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APRIL 27, 2022 BY JOZEPH P

10 BEST RECORD PLAYERS IF YOU HEAR MUSIC THE OLD STYLE

best-record-players-Best-Record-Players

Image Credits: Which

It looks like record players are a thing of the past now. We always miss those days when big black discs moving in circular motion on a big device. Well, those Vinyls are still in the game. Several pop artists have released vinyl versions of their latest records, from Harry Styles to the Korean boy band group, and BTS. Fortunately, record players, or turntables, are still around.

Don’t have a record player at home? No need to worry! We have compiled a list of some of the best record players so you can listen to your classic vinyl collections.

The Best Record Players

Rega Planar 3/Elys 2

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Best for overall performance
Rega-Planar

Image Credits: Rega

What We Like

Rega impressed us with its stellar performance in a (comparatively) small budget

Specifications

Dimensions  420 x 112 x 330mm
Weight 4.0 kg
Motor Belt drive
Cartridge Elys2 MM
Platter 12 mm glass polished edge
Bluetooth No
USB No
Speed 331/3, 45 rpm
Special Features RB330 precision tonearm, double brace technology
Price $1025

The Rega Planar 3/Elys 2 is one of the best turntables from Rega. Every single component on the turntable is polished with perfection. This iconic turntable uses lightweight rigid plinths and particulate core. It comes equipped with RB330 precision tonearm and factory-fitted Rega Elys 2 cartridge. So, no matter how complex a track is, it ensures that the performance is always stellar.

Moreover, the Planar 3 has a 3mm phenolic bottom brace and a new metalized skin phenolic top brace. In addition, this turntable combines an enhanced foot to increase stability and reduce vibration transfer.

In addition, the new motor control PCB(Printed Circuit Board) with integrated Neo PSU assures low noise. Also, the motor tray comes with integrated cooling. The design of the turntable does not disappoint either. It is furnished with a 12mm float glass ‘Optiwhite’ polished edge and engineered to perfection.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Detailed sound Lacks features
Strengthened structure
Lightweight
Excellent cartridge

Pro-Ject Primary E

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Best for budget
Pro-Ject-Primary

Image Credits: Project Audio

What We Like

Pro-ject Primary E absolutely nails the fundamentals within an affordable range

Specifications

Dimensions  447 x 117 x 360mm
Weight 6.0 kg
Motor Belt drive
Cartridge Ortofon OM
Platter 300mm with felt mat
Bluetooth No
USB No
Speed 33, 45 rpm(manual speed change)
Special Features High-precision aluminum tonearm, vibration-absorbing feet
Price $379

You will be hard-pressed to find a turntable like Pro-Ject Primary E in the same price range. This record player is affordable, but it does not compromise on quality. With its high-quality tonearm, Ortofon cartridge, and great build, the Primary E nails the basics.

Also, the lightweight and low-friction aluminum tonearm can be optimized for the cartridge. Although it could have a better design, it serves its purpose in the end.

Furthermore, the vibration-absorbing feet isolate the turntable from the surface it is placed on to deliver the best sound.

Moreover, the Primary E has hard-wired RCA interconnects, pre-set tracking, and anti-skate weights. So all you need to do is slip the belt around the platter and the pulley. It is as simple as that!

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Cost-effective Lackluster design
Easy to set up
Pleasing sound quality
Anti-skating

Technics SL-1500C

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Best for convenience
Technics-SL-1500C

Image Credits: Technics

What We Like

Technics SL-1500 has been designed to deliver an articulate sound

Specifications

Dimensions  453 x 169 x 372 mm
Weight 9.9 kg
Motor Direct drive
Cartridge Ortofon 2M 
Platter 332mm, aluminum diecast
Bluetooth No
USB No
Speed 33 1/3, 45  and 78 rpm
Special Features Built-in Phono Equalizer and Cartridge
Price $1199

Technics has delivered yet another beastly performer. Technics SL-1500C is much more affordable than its other turntables. It is a complete turntable with a built-in Phono Equalizer and Cartridge so that you can play analog records more comfortably.

The latest coreless direct-drive motor on the turntable achieves high-precision stable rotation. So, it reads the high rotation accuracy and high-precision signals of the record.

Furthermore, the turntable has been designed to shut-out adverse effects to the Phono output. The SL-1500C comes equipped with Ortofon 2M RED cartridge, an acclaimed high-quality cartridge.

Moreover, when the tonearm reaches the end of the record, the Auto Lifter function automatically raises the cartridge.

In addition, it sports a simple design while retaining the classic feel of the brand.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Impressive bass Blunt musicality
Premium design
Pre-fitted cartridge
Easy to use

Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB

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Best for features
Audio-Technica

Image Credits: Audio Technica

What We Like

Audio-Technica delivers some of the most outstanding sound quality with multiple features

Specifications

Dimensions  452 x 141.6 x 352 mm
Weight 8 kg
Motor Direct drive
Cartridge Ortofon 2M 
Platter Die-cast aluminum
Bluetooth Yes
USB Yes
Speed 33 1/3, 45  and 78 rpm
Special Features Anti-skate control, variable pitch control with quartz speed lock
Price $449

AT-LP120XBT-USB delivers high-fidelity audio of your vinyl. It features a new DC servo direct-drive motor, adjustable dynamic anti-skate control, and a selectable phono amplifier. Also, the fully manual turntable is equipped with a USB output that allows a direct connection to your computer.

Moreover, it has a balanced S-shaped tonearm with hydraulically damped lift control and lockable rest. The AT-LP120 has an AC adapter that handles AC/DC conversion outside the chassis. So, it reduces noise in the signal chain.

You can now convert vinyl records to digital audio files using the free MAC and PC-compatible Audacity recording software. In addition, its professional controls give you the power to shape your high-fidelity listening experience. Hence, AT-LP120XBT-USB is a perfect turntable for a budding DJ!

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Impressive audio Not the most dynamic sound
USB-enabled model
Bluetooth connectivity
Multiple features
Cost-effective

Fluance RT81

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Best for beginners
Fluance-RT

Image Credits: Fluance

What We Like

The Fluance RT81 is a great choice for a beginner with excellent sound and durability

Specifications

Dimensions  5.5 x 16.5 x 13.75 inches
Weight 6.4 kg
Motor Belt drive
Cartridge Dual Moving Magnet (MM)
Platter aluminum
Bluetooth No
USB No
Speed 33 1/3, 45 rpm
Special Features Audio Technical AT95E stylus, S-type tonearm
Price $249

The Fluance RT81 delivers excellent performance and drives a great bargain. It is easy to set up and use with a built-in phono preamp. But, again, you can also switch out the cartridge for better performance later on.

Moreover, the RT81 features the Audio Technica AT95E cartridge with a diamond elliptical-tipped stylus. Fluance RT81 is designed to track your record grooves with greater precision and accuracy. In addition, its aluminum S-Type forearm ensures the stylus is deep in your record’s groove.

Moreover, it incorporates a high-quality built-in Texas Instruments preamp and gold-plated RCA line outputs to ensure warm sound. Furthermore, the record player is made of solid engineered (MDF) wood with isolation feet, an aluminum platter, and a rubber slip. The turntable looks excellent and sounds even better!

Relatively/comparatively pricier/pricey

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Beautiful classy design Poor vibration-damping
Cost-effective
High-performance cartridge
Decent phono preamp

Rega Planar 1

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Best for performance
Rega-Planar

Image Credits: astellnkern

What We Like

Planar 1 is the best entry-level H–Fi turntables that impressed us with its performance.

Specifications

Dimensions  447 x 117 x 360 mm
Weight 4.2 kg
Motor Belt drive
Cartridge Rega Carbon MM
Platter aluminum
Bluetooth No
USB No
Speed 33 1/3, 45 rpm
Special Features EBLT Advanced drive, RB110 tonearm
Price $249

The Planar 1 is possibly the best entry-level hi-fi turntable on this list. The sound production is excellent. The Planar 1 uses a bespoke 24 V, low noise, synchronous motor to reduce vibration. Furthermore, it combines the RB110 tonearm with Rega’s unique ultra-low friction bearings.

Moreover, it has the latest drive belt technology, the EBLT belt, which delivers greater accuracy and improved speed performance. This turntable comes with a factory-fitted Carbon Moving Magnet (MM) cartridge. In addition, it is the first entry-level Rega turntable to use a 24 V, synchronous AC motor with a new PCM and aluminum pulley. So, this offers low noise and better speed stability.

The sound produced by the Planar 1 is expressive and full-bodied. This makes Planar 1 a step up from the rest of the entry-level turntables.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Beautiful and classy design Poor vibration-damping
Cost-effective
High-performance cartridge
Decent phono preamp

Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Evo

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Best for detailed sound
Pro-Ject-Debut

Image Credits: ProJect

What We Like

Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Evo offers the sound for the money

Specifications

Dimensions  415 x 118 x 320 mm
Weight 5.6kg
Motor Belt drive
Cartridge MM-Cartridge Ortofon 2M Red
Platter 12”, 3.7lbs steel
Bluetooth No
USB No
Speed 33, 45/ (78) rpm
Special Features Sumiko Rainier phono cartridge
Price $599

The Debut Carbon EVO represents everything that Pro-Ject stands for top quality performance, clean aesthetics, and value. It features Pro-Ject’s self-designed motor suspension for reduced vibrations. In addition, its three height-adjustable heavy-duty metal feet ensure a level positioning on every surface.

Moreover, the Debut Carbon Evo is equipped with factory mounted and aligned Sumiko Rainier phono cartridges. Also, Rainier offers a replaceable stylus that can be easily upgraded. With the super stiff but lightweight tonearm, the turntable delivers an insane sound quality. The 2M Red is an all-purpose cartridge to offer open and dynamic sound.

Furthermore, the massive TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) ring on the inside of the platter results in a quieter and noiseless operation. In addition, the rocker switch on the bottom of the turntable allows you to change speeds with the push of a single button. Lastly, you can choose your finish on the turntable with satin, gloss, or natural wood options.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Detailed sound Sound could be more vigorous
Impressive specification
Full-bodied, rich sound
Well-built
Reasonably priced

Sony PS-LX310BT

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Best for entertaining sound
Sony-PS-LX310BT

Image Credits: Sony

What We Like

Sony PS-LX310BT is an effective Bluetooth record player with an entertaining sound.

Specifications

Dimensions  430 x 108 x 367 mm
Weight 3.5 kg
Motor Belt drive
Cartridge MM-Cartridge 
Platter Aluminum, 296mm
Bluetooth Yes
USB Yes
Speed 33 1/3, 45 rpm
Special Features Bluetooth wireless, One-step auto playback
Price $231

Sony’s turntable is for the ones who are new to the world of vinyl. Sony PS-LX310BT is easy to set up as there is no need to fit and align a cartridge. Also, you can now enjoy your timeless classics with simple controls. Furthermore, you can listen to your favorite records on your wireless speakers or headphones with Bluetooth technology. You can simply connect this turntable to your Bluetooth devices for a cable-free listening experience.

Moreover, this turntable automatically lowers the tonearm thanks to its One-step fully automatic playback function. So, you can listen to your music with the touch of a button. This process is as simple as it gets!

In addition, the PS-LX310BT supports phono and line output with its built-in Phono EQ. Lastly, you can connect the Sony turntable to your computer via USB to convert your record into digital files.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Engaging sound Lacks nuances in sound
Beginners-friendly
Lightweight
Cost-effective
Wireless Bluetooth connectivity

Vertere DG-1 Dynamic Groove

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Best for beginners
Vertere-DG-1-Dynamic

Image Credits: Acoutics

What We Like

The DG-1 is one of the best ‘plug and play’ high-performance record players.

Specifications

Dimensions  469 x 384 x 130mm (including dust cover)
Weight 8 kg
Motor Belt drive
Cartridge Magneto
Platter aluminum
Bluetooth No
USB No
Speed 33 1/3, and 45 rpm
Special Features DG-1 Precision Synchronous motor
Price $4,099 – $5,999

The DG-1 does not compromise on quality, which justifies its high price tag. However, the turntable of Vertere delivers the performance expected with that price range. The DG-1’s 24-pole Precision Synchronous motor is tuned individually to minimize noise.

In addition, copper/stainless steel shielding protects it from any interference.

Moreover, the platter is a precision-machined alloy similar to its pulley. A bespoke silicon rubber drive belt ensures smoothness and durability. Furthermore, its 3-layer, non-resonant tonearm prevents any sound resonance/distortions.

In addition, the DC-1’s Challenger is a performance-enhancing DC power supply for the record player. As a result, DG-1 delivers the optimal audio performance, making it the best-sounding ‘plug and play’ record player money can buy.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Dynamic expression  Hefty price
Impressive rhythm
Great design
Wide soundstage

Clearaudio Concept

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Best for sound
Clearaudio-Concept

Image Credits: Clear Audio

What We Like

Clearaudio Concept is an elegant turntable featuring groundbreaking technology

Specifications

Dimensions  420 x 350 x 125mm
Weight 7.5 kg
Motor Belt drive
Cartridge Magneto
Platter Aluminum 30mm
Bluetooth No
USB No
Speed 33 1/3, 45, and 78 rpm
Special Features Cartridge: optional with concept MM, concept MC, Essence MC,

Tonearm: optional with concept or Satisfy Kardan

Price $1,799

Clearaudio Concept is a combination of plug-and-play simplicity and outstanding sound quality. This simplicity comes from the company’s signature Concept cartridge fitted to the Verify Direct Wire Plus tonearm.

Moreover, the turntable’s body is made of medium-density wood fiber with beautiful surface finishes. Also, the body’s upper layer has a unique high-tech satin plastic compound to minimize unwanted resonance.

Furthermore, the Concept features the high-quality Concept MM or Concept MC cartridge. This compact turntable also has a handy speed dial on the plinth. So, you don’t have to swap the belt position manually. If you want to enjoy the detailed, rhythmic and spacious sound, the Clearaudio Concept is the right pick for you. Although a bit pricey, you can be assured that you get your money’s worth.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Easy set-up  Hefty price
Excellent sonic performance
Great design
Compact

Is Purchasing a Record Player Worth It in 2023?

Do you have vinyl collecting dust in an abandoned corner of your room? Well, this is your clue. Get a record player. Yes, you have your smartphones and headphones, but a record player is classy. It is a great product to stream your records while you wind down after a tiring day.

Record players are a lot more convenient now. Some come equipped with Bluetooth connections and USB, such as the Sony PS-LX310BT. So get a record player and put those records to use!

Buyer’s Guide

best-record-Buyers-Guide

Image Credits: Jordan Hall

If you are looking for a record player to liven up your living room, consider the following factors before picking the best one. We have prepared a list of essential things to consider.

Speed modes: We recommend you to get record players (or turntables) that can spin at 33 ⅓ and 45 rpm (rotations per minute), so you can play full-sized albums and singles.

Upgradability: One important factor is the upgradability of the needle (or cartridges). If your needle gets bent or damaged, you can swap or replace it with a new one, which is only possible if your record player gives you the option to replace the cartridge or needle.

Preamp: A preamp amplifies the audio produced by a record player. While some turntables have an in-built preamp, others require you to hook them up to an external preamp. Of course, it is more convenient to have an in-built amp, but an external one allows you to replace or upgrade it.

Budget: If you are looking for budget-friendly options, you could go for retro-styled players with built-in speakers. However, if you are looking for a better audio experience with rich and detailed sound, you need to prepare to spend more.

USB port: If you wish to digitize your records, you will require a turntable with a USB port. So, you can easily connect the record player to your computer and convert your physical albums into digital files.

FAQ's

The needle drops onto the record by itself in an automatic system. However, the system is manual in most mid to high-end record players, which implies that you need to lift the tonearm and place it on the record yourself.

Belt drive turntables have an independent motor that spins the platter with a rubber belt. It is preferred by those who value high-quality sound. It produces less background noise and low vibration.

Direct drives are the only turntables fit for DJing as they combine a platter directly connected to the motor.