The Pioneer DJ PLX-500 is a direct-drive turntable designed for both DJing and everyday vinyl playback. It includes a cartridge and stylus, a built-in phono/line output stage and USB recording, making it much easier to use out of the box than the more professional PLX-1000.
PLX-500 key features
- Direct-drive motor.
- 33⅓, 45 and 78 rpm speeds.
- ±8% pitch control.
- Built-in phono/line output.
- USB recording connection.
- Cartridge and stylus included.
- Slipmat and dust cover included.
- S-shaped tonearm.
- Suitable for beginner DJing and vinyl listening.
Direct drive for DJ use
The PLX-500 uses a servo direct-drive motor rather than a belt. Starting torque is rated at more than 1.6 kgf/cm and start-up takes under one second at 33⅓ rpm. That is enough for cueing and basic scratching, although the PLX-1000 provides substantially stronger torque and faster start-up.
Built-in phono and line output
The built-in output stage lets the turntable connect either to a traditional phono input or directly to suitable line-level speakers and amplifiers. This is particularly convenient for home listening because no separate phono preamp is required when line output is selected.
USB recording
A USB Type-B connection allows records to be digitised on a computer. For collectors who want to archive vinyl or sample material into production software, this adds a useful second role beyond DJing.
Included cartridge and accessories
Unlike the PLX-1000, the PLX-500 arrives with a cartridge and stylus already part of the package. A slipmat, dust cover, headshell and other setup accessories are also included, reducing the number of extra purchases needed before first use.
PLX-500 strengths
- Ready to use with cartridge included.
- Built-in line output simplifies home setups.
- USB recording.
- Direct drive supports real DJ practice.
- 78 rpm support.
- More affordable than professional flagship turntables.
PLX-500 limitations
- Lower torque than the PLX-1000.
- Only ±8% pitch range.
- Less substantial vibration damping than professional models.
- Fixed audio cable arrangement is less serviceable than detachable connections.
Pioneer DJ PLX-500 full specifications
- Dimensions: 450 × 368 × 159 mm.
- Weight: 10.7 kg.
- Drive: servo direct drive.
- Speeds: 33⅓, 45 and 78 rpm.
- Pitch: ±8%.
- Starting torque: more than 1.6 kgf/cm.
- Start time: within 1 second at 33⅓ rpm.
- Wow and flutter: 0.15% or less WRMS.
- S/N ratio: 50 dB or above.
- USB: Type-B.
- Power consumption: 11 W.
Frequently asked questions
Does PLX-500 include a cartridge?
Yes. A headshell with cartridge is included.
Can it connect directly to powered speakers?
Yes, provided the speakers accept the turntable’s line-level output.
Overall view
The PLX-500 is the easier Pioneer DJ turntable to start with. It sacrifices some of the professional torque, damping and pitch flexibility of the PLX-1000, but gains a built-in preamp, USB recording and an included cartridge that make it much more approachable.