Vestax PDX-2300 MK2

(Originally written by Tom54/translated from Audiofanzine FR)
- How long have you been using it?

Nearly 3 years and I haven't had a single problem. I take them with me to events quite frequently and they are very reliable. Even though I don't have a flightcase I haven't had a problem. They are really sturdy except for the housing's black paint (white plastic with black paint covering).

- Which feature do you like the most / the least?

They have a very powerful output level. Their plate has an unbeatable responsiveness. The +/-10% pitch and the +/-50% superpitch (a small fader near the pitch) allows you to easily synchronize every song. They also have a small joystick allowing +/-2,4,6,8% in one direction and +/- 50% in the other direction so that you can synchronize records without touching the plate, but I personally don't use this feature.

The red digit display has a typical 80's look but it is clearly readable in every environment and it shows precise values since the pitch is digital (I use Mixvibes and the percentage given by the turntables always matches the value given by the software). I only miss a pitch lock button.

The tone arm is very easy to adjust and it is perfect for scratching. You can get really crazy with my M44-7 without having needle drops. It seems to me that my scratch records wear out more slowly than with Technics turntables. Perhaps due to the straight tone arm. You can see that the needle doesn't move sideways when you move the vinyl record. The arm remains stable without oscillations.

All cables can be removed except for the power cable.

- Did you try any other models before buying it?

For a long time I used only Technics turntables. I bought these as a complement to my MK2 after having tested the PDX2000 a friend lent me.

I thought I would use them only for scratching but they became my main turntables. I have compared them with many others and I always found them much better.

The Numark TTX seem not to be very reliable (I know people who have problems with their tone arm, their pitch...). Their key lock function is great but it requires a line input so that you have to use a preamp with integrated RIAA. And in my opinion RIAA doesn't sound good, it sort of gives a digital quality to the vinyls.

The Technics MK2 is not even comparable, even though I've always loved their timeless look. I still believe they are the nicest looking DJ turntables, and to me the beauty of a tool/instrument is important!!!! Their successors (MK3, M5G...) cannot compete with good modern turntables because Technics has not been working on new technology for years.

I also tested low-range products but there is no sense in comparing them...(Numark TT1650, Stanton whatever...)

- How would you rate its value for money?

You can surely find a good price on the internet.

- Based on your experience, would you buy this product again?

Yes, I wouldn't hesitate it. Perhaps not the same model but I'm sure I would buy a Vestax product in the same range. The PDX 3000 seems to be very interesting.

Vestax is not the most famous brand for turntables and I guess it has to do with their looks. But their technology is marvelous, and after all this time I can honestly say that they are very sturdy and reliable.