10 Best Vinyl Record Players – Comparison & Reviews

 

The Essential Guide to Finding the Best Vinyl Record Player + Reviews

 

If you’re a music buff on the lookout for the best vinyl record player to help you pair your moments of relaxation with your favorite tunes, yet you don’t know where to start, or you have little time at disposal to go through all the products available for sale, this paragraph might be of help. To simplify your shopping process, we have examined the features of some of the most popular in this line and concluded that the first option to take into account is the Victrola Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Suitcase Turntable. One of the things that make this unit stand out is its portable design. What’s more, the various features it comes with will enable you to play not only your favorite vinyl record albums but also your most-loved songs wirelessly from Bluetooth-enabled devices thanks to the built-in technology. Plus, the unit is packed with speakers so that you can get your little party started whenever you want to. If this product is temporarily out of stock, another product you might want to consider is the Victrola VTA-600B-ESP Navigator Bluetooth Record Player.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

10 Best Vinyl Record Players (Updated Reviews) in 2021

 

 

With so many models in this line of products, it is no wonder that finding the best vinyl record players might turn out to be a time-consuming and challenging task. To speed up and simplify your decision-making process, we have compiled below a list of vinyl record player reviews so that you can find the information you need with ease.

 

 

1. Victrola Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Suitcase Turntable

 

Designed with portability and versatility in mind, this vinyl record player from Victrola is worth adding to your list of options as it will help you enjoy your favorite music in no time. The unit provides users with two possibilities and thus offers the features needed to play both vinyl records as well as music from Bluetooth-enabled devices.

The way this product was designed and the features it comes with render the unit ideal for various applications. Besides employing it to play your most-loved vinyl records, you can stream music wirelessly as we’ve said, but you can also connect your headphones for private listening.

Rest assured that you can use it even in larger rooms as it can stream your favorite songs wireless from up to 33 feet away. What’s more, thanks to the built-in speakers, you will get anything you need to let the tunes you like fill your room.

 

Pros

If what you have in mind is an all-in-one portable music player, then this unit is worth adding to your priority list as it is packed with everything you need to play your most-loved songs effortlessly.

The unit is designed to play vinyl records and stream music wirelessly thanks to the built-in Bluetooth technology.

The headphone jack featured will make it easy to listen to your music whenever you feel like doing so without disturbing the people you live with.

The built-in speakers and the fact that this unit streams music wirelessly up to 33 feet away enhance the user’s experience and comfort when employing this product.

The suitcase design and handle will not only make it easy for you to carry the player from one place to another but will also add a stylish touch to your room.

 

Cons 

The needle might need some extra weight to work properly, yet adding something to it should be done very carefully since, otherwise, it might end up scratching your records.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($45.89)

 

 

 

2. Victrola VTA-600B-ESP Navigator Bluetooth Record Player

 

If you’ve always admired vintage-like designs and that’s what you have in mind when it comes to your next vinyl record player, this model is an option you might want to pay attention to before you make your final decision as it boasts classic looks yet modern features. The player was built in such a way to help you play your favorite albums from a variety of formats.

The product does not cater only to the needs of vinyl fans, but also to those who still listen to CDs, radio, and even cassettes. Moreover, you can go from listening to some old cassette to streaming music directly from your Bluetooth-enabled devices thanks to the technology featured.

Plus, due to the headphone jack, you can enchant your senses with the music you love without disturbing your roommates. To further boost your comfort when it’s time for some tunes, the player comes with a remote controller.

 

Pros

What you get with this unit is a versatile music player that will enable you to play your favorite music easily.

The product features a 3-speed turntable, a CD player, a USB player, AM/FM Radio, and a cassette player so that you can also listen to your old albums.

What’s more, the item offers Bluetooth connectivity and streams music wirelessly up to 33 feet away; the product also sports a 3.5mm aux-in so that you can connect non-Bluetooth devices.

You will get all of the above-mentioned features in a classic design that is available in a variety of colors to make it easier for you to choose the one that best goes with your preferences.

 

Cons 

Given the many features it packs, this model might be a bit heavier than other products available on the market; it weighs 16.5 pounds.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($138.37)

 

 

 

3. Victrola 50’s Retro 3-Speed Bluetooth Turntable

 

Built to bring your old vinyl records back to life and add a retro touch to your place, this model is equipped with a variety of features that render it versatile and easy to use. The turntable offers three speeds (33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM) so that you can cater to all of your needs, as well as wireless Bluetooth capability, which means that none of your favorite songs will be left unplayed.

The item can stream audio wirelessly up 33 feet away, so you can rest assured that you can employ the product even in larger rooms. In case your music collection includes CDs as well, learn that this product from Victrola is also packed with a CD Player.

What also makes this model worthy of consideration is that you can use it to digitize your most-loved vinyl records to MP3. You can easily connect it to your PC with the cable provided and use the manufacturer’s recording software.

 

Pros

If you’ve always been a music buff and your needs call for a music player that can support vinyl records as well as CDs, this product might be cut out for you.

Boasting a stylish retro design that will cut a fine figure, this player pairs its nice looks with versatility, so you can rest assured that many of your music-related needs will be covered.

Thanks to the built-in Bluetooth technology, you can employ the player to stream music wirelessly; what’s more, the item is capable of doing that up to 33 feet away.

The unit also allows you to digitize your old vinyl records to MP3; the pack includes the cable you need to connect it to your PC, and you can use the manufacturer’s recording software to do that.

 

Cons

The function button and the CD player might not be that durable, and the sound quality might not meet the needs of audiophiles.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($112.77)

 

 

 

4. Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK Bluetooth Belt-Drive Turntable

 

Stylish, easy to use, and packed with features that will play your favorite music in high-quality audio, this model is designed to perform and cover your needs for a long time. The fully-automatic turntable offers two speeds and, besides playing vinyl records, the unit ensures Bluetooth connectivity.

This means that you can easily connect your various Bluetooth-enabled devices to stream music wirelessly. The item features a die-cast aluminum platter that is bound to reduce vibration and an Integral Dual Moving Magnet phono cartridge with a stylus that can be replaced. The tonearm base and headshell have been redesigned to minimize resonance and improve tracking.

The item is equipped with a switchable phono pre-amp for phono- and line-level output. Thanks to the accessories included in the pack, you can employ the turntable right away. You will get a 45 RPM adapter, an RCA output cable, as well as a dust cover to protect the unit.

 

Pros

Equipped with noteworthy features that will help you play your favorite music in high-quality audio, this turntable is an option that will also add a stylish touch to your place.

You can use it to play your favorite vinyl records, but also stream music wirelessly thanks to the built-in Bluetooth technology.

To up the sound performance delivered, some of the unit’s parts have been redesigned to ensure vibration and resonance reduction.

The product offers fully automatic operation and ensures two speeds (33-1/3 and 45 RPM); plus, it is compatible with aptX codec.

The pack includes various accessories, and among them, there’s a dual RCA output cable that you can use to connect the unit to other audio devices.

 

Cons 

The power button might not be that durable and, thus, you should handle it with care; also, the volume ensured might be a bit low.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($191.98)

 

 

 

5. SeeYing Bluetooth Turntable With Stereo Speakers

 

If you’re into music a lot and you need an all-in-one player, this item is worth a look as it is packed with anything you need to play vinyl records, listen to your favorite radio station, and stream music wirelessly. The turntable is capable of two speeds ((33,45RPM) and comes with a durable stylus that will read your records stably without damaging them.

However, you can also use this product to play music from your Bluetooth-enabled devices, such as smartphones and tablets. Due to the headphone jack, you can listen to the music you like even late at night as you will be able to do so privately.

The RCA output allows you to connect external speakers whenever the need arises. The belt-driven system and the way the entire product was designed ensure vibration reduction. What’s more, the item is easy to set up, which means that it is a great option even for beginners.

 

Pros

Listening to the vinyl records you love, your favorite radio station, or digital tunes is not only enjoyable when using this product but easy as well.

To cover various needs, the product is packed with what it takes to play vinyl records and stream music wirelessly.

The built-in Bluetooth technology will help you connect various devices in no time, while the headphone jack enables private listening.

The item boasts stereo speakers for clear daily listening and offers the possibility to connect external speakers whenever you need extra volume.

The stylish product also ensures easy operation as the controls featured are intuitive and render the item ideal even for beginners.

Despite packing so many features, the unit is compact and lightweight, so you can easily store or transport it.

 

Cons 

Even though some buyers might appreciate the compact design of this unit, others might actually find it to be a bit too small.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($59.99)

 

 

 

6. 1byone Wireless Turntable HiFi System & Speakers

 

With this audio system, you can play your favorite music, whether it’s from a vinyl record or a Bluetooth-enabled device, and do so in a way that will enchant everybody listening to it. To deliver high-quality audio, the product boasts a variety of noteworthy features, such as the advanced anti-skating system that will make sure distortion and skipping are not an issue.

What sets this item apart from other products in this line is the fact that it comes with a pair of external speakers and thus enables you to use it even for larger gatherings and parties. However, due to the dual RCA output cable, you can easily connect the player to other speakers.

To help you save your most-loved tunes, the item comes with a digital USB output so that you can digitize and archive your analog record collection. The turntable also features Phono and Line outputs, which means that you can play with or without a Phone equalizer.

 

Pros 

In case you’re looking for a vinyl record player that can also stream music wirelessly and that comes paired with external speakers, this model is worth a look.

The turntable will enable you to get those old vinyl records back to work, while the built-in Bluetooth technology will make it easy to play music from various devices.

The adjustable counterweight and anti-skating weight will not only prevent the record from getting scratched but will also keep distortion and noise away.

The high-quality stylus and cartridge used will add warmth, clarity, and richness to the sound performance delivered.

Thanks to the digital USB output, you’ll be able to digitize and thus archive your favorite analog record collection.

What’s more, the mahogany and materials used for the construction of this system and the stylish design cuts will complement your home from a visual point of view.

 

Cons

Given that this turntable comes with external speakers as well, the system is a bit pricier than other models we’ve showcased, and it is also bigger and heavier.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($296.99)

 

 

 

7. Fluance RT85 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Record Player

 

What you get with this model is a stylish vinyl record player that’s capable of delivering a pure analog performance filled with warm and natural sounds. Since there are no electronics in the signal path, the sounds ensured are exceptionally pure. What’s more, the elliptical 2M Blue cartridge adds richness and elegance to the sounds produced.

To further enhance the sonic performance ensured, the unit comes with an acrylic platter that promotes a consistent speed, vibration reduction, and sound clarity. Furthermore, the multi-layered wood chassis minimizes the transfer of resonance through the unit, while the rubber feet ensure immunity to vibrations.

The resonance damping feet are adjustable to help you cater to your specific needs. The motor, just like the entire unit, was designed to play the vinyl records just as the musician intended and, thus, is built to prevent noises and vibrations from reaching the stylus. This results in accurate speed and, therefore, a pure sound performance.

 

Pros

If you want to put your old vinyl record collection back to work, this model from Fluance is worth a try, given its features and the pure analog performance ensured.

To deliver natural, warm, and rich sounds, the system features no electronics in the signal path and comes packed with an elliptical 2M Blue cartridge.

Since vibrations and noises are often an issue with record players, the manufacturer designed it in such a way to minimize the unwanted sounds that could affect the sonic output.

To further reduce vibrations and prevent the transfer of resonance through the system, the unit comes with adjustable resonance damping feet and a multi-layered wood chassis.

Besides its sonic capacities, the item also stands out through stylish visuals that will complement your place.

 

Cons 

The rubber feet are said to be adjustable, yet getting them in the desired position might be a bit difficult.

Click to see the price on Amazon!

 

 

 

8. Audio-Technica AT-LP60X Turntable Gunmetal Bundle

 

Including a sleek turntable, a cleaning kit, and a pair of studio monitors, this bundle will help you get started and play your good old vinyl records in no time. It is easy to use and offers anything you need to bring those old tunes back to life. The fully automatic belt-drive stereo system is capable of playing records at two speeds, 33-1/3 RPM and 45 RPM.

What’s more, it boasts a die-cast aluminum platter that reduces resonance so that your sound experience is free of unwanted noises. To further help with resonance and noise reduction, the item comes with a newly-designed tonearm base and headshell.

Thanks to the built-in phono pre-amplifier, the item can be connected to other audio devices. The product is also equipped with the Audio-Technica Integral Dual Magnet phono cartridge and a diamond stylus that can be replaced. Given all the items that are included in the pack, the bundle makes an inspired investment in the long run.

 

Pros

A vinyl record player should be about quality sounds, first of all, and Audio-Technica took this seriously and developed a product that will play your old records in high-quality audio.

To deliver superior sounds, the turntable is equipped with a DC servo-controlled motor and the Integral Dual Magnet phono cartridge.

What’s more, the built-in switchable phono pre-amp allows you to connect the unit to other audio devices, such as speakers and home theater systems.

The diamond stylus is replaceable, and the redesigned tonearm base and headshell and die-cast aluminum platter minimize resonance and improve tracking.

The bundle also includes a pair of Presonus 2-Way 3.5-inch Near Field Studio Monitors and a cleaning kit to help you keep the unit in mint condition.

 

Cons 

Audiophiles might find the sound quality provided by the speakers included in the pack to be a bit low; therefore, you might need other speakers if you’re interested in superior audio quality.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($239.99)

 

 

 

9. WOCKODER Portable Record Player With Speakers

 

One of the things that you’ll notice when it comes to this unit is the retro design, but what you get to discover once you start playing your records is that the sound delivered is on par with its nice visuals. The product comes with the features required to play 7″, 10″, 12″ vinyl records. Moreover, it is capable of playing at three speeds, including 33, 45, and 78RPM.

To provide you with versatility, the item can stream music wirelessly; therefore, you can simply connect your MP3 player, smartphone, or any other digital audio player in no time. You will also see that the item sports a USB slot and an SD card slot.

Due to the 3.5mm AUX-in, headphone jack output, and RCA line out, you can easily connect external speakers, audio players, and headphones for private listening. The unit’s dimensions render it portable, so you won’t have any issues in finding a place to store it.

 

Pros

Featuring a stylish retro design that won’t go unnoticed, this player is more than a turntable you can use for playing your old vinyl records.

To provide you with versatility and help you cater to your various audio-related needs, the product can also be employed to play music wirelessly from your various devices.

What’s also great about this model is that it can play 7″, 10″, 12″ vinyl records and does so at three speeds (33, 45, and 78RPM).

Connecting it to external speakers, various digital audio players, and headphones is also possible as the product features an RCA line out, a headphone jack, and a 3.5mm AUX-in.

The retro suitcase design will add a stylish touch wherever you place the item; you can find it available in two colors, sky blue and classic black.

 

Cons 

Despite being stylish, the unit might not be that durable, and the buttons might stop working even if you don’t use the item frequently.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

10. SeeYing Vinyl Bluetooth Turntable 3 Speeds

 

Whether you want to play vinyl records or music from your Bluetooth-enabled devices, this model comes with the features required to help you do so effortlessly. The unit was built with sound quality and ease of operation in mind and, thus, comes with a simple yet stylish design.

The item can play 7″,10″, and 12″ records at three speeds, including 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM, and is equipped with a belt-drive system with spring for stability. If your vinyl collection does not include all of your favorite albums, you can play them directly from your smartphone or digital audio player, thanks to the Bluetooth technology featured.

Plus, you can listen to your most-loved music whenever you feel like doing so as the item features a headphone jack to ensure private listening. The RCA line out enables you to connect the item to external speakers, while the product’s compact design renders it portable.

 

Pros

Ideal for beginners and experienced audiophiles alike, this product won’t just enable you to play your favorite vinyl records, but also to stream music wirelessly directly from your smartphone.

To make sure none of your records is left unplayed, the item is designed to work with 7″,10″, and 12″ records and play them at three speeds (33-1/3, 45, 78 RPM).

Rest assured that you can easily play music from digital audio devices and do so wirelessly thanks to the Bluetooth capacities of this unit.

Listening without bothering the people you live with is also possible due to the headphone jack featured.

The unit is compact and portable and comes with a design that ensures easy operation and transportation.

 

Cons 

Since the unit does not have a mechanical lift for the stylus arm, you need to be extra careful when handling the stylus in order not to drop or drag it.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

 

Whether you’re new to vinyl records, or you have an old collection of records that you want to get back to life, choosing the best record player for your needs might not be an easy process. The many models available for sale these days might make it even more difficult since there are so many options to take into account.

There are a few key factors to pay attention to when browsing the various models on the market, and considering them before you actually start your research can help you narrow down the extensive list of options.

Manual versus automatic record players

One of the first things you will notice when going through the record player models available these days is that they are described as manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic. These terms refer to how much you will interact with the vinyl player.

As the name suggests, a manual model requires you to lift the tonearm yourself and place the needle where you want it to be and then lift it when the playing ends. Many users interested in superior sound go for such a model since the ones featuring an automated mechanism might get noisy.

A semi-automatic vinyl player requires you to lower the tonearm to get the unit started. Once the record ends, the item will return the tonearm and automatically shut off the motor. As you probably expect, a fully automatic ensures the easiest operation. All you have to do is to push a button, and the item will do the rest for you.

Thankfully, today’s market offers many affordable vinyl record players that are fully automatic, in case you put a lot of emphasis on convenience.

 

Playback speeds 

Another highly important aspect to take into account when looking for a new vinyl player, be it an expensive or a cheap vinyl record player, is the rotation speed provided. Before adding anything to your shopping cart, you need to know what record sizes your collection includes, as the type of vinyl records you have will help you decide the rotational speed you need.

Many affordable vinyl record player models usually offer two playback speeds that are measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). Records are available in three standard sizes, and each one of them is played at a certain RPM. There are 7-inch and 12-inch (single) records that are played at 45 RPM, and then there are 10-inch records that are played at 78 RPM.

Some 12-inch records (albums) are played at 33-⅓ RPM. Some units offer two speeds, while others are capable of playing all record sizes and thus support three speeds. Make sure you consider the sizes of your records and what you intend to buy in the future and choose a model that provides the right rotational speed.

Bluetooth connectivity and other features

Thanks to the latest technological developments, you can now buy a record player vinyl model that can actually play some of your digital tunes wirelessly. If you don’t want to limit your music experience only to record playing, then you might want to consider this feature as well.

Even if your budget is not too generous, you can still find cheap vinyl record players that come with built-in Bluetooth technology. Another nice feature to have is a USB port as this will enable you to digitize and archive your record collection.

Plus, make sure you go for a model that enables you to connect it to external speakers if you want a player for various gatherings and events. A headphone jack is also a desirable characteristic as it enables private listening at any time of the day.

Last but not least, the way a record player is designed should not be overlooked. If you want a product that reproduces your music nicely, but that also looks good, keep an eye on what it has to offer from a visual point of view. There are many vintage vinyl record player models that will cut a fine figure. Reading a vinyl record player review before buying is always a good idea.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

 

Q: Do all vinyls work on all record players?

The short answer would be no, and that’s because vinyl records come in three different sizes, and each size rotates on the turntable at a different speed. The speed is measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), and many record players offer only two speeds.

To see if the player you want to buy is suitable for your vinyl records, you need to check their size and what the unit has to offer in terms of speed options. 12-inch vinyl records (albums) play at 33-⅓ RPM, 7-inch and 12-inch single records play at 45 RPM, and 10-inch records play at 78 RPM.

Some vinyl record players are described as being three-speed models and thus support all the above-mentioned sizes. However, 10-inch records are usually rare, so, if your collection does not include such records, or you don’t intend to get records in this size, a two-speed model should do.

Q: Does vinyl sound better?

This answer depends on various factors, but most vinyl record users will tell you that, yes, they do sound better. Still, this is a matter of personal preference and audio-related experience. Sure, vinyl records have both advantages and disadvantages when compared to digital files, and the quality of the sounds reproduced is the one most of their advantages point at.

That’s because, when it comes to digital audio files, details are missed, and thus there’s some loss involved. This type of audio file is compressed to become small and thus require less storage. The audio quality is affected in this process. Vinyl records should have more information than MP3s.

They will get you the sounds the artist or producer intended. Plus, the volume of a vinyl record depends on how deep its grooves are and how long its sides are. This means that a record (album) may have extra room to breathe than its digital counterparts. Also, vinyl records render warmer sounds, a feature many audiophiles appreciate.

 

Q: Why is vinyl making a comeback?

Vinyl records have witnessed an increasing interest from audiophiles all over the world, and that’s most probably due to those differences in audio quality mentioned above. Plus, the sonic warmth of vinyl records places them closer to the way people hear music organically.

Since there is no detail loss and the vinyl records reproduce the sounds just the way the artists intended them to be, many audiophiles prefer them over their digital counterparts. The market also offers a variety of vinyl record player vintage models that are relatively affordable, so building a vinyl record collection and enjoying those albums no longer involve great expenses.

Another reason why vinyl records are making a comeback is probably the sensorial experience that buying and listening to vinyl records involve. Going to a vinyl store, browsing the various albums available, and playing them create an enhanced tactile and visual experience, and the whole vinyl record listening ritual somehow gets people back to their analog roots in these digital times.