Records and record players have become popular ways to own music in a more authentic and tangible way. The resurgence in popularity has contributed to more record stores opening and new record player brands producing modern machines with sleeker designs.
Record players aren’t just for sitting in the home and playing records but can now include features like Bluetooth and can be more portable. The best record players incorporate modern features while paying homage to its vintage origins. With those considerations, the Audio-Technica Direct-Drive Turntable is the best player to show off your record collection.
What to know before you buy a record player
Investment
With the wide availability of modern record players, you no longer have to cough up an arm and a leg to get into collecting vinyl. However, price can directly correlate to audio quality in record players with more expensive players coming equipped with powerful amps and higher quality and durable materials that promise a more pure sound.
Be aware that the buck doesn’t stop after you buy your record player. Building a record collection can be costly, with records priced anywhere from $20-$100 and up, depending on their rarity.
Amp
Amps are one of the most overlooked and forgotten components of a new record player, especially among those just entering the world of vinyl. If you buy a record player and can’t figure out why the sound is so quiet you are likely missing an amp. Amps work with the record player to amplify the sound without distorting it.
Despite being a critical component to the workings of a record player, some players don’t come with amps included. While this can seem like an inconvenience, it allows you to easily upgrade the amp for a better sound.
Speakers
Speakers are another consideration critical to the enjoyment of your record player but not always included. Record players that do come with speakers will either have them as internal or external components. Internal speakers are very convenient and contribute to the portability of your record player, but might be lower quality than external speakers. Record players that come without speakers enable owners to choose the quality and investment of speakers they prefer.
Record player features
Automatic, semi-automatic or manual
Now for the nitty gritty components of a record player that might feel confusing for those unfamiliar with the mechanics of a record player. Record players can come with automatic, semi-automatic or manual arms that contribute to the ease (and let’s face it, cool factor) of your record player.
An automatic arm will place itself on a record player, move forward through the record, and then return to its base when the record is done all by itself. A semi-automatic arm needs to be placed on the record manually but will move through the record and then return to its base automatically when the record is done. A manual arm needs to be manually placed on and taken off the record.
USB connectivity
Avid vinyl collectors may want the option to digitize their collections to protect their investment and be able to conveniently listen to music at the same quality that record players provide. Record players can be connected directly to a computer via USB cable to create a digital file when playing.
Record player cost
Considerations such as design, amp and speakers can all impact the cost of a record player, and are why you will find such variation in price. Easy, all-in-one record players will only cost around $50, a very low barrier to entry for those looking to get into vinyl without paying too much mind to sound quality. Premium quality record players can cost up to $1,000, but realistically, you can find a high-quality record player for around $200.
Record player FAQ
Do I need to buy special records depending on the record player I buy?
A. No. A standard record player can play a variety of record sizes. Records can come in 7, 10 and 12-inches in diameter. The larger the record, the more songs printed on each side of the record.
What is the difference between a record player and a turntable?
A. While both a turntable and a record player serve the same purpose — to play records — a turntable requires a preamp, an amplifier and separate speakers to play music. A record player is usually an all-in-one device that requires no other equipment to enjoy.
Which record player should I get?
Best of the best record player
Audio-Technica Direct-Drive Turntable: available at Amazon
Our take: This turntable from a trusted brand in vinyl is perfect for those ready to get serious about their investment in a music experience.
What we like: Comes with variable speeds of 33/45/78 RPM. Attractive and sleek design with protective, but removable dust cover. Variable pitch control. Hydraulic tonearm lifts, lowers and locks into the place. Available in wired or wireless.
What we dislike: It’s a manual turntable so if left alone, it won’t automatically return the arm to its resting place.
Best bang for your buck record player
Crosley CR8005D-WS Cruiser Deluxe Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Suitcase Turntable: available at Amazon
Our take: A budget friendly record player with a vintage feel, perfect for those just looking to conveniently listen to records without being particular about the sound quality.
What we like: An all-in-one record player with a convenient carrying suitcase design to be taken on the go. Available in a variety of colors and patterns. Built in speakers also allow for bluetooth connectivity to stream music from your phone.
What we dislike: With this price, you are definitely going to compromise a bit on sound quality.
Honorable mention record player
LP&No.1 Bluetooth Vinyl Record Player with External Speakers: available at Amazon
Our take: A record player with a mid-century vibe that comes with a few of the components you’d have to buy elsewhere.
What we like: A vintage look with modern features. This turntable comes with a set of external speakers that match the look and feel of the turntable. Built with a protective dust cover that can be lowered while playing. Built-in Bluetooth.
What we dislike: The tonearm is a little light and can skip on some smaller records if not weighed down.
Daisy Kelly is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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