Best Turntables Buying Guide: Welcome to TechRadar's round-up of the best record players (also known as record players) you can buy in 2019.
If the AT-LP120 was already one of the best-sounding turntables on the market. Best Classic: U-Turn Audio Orbit Special Turntable.
Whether you've got lots of old records collecting dust in the attic, or you're a keen member of the vinyl revival movement, one of the best turntables on the market can be a fantastic investment.
While the idea of a record player might call images of the '60s and '70s to mind, you'll find that most modern turntables are pretty well-equipped with the latest tech, like built-in Bluetooth or USB outputs that allows output records straight to your PC, meaning you can listen to your vinyls anywhere.
As a result, sales of turntables having been growing steadily worldwide since 2012 – and there's never been a better time to invest.
- Confused by all those moving parts? Read our guide on how to set up a turntable
One downside it that, as a result of all of these new products and tricky naming conventions, the market for the best record players can be pretty confusing – but stick with us and we’ll help you find the best turntable for you.
To start, we'll walk you through all the little details that go into choosing the best record player for your listening needs and budget. Do you want to go on the high end with a belt drive? Or how about a more user-friendly direct drive turntable? What about phono preamps? Do you need one?
All of these questions will be answered right here, so don’t worry, you’ll be absorbed in all of your favorite albums before you know it.
[Update: Check out our latest addition to our roundup of the best turntables, the Technics SL-1500C. With a bomb-proof build and remarkable clarity, it's a triumphant return to brilliance for the Technics brand.]
What makes a good turntable?
![Good Good](/uploads/1/2/6/2/126240989/625997840.jpg)
On of the most vital components to look for when you’re shopping for the best record player for you, is how well damped it is.
Damping is essentially the method by which manufacturers combat vibrations – whether internal or external. They do this through the use of different motor configurations, and through the use of various components.
Most of the time, belt-driven turntables are going to be a lot quieter and offer higher fidelity than their direct drive brethren – as direct drive turntables have a motor that is directly connected to the platter. However, there are some great direct drive turntables out there, so don’t write them off quite yet.
Your own personal needs are important too, though, so don’t forget about them. If you’re just starting out, you probably don’t need to be fooling around with a complex turntable with an adjustable vertical tracking angle, anti-skate and azimuth. Do you want to rip your vinyl to your digital library? If so, look for a turntable with a USB output and reliable software to get the job done.
What's the best turntable?
1. Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB
The best starter turntable with all the features you’ll ever need
Dimensions: 450.0 mm (17.72') W x 352.0 mm (13.86') D x 157.0 mm (6.1') H | Motor: Direct drive | Platter: Die-cast aluminum | Phono preamp: Yes | USB: Yes | Speeds: 33 ⅓, 45, 78 rpm | Stylus: AT95E
Great sound quality for the price
Plastic build
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB is the best introductory turntable for aspiring vinyl enthusiasts. Out of the box, it features the ability to play 33 ⅓, 45 and 78 RPM, this means there will never be an album you can’t play. There’s also a built-in phono preamp so you never have to worry about finding one on your own.
New record collectors will love the easy setup and features while more vetted users will love the option to dial in the vertical tracking angle, tracking force and easily replaceable headshell. Sure, it looks like a Technics SL-1200 ripoff but at a fraction of the price, it’s entirely worth it.
The AT-LP120-USB also comes with a USB output that allows you to record your record collection if you want. To put it simply, this deck strikes the perfect balance of ease of use for beginners while still including some more advanced features for you to grow into.
2. Audio-Technica AT-LP60
Dummy-proof automatic turntable for beginners on a budget
Dimensions: 360.0 mm (14.17') W x 97.5 mm (3.84') H x 356.0 mm (14.02') D | Motor: Belt drive | Platter: Die-cast aluminum | Phono preamp: Yes | USB: No | Speeds: 33 ⅓, 45 rpm | Stylus: ATN3600
Fully automatic
Can’t replace cartridge
If you’re not looking to drop a fortune on the best turntable in the world and don’t necessarily care about squeezing every last drop of fidelity from your LPs, the Audio-Technica AT-LP60 is a perfect starting point. It’s portable, can play most vinyl and is by far the most inexpensive turntable we have on this list. It’s also totally automatic, meaning it’ll queue a record and return the arm to resting position without requiring a manual lever.
The only caveat with a turntable this cheap is that it won’t grow with you as your vinyl collection expands. The built-in phono preamp means you’re stuck with it, however you can replace the needle once it wears out.
While there are cheaper, poorly engineered turntables on the market, it’s not worth it, as you risk damaging your precious records with poorly aligned and improperly weighted tonearms. Vinyl is expensive so we recommend the AT-LP60 for beginners just looking to get started.
3. Denon DP-300F
A gorgeous, full automatic turntable that doesn’t break the bank
Dimensions: 17-3/32 x 4-51/64 x 15' (434 x 122 x 381 mm); (WxHxD) | Motor: Belt drive | Platter: Die-cast aluminum | Phono preamp: Yes | USB: No | Speeds: 33 ⅓, 45 rpm | Stylus: DSN-85
Fully automatic
Plastic build
The Denon DP-300F is a gorgeous turntable that sounds just as good as it looks. The included DSN-85 cartridge isn’t the most accurate but it nevertheless manages to make your music sound airy and reasonably detailed, especially for it’s price.You’ll need to spend a lot more cash to hear more detail.
While the DP-300F lacks the USB outputs of some of the turntables listed here, it’s still a great starting turntable for anyone who doesn’t want to manually queue their albums or have a habit of falling asleep while listening to music. The Denon’s automatic start/stop feature means your needle won’t be worn down at the end of the record as the arm immediately returns when an album is done.
Build quality is decent for an all-plastic turntable, but its buttons feel cheap – a minor problem but shouldn't be a deal-breaker for you. If the Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB doesn’t fit your aesthetic, consider the Denon DP-300F instead.
Read the full review:Denon DP-300F
4. Fluance RT81
An alternative to the AT-LP120-USB for those who don’t need USB
Dimensions: 16.5” x 5.5” x 13.75” | Motor: Belt drive | Platter: Aluminum | Phono preamp: Yes | USB: No | Speeds: 33 ⅓, 45 rpm | Stylus: ATN95E
Great sound for the price
Poor vibration damping
The Fluance RT81 is an excellent starter turntable for the enthusiast. It’s simple to set up and use for newbies but you can switch out the cartridge to squeeze out more performance later on. Newbies also won’t have to worry about getting a separate phono preamp, as one is built in. However, you can turn it off if you want to use a better external preamp.
The only downside is that Fluance’s advertised “auto-off” feature simply turns off the platter, preventing excessive needle wear but you’ll still have to return the arm to its resting place yourself. You’ll also have to manually queue records, which isn’t a deal breaker by any means but is something to consider for those looking for a fully automatic turntable. The Denon DP-300F is a great choice for those looking for a fully automated record listening experience.
Read the full review:Fluance RT81
5. Pro-Ject Debut Carbon
An excellent entry-level turntable for vinyl enthusiasts
Dimensions: 415 x 118 x 320mm (WxHxD) | Motor: Belt drive | Platter: Aluminum | Phono preamp: No | USB: No | Speeds: 33 ⅓, 45 rpm | Stylus: Ortofon 2M Red
Excellent value for a hi-fi turntable
Manual speed change
From here on out things start to get a little bit more ‘real’: The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon is in the runnings to be the best entry-level hi-fi turntables you can buy.
While vinyl newcomers may cringe at the price, the Debut Carbon is really an incredible bargain. For the money, you get an very well made deck that’s damped properly for fantastic sound quality. The carbon fiber tonearm is lightweight and stiff, and is usually reserved for turntables costing much more.
The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon is for the budding enthusiast that’s committed to the record collecting hobby and because of that commitment, it doesn’t feature niceties like an auto-returning tonearm, buttons for changing speed or an included phono preamp. Newbies may be turned off by the manual changing of the belt position to change speeds and the lack of an included preamp. However, if you want to extract more detail and resolution from your records than the cheaper options on this list, or if you want to get started on the path of being a true vinyl collector, the Debut Carbon is probably your best bet.
Read the full review:Pro-Ject Debut Carbon
6. Rega Planar 1
One of the best entry-level hi-fi turntables for tinkerers
Dimensions: 17.5' (450mm) W by 4.5' (115mm) H by 15' (385mm) D | Motor: Belt drive | Platter: Phenolic resin | Phono preamp: No | USB: No | Speeds: 33 ⅓, 45 rpm | Stylus: Rega Carbon
Excellent sound quality
Manual speed change
There’s a lot of debate whether the Rega Planar 1 or the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon is the best entry-level Hi-Fi turntable. It’s a close match and there are no clear winners, each providing an excellent starting place for audiophiles on a budget.
While the Rega may lack the fancy carbon tone arm of the Pro-Ject, the Planar 1 still sounds excellent and is well damped with its phenolic resin platter. And for newbies, the Rega Planar 1 is still easy to setup, though you’ll have to provide your own phono preamp.
Ultimately, the Rega Planar 1 just sounds so good that it’s hard to fault it too much. Vocals are revealing and you can hear the texture from instruments like the violin. The included Rega Carbon cartridge isn’t anything special but manages to be a great match for the turntable. It’s a tough choice between the Planar 1 and the Debut Carbon but you can’t go wrong with either.
7. Marantz TT-15S1
Go pro with this high-end turntable
Dimensions: 440mm x 350mm x 110mm; (W x D x H) | Motor: Belt drive | Platter: High-Density Acrylic | Phono preamp: No | USB: No | Speeds: 33 ⅓, 45 rpm | Stylus: Clearaudio Virtuoso
Gorgeous design
Price is an investment
The Marantz TT-15S1 costs a serious bit of change, but you’re actually getting a killer bargain. The Clearaudio Virtuoso included with the turntable is $1000 when purchased separately. Additionally, you get a killer tonearm and gorgeous turntable at a price that’s definitely an investment, but not unreasonable.
So what does the Marantz TT-15S1 get you over the competition? Attention to detail. Just about every part of the turntable has been poured over to be the best it can be for the price. The fit and finish are excellent and it’s a pleasure to handle the high-quality components. This is a turntable you’ll find yourself admiring its visual and audible qualities.
Newbies should not get this turntable as it requires more knowledge to set up properly than the entry-level turntables on this list. But if you’re ready to take your record collecting and listening to the next level, the Marantz TT-15S1 is the perfect place to start.
Read the full review:Marantz TT-15S1
8. Clearaudio Concept
Dimensions: 16.54” x 13.78” x 4.92”; (W x D x H) | Motor: Belt drive | Platter: Polyoxymethylene | Phono preamp: No | USB: No | Speeds: 33 ⅓, 45, 78 rpm | Stylus: Clearaudio Concept MC
Excellent build quality
Expensive (but still a bargain)
If the Clearaudio Concept and Marantz TT-15S1 seem familiar, that’s because the Marantz was built by Clearaudio to Marantz’s specifications. This means everything about the excellent build quality of the Marantz carries over to the Clearaudio Concept (i.e. this is a turntable that is as gorgeous as it sounds).
One small but notable difference between the Marantz and the Clearaudio is the ability to play 78 rpm records. While most people will never come across 78s, it’s nice to know that the Clearaudio Concept is capable of playing them. The Concept also has a handy speed dial on the plinth, meaning you don’t have to swap the belt position manually.
As for negatives, the Clearaudio Concept has no notable flaws. Yes, it’s expensive but you’re still getting a bargain in this price range. The included Clearaudio Concept moving-coil cartridge costs $1,000 by itself. Yep!
Read the review:Clearaudio Concept
9. Sony PS-HX500
A well-rounded beginner turntable with some nagging flaws
Dimensions: 16.54” x 13.78” x 4.92”; (W x D x H) | Motor: Belt drive | Platter: Aluminum Diecast Alloy | Phono preamp: Yes | USB: Yes 44.1kHz / 48kHz / 96kHz / 192kHz (16bit / 24bit) | Speeds: 33 ⅓, 45 rpm | Stylus: Sony 9-885-210-05
Hi-Res audio USB recording
Plastic build feels cheap
The Sony PS-HX500 is a great entry-level turntable for those just getting started with record collecting. Its standout feature is its ability to record Hi-Res audio from its USB output in 96kHz/24bit resolution. This is an excellent feature for those looking to digitize their records.
In terms of sound quality, the Sony PS-HX500 sound spacious and provides good detail. However, the included needle sounds a bit harsh and sibilant at times and lacks the resolution of more expensive cartridges.
While some may like the minimalist design of the Sony, it’s utterly forgettable and its plastic build leaves a lot to be desired. Handling the turntable on a daily basis leaves us wanting more premium materials that don’t rattle.
10. Cambridge Audio Alva TT turntable
Old meets new in this wireless Hi-Res turntable
Dimensions: 17.12” x 14.48” x 5.47”; (W x D x H) | Motor: Direct drive | Platter: Polyoxymethylene | Phono preamp: No | USB: No | Speeds: 33 ⅓, 45 rpm | Stylus: Elliptical
Hi-res aptX HD wireless streaming
Built to last
$1700 / £1500 (around AU$2750) for a record player is expensive no matter the brand, and it’s Cambridge’s most expensive-ever turntable by a mile. But it’s uniquely specified, and intends to deliver all the many and various advantages of the vinyl format with very few of the compromises.
The fact it’s able to stream wirelessly to a 24bit/48kHz aptX HD standard makes it number one in a field of one. No other record player from any better-established brand in this sort of market - Rega, for instance, or Clearaudio - is able to come close to this level of convenience.
Read the review: Cambridge Audio Alva TT review
11. Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT
A Bluetooth turntable that's perfect for beginners
Dimensions: 14.15' x 14.7' x 3.84'; (W x D x H) | Motor: Belt drive | Platter: Aluminum | Phono preamp: Yes | USB: No | Speeds: 33 ⅓, 45 rpm | Stylus: Conical
Great value for money
Audio could be more detailed
With a budget-friendly price, easy assembly, and the convenience of wireless playback, the AT-LP60XBT could make a fantastic first turntable for any fledgling vinyl enthusiast.
While the plinth does feel somewhat insubstantial, and the sound might not be detailed enough for some, it's brilliant price more than makes up for that – and the inclusion of Bluetooth connectivity makes the AT-LP6XBT feel like very good value for money.
Audio-Technica is known for producing high quality cartridges, and the one used on this turntable is no exception; the ATN3600L conical stylus fits perfectly into the grooves of the record and reveals details in songs you may have never noticed before – in short, it makes your music an absolute joy to listen to.
Read the review: Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT turntable review
12. Technics SL 1500c
Bomb-proof build and great clarity
Dimensions: 453 x 169 x 372mm (W x D x H) | Motor: Direct drive | Platter: Aluminum diecast | Phono preamp: Yes | USB: No | Speeds: 33 ⅓, 45, and 78 rpm | Stylus: N/A
Bomb-proof build quality
Remarkable clarity
Not that subtle
Meet the budget-friendly Technics SL-1500C that will only set you back £899 / $999 / AU$2499. It's still not the most affordable turntable on the market, but it's first the reborn Technics has so far delivered really remind listeners of what they loved about the brand in the first place.
Sound-staging is impressive, with recordings given plenty of elbow-room for individual instruments to make their presence felt. There’s depth and height to the Technics’ stage, as well as width, but despite all this breathing-room there’s no lack of unity to the sound the SL-1500C delivers.
Read the review: Technics SL-1500C Turntable review
Today's best turntable deals
We check over 130 million products every day for the best prices
- Need some speakers to go with your new record player? Check out the best stereo speakers in 2019
Whether you have vinyl records handed down to you, you’re a DJ, or you’re getting into vinyl for the first time, you’ll need a good record player. One that’s reliable, durable, and easy to maintain. This week we’re looking at five of the best, based on your nominations.
Vinyl records are still a small part of overall music sales, but they’re definitely on the rise, there’s no doubt about that. Beyond that, many people have had records for years, or have had them handed down to them, or love to shop for old recordings in thrift stores—but you still need a good player. Earlier in the week we asked you for your favorites, and you gave us tons of great suggestions. We only have room for the top five though, and here they are, in no particular order:
Audio-Technica AT-LP120 USB
Advertisement
Audio-Technica’s AT-LP120 is a direct-drive turntable that can connect to external devices (like mixers or computers) via USB or analog. It’s handy if you’re looking to both listen to your old record collection and digitize it for on-the-go listening or backups. Being direct drive means that the platter is powered directly by the motor, and there’s no belt or other moving parts involved with the rotation of the turntable itself. It also means there are fewer moving parts that can vibrate and create additional noise. The AT-LP120 is also a semi-clone of the ever-popular (which we’ll get to later) Technics SL-1200MK2, except significantly more affordable—it’ll only set you back $250 at Amazon. The turntable can be toggled in forward or reverse easily, has a pitch control slider on the side (+/-10%-20%), hinged dust cover, selectable 33/45/78 RPM speed modes, a cast aluminum platter (with Audio-Technica slipmats, of course), and all the cables and connectors you need to get it hooked up to your stereo, mixer and monitors, or computer.
$293GMG may get a commission
Those of you who nominated the AT-LP120 and praised its nomination noted that its cast aluminum platter is nice and heavy, the turntables moves without much vibration, and it’s sturdy and reliable, not to mention affordable when compared with other turntables both aimed at DJs or audiophiles. A few of you pointed out that the USB output is a really nice feature, as is in the included preamp, so you don’t need a ton of powerful gear to use the turntable at all. Plus, the USB output makes it easy to connect right to your computer anytime you like. You can read more about it in its nomination thread here.
Rega RP1
Advertisement
A modern, sleek-looking turntable that’s aimed at buyers who care about form as well as function, the Rega RP1 is a belt-driven turntable aimed at audiophiles. That said, it doesn’t come with the exorbitant price tag that a lot of so-called audiophile equipment is usually associated with—the Rega RP1 will set you back $435 at Amazon. It can take a beating (even though by its looks you’d never want to hurt the thing), and the table itself is made from phenolic resin for durability. It features a low-vibration, belt-driven motor with manual speed adjustments so you can really dial in the rotation where you want it. The tonearm is hand crafted and the special “Rega Carbon” magnetic cartridge is designed to complete a high-quality package that delivers great sound at a modest price. Best of all Rega notes that their attention to design extends to the longevity of their products, and that you can buy one of these and enjoy it for years without having to worry about replacing parts.
REGA - RP1 Turntable (Gray)
GMG may get a commission
Advertisement
Those of you who nominated the RP1 pointed out that it’s a great kind of “entry level” turntable that won’t break the bank if you’re looking for a stereophile-style record player (trust us, it may seem expensive, but there are plenty that are much, much moreso.) You praised its price point for being at a good place where you get great sound return for your money without paying the “audiophile tax,” where you wind up paying more for less return on your investment sound-wise. The minimal design works in any home entertainment setup, and others of you said that it sounds great on affordable home entertainment gear—but also sounds great if you have pricier equipment as well. All that combined makes it a great buy if you’re just getting into quality audio equipment and may upgrade things like your amp or speakers later, or if you already have some and you’re looking for a record player to match. Read more in its nomination thread here.
Technics SL-1200MK2
Advertisement
Ah, the “wheels of steel.” The Technics SL-1200MK2 (and later, the MK3, MK4, and MK5) are the quintessential turntable. Used by DJs, turntablists, musicians, radio stations, and everyday music lovers for decades since their release in 1978, Technics finally ceased production of the SL1200 line in 2010. They’re so highly prized that a pair of 1210s are on display in the London Science Museum, and they’re highly regarded as turntables you could drop out of the back of a truck, toss down a hill, then pick up, dust off, plug in, and still play like nothing happened. They’re the industry standard for a reason, after all—the least of which is the powerful, low vibration magnetic direct drive motor, steel platter, +-8% pitch control, selectable 33/45RPM speed modules, and of course, removable dust covers and slip mats. Even though the SL-1200s have technically ceased production doesn’t mean they’re impossible to find—they’re still in wide circulation, both new and used, and can be purchased around $600 from Amazon sellers or even cheaper on eBay. We’d suggest you head to a music store in your area and see what they have. They may be the gold standard, but they’re certainly pricey now that they’re discontinued.
Full disclosure, I nominated the 1200s, because I own a pair, have for years, and they’re rock solid. Those of you who supported the nomination pointed this out as well—that it’s possible that these may have been too well made, since more than a few of you said that you’ve had yours forever and they’ve never had so much as a problem. Even if they did, one of the nice things about the 1200 series was that they were easily disassembled for maintenance and repair. Still, a good number of you pointed out that these guys are built like tanks, and while they’re primarily aimed at the DJ set, they’re just as good for listening—as long as you can find a good set. Many people have urged Technics to reintroduce the iconic turntables. There’s even a petition to that effect. You can read more in its nomination thread here.
Advertisement
Pro-Ject Debut Carbon
Advertisement
The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon is a beautifully designed, great-sounding value turntable that’s been consistently reviewed as one of the best budget buys you could pick up for your home stereo. A precision belt-driven turntable with a nicely sized platter, the Debut Carbon features a carbon fiber tonearm, low vibration motor, and interchangeable cartridges (although it comes with a beautiful Ortofon cartridge you might not want to replace. The Debut Carbon also comes in a number of colors, includes removable dust covers, and a minimalist design that’ll look great in any home theater. The body is made from durable MDF and the platter itself is steel, so its durable as well as attractive, and relatively affordable, at $400 from Amazon.
GMG may get a commission
Advertisement
The Debut Carbon is actually the subsequent model to the Debut III, which many of you called out in the nominations thread. The Debut III has been discontinued (although it’s still available), but the Carbon is generally regarded as a solid improvement at the exact same price—the same turntable and innards with an improved motor and a carbon fiber tonearm. Those of you who praised it and nominated it pointed out that for those people just looking to listen to records—as in they don’t expect to get hands on and they’re not DJing—a belt driven turntable is a better, more affordable choice than a direct drive one, and the fact that the Debut Carbon comes in so many colors and is cost effective makes it a great choice for people who want to listen to their old records—or get into vinyl—without breaking the bank. You can read more in its nomination thread here.
Audio-Technica AT-LP60
Advertisement
The Audio-Technica AT-LP60 is the smaller brother of the previously mentioned LP120, available at a wallet-friendly $100 from Amazon in a variety of colors. It’s a belt-driven turntable, aimed directly at people who don’t have a record player and don’t really know what they want in one—if anything—but they know they don’t want to spend a ton of money to rediscover their record collections (or records handed down to them.) The LP60 features a removable dust cover, 33/45 RPM selectable speed modes, a built-in phono preamp, and replaceable cartridges. It’s durable and solidly built, so you don’t have to worry about it falling apart, even if it’s a budget model. Finally, the LP60 has an all aluminum platter, space-saving design, and all the cables you’ll need to hook it up to your home stereo.
$99Audio-Technica AT-LP60 Fully Automatic Belt-Drive Stereo…
GMG may get a commission
Advertisement
Those of you who praised the LP60 pointed out that it’s amazing for budget buyers, and great for people who aren’t too picky about the more audiophile aspects of their listening experience. It’s a space saver, and frequently available for less than the $100 it usually sits around at Amazon. At the same time though, more than a few of you pointed out that you can’t control the tracking and anti-skate on this model, which means that the tonearm can track too heavily, apply too much pressure or pull to one side of the groove or the other of your records, or heaven forbid just slide all the way across your record—all very bad things, both for your listening experience and for the longevity of your records. You can read more of the conversation in its nomination thread here.
Now that you’ve seen the top five, it’s time to put them to an all out vote:
Advertisement
![Best sounding portable record player Best sounding portable record player](/uploads/1/2/6/2/126240989/184745143.png)
Honorable Mentions
This week’s honorable mentions go out to the ever-awesome, superbly ancient Dual 1237. Seriously, go look at those things. You’ll never find one these days unless you’re extremely lucky (like this Redditor, for example) but if you or a family member have one, you should know you have something amazing on hand. These things are rugged and durable, sound incredible, are fully automatic and belt driven, and some have record changing features. There are a few threads full of love for Dual in the call for contenders post, so make sure to head back and check it out.
Advertisement
Have something to say about one of the contenders? Want to make the case for your personal favorite, even if it wasn’t included in the list? Remember, the top five are based on your most popular nominations from the call for contenders thread from earlier in the week. Don’t just complain about the top five, let us know what your preferred alternative is—and make your case for it—in the discussions below.
The Hive Five is based on reader nominations. As with most Hive Five posts, if your favorite was left out, it didn’t get the nominations required in the call for contenders post to make the top five. We understand it’s a bit of a popularity contest. Have a suggestion for the Hive Five? Send us an email at [email protected]!
Advertisement
Title photo by Alan Levine.