The Best Turntable Under 400 For 2024
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: Victrola 8-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player
The Victrola 8-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player is the first turntable to combine vintage looks with modern features. The turntable not only plays vinyl records, but it also has a CD & cassette player, FM radio, bluetooth, and aux & headphone jack for audio streaming from your smartphone. Read Review
2. Runner Up: Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK Turntable
Experience the high fidelity audio of vinyl with this fully automatic belt drive turntable. It features an anti-resonance, die cast aluminum platter and offers 2 speeds: 33 1/3 or 45 RPM. The Audio Technica AT-LP60X-BK is a must-have for any audiophile! Read Review
3. Best Realiable: Fluance RT81 Elite High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable Record Player
Bring your LPs back to life with the Fluance RT81 Elite High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable Record Player. This high-quality belt-driven turntable features a premium tonearm, cartridge and amplifier for a pure analog listening experience. Read Review
4. Budget pick: Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK Direct-Drive Turntable
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK is a professional DJ turntable with a high-torque, direct-drive motor for quick start-ups and a USB output that connects directly to your computer. It has a switchable built-in preamp so you can easily play records through an audio system or powered speakers. Read Review
If you’re an audiophile who doesn’t have a ton of cash to throw around, finding the best turntable under 400 can be a difficult task. Thankfully, there are plenty of excellent options available for those on a budget.
These affordable turntables offer everything you need to listen to your record collection again without spending much money.
The best turntables under $400 will not only save you money, but they’ll also accurately play both your vinyl records and your audio files. Here are our top recommendations for the best budget turntables.
You are strongly encouraged to pay close attention to the Victrola 8-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player as our top product. Or you can check the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK Turntable as the other great option, even if the first option didn't meet all of your requirements.
RELATED: Our top 10 best technics turntable has been researched and selected by our expert team through 5,619 reviews.
Our Top Picks
- HIGH QUALITY DESIGN & FINISHING – Victrola's 115-year commitment to craftsmanship is evident in the stylish retro real wood case, strong hinges, high quality fabric grilles, gentle lifting mechanism and well-balanced sound
- NO STEREO SYSTEM OR EXTRA EQUIPMENT REQUIRED. Get it up and running in minutes. Retro looks combined with the convenience of modern technology make this record player a great value - ideal for beginners & vintage enthusiasts alike
- ALL THE CONTROLS YOU NEED – Features a volume knob, FM tuner and easy click buttons for input select, power, play/pause/forward/rewind, eject, program, shuffle, repeat, and a full function remote control
- 8-in-1 ENTERTAINMENT CENTER – With vintage looks & modern features, this turntable not only plays your Vinyls, but also has a CD & cassette player, FM radio, Bluetooth, and Aux & headphone jack for audio streaming from your smartphone
- THREE SPEED BELT-DRIVEN TURNTABLE – This 3-speed (33 1/3, 45, 78 rpm) record player features UPGRADED PREMIUM SOUND QUALITY with minimum vibrations. It is perfect for your living room, bedroom or office and a great choice for vinyl lovers
- EXPANDED CONNECTION OPTIONS – Extend the sound by connecting external speakers or an amplifier via the RCA Line outputs. For personal listening, plug your headphones into the headphone jack
- Fully automatic belt drive turntable operation with 2 speeds: 33 1/3, 45 RPM
- Redesigned tone arm base and head shell for improved tracking and reduced resonance
- Experience the high fidelity audio of vinyl
- Anti resonance, die cast aluminum platter
- Ac adapter handles AC/DC conversion outside of the chassis, reducing noise in the signal chain
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- Convert your vinyl records to digital audio files by downloading and using the free Mac- and PC-compatible Audacity recording software (or software of your choice)
- Direct-drive, DC servo motor with selectable 33/45/78 RPM speeds. Damped base construction for reduced low-frequency feedback coloration
- Fully manual operation featuring adjustable dynamic anti-skate control, variable pitch control with quartz speed lock, and balanced S-shaped tonearm with hydraulically damped lift control and lockable rest
- Experience the high-fidelity audio of vinyl
- Includes: USB cable, detachable RCA output cable (dual RCA male to dual RCA male), AC adapter, 45 RPM adapter, counterweight, felt mat, and removable hinged dust cover
- HIGH QUALITY AUDIO: Built in switchable phono output / line out phono preamp and 3 gain settings
- WIRELESS CONNECTION: Connect to wireless speakers, headphones or other Bluetooth enabled devices. Supports phono and line output thanks to built-in Phono EQ
- IN THE BOX: Turntable, removable dust cover, vibration dampening slip mat, 45 adaptor, USB B cable
- TWO SPEEDS: 33 1/3 rpm and 45 rpm, with the 45 rpm adaptor stowed neatly in a slot beneath the deck
- STRAIGHT TONEARM: A newly designed aluminum pipe tonearm gives the record players improved tracking
- USB RIPPING: Rip vinyl records to digital MP3 files on your computer to take a favorite LP on the go
- EASY OPERATION: Effortlessly enjoy your favorite records with one-step auto start, stop and return
- WIRED CONNECTION: PSLX310BT turntables include RCA cables for plugging directly into a stereo system
- STABLE PLATTER: An aluminum die-cast platter reduces vibration for increased clarity and hi-fi sound
- Included Components: Turntable, Dual Rca (Male) To Dual Rca (Male) Stereo Cable, 45 Rpm Adapter, Rubber Mat, And Removable Hinged Dust Cover
- 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)
- 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
- 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
- Take your analog listening experience to the next level with advanced features not typically found on automatic turntables
- 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
- Hydraulically damped lift control allows the stylus to be precisely and safely lowered and raised at any point on a record
- Constructed of anti-vibration damping materials that limits low-frequency feedback
- 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
- 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
- Random Play, Programmable Memory, Multi-function Back-lit LCD Display
- Refer the FAQ below for troubleshooting
- **VERY IMPORTANT** Please Note: Kindly refer the User Manual especially manual page E-14 for better use.
- Clock Display/Sleep/Timer, Auto Stop Dual Cassette Deck, AM/FM Stereo Receiver with PLL Digital Tuning and 20AM + 20FM Presets, 5 Mode Preset EQ, Digital Volume Control, Dust Cover
- MP3 CD and CD-R/RW Compatible, Skip/Search Forward and Back, Repeat 1/Single Disc/All Discs
- 【Offering High Quality & Richer Stereo Sound - A 10W Tweeter and 2 x 20W Full-range Stereo Speakers】The brass horn equipped with a 10W tweeter will maximally reproduce the realism of sound. The sound amplified by the horn will be more effective, powerful and clean to shake your soul. It also built with 2 x 20W full-range stereo speakers in the base giving a 360-degree stereo surround sound with rich and multi-layer feeling.
- 【Quick and Easy To Set Up/Support Remote Control】Simply install it with a very easy understanding manual within 10 minutes, no skill or tools needed. You can control the Vinyl record player turntable with the panel and also the remote. Ready to enjoy your favorite music! We are here to provide professional customer service and 12 months Warranty for a reassuring purchase.
- 【2-Speed(33/45RPM) Vinyl Record Player Turntable With Sophisticated Details / Support Vinyl Record Of 7"/10"/12"】Featured fine and sturdy wood base, this beautiful vintage phonograph is expertly handcrafted by highly skilled artisans with several processes. Its smooth lines with the hand-colored paint nicely detailed in all of the sides. The brass horn is riveted by 8 petals of brass by hand with the antiquated surface.
- 【Also Can Act As A Vintage Look Music Player & FM Radio With Bluetooth/Aux in/FM Radio Functions】This gramophone can not only stream your favorite music from your smartphone or your music player via Bluetooth or with the 3.5mm Aux input, USB input port but also can play the daily tunes on the FM Radio.
- 【A High Spec Phonograph Turntable - Belt Drive Turntable with Ruby Stylus & Brass Horn】In order to offering this gramophone with best quality , we choose the belt drive design, ruby stylus and the brass horn. You can just enjoy the remarkable music with this phonograph turntable with long lifetime.
What to Look For in a best turntable under 400?
A range of elements, including those listed below, influence the best turntable under 400. The study process varies depending on the material. We'll be able to assist you and provide solutions since we're here to help you.
Please keep in mind the following points before selecting best turntable under 400:
Fully Automatic
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.
Tracking Force
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).
Styluses And Cartridges
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.
Record Speeds
Pre-amps
Some turntables come with switchable preamps that can be switched on and off depending on the plugging device.
Anti-skate Force
Drives
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.
RELATED: Looking for a best automatic turntable under 500 that won't break your budget? Here are our top picks for the best automatic turntable under 500 in 2024.
FAQs
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.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.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.
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.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 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.When updated data are available, our system and editor will update a list of best turntable under 400. Please periodically review our website for the newest data.
We can help you with more than just finding best turntable under 400. Please do not hesitate to contact us when you need assistance.
READ NEXT: The Modern Vinyl Record Players For 2024
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