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10 Best Record Players 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

1 by ONE High Fidelity Belt Drive Turntable with Built-in Speakers, Vinyl Record Player with Magnetic Cartridge, Bluetooth Playback and Aux-in Functionality, Auto Off

The 1 by ONE High Fidelity Belt Drive Turntable is a versatile and stylish option for vinyl lovers. It boasts an attractive wood and metal design, making it a great addition to any space. With a built-in speaker, it offers convenient Bluetooth streaming and Aux-in functionality, allowing you to easily play music from various devices. This feature is particularly appealing for those who want a multi-functional sound system without the hassle of additional equipment.

One of its significant strengths is the magnetic cartridge paired with an adjustable counterweight, which together aim to deliver warm and rich audio. The diamond-tipped Audio-Technica stylus enhances sound clarity, ensuring an enjoyable listening experience. The turntable also supports both 33 and 45 RPM speeds, catering to different vinyl formats.

While the built-in speakers are convenient, they may not offer the audio quality that true audiophiles desire, particularly when compared to external speakers. Additionally, the turntable’s weight of 13.2 pounds may limit its portability. This turntable is ideal for casual listeners and newcomers to vinyl, thanks to its user-friendly features like Bluetooth connectivity and a simple operation. Serious audiophiles might find it lacking in terms of sound quality, but as a stylish entry-level model, it serves well for those who wish to enjoy vinyl records in a more relaxed and convenient setting.

#2

Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Professional Turntable

The Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Professional Turntable is a strong contender in the record player category, especially for DJs and audiophiles who appreciate high-quality playback. One of its standout features is the high-torque direct-drive motor, which ensures quick start-up times and consistent speed control. This is complemented by three tempo ranges, allowing for versatile mixing options. The turntable's robust design, made from zinc, enhances its stability and durability, making it suitable for both home and performance settings.

The PLX-1000 also includes a built-in preamp, which is convenient for connecting to various audio systems without needing additional equipment. It relies on wired connectivity, which might limit flexibility for some users who prefer wireless setups.

On the downside, the turntable's weight (38 pounds) may be a concern for those needing a more portable option. Additionally, while it offers high stability, the modern style might not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic preferences. The lack of USB connectivity might also be a drawback for users looking to digitize their vinyl collection easily, as this feature is becoming increasingly popular among other models in the market.

The Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 is particularly well-suited for professional DJs and serious listeners who prioritize sound quality and performance. Those looking for a more lightweight, portable turntable or who wish to connect via USB may want to consider other options.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Drive Type
Despite its weight, the PLX-1000 is praised for being a sturdy, precision direct-drive turntable.
Cartridge Type
The PLX-1000 does not come with a cartridge, but pairing it with a quality one like the Audio Technics AT-VM95ML enhances its performance.
Tonearm Type
It features RCA output jacks, quick disconnect power, VTA tone arm adjustment, and a common easy-change head shell on an 'S' shaped tone arm, which are all desirable for audiophiles.
#3

Audio Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BZ Direct Drive USB Turntable

The Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BZ Direct Drive USB Turntable is a solid choice for both vinyl enthusiasts and those looking to digitize their record collections. It features a direct-drive DC servo motor, ensuring smooth and consistent playback. The adjustable dynamic anti-skate control further enhances its performance by reducing distortion and ensuring accurate tracking.

With three speed settings (33-1/3 RPM, 45 RPM, and 78 RPM), the turntable can accommodate various record formats, making it versatile for different collections. The built-in phono pre-amplifier is a convenient addition, allowing users to switch between phono and line-level outputs based on their system setup. Additionally, the USB connectivity and included Audacity recording software make it straightforward to convert vinyl records into digital files, a great feature for those wanting to preserve their music in a modern format.

However, the turntable's plastic material might not appeal to purists looking for a more premium build. Its weight (20 pounds) and dimensions make it somewhat bulky, which could be a drawback for those with limited space. Despite these minor issues, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BZ offers a robust set of features, especially for its price range, making it a reliable option for a wide range of users, from casual listeners to more dedicated vinyl collectors.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Cartridge Type
The sound quality is great out of the included atvm95e cartridge and the table has consistent speed, with performance exceeding expectations on wow and flutter.
Speed Settings
The turntable's ability to play 78 RPM records is a bonus, though some users might prefer a higher quality 45 RPM adapter instead.

Buying Guide for the Best Record Players

Choosing the right record player can be a delightful journey into the world of vinyl music. Whether you're a seasoned audiophile or a newcomer to the vinyl scene, understanding the key specifications of record players will help you make an informed decision. The right record player can enhance your listening experience, preserve your vinyl collection, and even add a touch of style to your home. Here are the key specs to consider when selecting a record player.
Turntable TypeThe turntable type refers to the mechanism that drives the platter. There are two main types: belt-drive and direct-drive. Belt-drive turntables use a belt to spin the platter, which can reduce vibrations and provide a smoother sound. Direct-drive turntables have the motor directly connected to the platter, offering more consistent speed and durability, making them popular among DJs. If you prioritize sound quality for home listening, a belt-drive might be ideal. If you need durability and precision for mixing or scratching, a direct-drive is a better choice.
Cartridge and StylusThe cartridge and stylus are crucial components that read the grooves of the vinyl record. The cartridge houses the stylus, which is the needle that makes contact with the record. There are different types of cartridges, such as moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC). MM cartridges are more common and affordable, while MC cartridges can offer higher fidelity but are more expensive. The stylus shape also matters; elliptical styluses provide better sound quality than conical ones. Consider your listening preferences and budget when choosing the cartridge and stylus.
Platter MaterialThe platter is the part of the turntable where the record sits. Platter materials can vary, including metal, acrylic, and glass. Metal platters are durable and provide good speed stability, while acrylic and glass platters can offer better sound quality by reducing resonance. If you are looking for a balance between durability and sound quality, a metal platter is a good choice. For audiophiles seeking the best sound, acrylic or glass platters might be preferable.
TonearmThe tonearm holds the cartridge and stylus and guides them across the record. Tonearms can be straight or curved, and they can be manual or automatic. Straight tonearms are simpler and often preferred for their precision, while curved tonearms can reduce tracking errors. Manual tonearms require you to place the stylus on the record yourself, offering more control, while automatic tonearms do this for you, providing convenience. Choose a tonearm based on your preference for control versus convenience.
Speed SettingsRecord players typically offer different speed settings to accommodate various types of records. The most common speeds are 33 1/3 RPM for LPs and 45 RPM for singles. Some turntables also support 78 RPM for older records. Ensure the record player you choose can play the types of records you own. If you have a diverse collection, look for a turntable with multiple speed settings.
Built-in PreampA built-in preamp amplifies the signal from the cartridge to a level that can be processed by speakers or amplifiers. Some record players come with a built-in preamp, while others require an external one. If you want a simpler setup, a built-in preamp can be convenient. However, external preamps can offer better sound quality and more customization options. Consider your setup and sound quality preferences when deciding on a built-in preamp.
ConnectivityModern record players often come with various connectivity options, including USB ports, Bluetooth, and RCA outputs. USB ports allow you to digitize your vinyl collection, while Bluetooth enables wireless streaming to speakers. RCA outputs are standard for connecting to traditional audio systems. Think about how you plan to use your record player and choose the connectivity options that best suit your needs.

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