The 8 Best Turntables of 2022
Turntable – Buying Guide, Opinions and Analysis
Owning a vinyl turntable has never gone out of style, but nowadays its popularity has increased considerably among consumers and music lovers. This has motivated manufacturers to launch new and advanced models with countless improvements in terms of quality and aesthetics. Among the most outstanding models is the Auna MG-TT-82C, a turntable with a retro design and built-in speakers to enjoy your favorite songs. On the other hand, there is the ION Audio Max LP, a model with adjustable speed and USB output that allows you to convert your records to digital files.
The 8 Best Turntables – Opinions 2022
If you consider yourself a true music lover and appreciate the sound generated by vinyl records, you will surely be thinking of acquiring one of the best turntables of 2022. Below, we show you the best current proposals.
vintage record player
1. Auna MG-TT-82C Retro Turntable Vinyl Player
Relive your favorite vinyl records with this vintage turntable from the Auna brand, which stands out for its retro and melancholic design, as well as for its great features. It is a piece of equipment that incorporates a stereo speaker system built into the box, suitable for listening to your favorite songs without the need to connect it to other external speakers.
This device is known for being a versatile retro turntable that can play vinyl records from 12” “Single” to 7” “EP”, so you can get all your old records out of the drawer. In addition, it incorporates a practical adapter of axis for the central hole of the disc of 1 ½.
On the other hand, it has a speed adjustment system that allows you to vary between 33 and 45 rpm, so that your records play properly. In addition, you can listen to your favorite FM and AM radio stations thanks to the integrated cable antenna.
Thanks to the fact that it has one of the cheapest prices on this list, we could say that in the selection it is the best value for money turntable. Therefore, we recommend you analyze its most outstanding technical aspects.
Pros
RCA : Thanks to its RCA audio output, you can connect any 5.1 or 7.1 stereo system and enjoy higher quality sound.
Headphones : This model has a 3.5mm headphone jack, suitable for users who want to listen to their music without disturbing others.
Protector : It incorporates a protective cover that takes care of the disc that is being played from dust.
Band : It is equipped with a fully backlit band frequency indicator that will help you know which station you are tuned to.
Cons
Lid : Keep in mind that to listen to large vinyl records, you’ll need to completely remove the turntable’s lid.
vinyl record player
2. ION Audio Max LP 3-Speed Vinyl Turntable
With a beautiful wood finish, this vinyl turntable stands out, in large part, for its attractive design that will make it look great in your living room. It is a model that allows speed adjustment in three levels, one of 33 and 1/3, 45 and 78 rpm, so that all your records will sound at their proper speed.
This turntable features a 1/8-inch auxiliary input, which provides the ability to play music from other sources or music players. Likewise, it incorporates an RCA output to connect a pair of external speakers.
On the other hand, thanks to its USB connection, you can convert your favorite tracks into digital files using ION Audio EZ software for Windows or Mac. In addition, in order to protect the discs and internal space, this turntable incorporates an anti-dust cover.
If you are undertaking the search and want to know which is the best turntable, know the most important characteristics of each model.
Pros
Stereo : Due to its built-in stereo speakers and its headphone output, you can listen to your songs with quality without the need to purchase external speakers.
Stylus : It has a robust ceramic needle and diamond tip that guarantees greater durability and high-quality audio signal output.
Manufacturing : It is a record player with wood finishes, a quality that gives it an elegant and attractive appearance.
Cons
Portability : Unlike other models, this one has not been designed to be transported from one place to another.
Lauson record player
3. Lauson CL608 Vintage Turntable with Bluetooth
If you want to convert your favorite vinyl records to audio files, so you can listen to them on your mobile phone at any time, this model could be the one for you. With an affordable price, this Lauson turntable has an MP3 conversion and encoding system, via a USB cable to your computer or directly to an SD card.
On the other hand, its Bluetooth wireless connection system stands out, with which you can connect any compatible device such as a smart tablet or mobile. In addition, it also has an RCA output to connect speakers and a Jack output, suitable for listening to music with your headphones.
Likewise, it includes a 3.5 mm auxiliary input that gives you the possibility to connect any external device or sound equipment from which you want to play music.
To choose the best turntable on this list, it is important that you take into account your needs, as well as the pros and cons of this Lauson brand proposal.
Pros
Playback : Allows you to play music from any source such as USB flash drive or SD card.
Recording : You will have the possibility to directly record your favorite discs to an MP3 format inside your USB.
Automatic : It incorporates an auto-stop system that automatically stops the playback of the discs.
Cons
Color : It is important that you keep in mind that the turntable has a darker color than what is seen on the network.
old turntable
4. Victrola Classic 6 in 1 Sound System
If you are looking for a music system that can play almost any musical format, we recommend you consider this vintage turntable, with which you can listen to music from vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, Bluetooth, analog FM radio stations and any other device with a connection. 3.5mm
This vintage record player has a classic design, with wood finishes that could catch anyone’s eye. In addition, it incorporates a rotary needle dial that allows you to know the tuned station in the traditional style.
On the other hand, it has an integrated speaker system thanks to which you can listen to your songs without having to connect external speakers. In the same way, with the main objective of playing the records at an adequate speed, this equipment allows you to modify its speed from 33 1/3, 45 and 78 rpm.
Thanks to all its features, this device can be considered the best turntable of the moment, so we invite you to learn more about this model.
Pros
RCA: This model incorporates an RCA type connection output, suitable for connecting external speakers.
Versatile : It is known to be a versatile turntable that supports 6 different types of music sources such as vinyl, CD, cassette, FM radio, Bluetooth and auxiliary.
Design : Made of mahogany colored wood, this turntable has a classic and very elegant design.
Cons
USB : If you want a turntable that is also capable of playing your songs stored on a USB removable drive, you will need to choose another of the alternatives on this list.
bluetooth turntable
5. Viflykoo Bluetooth Vinyl Turntable
If you are interested in acquiring a device that allows you to play the songs that you have stored on your mobile devices, this Bluetooth turntable could be the one for you. It incorporates a wireless connection system with which you can link from your mobile phone to Bluetooth speakers, as well as an RCA, USB and auxiliary input to play music from other sources.
This turntable works with 3 adjustable speeds of 33, 45 and 78 rpm, so it can play 7”, 10” and 12” vinyl records at a suitable speed. Also, listen to all your songs at any time thanks to its built-in stereo speaker system.
Regarding its appearance, it has an elegant and retro design with veneered wood grain finishes, so it has a vintage air but with the latest technology. In addition, it incorporates a folding and removable protector that prevents your discs from collecting dust when not in use.
If you still do not know which turntable to buy, we recommend that you take a careful look at the positive and negative characteristics of this model.
Pros
Recording : With this turntable you can convert your songs directly from vinyl to MP3 or WAV audio files with Audacity software.
Connection : You can play your songs stored on various devices thanks to its 3.5mm auxiliary connection.
Pad : It incorporates a practical rubber pad that prevents vibrations by damping.
Cons
Speakers – Although these built-in plugins sound nice and clear, if you want to hear your songs with better sound quality, you’ll need to fit external speakers.
Crosley turntable
6. Crosley C8005D Turntable
Suitable for users who want to take their favorite records on a long trip, this Crosley turntable could be an ideal alternative. The C8005D is a compact and portable turntable that has dimensions of 22 x 35 x 12 cm and weighs approximately 2.49 kg, which, thanks to its carrying handle, you can comfortably take anywhere.
This turntable gives you the possibility to adjust the speed at 33 1/3, 45 and 78 rpm, making it suitable for playing different types of vinyl. In addition, thanks to its Bluetooth receiver, you can listen to the songs stored on any device with this type of wireless connection.
On the other hand, it has RCA sound output to connect external speakers and headphones via Jack connection, which give you the opportunity to listen to music without bothering other people.
To choose one of the best turntables, it is important that you consider the advantages and disadvantages offered by this model.
Pros
Portability : It is a turntable designed for users who want to travel with their vinyl, as it has a design that includes a carrying handle.
Speakers : It incorporates two high-quality speakers that allow you to listen to music anywhere.
Speeds : You can choose one of the three available playback speeds such as 33 1/3, 45 and 78 rpm.
Cons
Price: The price of this product is considerably the highest on this list, so if you are on a tight budget, we invite you to choose another turntable.
sony turntable
7. Sony PSLX300USB Turntable with USB output
Sony is a well-known manufacturer of high-quality musical equipment, in addition to being considered the best brand of turntables, since it presents the PSLX300USB on the market, a model that works with an adjustable-speed belt drive system, with the that you can adjust the playback between 33 1/3 and 45 rpm easily.
This Sony turntable incorporates a practical system for direct conversion of songs from a vinyl record to MP3, automatically storing the files on a removable USB drive. On the other hand, it incorporates an RCA stereo output terminal or port, in which you can connect an external speaker system.
Enjoy great sound quality thanks to its diamond needle, which provides an improved sound compared to cheaper alternatives. Finally, with the intention of protecting your discs from any scratches, this system incorporates an automatic playback start and end function.
Considered the best turntable on this list, we invite you to learn more about this proposal from the Sony brand.
Pros
Conversion : Convert any song to MP3 and store it on a removable drive quickly and easily.
Sound : Enjoy enhanced sound thanks to its diamond-tipped stylus.
RCA : You will be able to connect any external speaker system with RCA connection due to its stereo output.
Cons
Arm : A retention system for the arm and needle for transfers is missing, so it remains loose at all times.
portable turntable
8. Miric Vinyl Turntable with 2 Built-in Speakers
If you are planning a trip and are looking for equipment to listen to vinyl records that you can take anywhere comfortably, we recommend this portable turntable from the Miric brand, which comes in an attractive light blue vintage-style case, with bronze handle and buckles that will attract the attention of all your friends.
This model is suitable for playing vinyl records of all sizes, since it has an adjustable speed system, so you can adjust it between 33, 45 and 78 rpm. In addition, you will also have the opportunity to enjoy your favorite songs stored on removable USB drives or SD memory cards.
On the other hand, it incorporates an RCA or auxiliary connection port, which gives you the opportunity to connect an external speaker system. Also, if you want to save your songs in digital files, you can use its synchronous transcription system that eliminates noise and saves the songs automatically.
If you still have not decided which turntable you should buy, carefully review the benefits that this model offers you.
Pros
Design : The attractive retro briefcase-like design of this turntable should be highlighted, which incorporates a handle for easy portability.
Versatile – You’ll be able to listen to all sizes of vinyl records with this 3-speed turntable.
Bluetooth : You can connect your mobile or smart device through a Bluetooth connection to enjoy your saved playlists.
Cons
File system : It is important to note that this turntable does not support removable drives with NTFS file system, so you will need to format them to FAT.
Accessories for a turntable
record player needle
Numark CS-1 Premium DJ Capsule
The needles are components of turntables that are responsible for processing the music recorded in the grooves of vinyl records.
However, after a long time of use, they tend to be ruined, ceasing to produce the sound with the same quality as when it is new.
In this case, it is indicated to buy a replacement turntable needle.
This product is a professional cartridge that includes a superior quality DJ head and stylus with enhanced traction, which is properly designed and optimized for Dance music and features full frequency response, reaching from 20 to 20,000 Hz.
turntable speakers
Edifier R1280T 2.0 Bookshelf Speakers
Although there are currently many turntables that incorporate speakers, which allow you to listen to your vinyl records anywhere, there are still many models that have to be adapted externally in order to enjoy the songs.
So, if you need a pair of turntable speakers, this could be the model for you.
It is a system with an output power of 42W and 21W that reaches a volume level of 85 dBA and has a frequency response that ranges from 75 to 18,000 Hz.
On the other hand, it has a double RCA input that allows the connection of multiple devices, plus you can manually adjust the treble and bass thanks to its practical dial.
Shopping guide
The sound produced by vinyl records continues to offer a higher quality and texture in relation to digital music, so we can see how turntables have become fashionable again among consumers. In case you have a collection of vinyl records and you are considering purchasing a specific device to be able to enjoy them again, we have made the decision to create the following guide to buying the best turntable.
However, if you are worried about how much the turntable costs and you are interested in buying the cheapest turntable, keep in mind that to get a good sound you will need quality equipment. Therefore, before making a careless investment, it is advisable to choose the model with the best relationship between quality and price.
disk size
In any comparison of turntables, one of the most important aspects that you must take into consideration, before making the purchase, is the size of the vinyl records that it can play. Let us remember that there are different sizes of vinyl records on the market and that they are classified according to their inches, either 7”, 10” or 12”.
This is why some computers have an adapter that allows you to insert discs that are not compatible, and even some more versatile turntables can play all types of discs. If you have an old collection of multi-inch records, it is advisable to acquire a versatile turntable with which you can revive your favorite songs.
Angular velocity
In addition to the size of the vinyl records, it is important to know that each one must be played at a different speed. This factor is known as angular velocity and is measured in revolutions per minute. This setting determines the correct playback of our records, otherwise the songs will not sound right.
In this sense, there is a reference table that we recommend you take into account when placing your discs. For the 12”, 10” and 7” sizes, the correct angular speed would be 33 1/3, 45 and 78 rpm respectively.
Design
Turntables are historically known for having attractive designs that appeal to all music lovers. Most of us nostalgically remember those occasions when, upon entering the studio, we saw our grandparents listening to their beloved record collection on that classic record player that later became part of the decoration of that room.
It is perhaps for this reason that these devices have a high aesthetic factor, which is why design is one of the aspects most seen by consumers when choosing a new turntable. Knowing this, manufacturers make all kinds of models available, from classic style turntables made of wood to modern and futuristic models. In this sense, you can choose the model that best suits the style of your room.
On the other hand, and with the intention of making them more portable, manufacturers have proposed models that come inside hard-cover cases with a carrying handle, which incorporate a compact speaker system that allows the user to listen to their favorite songs anywhere..
capsule and needle
One of the most important components that make up turntables is the capsule and the needle, since it is a small electromagnetic device, which is responsible for translating the information found in the grooves or grooves of vinyl records so that the audio system can interpret the song.
These small components incorporate a system of transducers that convert one type of energy to another. In this way, the capsules convert the variations of the walls of the discs into electrical signals.
The needles incorporated in the capsules move vertically and horizontally according to the direction of the disc slot, to which a small coil of wire and a magnet located on the opposite side generate an audio signal.
connectivity
Finally, one of the features that we could not fail to mention in this guide is the aspect of connectivity, especially considering the most recent equipment on the market. Previously, turntables could only play vinyl records. However, time has passed and now we can play music from different devices through various methods.
If your turntable has a built-in sound system, it is more likely to provide the ability to connect any equipment via a Bluetooth connection. This allows the user to play their favorite songs stored on the mobile or tablet. In addition, many recent turntables incorporate USB and SD inputs, allowing you to connect any removable device, either to play songs stored on them or to convert your favorite tracks from vinyl to a digital MP3 file.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: How to use a turntable?
To start using a turntable properly, it is recommended to install it in a clear place and close to a power outlet. In case the turntable does not incorporate a speaker system, locate it near the ones you have at home to connect it to them. Plug the turntable into the outlet and lift its lid so you can place the vinyl record you want to listen to.
It is important to keep in mind that there are several sizes of vinyl records on the market, so each one must be played at a certain rpm speed. In this sense, it is necessary to adjust the appropriate speed before playing it.
To avoid distortion in the sound or even damage to the speakers, proceed to adjust the volume level to an intermediate point and, when the song is already playing, you can increase or decrease it more. On the other hand, if the arm with the head has a lock, you will need to release it to release the movement of the needle. Next, press the play button so that the motor starts turning the record and the arm moves to the first track.
As a basic recommendation, it is recommended not to move the head or the vinyl record by hand to avoid any damage to the stylus, especially if it is not from a head with a special DJ stylus.
Q2: How do I know which needle my turntable has?
The needle that the turntable capsules have are the most important components of these devices, therefore, in order to be able to make a replacement part, it is necessary to know the model that your turntable has. To find out what type of needle your turntable incorporates, you need to disconnect the capsule from the arm, in which the needle is installed. This way you get a complete view of the type of needle your turntable is using and its status.
Q3: How to repair a turntable?
Many users become so attached to their old turntables that they would rather repair them than buy a new one. It is inevitable that over time, and depending on the level of care you have taken with it, the turntable can be damaged. Therefore, we explain how you can fix it.
The first thing you should do is determine what the problem was. For this, carefully clean the entire surface of the turntable. In this way, you make sure that there is no dirt that may be obstructing any part.
The next step is to replace any visible components like the needle or turntable, which are often exposed parts that can be damaged. If you still can’t find what’s wrong with your turntable, proceed to open it very carefully and replace any internal element that is failing, such as the belt.
Q4: Who invented the record player and in what year?
The invention of the record player falls on the shoulders of the famous Thomas Alva Edison, who on November 21, 1877, created a device known as the phonograph, which incorporated a needle that reacted to the vibrations produced by a cylinder wrapped in aluminum foil with perforations that contained the songs.
Q5: How to measure the turntable strap?
On some occasions, your turntable may stop working correctly and one of the most common reasons is due to a failure in the belt, so the appropriate solution will be to change that element. To measure the belt of your turntable and to be able to acquire one of the same size, you will have to open the equipment and remove the old belt. With the help of a tape measure, you must mark a point on the strap and go around it until you measure its full length.
Q6: How to change a turntable needle?
To change the needle of a turntable, what you will have to do is remove the capsule that is located at the end of the mechanical tone arm. Most models have a thread system that holds the capsule, so you will have to turn it until it is completely released. Next, at the end of the capsule, is the needle that is removed under pressure, taking care not to damage other components. Finally, insert the new needle until it fits snugly and reattach the capsule to the arm.
Q7: How to clean a turntable?
With the help of a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner, start by cleaning the dust from the surface and from the grooves. Next, lightly moisten a cloth with one part of liquid soap and five parts of water and proceed to clean the entire case. Follow up with a soft bristle brush and clean the platter, adapter, speed selector, as well as all exposed buttons and connection ports.
