“Solid” record player-very subjective in the “ears” of audiophiles. There are many reasons for buying a record player-but basically it really depends on what’s driving your decision (no pun intended): pure “listening” only, DJing, production (recording)...
Most audiophiles shun the idea of an integrated analog-to-digital converter in a phonograph, but there are some out there that are of a professional specification. But if your purpose is recording, integrated phonographs have advantage of not requiring any other conversion hardware to get the sound into a computer.
Most pro DJs don’t rely on integrated phonographs, however, as the converters are often low (again subjective) quality compared to dedicated converter systems…more on that later.
Most common in the DJ world are Vestax, Stanton, and Technics. Remember that the phonograph (without the converter) is comprised of three basic elements: the drive system (of which you want direct-drive systems, for their accuracy and torque response), the cartridge (the head of the tone arm which is the apparatus that converts the mechanical vibrations from the groove into analog audio), and the stylus (the needle which reads the etched groove of the record).
In the world of audiophiles (if you so dare to tread) there are many, many levels of products for all three components, all have their claims of fidelity and resolution. If your goal is to become a pro DJ, then your best bet is to talk to or research forums where DJs discuss their choices for equipment and rationales, as with other fine arts (photography for example), you can have as many choices for components as you have styles of craft.
Old school DJs worth their salt usually will recommend some form of Technics SL-1200 turntable as the de-facto standard for phonographs-their direct drive, high torque motors are the best in the bizz, and their sync system is very reliable (that keeps the platter turning at a constant speed with little-to-no fluctuation or “wow and flutter”).
Some good reference sites for research:
http://head-fi.com <—audiophiles site for many things audio especially headphones, but also for other components
http://gearslut.com <—another audio enthusiast site, but wider variety of discussion topics especially in the music production area
Also, other good places to look are industry trade mags-Sound on Sound, Electronic Musician, Mix, etc. often review DJ equipment, and there are others that are more specific to DJ culture and equipment. If you’re serious about a career as a DJ, visit clubs, radio stations (that still have live DJs), or other venues where you can observe DJs in their element, and talk to them…that is, as long as they’re not at work moving the crowd!! You’ll usually find that most DJs are willing to discuss their rig as long as you don’t turn it into a private tutoring session (speaking from personal experience). Of course some DJs are just plain dicky, but don’t let that deter you from your goal of research.
Last nugget-Pro Audio stores usually have one or more “working” pros in DJing, but most sales reps are just that-sales reps, out for a sale. Most of the time, they don’t have your interest at heart, compared to their sales goal. Try to take their advice in and digest it-never impulse shop and get something on a first visit. Shop around even to multiple stores to compare products.
Try to stay away from used gear, as most of the time it’s badly abused by amateurs and pros alike. Vinyl shops may also have in-house DJs you can talk to…good luck and enjoy the ride! And be prepared to spend bucks on gear…the habit is an expensive one if you’re after quality!!!
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