Pioneer PL-990 Automatic Stereo Turntable [2023 Review]

Pioneer has decided to integrate automatic operation, which is a feature that we find in many entry-level turntables. Switching from MP3s to vinyl provides a number of issues for the user, the most obvious of which is that you don’t have to handle digital storage media with nearly the same care that you do with records.

The PL-990 is a basic budget turntable for home listening that lacks the innovative and spectacular styling found on their DJ line turntables. Its appearance, however, deviates from the basic aesthetics found in most belt-driven turntables.

It has an old-school design with a lot more going on in front of it. The Pioneer PL-990 has been around for quite some time, with minor upgrades here and there, but the design has remained the same.

There are lot to talk about this turntable. If you are interested in this model, keep reading our Pioneer PL-990 Automatic Stereo Turntable review for more information below.

Pioneer PL-990 Automatic Stereo Turntable

Pros
  • A very simple, classic design that calls back to the 60s vinyl era
  • Audio is balanced
  • Clear, and high-quality sound
  • The automatic tonearm mechanism works very well
Cons
  • Can’t use any other cartridge

About: This is a turntable that cares more about performing than it does about looking flashy or up to current, as you may have guessed from its unassuming appearance. As a result, the feature list is as sparse as the style, and there isn’t much to talk about.

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Design

The PL-990 gives the feeling of being from another era. Not only because it’s a turntable that isn’t exactly cutting-edge, off-the-shelf technology, but also because the design harkens back to the 1960s’ classic turntable style.

The majority of the product is finished in a plain black color scheme, with very few decorative or otherwise unnecessary embellishments according to this Pioneer PL-990 Automatic Stereo Turntable review.

The Pioneer logo, which is plain and straightforward, is staggered to the left of the front panel, along with a row of buttons.

This isn’t the most robust player, and it’s actually quite little by today’s standards, so if you want to take your turntable on the road, you might want to look for something a little more rugged.

Performance

Pioneer is betting on its ability to generate superb sound from its very low-cost turntable despite the lack of features and customizing possibilities. They have been effective in this regard overall.

The sound quality is noticeably superior to that of many rival goods in this price range, thanks in part to the inbuilt Phono EQ and pre-amp according to this Pioneer PL-990 Automatic Stereo Turntable review.

The result is a clear, clean, and adaptable sound that can be used to provide a good listening experience across a wide range of genres and frequencies.

The automatic functions are excellent. When you push play, the player turns on, the platter starts spinning, and the tonearm lowers to the start of the record.

When the record is finished, the tonearm raises itself, returns to its housing, and the platter stops moving. Everything is pretty smooth.

Build

This turntable should be your first choice if you prefer traditional designs. It gives a good idea of the vintage musical equipment that was made in the 1960s and 1970s. It’s been designed in a gorgeous and classic black color scheme according
to this Pioneer PL-990 Automatic Stereo Turntable review.

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In today’s turntables, there aren’t as many decorative embellishments as there once were. It’s like traveling back in time, and the music has a classic feel to it. On the left side of the front panel, the manufacturer has inserted their emblem in a more straightforward manner.

The PL-990, on the other hand, has all of its buttons on the same side of the front panel. When compared to modern standards, it is much smaller, but the longevity and sturdiness are far better.

Overall, the business has succeeded by catering to the needs of customers who prefer conventional products to those with a modern twist.

Automatic Play

This turntable should be your first choice if you prefer traditional designs. It gives a good idea of the vintage musical equipment that was made in the 1960s and 1970s. It’s been designed in a gorgeous and classic black color scheme according
to this Pioneer PL-990 Automatic Stereo Turntable review.

In today’s turntables, there aren’t as many decorative embellishments as there once were. It’s like traveling back in time, and the music has a classic feel to it. On the left side of the front panel, the manufacturer has inserted their emblem in a more straightforward manner.

The PL-990, on the other hand, has all of its buttons on the same side of the front panel. When compared to modern standards, it is much smaller, but the longevity and sturdiness are far better.

Overall, the business has succeeded by catering to the needs of customers who prefer conventional products to those with a modern twist.

Things to Look Out for

Because vinyl records are prone to scratches and are practically doomed to wear and tear no matter how well they are cared for, the idea of removing control of the tonearm’s needle from the user is a welcome feature for many inexperienced vinyl aficionados and should help to reduce scratching.

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The Pioneer PL-990 is a fantastic turntable for those who appreciate traditional looks. It features a very light and simple operation, which might be highly useful for novices according to this Pioneer PL-990 Automatic Stereo Turntable review.

After doing our comprehensive Pioneer PL-990 review, we discovered that it is an excellent value for the money. We recommend that you share your turntable experience in the comments section, as it will be very helpful to your fellow readers.

Frequently Asked Questions: Pioneer PL-990 Automatic Turntable Stereo

Is the Pioneer PL-990 suitable for beginners?

 Yes, It is often considered a good option for beginners. Its automatic operation simplifies the process of playing records, and the built-in phono preamp allows you to connect the turntable.

Can I connect the Pioneer PL-990 to external speakers?

Yes, It has a built-in phono preamp that allows you to connect it to external speakers, amplifiers, or audio receivers with a standard RCA input.

What types of records can the Pioneer PL-990 play?

 It can play both 33 1/3 RPM (standard speed) and 45 RPM vinyl records. It does not support 78 RPM records.

Can I upgrade the cartridge on the Pioneer PL-990?

Yes, the cartridge on the Pioneer PL-990 can be upgraded. However, since the turntable is designed with convenience and simplicity in mind, major cartridge upgrades might require additional adjustments or expertise.

Does the Pioneer PL-990 come with a dust cover?

Yes, It usually comes with a removable dust cover that helps protect the turntable and records from dust and debris.

Is the Pioneer PL-990 a high-end turntable?

It is considered more of an entry-level or mid-range turntable. It offers basic features and functionality suitable for casual listening and beginners but might not satisfy audiophiles looking for higher-end performance.

Conclusion: Pioneer PL-990 Automatic Stereo Turntable [2023 Review]

The PL-990 is an excellent entry-level turntable. While we would always suggest those who are serious about going into vinyl, there will always be some who want to just dip their toes in the water.

If that’s the case, and you don’t already have a lot of records, the PL-990 can be a good place to start.

Feeling not sure? You should definitely give this turntable a chance. We hope you liked our Pioneer PL-990 Automatic Stereo Turntable review and it was helpful.

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