Whether you are looking to replace an old vinyl record player or to add a new, portable music device to your home, there are a number of choices. These range in price and functionality. They all have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, and it’s important to consider them before you purchase.
Setup time
Getting your hands on a top-notch turntable can be a bit of a slog, especially if you’re into vinyl. In addition to the usual suspects like headphones and speakers, you’ll need to snag some form of power, preferably a well positioned outlet, to crank your favorite LPs. If you’re not a fan of moving parts, you may want to consider a turntable with built-in speakers. The sound quality and convenience will more than pay for itself over time. Those in the know will also appreciate the fact that it takes less time to set up than a full-fledged home stereo system.
The most important step is to ensure that you’ve got the right equipment. While the name of the manufacturer on your receipt is a given, you’ll want to be prepared to shell out some cash to snag a good one.
Sound quality
Whether you are a vinyl record collector or just like to listen to music, you want to buy the best portable turntable that will give you the best sound quality. While many record players are priced very high, there are a few affordable models that can be found in most stores.
Most portable record players come with a standard case that is made from a few dozens of inches of width. This makes it easy to fit the LP in the open position. It’s also possible to connect the device to a variety of sources via cable.
It’s important to buy a turntable with good built-in speakers. You can also connect external speakers to a portable record player, if you prefer. This will improve the sound quality and increase your listening experience.
Price range
Whether you’re a first-time record player or an old-school pro, you’ll need to choose a portable turntable with good sound quality and durability. There are plenty of options in this price range.
If you’re on a budget, you can get an excellent record player for under $50. This small portable turntable has three speeds, a USB port, a diamond needle and integrated speakers.
The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X is a fully automatic belt-driven turntable that delivers warm, natural sound. It comes with a choice of phono or line outputs, and includes an upgrade path allowing you to add a preamp.
For only $149, the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X offers excellent sound quality. The turntable has a carbon-fiber tonearm and a natural wood veneer plinth. The phono output can be digitized to an SD card or USB stick, and the turntable can be used with a separate set of external speakers.
Bluetooth connectivity
Using Bluetooth connectivity for portable turntables is easy and can be a great addition to your existing hi-fi system. It allows you to move around your home without having to fumble with cables.
It can also connect wirelessly to wireless headphones. It’s important to note, though, that you will need a powered speaker to make the Bluetooth connection. If your turntable does not come with one, you can purchase a powered Bluetooth speaker.
The best Bluetooth turntables will have an integrated phono stage, which will allow you to skip the need for an external preamp. Some even come with a built-in aptX HD function, which will let you stream 24-bit hi-res audio.
The Pro-Ject Essential III Bluetooth record player is one of the best budget to mid-range models on the market. It boasts a punchy treble and a winning sonic versatility.
Size
Buying a portable turntable is a good option for vinyl lovers who are on the go. It offers great sound quality while being lightweight and compact. It can also be paired with a smart device, such as a tablet, to provide music from other sources.
Portable turntables come in different styles and designs. You can get vintage-inspired models or sleek, modern ones. It is important to choose one that fits your decor. Portable turntables should include all the necessary accessories, such as the speakers and a phono preamp. It should also be easy to set up.
The most popular portable turntable size is the 10-inch model. It is ideal for beginner DJs, as it provides a wider range of playback speeds, which helps in accurate and precise sound playback.