If your DJ heart craves special features, the Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 could be just the thing for you. As a scratch turntable, it not only offers diversity but also uniqueness. Whether it's adjusting cues, stems, and samples with the help of intuitive performance pad buttons or the finely tunable "Step Pitch" function – you stay in control. One special feature is the "Magvel Clamp," which masterfully regulates the friction of your slipmats.
But the icing on the cake is undoubtedly its compatibility with Serato and Rekordbox, working in a DVS setup without relying on control vinyl or the tonearm. It's like merging the best parts of Technics 1210, Rane Twelve, and the Phase Wireless DVS system into a single high-tech device.
The Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 is the ultimate tool for those who feel at home in the world of open-format turntablism. However, it might be a bit too much for casual users – and of course, that comes at a price.
First Impression / Installation and Features
We were initially a bit skeptical. At first glance, the Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 seemed like a colorful mix of various turntable elements. However, when the device was unpacked, we were proven wrong. Its appearance is surprisingly elegant despite the many extras, exuding finesse with its all-black design, including the tonearm and feet, which sets it apart as something special, inspired by Technics.
Its weight is noticeable, making it robust and reliable compared to some other devices from competitors. Additionally, the Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 is designed to be rotated 90 degrees in the typical battle scratch style, with the tonearm pointing backward. The labels are appropriately oriented, making them easy to read from this perspective.
The package includes not only the device itself but also all necessary cables for audio and computer connections (including a USB-C to USB-A cable), as well as everything needed for assembly. An elegant tinted plastic dust cover completes the overall package.
To start, you connect the audio cable to the mixer. An ideal choice for this purpose would be a scratch mixer/controller like the DJM-S7 or DJM-S11. The USB cable goes either into the mixer if it acts as a USB hub to the computer or directly into the computer. The device is then powered on using the generously sized power switch on the back. Surprisingly, the power socket is positioned on the side, while the RCA jacks and the switch are found on the back. Thanks to the generously designed feet, all cables can be hidden under the device, making no cables visible once the installation is completed.
An interesting option would be to completely eliminate audio cables. The wireless scratch system for turntables, known as Phase, can interact with Serato in this way. It is conceivable that control data could be sent via the USB cable from the turntable to the laptop, and the audio signals could be routed back to the mixer through the USB cable connected to the audio interface. There might be an aspect overlooked here, but with compatible mixers, this method could further simplify the installation.
Turntable and Magvel Clamp
Setting up the massive, highly precise turntable, adorned with classic stroboscope markings, is child's play thanks to the six screws provided. During this process, you'll notice the two concentric rings at the center of the turntable base – one connected to the spindle and the other not. This detail is reminiscent of the motorized turntables of the DDJ-REV7 Serato DJ Controllers.
When using the supplied slipmat and vinyl record and placing the "Magvel Clamp" on top, which resembles a hockey puck, it securely locks into place thanks to built-in strong magnets. By turning a small dial on the top of the Magvel Clamp, you can adjust the rotational behavior of the slipmat. This well-thought-out system works excellently and is likely to appeal to turntable artists. For storage during playback, a small spindle is provided. However, an adapter for 7-inch records is not included in the package.
Performance Buttons
In the lower-left corner, you'll find four inconspicuous illuminated performance pads used to control cues, stems, and samples/scratch bank. They are not meant to provide comprehensive control over the DJ software, as they are typically used in combination with a scratch mixer or controller that offers these extended functions (think library controls, effects, and versatile pads). Their purpose is to have some commonly used functions at your fingertips during live performances – especially direct control over stems impressed us.
There is also a "5-8" button that switches the pads from 1-4 to 5-8, two additional buttons for selecting four pad functions in combination with the Shift button, instant doubles, and parameter adjustment functions (pressing "pad buttons" plus Shift allows this). The brightly and adjustably lit buttons perform their function very well.
Motor and Turntable Control
In addition to the Magvel Clamp for adjusting the turntable's feel, you can individually adjust the torque (low/medium/high) to configure the turntable exactly to your liking (these settings are found in the utility menu operated via the OLED display). Besides the start/stop function, there is also a motor stop button that generates the characteristic "turntable stop" sound. At the front of the device, a three-step "brake switch" allows for immediate stop, short stop, or medium stop when activating the start/stop button.
In addition to the 33/45 RPM switches, the device features a fold-out light that includes both the stroboscope LED and the turntable light. Unfortunately, the characteristic muted feeling known from Technics models is missing here – a minor drawback.
The Tonearm
The tonearm, in elegant matte black, adheres to the classic S-shape found in tried-and-tested DJ standards. Offering familiar adjustments for height, antiskating, and rotating counterweight, along with a screwable extension at the end for fine-tuning, it provides optimal customization options.
The tonearm also comes with a 4g screw-in weight to prevent the stylus from jumping during ambitious scratching. In short, the tonearm can be tailored entirely to your preferences.
The choice of cartridge and stylus is up to you – they are not included in the package.
Display, Pitch, and Deck Controller Functions
A compact OLED display beneath the tonearm provides information about the track's pitch, pitch in relation to the pitch setting (which can be set to "Step Pitch" so that the track's pitch changes stepwise by a semitone as you speed it up or slow it down), BPM count, and – very interestingly – whether the turntable is outputting control signal for Serato or Rekordbox when you switch it from "needle mode" (normal turntable mode) using the button located nearby.
The pleasantly damped pitch control has a reset button and a dedicated button for adjusting the tempo range – ideal for versatile, genre-crossing sets with varying BPM rates.
The Hybrid Turntable in Action
For the test, we paired two of these turntables with a DJM-S11 mixer and connected them to Yamaha HS5 speakers. First, we simply played some vinyl records to get a first impression – the sound quality of the phono preamps was impressive, and it confirmed that no compromises were made in this area.
Next, we integrated Rekordbox control vinyls and switched the software to relative DVS mode. Everything ran smoothly, as expected from a premium DVS turntable, supported by a powerful motor. The Magvel Clamp is particularly noteworthy, as it allows fine-tuning of the torque. With a more loose setting, we were able to easily perform spinbacks, which adds a lot of fun for non-scratch DJs as well.
Next, we tested the controller deck mode without timecode vinyl or the tonearm. By deactivating "needle mode" with the corresponding button, we activated this mode. From then on, the experience was very similar to that of a Rane Twelve controller – ideal for DJs who want to use DVS in relative mode.
We tested this turntable with both Serato and Rekordbox and found no differences between them. After all, both are based on the DVS principle, a universal approach for controlling DJ software with turntables. The performance pads work slightly differently with each software, but they can be easily customized to your preferences.
The stepwise pitch adjustment is highly specialized and may appeal to DJs who enjoy experimenting with pitch play. However, we found this feature a bit confusing as we had difficulty understanding the relationship between the two pitch values displayed on the OLED screen.
Our Conclusion
The Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 turntable is a true powerhouse for all scratch DJs looking to expand their setup. With its array of features, including performance pads for cues, stems, and samples, the "Step Pitch" function, and the innovative "Magvel Clamp," it stands out from the crowd.
The unique feature of this turntable is its ability to control both Serato and Rekordbox in a DVS setup without relying on control vinyl or the tonearm. This makes it a unique combination of a Technics 1210, a Rane Twelve, and the Phase wireless DVS system – a true dream for open-format turntablists. However, some may see it as too much considering the price.
Whether the Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 is the right turntable for you ultimately depends on how much you appreciate and actually need the diverse range of functions it offers. It provides a wide range of possibilities – from playing vinyl records to working with any DVS vinyl to using it as a controller. However, for a similar investment, one could opt for two good turntables and a Phase wireless system or simply use timecode. Alternatively, a pair of Rane Twelve controllers could be used if analog vinyl playback is not a necessity.
In our opinion, the Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 has a lot to offer for those who love the feel of analog turntables but still appreciate the flexibility of a digital system. The fact that it offers this versatility without appearing tacky or overloaded and manages to package everything in an elegant enclosure is commendable.
With a price of 1,400 euros, it is certainly not a budget option. However, if you are willing to invest in a pair of DJ turntables that master everything, then the Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 should definitely be on your shortlist.
