I am interested in dj'ing and heard the Technics sl-1200's are the industry standard. Is that right? If so, do I wanna buy used? Or do I want a CD unit as opposed to vinyl?

If not Technics, is there another name I could (or should) be considering? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. thx...

Welcome. Considering that this is an American Audio DJ forum your gonna hear about American Audio DJ Products Only.

What i would recommend over the Techs are the American Audio HTD 4.5 turntables. They are build like a TANK, and very affordable compaired to the Techs. The Techs "WERE" industry standard for 30 years, but now the technology has spilled on other companies like American Audio that have build Turntables that will last for decades. It is really up to you to go out there, and test the gear you think will suit you best. It also depends on what your budget is.

If you want to use CD's then i recommend checking out the American Audio CDI500 Cd players. They are the latest creation of CD Turntables by American Audio. I recommend checking those out.

As far as mixers go American Audio has many to choose from, it all really depends on you, and what style of music, and DJ'ing you want to do. Are you looking into more of Mixing? Scratching? Multi Hookups?

If you can be a little more detailed i can tell you what units to get from American Audio that will make you more then happy, and save you money.

Yeah there are decks with way more features than 1200s today that cost only a fraction of what 1200s cost. I think scratch DJs today are looking for more powerful alternatives than 1200s now-a-days unless they are looking at trying their luck at DMC competitions which require you to use 1200s. Otherwise I think it's a waste of money. AA makes quality decks and all but the TTD-2400 outperform the 1200 torque wise, and they all keep pitch pretty well also. Turntables are very basic machines, and they all pretty much react the same way. It's just how much your are willing to spend and how much torque and features you want.