If you’re a music lover, you know that the quality of your sound equipment is important. You want to be able to hear the subtle nuances in your favorite songs. That’s why a good turntable is essential. But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which one to buy.
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ve put together a list of the 10 best digital turntables of musical instruments, so you can choose the perfect one for your needs.
Table of Contents
Denon DP-300F Fully Automatic Analog Turntable
The DP-300F is a fully automatic, belt-driven turntable that features a low-mass tonearm with hydraulic lift control and precision DC servo motor. The DP-300F also includes a built-in phono equalizer to connect directly to a receiver or amplifier. For optimum sound quality, the DP-300F features a die-cast aluminum platter.
Denon’s DP-300F is a solid entry in the budget turntable category. It’s a good sounding unit that’s easy to use, and it comes with a built-in phono preamp, making it a great choice if you’re just getting started in the vinyl world. The DP-300F also includes a detachable dust cover, 45 RPM adapter, and RCA cable.
Setup is simple: just attach the included tonearm and plug in the power. The DP-300F has an internal phono preamp, so you can connect it directly to your receiver or amplifier (you’ll just need to switch your receiver or amplifier’s input to “phono”). If your receiver or amplifier doesn’t have a phono input, you can still use the DP-300F by connecting it to a phono preamp (sold separately).
Once you have the DP-300F set up and connected, just press the start button and the turntable will do the rest. The arm will lower itself onto the record and start playing. When the record is finished, the arm will raise itself and return to its resting position. You can also manually operate the arm if you want to cue up a specific track.
The sound quality of the DP-300F is very good for a budget turntable. The built-in phono preamp does a nice job of boosting the signal from the cartridge, and the overall sound is clear and detailed. The bass response is tight and well controlled, and the highs are smooth and extended. There’s a good sense of space and air around instruments, and vocals sound natural and intimate.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-use, budget-friendly turntable that sounds great, the Denon DP-300F is a great option.
Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB Direct-Drive Professional Turntable
Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB Direct-Drive Professional Turntable:
This professional turntable features a direct-drive motor for quick start-ups and a USB output for connecting to your computer. The S-shaped tonearm with hydraulically damped lift control and lockable rest assures precise tracking in any operating mode. A cast aluminum platter with slip mat provides stable rotation at speeds of 33-1/3, 45, or 78 rpm. The AT-LP120XUSB also features selectable phono preamplifier, built-in USB connection for direct encoding of vinyl records to your computer, and includes Mac- and PC-compatible Audacity software to digitize your LPs.
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB Direct-Drive Professional Turntable is a great addition to anyones audio setup whether youre just getting into vinyl or youve been collecting for years. Ive been using this turntable for about a week now and its been fantastic. The build quality is excellent, it feels very solid and well put together. The direct drive motor is extremely powerful and gets up to speed very quickly which is great if youre like me and tend to be impatient when waiting for your favorite record to start playing. One thing to note is that the platter is made of aluminum so it can get pretty cold to the touch if you live in a colder climate like I do, but thats not really a big deal since youll probably be using a slipmat anyways. The included Audio-Technica AT95E cartridge sounds great right out of the box and tracks well even on warped records. Overall, I couldnt be happier with this turntable and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a high quality, affordable option.
Sony PSHX500 Hi-Res USB Turntable
The Sony PS-HX500 is a Hi-Res USB Turntable that converts your vinyl records into high-resolution digital files. It features a built-in phono preamp and a USB output, so you can connect it to your computer and transfer your vinyl collection to your computer or portable music player. The PS-HX500 also features a line input, so you can connect it to your stereo system and use it as a regular turntable.
The PS-HX500 has a sleek, minimalist design that will look great in any home. It’s easy to set up and use, and it comes with everything you need to get started, including a dust cover, 45 RPM adapter, and USB cable.
The PS-HX500 sounds great, thanks to its built-in phono preamp and quality cartridge. The digital files it produces are clear and detailed, making it a great way to preserve your vinyl collection. If you’re looking for a turntable that can do it all, the PS-HX500 is a great option.
Crosley C200A-SI Belt Drive Turntable with S-Shaped Tone Arm
Review: Crosley C200A-SI Belt Drive Turntable with S-Shaped Tone Arm
As a beginner in the world of vinyl, I did a lot of research on which turntable to buy. I narrowed it down to two, the Crosley C200A-SI and the Audio-Technica ATLP120BK-USB. I ultimately decided on the Crosley because of the lower price point and because it had an S-shaped tone arm (I read that this is better for beginners). I also liked that it came in silver, as opposed to the black of the Audio-Technica.
I’ve only had the turntable for a few days, but so far I’m really happy with it! The set-up was very easy – it literally took me about 5 minutes. I love that it has a built-in pre-amp so I can just plug it directly into my speakers. The sound quality is fantastic – much better than I was expecting given the price point. And finally, the design is really sleek and modern looking. Overall, I’m extremely happy with my purchase and would highly recommend this turntable to anyone looking for a great entry-level option.
Fluance RT85 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable
Fluance RT85 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable Review
If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line turntable that will provide you with the best possible sound quality, the Fluance RT85 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable is the perfect choice. This turntable features a high-quality belt-drive motor, a heavy-duty aluminum platter, and a precision-machined tonearm for optimum performance. The RT85 also includes an Ortofon 2M Red moving magnet cartridge for outstanding audio quality.
The Fluance RT85 is one of the best turntables on the market, and it’s easy to see why. The build quality is excellent, and the overall design is both eye-catching and functional. The included Ortofon 2M Red cartridge is a great bonus, as it offers superb sound quality. If you’re looking for a top-notch turntable that will provide you with years of enjoyment, the RT85 is an excellent choice.
U-Turn Audio Orbit Special Turntable with Built-In Preamp
When I first saw the U-Turn Audio Orbit Special Turntable with Built-In Preamp, I was skeptical. I mean, how good could a turntable be that only costs $399? I’m happy to report that my skepticism was misplaced. The Orbit Special is an excellent turntable, and it sounds even better when you pair it with a good set of speakers.
The first thing you’ll notice about the Orbit Special is its beautiful design. The walnut base and clear acrylic platter give it a modern look that will complement any home décor. But the Orbit Special isn’t just a pretty face. It’s also a great sounding turntable.
The built-in preamp means that you can plug the Orbit Special directly into your stereo receiver or amplifier. And the Ortofon 2M Red cartridge provides clear, concise sound reproduction.
One of the best things about the Orbit Special is its ease of use. There are no complex controls or settings to fiddle with. Just place your record on the platter, cue up the tonearm, and hit the start button. The auto-stop feature ensures that your records don’t get damaged by being played for too long.
If you’re looking for a great sounding turntable that’s easy to use and won’t break the bank, then you need to check out the U-Turn Audio Orbit Special Turntable with Built-In Preamp.
Pro-Ject Debut RecordMaster HiRes Turntable
Pro-Ject Debut RecordMaster HiRes Turntable
The Pro-Ject Debut RecordMaster HiRes is a high performance turntable that combines the stunning sound quality of vinyl with the convenience of digital. This turntable features a built-in phono preamp and A/D converter, allowing you to record your vinyl collection to a computer or portable device. The RecordMaster also features a high-quality Ortofon 2M Red cartridge, belt drive design, and aluminum platter for superior sound quality. With its stylish design and easy-to-use controls, the Pro-Ject Debut RecordMaster HiRes is the perfect way to enjoy your vinyl collection.
Music Hall MMF 2.2 LE Two Speed Belt Driven Audiophile Turntable
Product
The Music Hall MMF 2.2 LE Two Speed Belt Driven Audiophile Turntable is a great product for those who are looking for a high quality, belt driven turntable. The two speed feature is great for those who want to be able to play both 33 1/3 and 45 RPM records. The MMF 2.2 LE also has a built in phono pre-amp, making it easy to connect to a stereo system or powered speakers. The overall build quality of the MMF 2.2 LE is excellent, and it comes with a dust cover and slip mat.
Sound Quality
The sound quality of the Music Hall MMF 2.2 LE Two Speed Belt Driven Audiophile Turntable is excellent. The belt driven design ensures that the platter is rotated smoothly and quietly, providing superior sound reproduction. The built in phono pre-amp provides clear, detailed sound when connected to a stereo system or powered speakers. Overall, the sound quality of the MMF 2.2 LE is very good.
Setup
The setup process for the Music Hall MMF 2.2 LE Two Speed Belt Driven Audiophile Turntable is fairly straightforward and easy to follow. The included instruction manual provides clear and concise instructions on how to properly set up and operate the turntable. Overall, the setup process is relatively simple and should not take more than a few minutes to complete.
Value
The Music Hall MMF 2.2 LE Two Speed Belt Driven Audiophile Turntable offers excellent value for the price. It is well built and includes features that are typically only found on more expensive turntables. The sound quality is very good, making it a great choice for those who are looking for a high quality belt driven turntable.
Rega Planar 1 Plus Belt Drive Turntable
The Rega Planar 1 Plus is a belt-drive turntable with a built-in phono preamplifier. It features a 8.6-inch aluminum tonearm with a Rega Carbon moving magnet cartridge. The Planar 1 Plus has a sturdy MDF plinth with an acrylic laminated finish in either gloss black or gloss white. The Planar 1 Plus is easy to set up and use, and it sounds great.
The Rega Planar 1 Plus is a great sounding turntable that is easy to set up and use. It has a built-in phono preamplifier and comes with a Rega Carbon moving magnet cartridge. The Planar 1 Plus has a sturdy MDF plinth with an acrylic laminated finish in either gloss black or gloss white. The only downside to the Planar 1 Plus is that it does not come with a dust cover.
Pioneer PL-30-K Stereo Turntable
The Pioneer PL-30-K stereo turntable is a great way to get into the vinyl scene. It’s a simple, elegant design that looks great and sounds even better. The built-in phono preamp means you can connect it directly to your speakers or amplifier, and the USB output lets you convert your vinyl collection to digital files for easy listening on your computer or mobile device. The direct-drive motor is whisper-quiet and provides rock-solid performance, while the S-shaped tonearm ensures precise tracking of your records. The included dust cover protects your turntable from dust and debris, and the slipmat helps reduce vibration and feedback. If you’re looking for a great way to get into the world of vinyl, the Pioneer PL-30-K is the perfect choice.