OVERVIEW
Finally, an equipment manufacturer has developed a low priced turntable that functions much like a Technics 1200. The Numark TT200 drastically changes the turntable buying market. With its $199.00 price tag, it easily outperforms similarly priced turntables; and also competes with the 1200 and similar high end turntables in terms of price performance.

What makes this turntable different? First and foremost, the TT200 has a powerful direct drive motor. The torque (1.7 kg/cm) is actually stronger than the 1200(!). Second, the construction resembles the durable design of higher priced models: steel top, rubberized bottom, and aluminum platter. The TT200 weighs almost as much as a 1200, and you can feel it when you use it.

The all aluminum, straight arm tonearm is the best offered at this price range. It performs with excellent tracking, and higher durability than its plastic counterparts. The pitch control has a wide range of +/-10 (1200s have +/-8), and appears to be accurate. The pitch control response does not appear to be as quick as the 1200, but it is a small detail, that is easily adapted to.


OUR OPINION
Hands down, in the under $350 range, this is the best turntable we've tested. At this price, the TTX stands alone in terms of price and functionality. It is not a high-end turntable, but it captures several key functions of those higher priced turntables (torque, tonearm, several construction features). If you are a beginner, intermediate, or DJ on a budget, this is definitely a solid choice at an incredible price. We give a high recommendation in terms off price and performance.

What's the difference between this and higher priced turntables? In percentage terms, whereas most budget turntables compete with high end turntables at about 30-50%, the TT200 is closer to 75%. Although the construction is much better than its counterparts, the overall grade of the parts is not as high as the 1200. It still has a plastic feel. Although its torque is higher than the 1200, the motor on the 1200 feels stronger (dues to combination of platter weight and body stability). The TT200 is a very functional turntable, but it doesn't quite feel like a finely tuned piece of equipment. When buying equipment, we always say you get what you pay for. With the TT200 you get the most for your money.

- reverse button changes direction of play
- plays at 33 / 45 / 78rpm
- detachable rca and power cords
- designed for both hip-hop style (sideways) and regular style configurations - removable turntable light (optional)

- headshell
- slipmat

• manufacturer's website

reviewed by mgmnt