The Best Turntables and Accessories
There’s nothing quite like the beautifully scratchy sound a vinyl record makes when it’s spinning on a turntable. Audiophiles have revered these analog machines for decades, praising them as the true way to listen to your favorite albums. If you view music the same way, you might want to reconsider some of the gear you're using before you set the needle down. That’s where we come in. We’ve made a list of the best turntables and accessories so you can spend less time researching and more time jamming out to your favorite tunes.
What to Look For
When narrowing down the best turntables and accessories, we considered practicality, overall features, price, and necessity. For example, if you want a great professional turntable at a reasonable cost, the Sony PS-LX310BT belt drive turntable punches way above its price tag. If you already have a turntable but need to replace your stylus, the Audio-Technica ATN3600L replacement stylus is a high-quality stylus that works with multiple turntable models. Read on to see all our top picks and find the turntable or accessory that’s right for you.
Sony PS-LX310BT Belt Drive Turntable
The gold standard
If you’re in the market for a professional turntable but aren’t quite ready for the massive price tag, this mid-range option features high-quality audio at a practical price. It has a straight tonearm for more accurate tracking, Bluetooth capabilities for wireless connection, and Phono EQ for phono and line outputs. It also has an aluminum die-cast platter to help reduce any vibration that could interfere with your record. If you’re ready for a massive upgrade, this turntable from Sony is the next step.
Pros:
- This turntable provides USB ripping to convert vinyl records into digital MP3 files.
- It comes with a removable dust cover, vibration-dampening slip mat, a 45-adaptor, and a USB B cable to help get you set up with your new system.
Cons:
- It only has two speeds, so there’s not much room for adjustment there.
Audio-Technica ATN3600L Replacement Stylus
No record player is invincible, and even the best need new parts every now and then. If you’re looking for a new stylus and want something that is built to last, look no further. This replacement stylus from Audio-Technica is compatible with many of their catalog’s record players, making it easy to install. Just slide it in and wait for the click. It may not be the most exciting purchase you’ll ever make, but it can undoubtedly breathe new life into your record player.
Pros:
- The price is a great value, especially considering the quality of Audio Technica’s gear.
- It comes in off-white so that it will fit with almost every turntable’s color scheme.
Cons:
- It’s not compatible with all turntables.
Victrola Retro Bluetooth Record Player
Vintage charm
Whether you prefer the sounds of oldies or just looking for an affordable record player that sounds great, this retro turntable for Victrola is up to the task. Aesthetically it looks like a mashup between a chromed-out classic car and a vintage radio, but internally it couldn’t be more different. This classy turntable is modern where it counts, boasting high-tech playability that’s just as convenient as it is practical. For beginners and collectors alike, this record player with built-in speakers is a bargain that won’t be easily beaten.
Pros:
- It can play music from CDs, AM/FM radio, Bluetooth, and the auxiliary input, as well as vinyl records.
- It includes software to record your vinyl records and convert them into Mp3 files.
Cons:
- The sound quality may be a bit tinny compared to a full stereo system.
Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK Direct-Drive Turntable
Ready to go pro
If you want the very best in a turntable, this is a great place to start. This direct-drive turntable from Audio Technica features a balanced S-shape tonearm with a hydraulically damped lift control for safe and secure spinning that won’t gouge your records and a lockable rest to keep it out of the way when it’s not in use. You can even alter the pitch of the music using the variable pitch control and quartz speed lock. This turntable is chocked-full of bells and whistles, but at the end of the day, it’s the best in the biz because of its highly adjustable settings, top-of-the-line specs, and, of course, great sound.
Pros:
- This turntable has a USB connection so that you can convert your vinyl records into mp3 files on your computer.
- It has a damped base construction to keep from wobbling or picking up any added feedback.
Cons:
- It’s a bit pricey, but you get what you pay for.
Big Fudge Vinyl Record Cleaning Kit
Bath time
If you’ve let years of dirt, oil, and dust accumulate on your records, it may be time for a cleaning. With this vinyl record cleaning kit for Big Fudge, you can clean worry-free. The anti-static velvet brush is designed to clean your records without scratching them, leaving them just as silky and smooth as the day you got them. It also comes with a stylus brush to clean the stylus needle, an area that’s often neglected. All in all, this cleaning kit is a great way to make sure your records stand the test of time.
Pros:
- The cleaning liquid comes in a 50ml bottle, so it should last a very long time.
- It comes with a pouch to hold everything, so it condenses all the parts into one compact bag.
Cons:
- This is lighter in weight and durability than the original Discwasher brush.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to clean my vinyl records?
Not necessarily, but leaving dirt and oils on your records could damage them over time and prevent them from working properly. Keeping your records clean can ensure that your records last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. Casual users may not feel the need to clean their records, but collectors absolutely should if they want their collections to last.
Do turntables have speakers?
Not all do. Normally an isolated turntable that’s meant for a professional DJ or audiophile will not come with speakers included. Ones that do are typically meant for casual consumer audiences and will be marketed as record players rather than turntables. Most record collectors buy their turntables separately so they can customize what speakers they use rather than just using a built-in set.
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.