If you are new to vinyl, getting the right player may not be easy. With so many options available, how do you separate the wheat from the chaff? The good news is that there are quality units designed with affordability in mind. This article will guide you on what characteristics to look for and recommend some great options.
How to Choose the Right Turntable
It’s easy to be drawn to a turntable due to its look. As much as this matters, you’ll want to prioritize functionality. Sure, you can get a nice-looking model, but what use would it be to you if it doesn’t deliver good sound? Therefore, ensure you pay attention to these features and characteristics when choosing a turntable:
Drive mechanism
Turntables can operate through belt, direct, and idler drive mechanisms. If you want quiet operation with minimal vibration, a belt drive turntable may be ideal. However, to enjoy consistent speed and quick start-up times, go for a direct drive; it’s also common among DJs. Idler drive turntables are hard to find nowadays, though they are known for their smooth playback.
Speed options
Many turntables currently support two speed settings—33 1/3 and 45 RPM. In case you have older shellac discs that play at 78RPM, you need to be keen to choose a model that includes this option. Turntables created for collectors or audiophiles provide 78 RPM, while many entry-level models may not.
Platter material
This can significantly affect the sound quality of a turntable. Heavier materials are usually the best as they effectively dampen vibrations. So, ensure you look for turntables featuring aluminum, acrylic, or glass platters. Plastic options, if not properly designed, can disappoint.
Cartridge quality
Though small in size, this component has a significant impact on your listening experience. A high-quality cartridge ensures the clarity and fidelity of your music, compared to a subpar one. Some cartridges are fixed, while others come pre-fixed. I would recommend selecting a turntable with a replaceable cartridge, as it allows future upgrades when you want to enhance sound performance.
Mode of operation
Turntables can be automatic, manual, or both; the choice boils down to individual preferences. As a purist, a manual turntable can be more appealing, given it offers a more hands-on approach. On the other hand, casual listeners may prefer the convenience of automatic models. A turntable that combines both options offers the best of both worlds and isn’t bad either; it gives you flexibility in how you enjoy your music.
Built-in preamp
Not all units integrate a built-in preamp, and you can go for an option that doesn’t include one. However, if your speakers or stereo systems lack a dedicated phono input, getting a deck with a built-in preamp can save you the hassle of acquiring an external one.
Additional features
Although not mandatory, consider looking for turntables with features like Bluetooth, USB interface, built-in speakers, or headphone headphone jacks to add extra convenience. Moreover, pay attention to the brand to get a quality unit.
The Best Turntables You Need to Look At
Finding the ideal turntable can be hectic. Fortunately, we have identified some of the best models that combine affordability with value. Check them out below:
Fluance RT80 Classic
Technical characteristics
- 2-speed (33 1/3 and 45 RPM)
- Aluminum platter
- Static balanced, S-type tonearm
- Belt drive
- MDF plinth
- Headshell with Audio Technica AT91 Cartridge
- 3ft RCA cable with ground wire
- 5ft 100V – 240V (50/60Hz) AC power adapter
To start us off is the Fluance RT80 Classic turntable, which promises to deliver a pure analog listening experience. It comes with an AT91 cartridge from Audio Technica to track your record grooves more accurately. That’s why it sounds good than most units at this price range. The deck can produce every audio detail when plugged to a conventional sound system for a memorable experience.
What about background noise? This is mostly dealt with by the anti-vibration design featuring the belt drive system, isolation feet, and aluminum platter. Overall, RT80 looks elegant with its smooth piano black finish.
Installation is easy, as it doesn’t require you to be technical. Using its user-friendly manual, you can set up the platter, belt, and cartridge, balance the tonearm, and adjust the anti-skate force hassle-free.
As for connectivity, the turntable uses RCA connections for traditional stereo systems. A built-in preamp is also included to facilitate direct connection with amplifiers or speakers without a dedicated phono input.
Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-GM
Might interest you:
Technical characteristics
- 2-speed (33 1/3 and 45 RPM)
- Built-in switchable phono preamp
- Dual Magnet cartridge with replaceable stylus
- Detachable RCA output cable (3.5 mm male to dual RCA male)
- 45 RPM adapter
- Die-cast aluminum platter
If you are looking for a fully automatic turntable, this could be it. Audio Technica has been producing quality turntables for decades, and the AT-LP60X-GM is no exception. For an entry-level unit, it sure delivers. The sound is accurate, detailed, and immersive, with a neutral reproduction that will please your ears.
The deck features a belt-drive system and die-cast aluminum platter that prevent vibrations from being captured by the stylus. Noise is further reduced by an external AC adapter, which moves AC/DC conversion outside the chassis, protecting the signal chain from interference.
For connectivity, a detachable RCA output cable is provided to link the unit to your home stereo or power speakers. Even if your components lack a dedicated phono input, the built-in preamp ensures easy connection.
The cartridge comes pre-installed into the headshell to streamline setup and save you time. You’ll love that the cartridge is detachable; you can always upgrade it to enjoy more quality sound without needing to invest in a new or more expensive deck in the future.
House of Marley Stir It Up Turntable
Technical characteristics
- Built-in speaker and preamp
- USB recording
- Plays 33 1/3 or 45 RPM
- Aluminum Platter
- Auto start/stop function
- Universal AC Adapter
- RCA to 1/4 inch cord
- Bamboo plinth
- Replaceable Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge
- Belt drive
House of Marley prides itself in producing eco-friendly products, and this turntable has its prints written all over it. You have a plinth made of bamboo, one of the most well-known sustainable materials. The sides feature a Rewind recycled fabric, and so does the dust cover. Recycled aluminum is used for both the tonearm and platter, emphasizing its environmentally conscious design.
Generally, the turntable sounds good, thanks to the cartridge from Audio-Technica. You can only play two speeds—33 1/3 and 45 RPM—selectable at the touch of a button. Particular about looks? House of Marley doesn’t disappoint. The bamboo plinth that makes most of the exterior gives it a sleek appearance that can fit into any room’s aesthetic.
Setup should be quick and easy if you follow the instructions on the manual carefully. As for connectivity, there are RCA outs and built-in preamp. It’s also possible to digitize your vinyl through the integrated USB port.
Crosley CR7016A-MA
Technical characteristics
- 3-speed (33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM)
- AM/FM Radio and a CD player
- Bluetooth receiver
- Built-in speakers
- RCA output
- Wood cabinet
- Ceramic cartridge
The Crosley CR7016A-MA turntable wraps up our list of recommendations, and as the saying goes, I have saved the best for last. Don’t get me wrong, though, the others are great options, too.
This model merges vintage charm with modern technology. It features an AM/FM radio for when you want a break from vinyl. And if you want to stream music from your mobile phone through the unit’s speakers, that’s possible with the Bluetooth feature. There’s even a CD player for added versatility.
The unit supports the conventional aux input for connecting to external speakers or amplifiers; a headphone jack is available if you want to listen to music privately. Crosley is basically “plug and play.” Almost everything is preset; all you have to do is plug in a power source and RCA cables, and you are good to go! You can play music at different speeds (33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM) and expect to get fairly good sound.
Conclusion
You deserve a good deck if you are to appreciate vinyl. And it doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg to get a good unit. Brands like Fluance, Audio-Technica, Crosley, and House of Marley provide affordable decks that don’t compromise on quality. You can trust them to deliver amazing sound, versatility, nice aesthetics, upgradability, durability, and ease of use. Even then, before you settle for an ideal turntable, be keen on characteristics like drive mechanism, platter material, cartridge quality, mode of operation, and more.
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