Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 Hybrid Direct Drive Turntable User Manual

Introduction

The Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 is the world's first turntable that supports both traditional analog record playback and innovative tone-arm-free DVS (Digital Vinyl System) control. This hybrid direct drive turntable is designed for professional DJs seeking maximum creativity and performance flexibility. It combines robust build quality with advanced digital features to deliver an unparalleled DJ experience.

This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your PLX-CRSS12 turntable. Please read it thoroughly to ensure proper use and to maximize the lifespan of your equipment.

What's in the Box

Upon unboxing your Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12, please verify that all the following items are included:

• PLX-CRSS12 Turntable Unit
• MAGVEL CLAMP
• Slipmat & Slip Cover
• Dust Cover
• Balance Weight, Subweight, Headshell

Key Features

Hybrid Direct Drive System with DVS

The PLX-CRSS12 offers the best of both worlds: traditional analog playback and cutting-edge Digital Vinyl System control. This allows DJs to seamlessly switch between classic vinyl mixing and advanced digital performance.

Figure 1: Top-down view of the PLX-CRSS12 turntable, showcasing its sleek design and control layout.

Tone-Arm-Free DVS Control

Experience unparalleled stability and precision with the tone-arm-free DVS control. This innovative feature eliminates skips and ensures consistent performance, even during aggressive scratching and juggling.

Figure 2: Close-up of the turntable's platter and the tone-arm-free DVS control area.

MAGVEL CLAMP for Skip-less Playback

The included MAGVEL CLAMP securely holds your control vinyl, providing enhanced stability and virtually eliminating skips during performance. The clamp's weight can be adjusted to customize the feel and resistance, allowing you to find your perfect setting for scratching and mixing.

Figure 3: Detailed view of the MAGVEL CLAMP, designed for secure and skip-less vinyl control.

MIDI Mappable Performance Pads

Equipped with four MIDI mappable performance pads, the PLX-CRSS12 allows for dynamic control over your DJ software. These pads can be used for Hot Cues, Sampler functions, and more. A dedicated switch allows you to toggle control between pads 1-4 and 5-8, expanding your performance possibilities.

Figure 4: The illuminated performance pads, ready for triggering hot cues and samples.

High Contrast OLED Display

A clear, high-contrast OLED display provides essential information at a glance, including BPM, key, and deck status. This allows you to stay focused on your performance without needing to constantly look at your laptop screen.

Figure 5: The crisp OLED display showing track information and settings.

Adjustable Turntable Torque

Customize the feel of your turntable with adjustable torque settings. Choose between High (4.5 kgf/cm), Mid (3.2 kgf/cm), and Low (2.0 kgf/cm) to match your preferred scratching or mixing style.

3 Deck Stopping Speeds

The PLX-CRSS12 features a brake adjustment switch, allowing you to select from three different deck stopping speeds. This provides precise control over the platter's deceleration, mimicking the feel of various classic turntables.

Step Pitching

Utilize the step pitching feature for precise tempo adjustments, allowing for seamless beatmatching and creative mixing. The OLED display provides visual feedback on your pitch changes.

Evolved High-Quality Sound

Building upon the legacy of the PLX-1000, the PLX-CRSS12 incorporates advanced audio processing and components to deliver exceptional sound quality for both analog and digital playback.

Optimized Chassis Structure

The turntable features an 8mm thick resin and high-mass die-cast zinc construction, forming an optimized chassis structure. This robust design minimizes resonance and vibration, ensuring stable and clear audio reproduction.

Switching Power Supply

An integrated switching power supply effectively eliminates unwanted vibration and flux leakage, contributing to the turntable's pristine audio performance and reliability.

Tone Arm with Rubber Inner Tube

The tone arm is designed with a rubber inner tube, which significantly improves vibration control performance. This results in more accurate tracking and reduced unwanted noise during playback.

Gold-Plated RCA Terminals

High-quality gold-plated RCA terminals are used for audio output, ensuring enhanced clarity and signal integrity for analog playback. This provides a superior connection for your audio setup.

Figure 6: Rear panel connections including USB-C, Signal GND, and Phono Out.

Setup Guide

1. Unpacking and Placement

• Carefully remove the turntable and all accessories from the packaging. Retain the original packaging for future transport or storage.
• Place the turntable on a stable, level surface, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and excessive vibration.
• Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit.

2. Connecting the Turntable

• Power Connection: Connect the supplied power cord to the AC IN terminal on the rear of the turntable and then to a suitable power outlet.
• Audio Connection (Analog): For analog playback, connect the PHONO OUT terminals (RCA) to the PHONO input of your mixer or amplifier. Ensure the ground wire (SIGNAL GND) is connected to the ground terminal on your mixer/amplifier to reduce hum.
• USB Connection (DVS/MIDI): Connect the USB-C port on the turntable to a USB port on your computer using a high-quality USB cable. This connection is essential for DVS control and MIDI functionality.

3. Software Installation

The PLX-CRSS12 is compatible with Serato DJ Pro and rekordbox. Before operating the turntable in DVS mode, ensure you have the latest version of your preferred DJ software installed and configured on your computer. Refer to the software's documentation for detailed installation and setup instructions.

• Download and install the latest drivers for the PLX-CRSS12 from the Pioneer DJ official website.
• Install or update Serato DJ Pro or rekordbox to the latest version.
• Configure your audio settings within the DJ software to recognize the PLX-CRSS12 as your audio device.

Operating Instructions

1. Powering On/Off

• To power on the unit, press the power switch located on the rear panel.
• To power off, press the power switch again.

2. Analog Playback

• Ensure the "NEEDLE MODE" switch is set to "ANALOG".
• Place a vinyl record on the platter.
• Carefully lower the tone arm onto the record.
• Press the START/STOP button to begin platter rotation.

3. DVS Control

• Ensure the "NEEDLE MODE" switch is set to "DIGITAL VINYL".
• Place your control vinyl on the platter.
• Place the MAGVEL CLAMP onto the spindle and adjust its weight as desired (Light to Heavy).
• Launch your DJ software (Serato DJ Pro or rekordbox) and ensure the PLX-CRSS12 is recognized.
• Use the control vinyl to manipulate digital tracks within your software.

4. Using Performance Pads

• The four performance pads can be used to trigger various functions depending on your DJ software and selected mode (e.g., Hot Cue, Sampler, Stems).
• Press the "5-8" button to switch the pad control from pads 1-4 to pads 5-8, expanding your available functions.

5. Adjusting Turntable Torque and Brake

• Torque Adjustment: Access the torque adjustment setting via the OLED display menu. Select between High, Mid, or Low torque to customize the platter's rotational force.
• Brake Adjustment: Use the BRAKE switch located on the side of the unit to select one of three stopping speeds for the platter.

Maintenance

1. Cleaning the Unit

• Regularly wipe the turntable's surface with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and fingerprints.
• For stubborn marks, use a slightly damp cloth with a mild, non-abrasive cleaner, then wipe dry immediately.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive materials, as these can damage the finish.

2. Stylus Care (for Analog Playback)

• Keep your stylus clean using a soft brush designed for stylus cleaning, brushing from back to front.
• Replace the stylus regularly, as a worn stylus can damage your records and degrade sound quality.

3. Dust Cover

• Always place the dust cover over the turntable when not in use to protect it from dust and debris.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your PLX-CRSS12, refer to the following common problems and their solutions:

No Sound / Low Sound Output

• Check Connections: Ensure all audio cables (RCA) are securely connected to the correct inputs on your mixer/amplifier. Verify the ground wire is connected.
• Input Selection: Confirm your mixer/amplifier input is set to PHONO for analog playback.
• Stylus/Cartridge: For analog, check if the stylus is properly installed and not damaged.
• Software Settings (DVS): For DVS, ensure your DJ software's audio routing and input levels are correctly configured.

Skipping / Unstable DVS Control

• MAGVEL CLAMP: Ensure the MAGVEL CLAMP is properly seated and adjusted for sufficient weight.
• Control Vinyl Condition: Clean your control vinyl. Scratched or dirty control vinyl can cause skipping.
• Surface Stability: Ensure the turntable is on a stable, vibration-free surface.
• Software Calibration: Recalibrate your DVS software (Serato DJ Pro or rekordbox) if experiencing tracking issues.

Platter Not Spinning / Incorrect Speed

• Power: Verify the power cable is securely connected and the unit is powered on.
• START/STOP Button: Ensure the START/STOP button has been pressed.
• Speed Selection: Check that the correct platter speed (33 or 45 RPM) is selected.

MIDI Pads Not Responding

• USB Connection: Confirm the USB-C cable is securely connected to both the turntable and your computer.
• Software Recognition: Ensure your DJ software recognizes the PLX-CRSS12 as a MIDI device.
• Driver Installation: Verify that the latest drivers for the turntable are installed.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Pioneer DJ products are manufactured to the highest quality standards. For information regarding warranty coverage, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Pioneer DJ website. For technical support, driver downloads, and frequently asked questions, please visit the Pioneer DJ support page.

You can find more information and support resources on the official Pioneer DJ Support Website.