Technics SL 1200/1210 MK2/MK3 Turntable (approx. $399)
these being the best i quess
You can get Technics SL 1200 (silver) or
SL 1210 (black) varieties. There are also MK3 versions that have a few minor changes. I totally recommend Technics turntables as they have a proven reliability record. They have plenty of torque and accurate pitch adjustment. They are standard DJ equipment in clubs and thus if you practice with these you will have no trouble playing out.
This is the turntable that I recommend you get:
Get
the Technics SL1210 MK2 Turntable here
Vestax PDX-2000 Turntable (approx. $450)
This is a serious piece of DJ equipment. I have used one and the torque is great. It can also reverse the platter and has greater pitch adjustment than the Technics. the stop times can also be adjusted for extra fun. Owning these would certianly make mixing more entertaining.
If you have the money then I would totally recommend getting these. The only problem is that if you get used to this luxury turntable when you have to use something else you will miss all your features and torque.
Get
the Vestax PDX-2000 Turntable here
Numark TTX1 Direct-Drive Turntable (approx $220)
I have not used this turntable. I have heard from people I trust that they are good responsive decks. They are definately expensive enough to be good.
They apparently have really high torque and thus would be precise. I have included them here to make this list complete. Numark have also recently released the TTX2s which have a few new features.
Get the Numark TTX1 Direct-Drive Turntable here
Gemini First Mix 3.0 (approx.$200)
This is a reduced cost turntable package that is perfect for the beginner. It has enough torque and all the new features at a reduced cost. These would be fine for learning and even playing out at parties.
Another positive thing is when you use something better your mixing can only improve. Gemini also makes other models in a wide range of price and features.
Gemini First Mix 3.0
Numark TT200 Direct Drive Turntable (approx. $200)
This is a beginners turntable. It is fine for learing in your bedroom. I have had a quick go on this and the Gemini
XL-500II (below) and found them totally sweet.
There was a slight lack of torque which made me start tracks behind the beat and push too hard when making adjustments. However, after a while I got used to them and could do some good beat mixes.
It was a little hard to be precise with them. One good thing is that if you learn with these moving onto better gear will be a dream.
Get
the Numark TT200 Direct Drive Turntable here
Gemini XL-500II Direct Drive Turntable (approx. $199)
This is another beginners turntable as reflected in the price. Again all this deck lacks is torque.
Get
the Gemini XL-500II Direct Drive Turntable here