The Turntable Stereo Systems For 2024

Tim Powers By, Tim Powers
Updated
Victrola 8-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Victrola 8-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player

Auxiliary input jack for connecting iPod, MP3 or other digital music player, AM/FM stereo receiver, Cassette tray with one-button operation Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK

The Audio-Technica ATLP60X record player is a great choice for beginners. It has an automatic mechanism that allows you to enjoy vinyl records without needing any "hands-on" experience. Read Review

3. Best Stability: 1 BY ONE Bluetooth Turntable HiFi System

The built-in stereo speakers on the 1byone player produce a crisp, clear sound with no bass distortion. It can play records at three speeds. Read Review

4. Budget pick: ION Audio Max LP

The ION's ability to convert vinyl collections into digital files is its main selling point. Simply connect the player with the USB cable provided and then install the EZ Vinyl/Tape Converter software CD. Read Review

5. Best Style: Victrola 6-in-1 Nostalgic Bluetooth Record Player

The turntable emits a distinct, crisp, warm tone. This product has a unique feature that makes it stand out: it doesn't produce vibrations. Read Review

There are many ways to immerse oneself in music in the digital age we live in. There are many streaming options available, such as Spotify and Apple Music, but you can also listen to your favorite CDs. Ask any audiophile to tell you their favorite way to listen to a new album. The answer is almost always vinyl.

What is the simplest and most cost-effective way to start your vinyl record journey?

That would be an all-in-one stereo system that includes a turntable. You can still get the best from vinyl records, but I recommend that you look into stand-alone options.
The best stereo systems that include turntables do a great job. Let's take a look at the top Turntable stereo systems available today.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Victrola 8-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player
Our Score:
9.9
Victrola
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
TOP Choice #2 Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK
Our Score:
9.7
Audio-Technica
  • Redesigned tone arm base and head shell for improved tracking and reduced resonance
  • Ac adapter handles AC/DC conversion outside of the chassis, reducing noise in the signal chain
  • Experience the high fidelity audio of vinyl
  • Anti resonance, die cast aluminum platter
  • Fully automatic belt drive turntable operation with 2 speeds: 33 1/3, 45 RPM
TOP Choice #3 1 BY ONE Bluetooth Turntable HiFi System
Our Score:
9.5
1 BY ONE
  • Vinyl Recording Via PC, Connect this turntable to your computer via usb and encode vinyl audio into MP3s for digitalized storage and playback on your computer, smartphone or tablet
  • Great connectivity, Built-in switchable phono line and pre-amplifier allow connection to the set of included speakers or to your own externally-powered speakers via the dual RCA output cables
  • Adjustable counterweight force, essential for any serious classic Turntable, Tonearm counterweight coupled with the advanced anti-skating system produces smooth stylus movement and tunes out skipping and distortion
  • Wireless streaming, play music from all your favorite devices like iPhones, Android smartphones, tablets, PCs and usb-mp3 players through the turntable’s speakers with Bluetooth function
  • Solid iron platter, precision-manufactured iron platter produces uniform inertial mass for perfect stability and rotation, Brings high-fidelity playback to the next level, Please watch the 3-minute Quick Installation video for easy installation
4 ION Audio Max LP
Our Score:
9.4
ION
  • Rediscover your Vinyl record collection: Premium 3 speed turntable (33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM) that plays every LP / record in your collection, completed in a luxurious natural wood finish
  • Update your library: Convert tracks into digital files via USB onto your PC or Mac with the included ION Audio EZ conversion software
  • The centerpiece of your vinyl listening experience: 1/8 inch aux input to convert or playback from media sources; Standard RCA outputs to connect to external speakers and HIFI separates
  • Everything you need: Protective dust cover, 45 adapter, and felt Slipmat included
  • Room filling sound – On board built in stereo speakers deliver punchy, crystal clear sound; no fuss, simply kick back and listen to your records
  • 6-in-1 ENTERTAINMENT CENTER – With vintage looks on the outside & modern features inside, listen your way; vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, FM radio or stream music from your smartphone via Bluetooth or 3.5 mm Aux/headphone jack
  • 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
  • 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
  • Features a 3-speed, belt-driven turntable for all your favorite (33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM) records. Also includes CD player, FM radio, cassette player and 3.5mm Aux-in
  • ALL THE CONTROLS YOU NEED – Features an input select knob, power button, volume knob, FM tuner, play/pause/fast forward/rewind buttons, program & repeat buttons, open/close button for CD tray, eject switch for cassettes - everything is right there
  • EXPANDED CONNECTION OPTIONS – Extend the sound by connecting external speakers or an amplifier via the RCA Line outputs (cable included). For personal listening, plug your headphones into the headphone jack
  • 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
  • 【Delicate Metal Control Panel】 - We are sure that this record player is user friendly and anyone in your group of friends or family can use this with the basic modes on its control panel. Modify the volume, switching playback mode by using the main knob. Also, LED indicators made it easy for you to check if the record player is turned on or not, it is perfect for entertainment and home decoration, it is also the best gift for vinyl music lovers
  • 【Turntable & Belt-driven Shock Absorption】This record player features UPGRADED PREMIUM SOUND QUALITY and sits on sound isolating feet that prevent vibration, provide you a quality and smooth music. For personal listening, connect your headphones to the headphone jack.
  • 【Bluetooth Input & USB Recording & RCA line-out】Built in stereo speakers, with Bluetooth wireless technology, elegantly listen to your music in your phone. You can covert vinyl records into MP3 / WAV format music files through USB recording function. For better or louder sound, you can connect external speaker via RCA cable, It is perfect for your living room, bedroom or office.
  • 【 3 Speed &3 Sizes Record】This retro design suitcase record player support 3 speeds (33, 45 and 78 RPM) and 3 sizes of record (7'', 10'' and 12''), a wise choice for vinyl lovers. Just enjoy your relaxing time at home or outdoors.
  • 【Vintage & Fashion Combination】Made of metal, wood and classic PU leather surface , combined with modern fashion technology, allows you enjoying retro-style music by vinyl records or digital music with wireless tech. Portable suitcase design makes it possible to play outdoor or anywhere that need music!
  • Record Player With Bluetooth 5.0 - Advanced 5.0 Bluetooth Technology, Byronstatics Record Player Have A Stronger Connection And Longer Distance, Fast And Stable Transmission Under Bluetooth Mode, Works Smoothly.
  • Built In Speaker & Rca Line Out- The Vinyl Record Player Is Built In Stereo Speakers, Provides You Good Sound With Excellent Bass, Also You Can Connect This Turntable With External Speakers By Rca Cable For Better Or Louder Sound, The Turntable Also Support 3.5Mm Aux-In Input For Single-Way Audio Device.
  • Portable & Easy To Use: The Briefcase Design Makes The Little Record Player Great For Moving Around The House Or Traveling, The Lid Is Lined With Velvet Wooden, Make Sure Your Records Are Dust Free, Also It Comes With A Replacement Stylus.
  • Three Speed Turntable - Byronstatics Vinyl Record Player Allows To Play Lp'S In 33/45/78 Rpm, Play 7" 10" 12" Size Record, It Will Automatically Stop Playing Once It Reaches The End Of A Record Don'T Need To Worry About Wear And Tear Vinyls.
  • Refer the FAQ below for troubleshooting
  • 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
  • **VERY IMPORTANT** Please Note: Kindly refer the User Manual especially manual page E-14 for better use.
  • MP3 CD and CD-R/RW Compatible, Skip/Search Forward and Back, Repeat 1/Single Disc/All Discs
  • Random Play, Programmable Memory, Multi-function Back-lit LCD Display
  • Direct USB/SD recording; Cassette recording - records from vinyl record/radio/CD/SD/USB/AUX to cassette (the cassette tape must be recordable); AM/FM stereo radio; Overall Dimension(LxWxH): 12-4/5" x 11-3/5" x 7-4/5" (32.5 x 29.5 x 20cm)
  • Bluetooth function allows wirelessly to play your favorite digital music from your smart phone, tablet or other devices with Bluetooth.
  • Plays 7"/10"/12" vinyl records with optional playing speed of 33/45/78RPM
  • Plays CD, cassette & MP3 through USB disk, SD card or other external devices
  • With 2 external stereo speakers; With remote control
  • Item Package Width: 37.592cm
  • Item Package Length: 27.94cm
  • Item Package Weight: 7.802kg
  • Item Package Height: 55.372cm
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What to Look For in a turntable stereo systems?

The turntable stereo systems is assessed based on many factors. turntable stereo systems research varies depending on the type, feature, and quality of this product. It is not too complex to cover, yet we will give you some buying guide and solutions to these problems.

Please take a closer look at turntable stereo systems characteristics below would be beneficial for you. Let’s look through and keep in mind:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

FAQs

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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About Tim Powers

Tim Powers

Tim Powers is an audio equipment & home theater gadget reviewer and the editor of TheAudioInsights.com. He has been involved in the home theater hobby since the late 1990s when he purchased his first AV receiver. Tim is also a writer, with articles appearing in various online and print publications.