable DJ Turntable

With the PT01 Scratch portable turntable, you can scratch and cut—anywhere. Compact yet powerful, the Numark PT01 Scratch Portable DJ Turntable is a game-changer for DJs on the move. Connect your phone or any audio source to play a background beat through the 1/8” stereo input and scratch along to the beat.Featuring a built-in scratch switch, adjustable scratch sensitivity, and a rugged, portable design, the PT01 Scratch enables you to grab your favorite scratch record and perform any turntablist scratch routine, whether you have access to AC wall power or you’re outdoors with your friends.This turntable delivers impressive performance and convenience without compromise.

Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 Turntable

Designed with the needs of scratch DJs in mind, the Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 turntable redefines precision and performance in the analog realm. Boasting a direct drive system, high-torque motor, and superior tracking capability, the PLX-CRSS12 delivers unmatched stability and control for seamless scratching and mixing. With its sleek, professional design and robust build quality, this turntable is a testament to Pioneer's legacy of excellence in DJ technology.

Stanton STX Scratch Turntable

The Stanton STX Scratch Turntable is a formidable addition to any scratch DJ's arsenal, combining cutting-edge features with legendary Stanton durability. This scratch turntable is designed for scratching on the go. It features an Innofader Nano, a battery and built-in speaker, allowing for portable use anywhere.Equipped with a high-torque motor, adjustable pitch control, and anti-skate technology, the STX Scratch Turntable offers precise tracking and responsive performance for even the most demanding scratching techniques. 

Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 Controller

Building upon the success of its predecessors, the Pioneer DDJ REV7 redefines the boundaries of digital DJing with its groundbreaking features and unparalleled performance. The DDJ-REV7 is solid and robust, yet still lightweight enough to grab by the handles on the chassis and carry to your next gig.Featuring ultra-responsive jog wheels, customizable performance pads, and onboard effects, the layout of this 2-channel unit emulates a professional DJM-S mixer + PLX turntable setup, and includes specialized features for open-format and scratch DJs.

Numark Scratch Two-Channel DJ Scratch Mixer

Numark Scratch is a 24-bit two-channel mixer that redefines what you can do with an affordable 2-channel scratch mixer. With Scratch, you'll be able to create and perform at a higher level than you ever thought was possible especially with a mixer in the affordable price category.The Scratch mixer combines professional-level performance and outright DJing fun in a way nothing else ever has. You've got to experience it to really see what it's all about!

Rane Four Stems DJ Controller

RANE has produced the ultimate DJ setup, in collaboration with Serato, providing superior Stems control, designed to meet the demands of the most discerning scratch DJs. Rane Four is the most advanced Serato Stems DJ controller with dedicated Stems pad mode, independent Acapella/Instrumental buttons, and exclusive STEM-SPLIT feature for the ultimate Stems workflow and experience.Boasting four channels, customizable effects, and an intuitive interface, the Four provides unparalleled flexibility and control for crafting seamless mixes and dynamic scratch routines. With its rugged construction and legendary sound quality, this mixer is a staple in the arsenals of professional DJs worldwide, setting the standard for excellence in the art of scratching.

Pioneer DJ DJM-S5 DJ Mixer

Rounding out our selection is the Pioneer DJ DJM-S5 DJ, a versatile powerhouse mixer designed for scratch DJs that offers pro-level features at a mid-level price. The DJM-S5 is the first-ever Pioneer DJ mixer that you can power via the USB connection to your computer.Featuring a built-in Magvel crossfader, customizable effects, and responsive performance pads, the DJM-S5 delivers precision control and dynamic sound shaping capabilities for unmatched creativity and expression. Whether you're battling on stage or crafting intricate scratch routines in the studio, this mixer ticks many boxes for a sub-$1500 DVS mixer equipped with a Magvel crossfader.

Hercules DJControl Inpulse T7 Premium Edition

At NAMM 2024, Hercules unveiled the DJControl Inpulse T7 Premium Edition, essentially mirroring the standard version but with added gold-colored accents for flair. Alongside aesthetic enhancements, the Premium Edition includes the Premium Fader Module, a gold-colored addition housing three durable faders (two channel faders and a crossfader) on sliding rails, promising smoother movement ideal for scratching enthusiasts.Additionally, the Premium Edition provides two extra scratch slipmats, allowing manipulation of the disc without affecting the platter's rotation for authentic backspins and scratching. A high-quality travel bag is also part of the package.

Technics SL-1200MK7 Turntable

The Technics SL-1200MK7 is the newest model of the SL-1200 Series, designed from the ground up to provide all that modern day DJs need and want.TECHNICS SL-1200MK7 SILVERAt the drive section of the MK7 is a coreless direct drive motor. While achieving both stable rotation and powerful torque, this has successfully eliminated a rotation irregularity called cogging, which was the only drawback of the direct drive system. As a result, sound quality was further improved.

MWM Phase Essential Wireless DVS System

MWM Phase is the first wireless controller that lets you control tracks playing from a DJ software without needing cartridges or control vinyl.PHASE DJ-Two audio remotes capture the turntable rotation information and wirelessly transmit it to a receiver that processes and sends it to your DVS setup. Easy-to-use and intuitive, Phase offers an unprecedented communication quality and reactivity, and is completely unaffected by external disruptions and common DJ equipment issues.

All This To Say

In conclusion, the world of scratch DJing is as diverse and dynamic as the artists who inhabit it. With the right gear at your fingertips, you can unleash your creativity, express your unique style, and captivate audiences with your artistry. From digital controllers to analog turntables, the gear featured in this guide represents the pinnacle of innovation and performance in the world of scratch DJing. Choose your tools wisely, hone your craft relentlessly, and let your imagination soar as you embark on your journey to mastering the art of scratching.