Best turntables 2021: the best record players for any budget

Date:
Thu, 24 Jun 2021 12:14:56 +0000

Description:
The best record player is just a few clicks away, whether you're a vinyl veteran or a turntable trainee.

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The best turntables of 2021 are very different to the clunky old record
player that you might currently have up in your attic gathering dust.

We've spent years reviewing the newest and best record players that you can buy right now and were happy to report these are all incredibly versatile
and modern devices, coming in a range of styles to suit all homes and
budgets. So, whether you prefer the classic, retro look of record players
from the past or youre tastes are thoroughly modern, theres something here to suit you.

Many of these turntables also come packed with new features that you'd never find on old record players, such as Bluetooth connectivity and USB ports that allow you to record your vinyl to your computer.

The best record players aren't always as pricey as you might imagine sure, you can spend upwards of $1,000 / 1,000 on the top turntables, but there are plenty of excellent budget models available, too.

So, if youre a music lover and cant get enough of the warm sound of vinyl, investing in one of the top turntables from this list is a no-brainer theyre a must-have for your at-home audio setup.

If youre new to the world of record collecting, be sure to check out our
guide on how to set up a turntable , which will get you up and running (or spinning, if you prefer) with your new record player in no time. Dust off
your record collection and get ready to listen to your favorite tunes with
the very best turntables of 2021. We listened to old vinyl at Jimi Hendrix's house to prove retro turntables still rock Our top picks What's the best turntable? (Image credit: Pro-Ject) 1. Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Evo

The best turntable you can buy today Dimensions: 415 x 118 x 320 mm | Motor: Direct drive | Platter: Steel | Phono preamp: No | USB: No | Speeds: 33, 45, and 78 rpm | Stylus: Ortofon 2M Red Detailed, expansive, engaging sound Impressive specification Wide choice of very pleasant finishes Could sound more vigorous

Want to be entertained in the inimitable vinyl manner, and be sure youre not missing a scrap of information at the same time? Youll want to turn your ears in Pro-Jects direction, then.

Pro-Ject introduced its first Debutrecord playerat the end of the last century, and its been refined, upgraded, and become increasingly expensive ever since. This Debut Carbon Evo is the most refined and upgraded model so far and its also the most expensive.

But don't let that put you off. This is undoubtably one of the best
turntables you can buy today, offering a detailed and revealing listen, with the ability to focus on the minutiae even as it describes the complete
picture very convincingly.


Read more: Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Evo review (Image credit: Audio-Technica)
2. Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB

The best starter turntable with all the features youll ever need Dimensions: 452.0 mm (17.80") W x 352.0 mm (13.86") D x 141.6 mm (5.57") H | Motor:
Direct drive | Platter: Die-cast aluminum | Phono preamp: Yes | USB: Yes | Speeds: 33 , 45, 78 rpm | Stylus: AT-VM95E aptX Bluetooth streaming and integrated phono stage Makes digital copies via USB output Detailed, easy-going sound Not the most dynamic-sounding turntable around

At first glance, the AT-LP120XBT-USB looks the part it owes more than a little to the legendary Technics SL1200/SL1210 where aesthetics are
concerned. But as well as all the DJ bits and bobs (like pitch control and super-responsive direct drive motor), this Audio-Technica turntable has an integrated, switchable phono stage, a USB output and wireless aptX Bluetooth connectivity. All of which makes it a fair bit more adaptable than your averagerecord player.

Its very nearly a plugnplay arrangement, making it perfect for beginners. All you need to do when it first comes out of the box is put the aluminum platter on, fix the cartridge to the tonearm and the hinges to the dust-cover, and youre good to go.

Read more: Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB review 3. Fluance RT81

An alternative to the AT-LP120-USB for those who dont need USB Dimensions: 16.5 x 5.5 x 13.75 | Motor: Belt drive | Platter: Aluminum | Phono preamp:
Yes | USB: No | Speeds: 33 , 45 rpm | Stylus: ATN95E Great sound for the
price Decent sounding phono preamp Poor vibration damping No auto returning tonearm

The Fluance RT81 is an excellent starter turntable. Its simple to set up and use for newbies but you can switch out the cartridge to squeeze out more performance later on. Newbies also wont 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 Fluances advertised auto-off feature simply turns off the platter, preventing excessive needle wear but youll still have to return the arm to its resting place yourself. Youll also have to manually queue records, which isnt a deal breaker by any means but is something to consider for those looking for a fully automatic record player. The Denon DP-300F is a great choice for those looking for a fully automated record listening experience.

Read more: Fluance RT81 review 4. Denon DP-300F

A gorgeous, full automatic turntable that doesnt 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 , 45
rpm | Stylus: DSN-85 Fully automatic Great sound for the price Plastic build Buttons feel cheap

The Denon DP-300F is a gorgeous turntable that sounds just as good as it looks. The included DSN-85 cartridge isnt the most accurate but it nevertheless manages to make your music sound airy and reasonably detailed, especially for its price.Youll need to spend a lot more cash to hear more detail.

While the DP-300F lacks the USB outputs of some of the best turntables listed here, its still a great starting turntable for anyone who doesnt want to manually queue their albums or have a habit of falling asleep while listening to music. The Denons automatic start/stop feature means your needle wont 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 record player, but its buttons
feel cheap a minor problem but shouldn't be a deal-breaker for you. If the Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB doesnt fit your aesthetic, consider the Denon DP-300F instead.

Read more: Denon DP-300F review (Image credit: Audio-Technica) 5. 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 , 45 rpm | Stylus: Conical Great value for money Easy setup Audio could be more detailed Materials feel a bit cheap

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 record player feel like very good value for money.

Audio-Technica is known for producing high quality cartridges, and the one used on this record player 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 more: Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT turntable review 6. 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 , 45 rpm | Stylus: Ortofon 2M Red Excellent value for a hi-fi turntable Easy to setup Manual speed change Requires a phono preamp

The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon is still one of the best entry-level hi-fi turntables you can buy, even though it has been usurped by the record player at the top of this list.

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 thats
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 thats committed to
the record collecting hobby and because of that commitment, it doesnt 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.

Like the Pro-Ject Debut III, but want a subtler look? Check out the Crosley C10 , which features a chic wooden-look plinth combined with a Pro-Ject tonearm.

Read more: Pro-Ject Debut Carbon review 7. 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 , 45 rpm | Stylus: Rega Carbon Excellent sound quality Easy to setup, even for newbies Manual speed change No phono preamp included

Theres a lot of debate whether the Rega Planar 1 or the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon is the best entry-level hi-fi turntable. Its 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 youll have to provide your own phono preamp.

Ultimately, the Rega Planar 1 record player just sounds so good that its 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 isnt anything special but manages to be a great match for the turntable. Its a tough choice between the Planar 1 and the Debut Carbon but you cant go wrong with either. 8. 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 , 45 rpm | Stylus: Clearaudio Virtuoso Gorgeous design Excellent attention to detail Price is an investment

The Marantz TT-15S1 costs a serious bit of change, but youre 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 thats 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 record player has been poured over to be the best it can be for the price. The fit and finish are excellent and its a pleasure to handle the high-quality components. This is a record player that'll leave you 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 youre ready to take your record collecting and listening to the next level, the Marantz TT-15S1 is the perfect place to start.

Read more: Marantz TT-15S1 review 9. Clearaudio Concept

A stunningly beautiful mid-range hi-fi turntable 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 , 45, 78 rpm | Stylus: Clearaudio Concept
MC Excellent build quality Detailed, rich sound Expensive (but still a bargain)

If the Clearaudio Concept and Marantz TT-15S1 seem familiar, thats because
the Marantz was built by Clearaudio to Marantzs 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 turntables is the ability to play 78 rpm records. While most people will
never come across 78s, its 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 dont have to swap the belt position manually.

As for negatives, the Clearaudio Concept has no notable flaws. Yes, its expensive but youre still getting a bargain in this price range. The included Clearaudio Concept moving-coil cartridge costs $1,000 by itself. Yep!

Read more: Clearaudio Concept review (Image credit: Cambridge Audio) 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 , 45 rpm | Stylus: Elliptical Hi-res aptX
HD wireless streaming Simple to set up Built to last Not the last word in dynamism

$1,700 / 1,500 (around AU$2,750) for a record player is expensive no matter the brand, and its Cambridges most expensive-ever turntable by a mile. But
its uniquely specified, and intends to deliver all the many and various advantages of the vinyl format with very few of the compromises.

The fact its 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.

Cambridge Audio doesn't just make record players, either. Did you know the Cambridge Audio Melomania 1 are on our round up of the best true wireless earbuds of 2021?

Read more: Cambridge Audio Alva TT review (Image credit: Technics) 11. 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 , 45, and 78 rpm | Stylus: N/A Bomb-proof build quality
Simple to set up and use Remarkable clarity Expensive 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. Theres depth and height
to the Technics stage, as well as width, but despite all this breathing-room theres no lack of unity to the sound the SL-1500C record player delivers.

Read more: Technics SL-1500C Turntable review What makes a good turntable? What makes a good turntable? What else do I need?

Aside from your new turntable, there are some other bits of kit you might
want to invest in.

First off, you'll want to check out the best stereo speakers ; after all, a turntable is only as good as your speakers you hook it up to.Or, you might want to look into the best over-ear headphones to go with your record player.

If you opt for a fancy wireless turntable, you might want to invest in a Bluetooth speaker , a wireless speaker , or connect it to your existing smart speaker .

If your record player of choice doesn't have a built-in amplifier, you'll
need to buy one check out our amplifier reviews for more information.

Navigating the market for the best record players can be pretty confusing
but stick with us and well 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 high end with a belt drive? Or how about a more user-friendly direct drive turntable or a Bluetooth-enabled model? What about phono preamps? Do you need one?

All of these questions will be answered right here, so before you know it, those dusty old records will be spinning once more on your brand new turntable. The essential albums every music lover should hear Read our guide on how to set up a turntable The history of the turntable: how vinyl survived the CD, the iPod, and Spotify Do you have any of these rare records at home? They could make you filthy rich How does vinyl work and does it really sound better than streaming?

On of the most vital components to look for when youre 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 dont write them
off quite yet.

Your own personal needs are important too, though, so dont forget about them. If youre just starting out, you probably dont need to be fooling around with
a complex turntable with an adjustable vertical tracking angle, anti-skate
and azimuth. You may even want a turntable that connects to your speaker wirelessly over Bluetooth. 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.

Budget and style are important considerations, too. Turntables can cost anything from $50 / 50 to well over $2,000 / 2,000, it's a good idea to have
a price in mind before you start your search. Think about how your new record player will fit into your home, as well. Do you have the space for an
external amplifier? If not, look for a turntable with a built-in preamp. Best turntables 2021 at a glance Pro-ject Debut Carbon Evo Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB Fluance RT81 Denon DP-300F Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT Pro-ject Debut Carbon Rega Planar 1 Marantz TT-15S1 Clearaudio Concept Cambridge Audio Alva TT turntable Techics SL 1500c Turntable deals



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