Reloop Turntable: A Complete Buyer's Guide

What Matters When Choosing a Reloop Turntable

Reloop turntables range from budget controllers perfect for beginners to professional-level equipment for experienced DJs. Knowing what to look for stops you from overspending or, worse, ending up with equipment that can't do what you actually need. This guide covers the specs that matter and the pitfalls to avoid.

Direct Drive vs Platter Torque

Most Reloop turntables use direct-drive motors, meaning the platter (the spinning part) is driven directly by the motor. This matters for DJ performance because it gives you consistent torque—resistance to pushing or slowing the platter with your hand. A weak motor feels mushy; a strong one responds precisely.

Check the torque specification in watts or Newton-metres. Higher torque (usually 1.5 Nm or above) feels more professional. Budget models have lower torque and feel sluggish by comparison. If you're a beginner, moderate torque is fine; if you're practising scratching or fast mixing, stronger torque matters.

Platter Weight and Feel

Platter weight affects how the turntable responds to your touch. Heavier platters (2–4 kg) feel smooth and stable but require more effort to manipulate. Lighter platters respond quickly but can feel twitchy. Reloop makes models across this range.

For mixing and basic scratching, a mid-weight platter (around 2 kg) is a solid compromise. Heavier platters suit beat-matching and longer mixing sessions. Try one before buying if you can—the feel is personal.

Build Quality and Materials

Look at the tonearm (the part that holds the needle or cartridge). Is it solid and stable, or does it flex when you touch it? A wobbly tonearm leads to skipping and poor tracking. Reloop's build quality is generally solid across models, but budget options use cheaper tonearms than premium models.

Check the platter and base. Aluminum platters are common and durable. Metal bases feel more stable than plastic. If the whole turntable feels light or flimsy, it probably is. A good Reloop turntable should feel like a quality instrument, not a toy.

Speed Accuracy and Pitch Control

Every turntable has a pitch fader that lets you adjust the speed slightly—essential for mixing. Check that the fader has clear markings (usually ±8% or ±10% adjustment range). Better models have calibration tools to ensure accuracy.

Speed stability matters; cheaper Reloop models sometimes drift slightly over a long set. Professional-level models maintain speed reliably. For bedroom practice, minor drift is forgivable; for regular gigs, it's not.

Connectivity and Control Options

Check what inputs and outputs the Reloop turntable has. Most have RCA audio outputs to connect to a mixer or amp. Some have USB connectivity for controlling DJ software directly. Some have built-in preamps so you can connect to active speakers without a mixer.

Think about your setup before buying. Will you use this turntable standalone or integrated into a full DJ rig? The answer determines which connectivity you need.

Cartridge and Stylus

The cartridge (the part holding the needle) is crucial. Reloop usually includes an acceptable cartridge, but if you're a serious DJ, upgrading is common. Check whether the cartridge is easily replaceable—this matters if you wear out your stylus or want to upgrade later.

Budget models come with lower-tracking-force cartridges that skip easily if you bump the turntable. Higher-end Reloop models have more robust cartridges. Both are replaceable, so this is a starting point, not permanent.

What You Don't Need to Overspend On

Unnecessary features. Not every turntable needs digital tempo readouts, RGB lights, or Bluetooth. These are nice to have but don't make you a better DJ. Focus on motor quality, platter feel, and build durability.

Brand premium on your first turntable. Reloop prices are competitive. You don't need the absolute top-tier model to learn. A mid-range Reloop turntable teaches you everything an expensive Technics does.

Price Tiers for Reloop Turntables

Budget (£200–400): Entry-level direct-drive turntables suitable for bedroom DJs and learning. Build quality is acceptable; performance is adequate. Motor torque and platter feel aren't premium, but sufficient for practice.

Mid-range (£400–800): Better motors, heavier platters, more stable tonearms. This is where serious bedroom DJs and semi-professional gigging DJs buy. You get reliability and feel without the premium price.

Premium (£800+): Professional-level Reloop turntables with excellent motors, precision engineering, and premium cartridges. These are built for touring DJs and demanding environments.

Common Mistakes When Buying Reloop Turntables

Buying the cheapest option to save money. A Reloop turntable that doesn't feel good discourages practice. Invest an extra £100 and get one that feels solid.

Ignoring connectivity requirements. Check your mixer and speakers before buying. You need compatible inputs and outputs.

Assuming all direct-drive turntables feel the same. They don't. Torque, platter weight, and tonearm quality differ significantly. Try before buying.

Overlooking cartridge quality. The cartridge greatly affects tracking and responsiveness. Don't ignore it even on budget models.

Deciding Which Reloop Model Is Right

Ask yourself: Am I a bedroom hobbyist, or am I planning to DJ gigs? Will I scratch and manipulate the platter aggressively, or mix primarily? Do I need Serato or Pioneer compatibility, or am I using vinyl only?

Most Reloop turntables are versatile, but knowing your actual use case guides you to the right model. For complete information on Reloop turntables and how they fit into various DJ setups, see our complete guide to Reloop turntables.

Making Your Choice

Buy the best Reloop turntable you can afford from a reputable retailer with a return policy. Try it for a few weeks, and if it doesn't feel right, return it and try another. The right turntable is an investment in years of enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions