Pioneer PLX-500

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$418.19 to $449.00 Price Tier: Standard

4.5 (3)

4 Critic Reviews

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Page last updated Jul 01, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated June 30, 2026.

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4.0 (25)

$449.00

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3.5 (8)

$449.00

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4.6 (519)

$449.00 New

$373.34 Used (Very Good)

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4.0 (6)

$418.19 23 available New

$299.99 8 available Used

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2.0 (2)

$449.00

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5.0 (4)

$449.00

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4.1 (9)

$449.00

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5.0 (1)

$449.00

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Average Price: $429

Standard/Professional

$100

$501+

Price Tier

In the Turntables category, Pioneer PLX-500 is priced in the upper end of the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Pioneer PLX-500". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Introducing the Pioneer PLX-500, the turntable that caters to both the vinyl enthusiast and the live performer. Built for spinning, digitizing, and DJing, this deck is designed to take you from the comfort of your living room to the pulse of the DJ booth.

The heart of the PLX-500 is its superior analogue playback. This is achieved through a combination of a dependable direct-drive motor, short-excursion tone arm with headshell, cartridge, and stylus, and a neutral onboard preamp. The result is a sound that is both clear and authentic.

Another highlight of the PLX-500 is its switchable Phono/Line output. This allows you to easily connect to a mixer or directly to speakers, making it a versatile choice for any DJ setup.

The dust cover doubles as a stand, perfect for showcasing your record sleeves. And for those who love to digitize their vinyl collection, the PLX-500 makes it easy with its USB output.

Key Features:

Designed for spinning, digitizing, and DJing
Superior analog playback with a smooth, dependable direct-drive motor and onboard preamplifier
Switchable Phono/Line output for flexible connectivity
USB output for easy digitization of your vinyl collection
Dust cover with stand for displaying record sleeves
Includes all you need to get started: slipmat, balance weights, stereo audio cables, USB cord, and rekordbox digital download

Owner's manual

Pioneer PLX-500 User Manual

Product specs

Motor	Direct
Speeds	33, 45, 78
Pitch Control	±8%
Arm Style	S Shape
Playback	Fully Manual
Platter	Die-cast Aluminum, 13.07" Diameter
Torque	≥1.6kg/cm
USB	1 x Type B
Analog Outputs	1 x 1/8" TRS
Features	Black Finish, USB Cable Included, RCA Cable Included
Cartridge Included	Yes, VM
Power Source	AC Power Cable (included)
Height	6.24"
Width	17.71"
Depth	14.46"
Weight	23.58 lbs

FAQs

Does the Pioneer PLX-500 have a built-in preamp?: Yes, the Pioneer PLX-500 includes a built-in preamp, allowing you to connect directly to speakers or amplifiers without needing an external preamp.
What are the speed options available on the Pioneer PLX-500?: The Pioneer PLX-500 supports three playback speeds: 33, 45, and 78 RPM, making it versatile for playing a wide range of vinyl records.
Can I connect the Pioneer PLX-500 to my computer?: Yes, the Pioneer PLX-500 features a USB Type B port, which allows you to connect it to your computer for digital recording and archiving of your vinyl collection.
Is the Pioneer PLX-500 suitable for DJ use?: The Pioneer PLX-500 is designed for both DJ and audiophile use, featuring a high-torque direct-drive motor and pitch control, making it suitable for DJ performances.
What type of tonearm does the Pioneer PLX-500 have?: The Pioneer PLX-500 is equipped with an S-shaped tonearm, which is preferred by many DJs for its stability and reduced tracking error during playback.

Reviews

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PROS

Comparable to high-end models at a lower cost
Solid build, heavy and well-constructed
Easy to set up and configure, user-friendly for beginners
Excellent sound quality and deep bass response
USB option for recording and storing LPs
Includes a good quality stylus/cartridge
Aesthetically pleasing design

CONS

Prone to malfunction, like platter not spinning after minimal use
Permanently attached phono cable can be problematic
Missing parts upon delivery, such as the tonearm weight
Motor slightly weaker compared to higher-end models

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Pioneer PLX-500.

Value and pricing

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A $120 price for a Pioneer PLX-500 is considered a great deal, especially for a direct drive DJ turntable.
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Features and functionality

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The PLX-500 is noted for having weak torque, making it suitable for mixing but less ideal for scratching.
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The PLX-500 allows playback of 7", 10", and 12" records, contrasting with misconceptions about limitations in other models.
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The PLX-500’s preamp design is distinct from the AT-LP120, potentially avoiding issues with high-frequency distortion present in older models.
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Comparisons

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The PLX-500 is often compared to Technics turntables, with the latter holding value better over time.
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Reloop RP-7000 models are recommended over the PLX-500 for scratching due to their adjustable torque and brakes.
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The PLX-500 is compared favorably to the older AT-LP120-USB, which has design flaws in its preamp affecting high-frequency response.
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The PLX-500 is often viewed as superior to the older LP120 model due to fewer design flaws, particularly in preamp functionality.
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User experience

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Owners who primarily use the PLX-500 for listening find it adequate for occasional vinyl practice.
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Some owners experienced motor failure within months, leading them to switch to Technics for reliability.
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Owners using PLX-500s for gigging found them serviceable when no other viable options were available at the time.
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Owners appreciate the PLX-500 for its sound quality but highlight that it lacks the torque necessary for effective DJ scratching.
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Use cases and applications

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The PLX-500 is considered fine for casual studio use, especially for those transitioning from digital controllers to a vinyl setup.
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While not ideal for scratching, the PLX-500 performs adequately for mixing by adjusting pitch to beat match.
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Mods and upgrades

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For beginners in scratching, upgrading to a scratch-specific needle is advised for improved performance.
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Critic Reviews

Pioneer DJ PLX-500 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Pioneer PLX-500 turntable shines as a budget-friendly option with reliable Pioneer build quality and excellent torque for its price range. It's a solid choice for DJs who want good performance without breaking the bank. However, the deck's RCA cables look cheap and are non-detachable, which might be a letdown for some. Despite this, the PLX-500 stands out for its affordability and functionality, making it a great buy for aspiring turntablists and DJs.

positive

Full Review

Pioneer DJ PLX-500 Turntable Review - Digital DJ Tips

digitaldjtips.com

The Pioneer PLX-500 is a budget-friendly, home-use turntable with features like USB recording and a high-torque direct drive motor. While it offers decent sound for home listening and vinyl ripping, its plastic-heavy build and low motor torque make it less ideal for DJ gigs or scratch routines. It's a solid entry-level option for beginners, but its susceptibility to vibrations and weaker performance in demanding DJ tasks limit its appeal for more experienced users. If portability and durability are key, consider the Reloop RP-7000 or a used Technics 1200 instead.

neutral

Full Review

Pioneer PLX-500 review: A turntable for vinyl n00bs and Technics-loving DJs alike - Ars Technica

arstechnica.com

The Pioneer PLX-500 offers a compelling entry point for vinyl enthusiasts and DJs, drawing inspiration from the iconic Technics SL-1200. Priced at an accessible £300, it's well-built and delivers decent sound quality, making it suitable for both home use and DJ gigs. Its direct-drive system ensures rapid platter startup, though the construction quality falls short of higher-end models. While the soundstage is impressive, treble can be harsh, and bass lacks depth. The built-in phono pre-amp is a plus for beginners, but audiophiles may prefer an external option. Overall, a versatile choice for newcomers seeking a Technics-style experience on a budget.

neutral

Full Review

Pioneer – PLX-500: “A solid sound solution…” – Long Live Vinyl

longlivevinyl.net

Pioneer's PLX-500 turntable offers a robust, versatile solution for both DJs and vinyl enthusiasts at an attractive price. With its direct-drive mechanism and DJ-friendly features, it echoes the classic Technics SL-1200, while providing USB recording and a line-level output for easy connectivity. Its solid build ensures durability and vibration-free playback. The sound quality impresses, with tight bass and clear mids and highs, delivering a true analog experience. While the black model's aesthetics might not win everyone over, the PLX-500's value, performance, and adaptability make it a standout choice, especially given its £299 price tag.

positive

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4.5 out of 5

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