Pioneer PLX-500-K Turntable

Original price was: 400,00 €.Current price is: 360,00 €.

The Pioneer PLX-500-K is a direct-drive turntable for vinyl listeners who need RCA and USB connections. Its three speeds support 33⅓, 45 and 78 rpm records. A servo-controlled drive and electronic brake manage the aluminium platter’s rotation. The S-shaped tonearm, VM-type phono cartridge, dust cover and required cables are included.

Description

The Pioneer PLX-500-K turntable is a servo-controlled direct-drive model. It is designed for 33⅓, 45 and 78 rpm records. The RCA output sends audio to a sound system, while the USB Type-B port connects the turntable to a computer. A VM-type phono cartridge and headshell are included.

Drive and speed control

A three-phase brushless DC motor drives the aluminium platter directly. Servo control regulates the drive system, while an electronic brake controls how the platter stops. Starting torque of more than 1.6 kgf·cm allows playback to begin quickly.

The platter reaches 33⅓ rpm within one second. A ±8% pitch adjustment range lets you alter the rotation speed relative to its nominal setting. The specified wow and flutter is no more than 0.15% WRMS, while the signal-to-noise ratio is at least 50 dB.

Connections and signal transfer

Use the RCA output when connecting the turntable to an analogue audio chain. An audio conversion cable is supplied.

The USB Type-B port is intended for transferring the signal to a computer. A USB cable is already included. The supplied information does not specify software compatibility or the digital audio format.

Setting up the tonearm and phono cartridge

The universal S-shaped tonearm uses a gimbal bearing construction and static balance. Before listening, balance the tonearm with the counterweight. Then set the tracking force required by the installed phono cartridge.

Tracking force can be adjusted from 0 to 4.0 g in 0.1 g increments. Tonearm height is adjustable over a 6 mm range, which is useful after changing the cartridge or mat. A single installed phono cartridge must not weigh more than 9.5 g.

Positioning and installation

Place the 450 × 159 × 368 mm enclosure on a firm, level surface. Its 10.7 kg weight should also be considered when choosing suitable furniture. Keep the turntable away from vibrations transmitted by loudspeakers, and leave enough space above it to raise the supplied dust cover.

Technical specifications

Type Servo-controlled direct-drive turntable with USB output
Drive Direct drive
Motor Three-phase brushless DC motor
Braking Electronic brake
Rotation speeds 33⅓, 45 and 78 rpm
Pitch adjustment ±8%
Wow and flutter 0.15% or less, WRMS
Signal-to-noise ratio 50 dB or more
Platter Die-cast aluminium, 332 mm diameter
Starting torque More than 1.6 kgf·cm
Start-up time Within 1 second at 33⅓ rpm
Tonearm type Universal S-shaped tonearm
Tonearm construction Gimbal bearing support, static balance
Effective tonearm length 230.5 mm
Overhang 16 mm
Tracking error Up to 3°
Tonearm height adjustment 6 mm
Tracking force 0-4.0 g
Tracking-force scale 0.1 g increments
Suitable phono cartridge weight Up to 9.5 g when using one cartridge
Included phono cartridge VM type
Headshell weight 10 g
Headshell length 52 mm
Headshell finger-lift length 21 mm
Audio output 1 × RCA
Other connection 1 × USB Type-B
Power consumption 11 W
Dimensions 450 × 159 × 368 mm (width × height × depth)
Weight 10.7 kg
Included accessories Slipmat, dust cover with record-jacket stand, EP record adapter, headshell with cartridge, counterweight, headshell weight, USB cable, audio conversion cable, power cable and operating instructions

FAQ

Which output should I use to connect the turntable to a sound system?

Use the RCA output for an analogue audio chain. Select the appropriate amplifier input according to the purpose of its connections and its signal requirements.

What is the difference between the USB and RCA connections?

The USB Type-B port is intended for connection to a computer, while the RCA output is for an analogue sound system. A USB cable is included.

How should I prepare the tonearm for the first listening session?

First, use the counterweight to balance the tonearm. Then set the tracking force required by the phono cartridge and adjust the tonearm height if necessary.

Do I need a different stylus for 78 rpm records?

The 78 rpm setting provides the required platter speed. The stylus must also be suitable for the groove of the specific 78 rpm record being played.

Do I need to buy a phono cartridge separately?

No. A VM-type phono cartridge is supplied with the headshell. If you replace it with another model, the cartridge must not weigh more than 9.5 g.

Where is the best place to position the turntable?

Choose level, sturdy furniture capable of supporting its 10.7 kg weight. Avoid locations where the turntable would be exposed to strong vibration from loudspeakers.