Last Updated on June 20, 2023 by Tom S. Ray

Record players have made a major comeback in recent years, appealing to music enthusiasts who appreciate the warm and authentic sound quality vinyl records offer. For those with a collection of vintage records, investing in the best record player is essential to fully enjoy these musical gems and preserve their quality for years to come.

To appreciate the appeal of vintage records, it’s important to understand the unique aspects they possess. With their grooves and delicate materials, they are delicate and require proper playback equipment that respects their age. The best record players for vintage records allow listeners to experience the warm and full-bodied sound classic vinyl is known for, while minimising the risk of damage.

When shopping for a record player for your vintage collection, it’s important to pay attention to key factors such as the type of needle, build quality, and adjustable features. The needle should be gentle on your records, with proper alignment to minimise wear. The build quality ensures optimal performance and durability, while adjustable features like anti-skate and tracking force allow for tailored playback settings that cater to your collection’s specific needs.

After conducting extensive research and testing, we have shortlisted the top record players designed to enhance and preserve vintage records, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the world of classic vinyl.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best record player for vintage records, there are several important factors to consider. In this guide, we will outline key features to look for and some helpful tips to make your decision easier.

Sound Quality

One of the most important aspects to consider when choosing a record player is sound quality. Look for a player that has:

• A high-quality cartridge and stylus
• Adjustable tracking force
• Anti-skate control
• Good-quality speakers or the option to connect external speakers

Build Quality and Design

The build quality and design of the record player can greatly affect its performance. We recommend looking for:

• A solid, well-built chassis to minimise vibration
• A visually appealing design that suits your personal taste

Speed Settings and Playback Features

Ensure that the record player you choose can play all the vintage records in your collection. Key factors to consider are:

• Speed settings (33 1/3, 45, or 78 RPM)
• Playback features such as automatic start/stop and cueing lever

Connectivity

Modern record players may offer additional connectivity options. Consider ones that have:

• Built-in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi for streaming music
• USB output for digitising vinyl records
• AUX or RCA output for connecting to external speakers

Price and Budget

Lastly, consider your budget and the price of the record player. While premium models may offer additional features, there are many affordable options with great performance.

Keep these factors in mind when searching for the best record player to enjoy your vintage records. With the right balance of features and a focus on sound quality, you’ll be able to find the perfect player for your collection.

Best Record Players for Vintage Records

We’ve carefully compiled a list of the best record players for vintage records, ensuring that you can enjoy your beloved vinyl collection with the highest audio quality and style.

What to avoid when choosing a record player

When looking for the best record player for vintage records, there are a few things we want to avoid to ensure a suitable choice for our needs. Considering these factors will help us obtain the optimal listening experience.

Firstly, it’s wise to steer clear of cheap, all-in-one turntables. These systems may seem convenient and affordable, but they often compromise on sound quality and can damage vintage records. The built-in speakers may also cause unpleasant vibrations and interfere with the overall audio experience.

Secondly, avoid purchasing a turntable without an adjustable counterweight and anti-skate controls. Proper balance and tracking force are crucial for optimal playback and to protect our valued records from wear and damage. An adjustable counterweight will allow us to set the appropriate tracking force for various cartridges, while anti-skate controls minimise record wear by distributing the stylus pressure evenly across the grooves.

Another thing we should avoid is:

• Belt-drive systems with poor quality belts: These can lead to inconsistent playback speeds, affecting the audio quality. A quality belt-drive or direct-drive system ensures reliable performance and sound reproduction.

When it comes to additional features, consider the following advice:

• Avoid USB connections without the option for analogue output. While USB can be useful for digitising our vinyl collection, a dedicated analogue output ensures the purest and most authentic sound quality possible from our vintage records.
• Steer clear of automated systems if preserving the original character of vintage records is a priority. Fully manual turntables tend to have less moving parts and fewer chances for interference or damage.

In summary, when selecting the best record player for vintage records, ensure to avoid cheap all-in-one systems, poorly designed belt-drive systems, and turntables without adjustable features. Keeping these points in mind will help protect our cherished record collection and provide the most satisfying audio experience.

Sony PS-LX310BT Bluetooth Turntable

The Sony PS-LX310BT is a fantastic choice for those looking to dive into vintage records with modern features like Bluetooth connectivity.

Pros

• Easy Bluetooth pairing with speakers, soundbars, or headphones
• One-step auto playback for simple control
• Built-in Phono Pre-Amp with support for phono and line output

Cons

• Made of plastic which can feel less premium
• Dust cover can muffle speaker pressure
• Limited to 33 1/3rpm and 45rpm speeds

We recently had the pleasure of using the Sony PS-LX310BT Bluetooth Turntable, and it did not disappoint. The Bluetooth pairing feature stands out, as it allows for seamless connection to wireless speakers, soundbars, or headphones. This means you can enjoy your favourite vintage records with exceptional audio quality without the hassle of connecting cables.

In terms of control and functionality, the one-step auto playback feature simplifies the process of playing your records, while the built-in Phono Pre-Amp offers both phono and line output compatibility. This flexibility is perfect for those looking to connect their turntable to a variety of sound systems.

Although the turntable is made of plastic, it still maintains a sleek and modern design. However, it may not feel as premium as some other options on the market. One downside we noted is that the dust cover can muffle pressure from your speakers, which may affect audio quality. The Sony turntable also supports only 33 1/3rpm and 45rpm speeds, which might limit your record options.

Overall, the Sony PS-LX310BT Bluetooth Turntable is a brilliant option for those who value modern features and ease of use when playing their beloved vintage records. Although there are minor drawbacks, the exceptional audio quality, convenient Bluetooth pairing, and user-friendly controls make it a worthy investment.

Denon Record Player for Vinyl Records

This Denon Record Player is a great choice for those seeking a versatile and high-quality vinyl turntable with a USB port.

Pros

• Rediscover your passion for vinyl
• S-shape curved tonearm for optimum sound quality
• Multi-speed selector for playing a variety of records

Cons

• Made from plastic material
• Dust cover prone to marks
• Instructions could be clearer

It’s been a pleasure using the Denon Record Player. Its weighted, belt-driven platter with auto speed sensor ensures accurate speed for precise sound reproduction, making us fall in love with our vintage records all over again. The S-shape curved tonearm optimises the tracking angle for crystal-clear sound every time.

We were impressed by the multi-speed selector (33-1/3, 45, & 78 rpm), allowing us to play the widest array of record albums with precision that remains faithful to the original recording. The built-in phono equalizer enables connection to an amplifier or HiFi system, creating an enveloping sound stage that brings our vinyl collection to life.

However, we did notice the turntable is made of plastic material, which may affect durability in the long run. The removable dust cover, although a good feature to eliminate vibrations, is prone to marks over time. We also found the instructions to be a bit unclear, making the initial setup slightly challenging.

Overall, the Denon Record Player for Vinyl Records is an excellent option for those seeking accurate sound reproduction and versatility for their vintage records. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the feature-rich turntable has immense potential to breathe new life into your vinyl collection.

Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB Turntable

This turntable offers excellent sound quality and versatility, making it an ideal choice for vintage record enthusiasts.

Pros

• High-quality sound reproduction
• Wide range of speed settings
• USB output for easy digital conversion

Cons

• Slightly heavier than some alternatives
• Manual operation may not suit everyone
• May require external speakers for best results

We recently had the pleasure of using the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB turntable to play our vintage records, and we were genuinely impressed with its performance. The direct-drive motor delivers smooth and consistent playback, and the selectable speeds (33/45/78 RPM) cater to various record types.

The adjustable dynamic anti-skate control prevents skipping and scratching, preserving the quality of our beloved records. The built-in switchable phono pre-amplifier makes it easy to connect to any audio system or speakers, though you might need external speakers for the best sound experience.

One feature we particularly enjoyed was the ability to convert records to digital files via the USB output, allowing us to preserve our collection in a modern format. The AT-VM95E Dual Magnet phono cartridge with elliptical stylus added to the excellent sound reproduction, while the balanced S-shaped tonearm and hydraulically damped lift control provided precise and stable performance.

The aluminium platter and felt mat contributed to reducing vibrations and resonance, further enhancing the overall sound quality. While the turntable’s weight might be a slight drawback for some people, it was not a significant issue for us during our use.

To sum up, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB Turntable is an excellent investment for those looking to enjoy their vintage records with high-quality sound and convenience. The premium features, combined with its USB connectivity and digital conversion capabilities, make it a standout choice in the market.

Pro-Ject T1 Audiophile Turntable

For those who want a stylish, high-quality turntable for vintage records, the Pro-Ject T1 is a fantastic choice.

Pros

• Stylish and solid build with CNC’d heavy wood chassis
• Heavy outperforms its price range in terms of sound quality
• Includes premium OM 5E moving magnet cartridge and 8.6″ aluminium tonearm

Cons

• Fiddly process to switch between 33 and 45 RPM records
• Slight motor hum reported by some users
• On/off switch placement causes turntable to slide if not careful

We’ve had a great experience using the Pro-Ject T1 turntable. Its design, which features a heavy wood chassis with no hollow spaces or unnecessary plastic, not only gives it a refined look but also enhances the sound quality. The heavy 8mm, zero-resonance blasted-glass platter further contributes to the turntable’s excellent performance, making it comparable to more expensive models.

The included 8.6″ one-piece aluminium tonearm and the OM 5E moving magnet pickup cartridge with an elliptical stylus profile make the Pro-Ject T1 plug-and-play, letting you dive right into your vintage record collection. Although we found it slightly fiddly to switch between 33 and 45 RPM records due to the need to remove the platter, this is a minor inconvenience when considering the overall quality and sound of the turntable.

The Pro-Ject T1 also comes with vibration-absorbing feet to reduce any potential distortion and an elegant dust cover with adjustable hinges. While there are reports of a slight motor hum and the on/off switch causing the turntable to slide if not handled carefully, these issues do not detract significantly from our overall positive experience.

In conclusion, the Pro-Ject T1 turntable is a stylish and high-quality option for those looking to enjoy their vintage records. With its solid build, impressive sound quality, and premium features, it offers excellent value for money.

Denon DP-400 Turntable

We believe this Denon DP-400 Turntable is an excellent choice for those looking to rediscover their vintage records with a high-quality, versatile player.

Pros

• Precise sound reproduction with auto speed sensor
• S-shaped curved tonearm for optimized tracking
• Supports 33-1/3, 45, and 78 rpm record speeds

Cons

• Plastic material may appear less premium
• Dust cover might be prone to marks
• Requires cartridge swap for advanced audio preferences

Upon unboxing the Denon DP-400 Turntable, we were impressed by its sleek design and ease of setup. The record player was ready to use within minutes, making us excited to start playing our vintage records.

The sound quality produced by this turntable is exceptional, thanks to its S-shaped curved tonearm and the included MM cartridge. We were able to play our entire vinyl collection, as the multi-speed selector supports 33-1/3, 45, and 78 rpm speeds. The built-in phono equalizer allowed us to connect the record player to an amplifier, enhancing the overall sound experience even further.

We did find the plastic construction of the turntable less premium than some competitors, but it didn’t impact its performance. The removable dust cover is a nice touch, but it can be prone to marks, so handle with care. For users with specific audio preferences, the cartridge can be swapped, but this might be an additional task to consider.

Overall, the Denon DP-400 Turntable is a fantastic choice for those looking to enjoy their vintage records with precision and high-quality sound. Its features and ease of use make it a worthy addition to any audiophile’s collection.

Fluance RT84 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable

The Fluance RT84 is an excellent choice for vintage record enthusiasts seeking a high-quality turntable with fantastic sound and premium features.

Pros

• Pure analog performance for warm and natural sound
• Accurate playback with Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge
• Impressive speed control and motor isolation

Cons

• Phono preamp not included
• Only available in the UK via Amazon
• Requires some assembly and setup

We recently had the opportunity to listen to our favourite vintage records on the Fluance RT84 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable, and we were quite impressed with its performance. The pure analog design allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the music without any electronic interference. In addition, the turntable offers spectacular musical accuracy, thanks to the Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical cartridge. We were able to enjoy a rich and natural sound, complete with greater dynamics and reduced distortion.

The precision servo-controlled belt drive motor and speed control mechanism ensure a consistent platter velocity and reduced vibration, resulting in a listening experience free of any unwanted noise. The high mass MDF wood plinth provides superior resistance to vibrations and is beautifully crafted with a real wood finish. However, it is worth noting that a phono preamp is not included with the turntable, so you may need to purchase one separately if your audio setup requires it.

Our overall impression of the Fluance RT84 is that it is a beautifully designed turntable that delivers excellent performance, making it perfect for enjoying vintage records. The only downsides are the lack of a phono preamp and limited availability in the UK. However, if you are looking for a premium turntable with top-of-the-line features and sound quality, the Fluance RT84 is certainly worth considering.

Pioneer DJ PLX-500-K Direct Drive DJ Turntable

We highly recommend the Pioneer DJ PLX-500-K for its excellent sound quality, user-friendly features, and versatile functionality, perfect for both vinyl enthusiasts and DJs.

Pros

• Outstanding sound quality and design
• USB connectivity for easy digital recording
• Mix and scratch compatibility with rekordbox dvs and RB-VS1-K Control Vinyl

Cons

• Considerably heavy at 10.7 kg
• Plastic material might feel less premium
• No built-in preamp for instant plug-and-play

We recently got our hands on the Pioneer DJ PLX-500-K Direct Drive Turntable, and it’s an absolute delight to use for playing vintage records. The sound quality is top-notch, generating warm and clear analogue audio that gives justice to our cherished vinyl collection. The high-torque deck’s excellent vibration damping contributes to the smooth and precise audio playback this turntable offers.

For those wanting to digitise their vinyl collection, the PLX-500-K makes it easy with its USB output. Connecting it to a PC or Mac is simple, and the free rekordbox software takes care of the recording process. DJs and aspiring mixers will also appreciate the turntable’s compatibility with rekordbox dvs, a compatible DJ mixer, and the RB-VS1-K Control Vinyl – allowing you to play and scratch with digital files.

One unique feature that caught our eye is the cover art display, where you can showcase your record covers while listening to your vinyl. This adds a sweet touch of nostalgia and aesthetics to the overall experience. While we found the overall build to be solid, keep in mind that it’s on the heavier side and made of plastic, which might not appeal to everyone. Additionally, the absence of a built-in preamp means you’ll need an external preamp or a compatible receiver/amplifier to get it up and running.

Overall, the Pioneer DJ PLX-500-K Direct Drive DJ Turntable is a fantastic investment for vintage record enthusiasts and DJs alike. Its excellent sound quality, ease of digital recording, and compatibility with mixing and scratching equipment make it a strong contender in the market.

I hope this buying guide on record players for vintage records will help you make the right decision when you decide to buy.

Thanks,

Tom

Tom S. Ray( Mastering Engineer, Co-Founder )

Hey I’m Tom, I’m a mastering engineer here at Audio Unity Group. I mostly look after Vinyl production and audio side of things. I hold a bachelor’s degree with honours from Kingston University in London. I love audio and helping others create outstanding-sounding records.