TurntableSpin

It is pretty safe to say that the PDX series helped create a new level of seriousness in the world of DJ turntables. Most notably the PDX series; altered the way DJs looked at the tone arm with the release of the ASTS model - a short straight tone arm that eliminates skipping, made reverse a standard feature, introduced a high torque motor that allowed users to start up and stop real quick, and gave DJs more control (60%) over the pitch of a record. In all, Vestax built a serious turntable that was truly professional in how it sounded and how it performed.

So how is the turntable about to get better again? Well, in early 2004 Vestax will launch 4 new model extensions of the PDX series, the Vestax PDX-2000mkII, the Vestax PDX-2300mkII, the Vestax PDX-2000mkII Pro and the Vestax PDX-2300mkIIPro. So what is NEW? There is a new platter, a new look that has been lowered to 7mm - the perfect height for performance moves and accurate beat matching. A new tone arm mounting base and height adjustment system. A tighter rail on the fine pitch fader to make small pitch changes easier and accurate.

The PRO versions have a new balance system - DYNAMIC BALANCE - which actively works to maintain a constant needle to vinyl pressure at all times and all angles and on the Vestax 2300mkIIPro we've incorporated a brand new tone arm - the J ARM - a super accurate curved tone arm perfect for DJs looking for a longer tone arm reach with the performance skip less qualities of an ASTS tone arm.

All of these tables will include a new platter design and a new A.S.T.S. system. On the new “Pro�? tables, there will be a new component called “Dynamic Balance System�? incorporated within the A.S.T.S.

The Vestax PDX-2000mkII & Vestax PDX-2000mkII Pro are professional turntables designed to live up to the performance demands of DJ greats such as, Carl Cox, Q-Bert, Mix Master Mike, D-Styles, Shortkut, Joe Hahn, Starscream, Jam Master Jay, Mr. Scruff, Woody, Spinner, and Pogo. Compounding on the achievements of its predecessor, the PDX-2000, the MKII series makes a number of small but very significant changes that allow them to provide a smoother more accurate trace of a record thus improving its sound quality to a level unparalleled in any competing turntable.

New features found on all four tables:

1. New Platter
At a new lower height of 7mm, this new diamond cut platter has been adjusted to match the level of standard mixers and competing turntables, making speed performance moves easier and perhaps cleaner. For the “Mix�? DJs the gradient of the platter edge, now flatter, helps allow smother mixes for the DJs who prefer to touch the platter when correcting a record to keep it locked with the other record playing.

2. Tighter Pitch Control
The pitch fader movements on these new models have been tightened in order to allow finer pitch adjustments.

3. New Tone Arm Mount/Base
The mount/base has been altered to allow a new height adjustment system to be integrated into the MKII series. The new design also helps to lower the effects of external vibrations that cause howling.

4. New Tone Arm Height Adjustment System
Changing the height of a tone arm increases the angle at which the tone arm and needle tracks on a given piece of vinyl. The severity of this angle results in a greater amount of pressure at the point where the needle meets the vinyl, which in turn lowers the chance of the needle skipping. On the MKII series, the height adjustment system has been altered to allow for a slightly more acute setting (more pressure), and no longer includes an internal spring mechanism that forces the tone arm upwards. Furthermore, the system now includes a visual height memory stick that means DJs can alter the height of the tone arm on the fly depending on the demands of their performance, or the quality of the vinyl.

5. New RCA Leads and Smaller Cabinet
For “Performance�? DJs having the turntable as close to the mixer means that speed moves are easier. Thus, on the MKII we have included right angle RCA cables that reduce the amount of space between a standard mixer and the turntable. The Dust cover hinges have been removed as well to get even closer to the mixer.

NEW FEATURES OF THE VESTAX PDX-2300MKII PRO

NEW PLATTER
Improved to simplify beat matching and performance play, this new platter has been lowered to a height of 7mm (0.27") and has applied a flatter more smoother edge surface. Lowered to also match the mixer, the diamond cut platter is one of its kind.

DYNAMIC BALANCE
This new system works to provide a constant amount of pressure regardless of the tone arm height, the quality of the vinyl or any external vibrations. This type of balance is particularly useful as it helps create better sound quality by controlling the pressure where the needle traces the vinyl.

NEW ARM BASE
This new arm base incorporates a new height adjustment system that accurately allows users to set the arm height and to return to a preferred height setting more easily. The floating suspension system has been noted as the most superior anti-howling feature available on any turntable.

FINE PITCH
Fast and accurate beat matching adjustment with a 100mm (3.93") +/?10% fine pitch control fader, without the center indent. The fader movement on this new model has been tightened in order to allow smaller and more accurate pitch adjustments. The Ultra Pitch Fader controls the pitch range by +/?50%. Combined with the fine pitch fader, a total pitch control of +/?60 % is possible.

DIRECT DRIVE MOTOR
From zero to desired RPM in 0.5 seconds, the PDX-2000's original high torque direct drive DC motor enables to be one of the fastest start-up turntables in the industry. This powerful motor is controlled by an accurate digital servo, allowing any pitch adjustment instantaneously operative to allow the user for an easier and more accurate mix.

FUTURISTIC BODY
Shying away from tradition, the newly designed futuristic body of the Mk? captures the heart of innovation and design. The high-density molded body provides the best possible acoustic sounds and the highest reduction possible from feedback.

INSULATING FEET
The feet on the PDX series are made of molded polyacetal plastic which assists to reduce the effect of external vibrations. Limiting the effects of external vibrations result in a better sound with less feedback and/or howling.

J ARM
The J-Arm has been specifically designed for genres such as house and techno DJs who prefer the feel and track of a longer reaching tone arm but the performance and skip less tracking of a PDX turntable. Coupled with the new dynamic balance system, this tone arm provides a warm and accurate track that is great for long mixes and loud environments while keeping the aesthetics of the old.

DIGITAL DISPLAY
This display, which reflects the pitch setting to one decimal place, will show positive and negative pitch changes up to 60%. This kind of display is perfect for beat matching and accurate routine performances involving pitch settings. A feature used and performed with any genre.

PITCH BEND
A pitch bend feature lends either 1,2,3 or 6% momentary control over the current playing pitch of the turntable. Pitch bend is especially useful when trying to lock playing speeds of one track to another smoothly and with accuracy.

FLAT REAR SURFACE
For performance DJs it is important that the position of the turntable be as close to the mixer as possible. Thus the new PDX models have a smooth rear face with recessed RCA connectors so that the turntable can be placed flat against the mixer (or each other)

MOTOR : DIRECT DRIVE DC MOTOR
STARTING TORQUE : 2.7kg/cm
STARTING TIME : 0.5sec (33 1/3 rpm) 70°
WOW FLATTER : 0.07% W.R.M.
MEASURE/ WEIGHT : (W)454A~(H)162A~(D)357mm/9.5kg
POWER : AC 100V, 50/60Hz
ELECTRICITY CONSUMPTION : 40W

Source DJWise