The Best Audiophile Turntable Under $500 For 2024
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: Fluance RT81 Elite High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable
Our testers praised this device not only for its pure sound but also for its superior recording capabilities. Read Review
2. Best For The Price: Sony PS-LX310BT Belt Drive Turntable
At an affordable price point, this product is a great choice when it comes to providing high-quality sound. Read Review
3. Best Sound-Quality: Fluance RT85 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable
In addition to immersing in natural sound, the appearance of this device is also notable for its luxury. Read Review
4. Best Lightweight: Audio-Technica AT-LP3BK Turntable
It has great sound and fully automated cueing, which eliminates your fears of scratching records, and a nice minimalistic aesthetic. Read Review
The turntable is a type of music player specially designed for analog music from vinyl. The rustic and authentic sound of this "casual" device is hard to match with any digital device.
The turntable has a pretty simple way of working: spin the disc at a steady speed and emit a sound with the tip of a needle. The precision when the turntable operates will determine the quality of the sound it produces.
The turntable is composed of many parts. To choose a quality turntable, it is necessary to have quality right from these structural parts. You don't have to spend a fortune to own a quality product, we have evaluated many different products and filtered out the Best Audiophile Turntables under $500 to recommend to you.
RELATED: Whether you're looking for best semi automatic turntable, you're going to want to read this article. We've compiled a list of the best products for 2024.
Our Top Picks
TOP Choice #1
![Fluance RT81 Elite High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable]()
- HIGH PERFORMANCE CARTRIDGE - The Audio Technica AT95E featuring a diamond elliptical tipped stylus is designed to track your record grooves with greater precision & accuracy for high definition audio
- CAPTIVATING SIGNAL CLARITY - Incorporating a high quality built-in Texas Instruments preamp, ground terminal and gold plated RCA line outputs that ensures warm, true sound
- PURE ANALOG LISTENING EXPERIENCE - Premium components allow this high fidelity belt driven turntable to recreate the performance the way the artist intended
- SUPERIOR RECORD TRACKING - Enjoy perfect playback using the balanced aluminum S-Type tonearm ensuring the stylus is rested deep in your record's groove, producing every audio detail indistinguishable from the original recording
- SOLID WOOD PLINTH - The beautiful walnut finished cabinet is crafted from solid engineered (MDF) wood, incorporates isolation feet, an aluminum platter and a rubber slip mat which results in superior isolation from unwanted vibrations
- TWO SPEEDS: 33 1/3 rpm and 45 rpm, with the 45 rpm adaptor stowed neatly in a slot beneath the deck
- USB RIPPING: Rip vinyl records to digital MP3 files on your computer to take a favorite LP on the go
- HIGH QUALITY AUDIO: Built in switchable phono output / line out phono preamp and 3 gain settings
- EASY OPERATION: Effortlessly enjoy your favorite records with one-step auto start, stop and return
- STABLE PLATTER: An aluminum die-cast platter reduces vibration for increased clarity and hi-fi sound
- IN THE BOX: Turntable, removable dust cover, vibration dampening slip mat, 45 adaptor, USB B cable
- WIRED CONNECTION: PSLX310BT turntables include RCA cables for plugging directly into a stereo system
- STRAIGHT TONEARM: A newly designed aluminum pipe tonearm gives the record players improved tracking
- WIRELESS CONNECTION: Connect to wireless speakers, headphones or other Bluetooth enabled devices. Supports phono and line output thanks to built-in Phono EQ
- PURE ANALOG PERFORMANCE - The definitive vinyl record listening experience for beautifully warm and natural music, transporting you into the center of the performance
- SPECTACULAR MUSICAL ACCURACY - Immerse yourself in the detailed high resolution sound of the Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical cartridge delivering improved linearity, higher channel separation and reduced distortion
- SPEED CONTROL FOR PRECISION PLAYBACK - The isolated motor prevents unwanted vibrations and noise while the speed control mechanism ensures consistent platter velocity (0.07% Wow/Flutter)
- HIGH DENSITY ACRYLIC PLATTER - The greater mass of the acrylic platter damps unwanted vibrations resulting in a more 3-dimentional sound with tighter bass, a fuller midrange, and overall improved clarity
- SOLID WOOD PLINTH - Revel in the gorgeous solid wood cabinet and adjustable resonance damping feet, ensuring superior isolation from unwanted micro-vibrations (Note: phono preamp not included)
- Plays both 33-1/3 and 45 RPM records, and has a built-in switchable phono preamp with dual RCA output to connect to a home stereo, powered speakers and other components with or without dedicated turntable input
- Hydraulically damped lift control allows the stylus to be precisely and safely lowered and raised at any point on a record
- Balanced straight tone arm comes with a 1/2" mount universal headshell and AT91R Dual Moving Magnet phono cartridge, giving you excellent high-fidelity performance
- Constructed of anti-vibration damping materials that limits low-frequency feedback
- Take your analog listening experience to the next level with advanced features not typically found on automatic turntables
- Resonance is further reduced by the turntable’s die-cast aluminum platter and accompanying 4 mm rubber damping mat
- Offers fully automatic operation; simply press the Start button to begin play and the Stop button to lift and return the tone arm and shut off the turntable
- EASY INSTALLATION & SETUP - Assemble the turntable, set it up in your living room or home theater with simple connections and start listening to your old or new records almost instantly
- SMOOTH & GENTLE AUTOMATIC MOTIONS - The automatic startup feature allows the turntable to begin play. With the touch of a button, the tonearm gets lifted and comes to rest so smoothly ensuring NO SCRATCHES OR DAMAGE TO YOUR RECORDS
- BRINGS PURITY OF SOUND & JOY TO YOUR LIFE - Attractive design, great features, & superior build quality with Denon expert re-engineering makes this turntable a winner and a must-have for your vintage vinyl collection in any home entertainment system
- LOWER VIBRATIONS DRIVE BETTER PERFORMANCE - This slim and sleek turntable is designed with a heavier base construction that helps decrease vibrations, giving you a noiseless, rich and detailed sound
- BUILT-IN PHONO EQUALIZER creates an open, enveloping sound stage that enlivens your vinyl collection while staying true to the original recording. Connect it directly to a mini component or integrated amp that lacks a phono terminal for seamless use
- REDISCOVER YOUR PASSION FOR VINYL -Listen to your analog music in a brand new way with this rigid diecast aluminum turntable that comes with standard mount headshell, MM Cartridge, DC servo motor, and has rotation speeds of 33 1/3 or 45 rpm
- Precise, electronic selection of 33 1/3 and 45 RPM playback Speed
- connector type: RCA
- power source type: Corded Electric
- Premium mechanical parts used throughout for smooth, precise playback of records
- 8mm thick bead-blasted glass platter
- Tonearm and cartridge completely setup at the Factory for simple installation at home
- connectivity technology: Wired
- Built-in, bypassable phono preamp for connection to any audio system
- SOLID WOOD PLINTH - Revel in the gorgeous solid wood cabinet with a highly precise metal platter and adjustable resonance damping feet, ensuring superior isolation from unwanted micro-vibrations
- PURE ANALOG PERFORMANCE - The definitive vinyl record listening experience for beautifully warm and natural music, transporting you into the center of the performance
- SPECTACULAR SIGNAL CLARITY - Caress your records with the balanced S-shaped tonearm for accurate tracking of the record groove and no electronics in the signal path for a cleaner, exceptionally detailed sound (Note: phono preamp not included)
- SPEED CONTROL FOR PRECISION PLAYBACK - The isolated motor prevents unwanted vibrations and noise while the speed control mechanism ensures consistent platter velocity (0.07% Wow/Flutter)
- EXCEPTIONAL MUSICAL ACCURACY - Immerse yourself in the open, dynamic and warm sound of the Ortofon 2M Red elliptical cartridge delivering improved linearity, higher channel separation and reduced distortion
8
![Crosley C8A-WA 2-Speed Belt-Driven Turntable]()
- Adjustable aluminum tonearm with a counterweight, anti-skate control and removable head shell
- RCA outputs to easily hook the C8 Turntable up to your speakers or sound system
- Large audio-grade MDF plinth wrapped in handsome Walnut veneer
- Built-in switchable preamp
- Two-speed turntable (33 1/3 and 45 RPM) with external belt mechanism and moving magnetic cartridge
9
![Crosley C200A-BK Direct-Drive Turntable]()
- Fully manual operation with start / stop control
- Balanced S-Shaped tone arm with hydraulic lift control, anti-skate, height adjustment, and lockable rest
- Damped die-cast aluminum platter with felt slip mat
- Turntable includes built-in switchable phono pre-amplifier with detachable RCA output cables
- Direct drive, high-torque motor turntable mechanism plays 2 speeds - 33 1/3 and 45 RPM records
10
![U-Turn Audio - Orbit Plus Turntable]()
- External belt drive eliminates motor noise and ensures speed consistency (33/45 RPM).
- Precision OA2 gimbal tonearm for accurate tracking and low distortion. Features internal anti-skate and adjustable counterweight.
- Acrylic platter provides improved speed consistency and clearer more detailed playback.
- Ortofon OM5E cartridge with elliptical diamond stylus.
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
What to Look For in a best audiophile turntable under $500?
When selecting a suitable best audiophile turntable under $500, a variety of factors have been found. Information sources are available in a wide range of forms. As a basis, we are doing it to support, inform, and solve your demands.
Please keep these things in mind before selecting the best audiophile turntable under $500:
Pre-amps
Pre-amps convert the turntable's "phono" signal into a stronger signal called "line", so that it is compatible with speakers, headphones and other audio equipment. You can either use an amplifier that has a separate phono line or buy a standalone pre-amp if the turntable does not have one.
Some turntables come with switchable preamps that can be switched on and off depending on the plugging device.
Some turntables come with switchable preamps that can be switched on and off depending on the plugging device.
Styluses And Cartridges
A turntable's most crucial parts are its stylus and cartridge. The stylus and cartridge pick up the information from the record, convert it to electronic signals and send them to the speakers.
The stylus, or "needle", is what sits inside the grooves of the record. It is crucial to choose the right shape for the stylus. An elliptical stylus will pick up more information than one that has a conical surface because it touches more records. Audiophiles also believe that conical styluses work better with old records because they take up more space after the groove has been expanded through repeated plays.
The stylus is held in the cartridge, which converts its movements into electric signals. The most popular cartridge types are moving magnet (MM), and moving coil (MC). Most turntables will use MM cartridges because they areer and more convenient to change needles. However, MC cartridges can be lighter and pick up more groove changes than MM cartridges. They are also more costly.
The stylus, or "needle", is what sits inside the grooves of the record. It is crucial to choose the right shape for the stylus. An elliptical stylus will pick up more information than one that has a conical surface because it touches more records. Audiophiles also believe that conical styluses work better with old records because they take up more space after the groove has been expanded through repeated plays.
The stylus is held in the cartridge, which converts its movements into electric signals. The most popular cartridge types are moving magnet (MM), and moving coil (MC). Most turntables will use MM cartridges because they areer and more convenient to change needles. However, MC cartridges can be lighter and pick up more groove changes than MM cartridges. They are also more costly.
Tracking Force
The track force refers to the downward pressure that the cartridge exerts on the record through the stylus. A suggested tracking force will be included with your turntable.
Adjusting the track force can be delicate, but this is worth it to improve sound quality. You also have a lower chance of damaging your records by too much downward force.
Adjusting the counterweight at the back of your tonearm can change the tracking force. First, balance the tonearm horizontally. Next, twist the counterweight to get the right downforce (as indicated in the instruction).
Adjusting the track force can be delicate, but this is worth it to improve sound quality. You also have a lower chance of damaging your records by too much downward force.
Adjusting the counterweight at the back of your tonearm can change the tracking force. First, balance the tonearm horizontally. Next, twist the counterweight to get the right downforce (as indicated in the instruction).
Anti-skate Force
The anti-skate force must be adjusted in conjunction with the tracking force via the dial located near the tonearm. This ensures that the needle does not move sideways.
Record Speeds
These numbers are the revolutions per minute (rpm) of the record. Although most records are 33s in length, there are still 45s and some 78s available (the former are smaller). While most turntables can play both 33rpm or 45rpm, you will need to have an adapter in order to hear the slower version. You'll have to look for an adapter or player that can play 78s.
Drives
Two types of drive are available for turntables: direct and belt.
Models with direct drive motors are mounted beneath the platter. In a belt drive, the motor is attached to one end by a rubber belt. The turntable can be spun at higher speeds and is compacted by direct drives. Belt models, on the other hand, isolate any extra noise from the motor.
Models with direct drive motors are mounted beneath the platter. In a belt drive, the motor is attached to one end by a rubber belt. The turntable can be spun at higher speeds and is compacted by direct drives. Belt models, on the other hand, isolate any extra noise from the motor.
Fully Automatic
Playing vinyl has the biggest drawback of having to reach at each end and turn it over. A fully automatic turntable uses a machine on the tonearm to put the needle on the record and play it. Then, at the end of the track, it lifts the record up to return it to its cradle.
The extra electric signals along the tonearm and the mechanical movement are what audio purists believe affect the sound. Full-auto, however, is the best option if you don't want to have to stand up for half an hour every time.
The extra electric signals along the tonearm and the mechanical movement are what audio purists believe affect the sound. Full-auto, however, is the best option if you don't want to have to stand up for half an hour every time.
RELATED: As a result of our experts' research from 5,794 user reviews, we've listed 10 turntables that play 78s of 2024. Check them here
FAQs
Do I Need A Preamp For My Turntable?
Both yes and no. A preamp is necessary for every turntable to convert its sounds into something your record player can hear, as well as other audio devices.Because most turntables have their preamp built in, it's not necessary. If this is the case then you don't need a separate preamp.
However, we understand that not everyone wants to improve their sound and decide to purchase a preamp separately. For more information, if you are one of these people, please see our next question.
Is It Bad To Leave A Record On The Turntable?
It is. It is a habit that even certified audiophiles sometimes forget to put their records in their jackets, but it's important to always do this.Your record will be more likely to get damaged or dirty if it is not kept out in the open. You're guilty of this habit, but at the very least you should not forget to close the dust cover.
What Makes One Turntable Sound Better Than Another?
You need to take into account many factors. The quality of both the stylus and cartridge is important. Some turntables simply have more features, which allow for better accuracy and less vibration.Can You Connect A Turntable Directly To Speakers?
It all depends on whether the connectors in your device can accommodate your speakers. Most of them will. It shouldn't be a problem connecting your turntable and its speakers.How To Make The Turntable Louder?
If the phonostage isn't connected correctly or not properly, your turntable might play slowly. A properly sized, wired and connected phonostage is the best way to unlock your turntable's potential.What’s An Automatic Turntable?
A turntable that is automatic uses a combination of automatic features and a tonearm to lift itself from its resting place and position itself above your record for playback. After the track has finished, the device will automatically lift from its resting place and go back to the original position.This is a preferred method by some users as it reduces the amount of effort required to stop and play your turntable. However, this does not mean you can't manually lift the tonearm. It's still possible.
How Many Times Can You Listen To A Vinyl Record?
The vinyl record is a great resource for work. The record can be listened to over 100 times with no loss of sound quality.With new information arriving, our editor will usually update the best audiophile turntable under $500 frequently. Please constantly check our site for the most up-to-date material.
We will try our best to help you with more best audiophile turntable under $500. You are supposed to be free to ask for assistance with your problems.
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