No, you can't use this Sony turntable to beat mix 12" dance records or to perform fancy dj-ing tricks.  And it certainly will not compare with any $1000 audiophile turntables in terms of audio reproduction quality. This amazingly inexpensive unit will function nicely, however, if you are seeking a basic turntable to play records.
This turntable will NOT play old 78 rpm records, but it does just fine with 45's (the small "hold in the middle" kind or l2") or 33 1/3 rpm lp's.  Operation is simple: all you need to do is place the record on the platter, put down the built-in dust cover, and push "start."  If you wish to interrupt play, you push "stop."  If you want to raise the tonearm above the record temporarily, you push "up/down."  What could be simpler?
Since it includes its own built-in preamp, this unit is easy to use in conjunction with a home computer.  Why would someone do this?  Not only can you utilize your computer's audio reproduction capabilities to listen to records as you work (or play), but hooking up a turntable to your sound card is the first step in setting up a system to convert your old vinyl records to digital files so you can burn them to cd.  That's mainly how I use my PS-LX250H, and in this capacity is has performed flawlessly and magnificently.
It's unfair to rate this item based upon unrealistic comparisons to far more feature-laden and expensive turntables.  What's truly astonishing here is just what a fine machine Sony has made available for such a bargain price.
No, you can't use this Sony turntable to beat mix 12" dance records or to perform fancy dj-ing tricks. And it certainly will not compare with any $1000 audiophile turntables in terms of audio reproduction quality. This amazingly inexpensive unit will function nicely, however, if you are seeking a basic turntable to play records. This turntable will NOT play old 78 rpm records, but it does just fine with 45's (the small "hold in the middle" kind or l2") or 33 1/3 rpm lp's. Operation is simple: all you need to do is place the record on the platter, put down the built-in dust cover, and push "start. "  If you wish to interrupt play, you push "stop. "  If you want to raise the tonearm above the record temporarily, you push "up/down. "  What could be simpler? Since it includes its own built-in preamp, this unit is easy to use in conjunction with a home computer. Why would someone do this? Not only can you utilize your computer's audio reproduction capabilities to listen to records as you work (or play), but hooking up a turntable to your sound card is the first step in setting up a system to convert your old vinyl records to digital files so you can burn them to cd. That's mainly how I use my PS-LX250H, and in this capacity is has performed flawlessly and magnificently. It's unfair to rate this item based upon unrealistic comparisons to far more feature-laden and expensive turntables. What's truly astonishing here is just what a fine machine Sony has made available for such a bargain price.