For analogue music fans, there's nothing quite like hooking up some of the best speakers for vinyl to your amp and dropping the needle on your favourite album. The depth and warmth of the audio are only part of the experience, though. It's also about being able to enjoy the large artwork, gatefold sleeves and the experience of holding your music in your hands. But, by upgrading your old desk to one of the best record players under £350 you could enjoy that music even more.
Some records are something of a journey too. You flip side A and listen to side B and realise there's a story there – often lost in a world of streaming music, and random playlists. But that's not to say that you can't connect a turntable to some wireless smart speakers and enjoy your records that way. The beauty of modern record decks is that they're a fusion of traditional analogue and modern tech, with some being able to connect via Bluetooth or even USB for digital recording.
But, if you're new to turntables or getting back into them for the first time in a few decades, there are still some choices to be made. Making sure your new deck will connect to any existing equipment such as an ideal amp for turntables is just one of the hurdles you'll face. And then there's the issue of manual controls versus automatic features. So, we’ve put together a buyer's guide and some FAQ, plus a handy jargon buster to help you make a wise turntable choice.
The best Black Friday deals on record players under £350
We interrupt your scrolling to let you know that the Black Friday sales event officially begins on 29th November 2024 – but there are plenty of excellent early Black Friday deals out there right now. With a huge range of retailers offering the lowest prices of the year, this Black Friday Sale is packed with amazing record player bargains to discover. So, grab that on top-tier tech that's perfect for sorting the Christmas list. We've rounded up the best offers below. Or, keep scrolling for our full buyer's guide.
Shop Black Friday deals on record players under £350: Amazon | HMV | Currys
Save 21%: Audio-Technica LP5X, WAS £380, NOW £299
£40 off: Sony PS-LX310BT, WAS £239, NOW £199
Save £75: Roberts Radio Stylus, WAS £250, NOW £175
Half-price: Jam Sound Black Turntable, WAS £140, NOW £70
Now back to our regularly scheduled content.
Best record players for under £350 in 2024 at a glance
• Best overall: Audio-Technica LP120XUSBSV – View at Amazon
• Best budget: Audio-Technica LP60X – View at Amazon
• Best Bluetooth: Sony PS-LX310BT – View at Amazon
• Best with built-in speakers: 1 BY ONE High Fidelity – View at Amazon
So whether you’re buying a record player for the first time, need to find a budget deck, or want to find that deck that evokes the one you used to own back in the day, keep reading. Our expert recommendations will help you find the best deck so that you can reopen that record storage crate and enjoy your music – which is what vinyl is all about. So, let's drop the needle on the best record players on the market for less than £350.
Best record players for under £350 in 2024
Please note: All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.
Audio-Technica has built up quite a following in recent years for its fantastic range of turntables, and the LP120 is clearly modelled after the legendary Technics SL1200 favoured by DJs and vinyl fans the world over.
Aside from the classic design, you get a lot of manual control (if you want it) such as anti-skate and a slider for fine pitch adjustments. The S-shaped tonearm and solid platter make for good isolation from the direct drive motor, as do dampened feet. We love that Audio-Technica has included the often missing 78 RPM option on top of the standard 33 1/3 and 45 RPM speeds. As for preamplification, this has a selectable internal preamp or standard line out, so it'll work with any amp.
The AT stylus is replaceable and is well-regarded for its well-rounded sound, and it has the strobe for fine tuning your speed. The Audio-Technica LP120 also has a USB output for easy digitisation of your collection too, a welcome bonus for anyone looking to preserve their wax. All in all, this is a smart slightly retro-looking deck with plenty of controls. Plus, you can relive that Technics nostalgia at a fraction of the price of a used SL1200.
Pros
- An affordable and great-sounding tribute to the classic (and costly) Technics SL1200
- Great level of manual control, like anti-skate and pitch
- USB output for easy digitisation of your record collection
Cons
- The number of manual adjustments may not suit all users
| Drive type | Direct drive |
| Turntable speeds | 33-1/3 RPM, 45 RPM, 78 RPM |
| Platter | Die-cast aluminium with felt mat |
| Phono stage | Built-in selectable phono preamp |
| Cartridge / Stylus | AT-VM95E Dual Magnet phono cartridge with 0.3 x 0.7 mil elliptical stylus |
| Connectivity | USB output, detachable dual RCA output cable |
| Dimensions | 452 x 141 x 352 mm (WxHxD) |
| Weight | 8kg |
Yes, Audio-Technica once again make it into our pick of the best – this time with a great budget entry-level deck. The LP60X has many of the same basic features as the larger LP120, but there are no complex manual controls here. Instead, it's fully automatic. You won't find 78 RPM, but you will find a die-cast aluminium platter for reduced resonance and a switchable photo preamp for maximum flexibility with amplifiers.
This is a belt-drive deck too, and a nice plus is the 45 RPM adapter for those records with the larger hole. Usability is the main feature here, as there are only a handful of controls for start, stop and speed selection. But one nice addition here is the tonearm cueing button that will lift or drop the needle on demand. And that stylus, the diamond ATN3600L, is replaceable too.
As for the design, it's pleasingly basic and solidly built for the price. We appreciate the compact size and he included dust cover too which is low-profile. The felt mat is also nice to see, meaning this is ready to go right out of the box. The ideal budget deck.
Pros
- Fully automatic operation, easy to use
- Built-in switchable phono preamp
- High-quality die-cast aluminium platter
Cons
- Limited to two playback speeds - no 78rpm here
| Drive type | Belt drive |
| Turntable speeds | 33-1/3 RPM, 45 RPM |
| Platter | Die-cast aluminium |
| Phono stage | Built-in switchable phono pre-amplifier |
| Cartridge / Stylus | Integral Dual Magnet phono cartridge with replaceable diamond stylus (ATN3600L) |
| Connectivity | Detachable RCA output cable (3.5 mm male to dual RCA male), switchable between phono and line-level output |
| Dimensions | 359.5 x 97.5 x 373.3 mm (WxHxD) |
| Weight | 2.6kg |
We love the Sony brand for consistently delivering robust and reliable audio kit. As well as looking sleek and stylish, this record player is super easy to use too. It can be paired with up to eight Bluetooth devices – that's a huge range of flexible listening options, from smart speakers to portable speakers, active stereo speakers and Bluetooth-enabled full-size amplifiers.
Simply hit the Bluetooth button and the deck will connect to your device of choice. If you don't have a Bluetooth speaker, don't worry, the built-in pre-amp lets you plug directly into your amp too. In use, this is simplicity itself, thanks to automatic features like one-step automatic start and easy control buttons for start, stop and cueing.
We really appreciate the sleek profile and slim aluminium platter too, it's a sophisticated-looking deck with a new tonearm design for improved stability and bass response. A surprising extra feature is the gain control that lets you boost the level of your output from record to record – handy for boosting those albums recorded at lower levels. You won't find 78 RPM speed though, and the headshell isn't swappable for those who like to tinker, but those are small nitpicks with a deck that delivers a lot of functionality and style.
Pros
- Super simple to set up, connects to Bluetooth
- Fully automatic operation for convenience
- Built-in phono preamp enhances sound quality
Cons
- No exchangeable head shell limits customization
| Drive type | Belt drive |
| Turntable speeds | 33 1/3 RPM, 45 RPM |
| Platter | 11.65-inch diameter, aluminium die-cast |
| Phono stage | Built-in phono preamp |
| Cartridge / Stylus | Moving Magnet (MM) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0, RCA output, USB Type B |
| Dimensions | 430 x 108 x 367 mm (WxHxD) |
| Weight | 3.5kg |
It's not often that we recommend turntables with built-in speakers, mainly because it's fairly rare to find one that's well insulated from vibrations. But, this All-In-One Turntable System from 1 BY ONE is an exception. Not only does it evoke tech from the 1960s with its chunky wood effect casing and chrome trim, but it's also packing a grand total of four internal speakers and a well-isolated platter.
Aside from the attractive curved edges and wood finish, there's a decent Audio-Technical moving agent phono cartridge and a built-in switchable phono preamp. We really like that last feature, as it'll allow you to use this deck with a traditional amp and speaker setup for better overall sound. As reasonable as these built-in speakers and amp are, they'll never compete with separates.
There's Bluetooth connectivity and 3.5mm aux input for even more listening options too, enabling record playback to connected devices, or steaming music playback from mobiles to the deck. Controls are simple and switching between Bluetooth, 45 RPM, and 33 1/3 RPM is a single rotary control. It's a nice vintage look with good sound for an all-in-one turntable.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality for an all-in-one with well-isolated speakers
- Attractive, elegant design
- Bluetooth streaming capability
Cons
- As handy as they are, you'll get better sound from a system without built-in speakers
| Drive type | Belt drive |
| Turntable speeds | 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM |
| Platter | Aluminum |
| Phono stage | Built-in phono preamp |
| Cartridge / Stylus | Magnetic cartridge (Audio-Technica AT-3600L) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, RCA outputs, Aux-in |
| Dimensions | 420 x 360 x 125 mm (WxDxH) |
| Weight | 4.5kg |
This Canadian brand has been around since 1999 with a reputation for quality speakers, but in 2016 they burst onto the turntable scene with the first of many highly-regarded decks. The Fluance RT82 is super-popular with vinyl fans looking for outstanding, warm sound from a solid mid-budget turntable. And deliver it does, thanks to some seriously well-engineered features that reduce vibration and increase isolation.
The chunky plinth is a large part of this performance, as it's made from high-mass MDF that accounts for a large part of the 5.5kg total weight. The motor on this belt-drive desk is also isolated to prevent unwanted vibrations making their way through the engineered platter to the S-shaped tonearm. Plus, at the end of that tonearm, is one of the best cartridges on this list – the Ortofon OM10. This deck delivers exceptional sound with excellent tracking and detail from that tonearm and well-controlled platter.
There is, however, no built-in phono preamp, so you'll definitely need an external phono stage or an amp with a built-in preamp. There's no 78 RPM, either. All that aside, if you're looking for exceptional sound on a deck with some good manual controls, including anti-skating, this is it.
Pros
- High-quality Ortofon OM10 cartridge
- Effective vibration isolation features
- Excellent sound quality and detail - well regarded among vinyl fans
Cons
- Requires an external preamp
| Drive type | Belt-driven |
| Turntable speeds | 33 1/3 RPM, 45 RPM |
| Platter | Aluminum |
| Phono stage | Not included (requires external preamp) |
| Cartridge / Stylus | Ortofon OM10, elliptical stylus |
| Connectivity | RCA outputs, grounding post |
| Dimensions | 140 x 419 x 349 mm (HxWxD) |
| Weight | 5.5kg |
Record decks don't come much more retro than this, with the Victrola Vintage Suitcase Turntable. Its look speaks for itself and, thankfully, if stars and strips aren't your thing it comes in a range of themed finishes. As a suitcase model, it has all the charm and portability that you'd expect, making it ideal for travelling to your friend's house with a selection of your best LPs.
And its looks aren't ruined by the inclusion of two internal speakers on the handle side. Yes, they're only small speakers – so don't expect room-thumping sound – but they're adequate enough given the suitcase design. It's also a good decision by Victrola, as overpowering the internal amp in a player like this would definitely cause vibrations to travel down the tonearm.
In terms of features, this can manage 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM speeds and has Bluetooth for easy connection to various mobile devices and speakers. There's also an auxiliary input if you want to plug an iPod or phone into this. Despite looking fully portable, this doesn't have a rechargeable battery so you'll always be on mains for power. That said, you can at least use its phono connections to hook this up to a better amp and speakers if you like. Lastly, it even has FM radio, so if you're looking for a great-looking music player with lots of flexibility, the Victrola Vintage Suitcase Turntable is all packed and ready to go.
Pros
- Portable with built-in speakers
- Great vintage suitcase design
- Easy Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
- The sound quality via internal speakers is acceptable, but thin compared to separate amp and speaker setups
| Drive type | Belt drive |
| Turntable speeds | 33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM |
| Platter | Plastic |
| Phono stage | Built-in |
| Cartridge / Stylus | Innovative Technology ITRRS300 (includes extra stylus) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, RCA outputs, 3.5mm Aux-in, Headphone jack |
| Dimensions | 353 x 257 x 127 mm (WxDxH) |
| Weight | 2.7kg |
Denon is a premium brand that most hi-fi enthusiasts will be familiar with, but here the DP-300F turntable sets out to simplify and automate the whole vinyl listening experience. If you're the sort of listener who wants to put the record on the platter and press a couple of buttons, this turntable is for you. Press one button and this machine will start for you. At the end of the record the tonearm will lift and return (although you can also opt to do this manually if you prefer).
And that simplicity doesn't come at the price of looks or performance. Aside from the typically robust Denon build and attractive gloss black finish, the overall weight of 6kg gives away the solidity of the diecast aluminium platter and dense plinth. A Denon moving magnet cartridge delivers the goods from the grooves, and there's a switchable internal preamp for easy connection to external amps, smart speakers, active speakers and so on.
There's no 78 RPM to be found, and the stock cartridge may not be up to audiophile standards, but this is a highly capable and well-engineered deck that will look great and perform well as part of a decent separates system.
Pros
- Fully automatic operation for ease of use
- Built-in phono preamp simplifies setup
- Typically solid Denon construction and design
Cons
- Stock cartridges may require upgrading for audiophiles
| Drive type | Belt drive |
| Turntable speeds | 33 1/3, 45 RPM |
| Platter | Diecast aluminium |
| Phono stage | Built-in, switchable |
| Cartridge / Stylus | MM (Moving Magnet) Cartridge, model CN-6518 |
| Connectivity | RCA stereo output |
| Dimensions | 434 x 381 x 122 mm (WxDxH) |
| Weight | 5.5kg |
If your itch for a DJ deck hasn't been scratched by the likes of the Audio-Technical LP120, this model from Pioneer is a stunning and affordable option. The aptly-named DJ PLX-500-W harks back to previous classic Pioneer decks and includes not just the looks, but also the functionality, that all DJs love.
Of note is the direct drive motor that, unlike belt drive versions, is needed for better mixing control. Another DJ essential is the USB connection allowing it to be used with software on a Mac or PC, alongside the usual RCA connections for use with an external amp or mixing deck. Thankfully, there is an internal preamp, but it can be switched off if your amp already has one.
One small but well-thought-out feature we like is the album cover stand built into the inside of the dust cover – a nice addition for anyone who wants a reminder of what they have in the mix. Lastly, there's the all-important strobe and pitch control for adjusting the speed perfectly during your set.
Pros
- Solid build quality and weighty feel - ideal for mixing and DJing
- Versatile connectivity with USB output
- Built-in phono stage, easy setup
Cons
- More susceptible to vibrations and bumps
| Drive type | Direct drive |
| Turntable speeds | 33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM |
| Platter | Aluminium, die-cast, diameter 332 mm |
| Phono stage | Built-in, switchable to line output |
| Cartridge / Stylus | Supplied with headshell, cartridge, and stylus (PN-X05) |
| Connectivity | USB B port, PHONO/LINE (RCA) |
| Dimensions | 450 x 159 x 368 mm (WxHxD) |
| Weight | 10.7kg |
Our final recommendation may look like a child's toy, but it's actually a modern recreation of the original Sound Burger portable record player from the 1980s. The Audio-Technical Sound Burger is both mains and battery-operated and, of course, is small enough to take anywhere for tunes on the go. If you have a small collection of LPs or singles in a flight case, this could even fit inside for those days out or picnics.
It's essentially a clamshell design. Open it up, slot your record onto the spindle, select your speed (33 1/3 or 45 RPM) and drop the needle. Naturally, this has a built-in preamp as a portable unit, but its RCA and Bluetooth connectivity means that this can be used to play via mobile devices or even active speakers for more power.
Battery life is a respectable 12 hours too, so you could listen for the better part of a whole day with this deck. Granted, something of this size and weight isn't gexactly going to win over budding audiophiles, but if you really want a portable record player, they don't come more portable (opr more fun) than this.
Pros
- Retro design with modern features - based on the original Sound Burger from 1983
- Bluetooth for wireless connectivity
- Long battery life - up to 12 hours
Cons
- Sound quality is acceptable considering its size, just don't expect boombox-level bass
| Drive type | Belt drive |
| Turntable speeds | 33 1/3, 45 RPM |
| Platter | Aluminium alloy |
| Phono stage | Built-in preamp |
| Cartridge / Stylus | ATN3600L (replaceable) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, RCA output, USB Type-C charging |
| Dimensions | 300 x 150 x 70 mm (WxDxH) |
| Weight | 0.9kg |
If you're looking for a one-stop shop when it comes to a record player and speaker system, this offering from 1 BY ONE is a great option. One look at this and you can tell that it just does what it says on the tin: It's a turntable with a built-in amplifier that powers a pair of 36w bookshelf speakers. Once again, this brand shows its love for the simple, vintage look with its wood effect finish and chunky plinth.
As for features, you have a choice of 33 1/3 and 45 RPM as well as a solid iron platter for great stability – ensuring the moving magnet cartridge performs at its best. We like the addition of the adjustable counterweight too. Seen on most decks, but not all budget ones, it's essential for those who want to make sure that the tracking force (the weight of the needle on the record) is set up correctly according to the stylus specs.
Lastly, we love the addition of Bluetooth and also RCA and USB connection options. That means that ripping your vinyl digitals is easy and hooking this up to an external amp is also possible.
Pros
- Versatile connectivity options
- A great all-around solution for anyone who needs a complete system
- Elegant retro-modern aesthetic design
Cons
- You may want to upgrade the speakers later if you want better sound
| Drive type | Belt drive |
| Turntable speeds | 33-1/3 and 45 RPM |
| Platter | Precision-manufactured iron platter |
| Phono stage | Built-in switchable phono preamp |
| Cartridge / Stylus | Audio-Technica Moving Magnet (AT3600L) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, RCA output, USB digital output |
| Dimensions | 400 x 350 x 120 mm (WxDxH) |
| Weight | 4.6kg |
How to choose the best record player under £350
Whether you're looking for your first new deck or just replacing your old turntable on a budget, any new record player will need to do the right job for you. Some vinyl collectors may have a vast collection of 45rpm records, including 7-inch singles, others the 12-inch EP and so on. So, it's important to make sure that you have all of the features you'll need.
For instance: Not all new decks come with large hole adapters for singles with the centre punched out - usually seen when they've been used in jukeboxes. Some listeners prefer more automatic features like an auto return tonearm that resets the deck at the end of the record. Others might want to tweak and tune more advanced playback features like anti-skate and pitch control for fine speed adjustments. So, keep an eye out for any special playback needs you may have before you buy. Here are the usual things to look out for.
Buy with your amp and connections in mind
Not all record decks are built the same. This is particularly true when it comes to connectivity. Back in the day, you'd only have to worry about a pair of red and white phono cables, now you'd just as likely to find a deck sporting a USB port or even Bluetooth.
Those modern players with Bluetooth compatibility will allow you to connect wireless self-powered speakers. Some of the best bookshelf speakers are active speakers with Bluetooth – meaning they have their own internal amplifier built in. So, if you're after a super-sleek minimalist system for playing vinyl, active speakers are a great option for avoiding messy speaker wires, separate amps and cable runs.
However, the classic separate amp and speakers are probably the best method for getting the best analogue sound quality out of your vinyl. So, as long as your chosen turntable has standard phono (also known as RCA) connectors for the left and right channels, you'll be all set to connect to an amp.
Manual control and adjustability
Not everyone wants the fuss of manual adjustments and controls when they just want to rediscover their record collection. But, dig a little deeper into the vinyl experience and you may well want the ability to tweak this and that. Yes, there are automatic decks, some of which can even cue up the next track for you at the press of a button, but the more automatic they are the more costly. We're fans of more manual controls as that often goes hand in hand with a better experience as your collection grows.
Some of the most typical manual settings that you won't find on more basic models are detailed in our jargon-buster section below. But, the classic ones are anti-skate control (adjusting the balance of the tonearm so that the stylus doesn't get dragged out of the groove), and fine adjustments of the tracking force (the weight of the stylus on the record). The latter is often missing from the very cheap and lacking turntables out there.
More basic controls are popular automatic features like an auto-shutoff and auto-return tonearm, both of which are ideal for those who have often found themselves leaving their record playing overnight, only to get up the next morning to find the needle cutting its way through the last groove or, worse, skating into the label at 33rpm.
Design
As always, all that glitters is not audio gold. With the resurgence of vinyl has come an abundance of cheap and fancy-looking decks. Often, they're thinly disguised and inferior copies of much more expensive decks. Others are suitcase-style or vintage-looking players which all contain the same low-quality lightweight plastic mechanisms. So, as with our list of the best above, stick to well-regarded brands and you won't go far wrong.
There are some excellent modern-looking turntables available that look great next to some of the best active speakers for those who prefer the super-minimalist look, and others that echo the DJ decks of the 80s and 90s – such as those made by Technics. Style-wise, there's a lot of choice out there.
Extra Features
With modern technology infiltrating something as classic as vinyl, there are bound to be some upgrades. Of course, Bluetooth is one of them. But you can even record your vinyl to MP3 – usually via a USB port to connect to a PC or MP3 recorder.
USB outputs on record players are typically used to digitise vinyl records via free audio-editing programs like Audacity. This is great for keeping electronic copies of your favourite vinyl, classics or rare pressings. Many new record releases come with codes for digital downloads, so this feature is really only necessary for those with large original collections they want to preserve.
And, on the subject of preservation, if you're about to revisit your record collection for the first time in years it's likely they'll need a proper clean to sound their best. An ultrasonic record cleaner is probably the best way to achieve this and they don't have to cost a fortune.
Turntable jargon-buster
Record decks are, perhaps, one of the most jargon-laden audio products to be found. But, here's a run-down of the most common technical terms you'll find when looking for a new turntable.
Belt drive vs direct drive
Belt-drive turntables have the motor off to one side, typically a corner, and are linked to the platter by a belt. This distance helps isolate the sound and keep record playback as clean as possible. Due to the use of a belt, belt-driven turntables take a few seconds to get up to speed – not a problem for those simply listening to records.
Belts can dry, crack, twist or snap, so they will likely need changing every so often (most users will be able to go years between changes), but the belts are inexpensive and easy to replace.
Direct-drive turntables have a motor directly underneath the platter, driving the platter while negating the need for a belt. Direct-drive motors tend to start up quickly, and allow you a more refined control over the RPM speed – hence the inclusion of pitch controls, which are not found on belt-drive decks. For these reasons, they are the drive choice for DJs.
Some users believe that the direct-drive format can increase audio interference as the motor operates so closely to the stylus and record.
Anti-skate
Anti-skate is a simple mechanism that applies an outward force to the tonearm, as they tend to 'skate', or swing, towards the centre of the platter. This feature is adjustable on many record players, such as the Cambridge Audio Alva ST turntable we reviewed recently. Always follow the manufacturer's guidance when adjusting settings like this.
Anti-skate is needed to give a good channel balance to keep an equal volume from the left and right channels, lessen distortion, and lessen stylus and record wear. It in effect works for your all-around benefit.
Tracking force
Tracking force is the amount of weight your cartridge sits on a record when it’s playing; basically, how hard the arm presses down into the record. You want to make sure that the ideal weight is selected to ensure good-quality playback and to minimise wear on the record.
Different cartridges have different optimum weights. Follow the manufacturer’s guidance at all times when setting up your record player to ensure correct use.
Pitch control
This refers to the controls over the turntable speed in RPM. Typically, records are cut and pressed to play at either 33, 45 or 78 RPM. Some users will like to fine-tune this to get the best out of their setup. This is a feature found on direct-drive turntables – it’s popular with DJs as they can match song tempos with greater accuracy, a method known as beatmatching.
Phono preamps
A phono preamp, or phono stage, converts weak electronic signals into stronger signals that are suitable for speakers, and therefore, your listening. Some turntables and amps have a preamp built into them, others don't. If you have a preamp in both, you should only use one – or you could risk damaging your amp. If you want to know more about this, see our guide to whether your record deck needs a preamp.
Hydraulic-lift tonearm control
A hydraulic lift control, or queuing bar, is a bar (often rubberised) that allows you to place the tonearm above a record and gently lower the cartridge into contact with the record by switching a lever. This is a great feature, as not only does it help when trying to accurately select a new song, but it also lessens the risk of needle dropping, scratching or bouncing – all of which can seriously damage a record.
FAQs
What is the best first time record player?
Although you can find cheap and cheerful turntables under the £100 mark, we wouldn't recommend them on several counts. Firstly, a half-decent stylus is an essential part of any deck and even basic ones from reputable brands will cost over £40. So, when you factor in the tonearm, mechanics, motors and overall design and engineering, you can see why a sub-£100 turntable isn't often a good idea.
We've recommended several decks above that fit both the ease of use, price and quality considerations that every budding vinyl fan should be looking for.
When was the record player invented?
The great-grandfather of the record player as we know it today is the phonograph, invented by Thomas Edison in 1877, which recorded and played back sound from a soft metal drum. Ten years later, in 1887, the phonograph was developed into the gramophone by Emile Berliner and played back recorded sound from a rubberised disk. Fast-forward through the next century and a bit, which was full of revisions and refinements of this basic turntable concept, and you end up pretty much where we are today.
What kind of speakers are best for turntables?
That all depends on the turntable. The majority of record players do not come with internal speakers, and this isn’t a bad thing. External speakers are larger, will deliver a much fuller audio profile and are capable of achieving higher volumes.
Active speakers have a power amplifier built-in, and just need the main power source to work. Passive speakers need an external power amplifier to operate. You need an amplifier for passive speakers, you don't for active speakers. They both have their benefits, but it all comes down to personal choice. Purists tend to prefer passive speakers, but active speakers are much simpler and more affordable to set up. But, if you're sharing a flat or just want to listen without outside distractions, some of the best headphones can often work with your amp or active speaker for quality listening.
Chris Duffill is a Senior Tech Writer and Reviewer for What's The Best. His background includes writing, editorial, marketing, design, video production and photography. He’s an experienced bargain-hunter on Black Friday and Prime Day - finding genuine deals on electronic and audiovisual tech from the best brands.
He specialises in home entertainment and audiovisual tech, including speakers, amplifiers, turntables, streaming media players, and TVs. He is also one of our resident experts in computing (PCs, tablets, smartphones, smartwatches), DSLR photography and all kinds of digital cameras. He also writes about retro gaming, game consoles and various electronic gadgets. If it plugs in, lights up or makes a noise, he’ll write about it.
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