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The Right Deck: DJ CD Players vs. Turntables

When looking for the right deck for your equipment, you basically have two main options: DJ CD
players or turntables. Each will have a number of variations (such as mixers or just based on the
features they offer), but you will almost always be dealing with one of the other. So, which one is write
for you?

What’s the Difference?

There is one key difference between these two decks: a turntable plays vinyl records, and a DJ CD
players plays and records CD’s. Simple, right? Of course, this is not the only difference you will
usually find between the two.

Quite possibly the greatest factor involving a decision will be based on sound quality versus effects.
Many people who prefer a turntable do so because it allows for a more classic sound, which can really
only be found in vinyl. Of course, this creates a problem of choice and availability, and CD’s are still
pretty good when it comes to the quality.

With DJ CD players you will have more effects, generally built into the deck. For example, a CD mixer
will have the mixer built into the deck itself, unlike a turntable which has no such features available
for the user. But these effects have a much for electronic sound, which is great if that is what you are
looking for, but a major con if you prefer the warmer tones of vinyl.

So, which is better? The short answer is: neither. They are both great pieces of equipment, but
are based on the specifications of the user. Of course, there is the issue of cost. DJ CD players are
relatively less expensive to replace, fix upgrade. Vinyls are also harder to find and usually cost way
more than a CD, and are more easily damaged.

In the end, turntables are more delicate and easier to break, and more expensive, but give a different,
more natural sound. DJ CD players have less quality to the audio, but are ore feature based and cost
less to maintain. Which you choose is up to you.