Music has always been an escape for most of us. Turntables have always been the gateway for those of us who prefer music with an ambience. These circular rotating devices that play the role of a phonograph (a device for playing music or recording audio) have been a saviour.

Turntables are often confused with record players as both of these serve the same purpose. However, turntables being different and needs its own preamp and speakers to play any music. Unlike record players, it isn’t an all in one device.

How do turntables work?

Turntables, the name itself is suggestive of what it actually does. Originally, turntables were called Phonographs. But the term has now become redundant. A belt drive motor or a direct drive is used to hold the record when the platter turns. A device called tonearm that carries the headshell along with its suited cartridge is what does the magic of producing sound. The cartridges used are either metallic or ceramic. 

Just like our ear catches and comprehends sounds through vibration and sound waves, music is recorded by capturing these vibrations finely with the view to replicate or replay it in future. This is the process of creating the ‘master recording’ which can then be duplicated as per the needs and requirements of the one recording it. This is the process of ‘cutting’ the record. Now, this is how millions of copies are made which makes your turntable do what it’s made to do- turn. A set of two drums accompanied with an elastic band in the middle does the work of turning the platter.  

When you look at the device you can find some minuscule rings pressed on the surface which the stylus presses into. The stylus reads the fine surface of the disk and turns it back into sound waves. The speed at which the sound is played depends majorly on how the ‘cut’ was made. The makers initially took ample amounts of time in determining the right speed and to create music out of such waves. If played too slow or too fast, it can impact the musical audios by turning them into a noise like sound or simply rattrap sound.

Types of Turntables:

  1. Belt Drive turntable- Belt drives are commonly used in turntables to spin the device’s platter. An elastic belt is used in a belt drive. This belt is directly connected to the motor of the turntable, allowing for quick and precise motions. The platter of the player is supported by a bearing and is isolated from the device’s motor. Such kinds of turntables are usually the most famous one. In this, the motor is placed away from the platter and is connected with the help of an elastic belt. This elastic belt helps by absorbing all kinds of shocks and prevents the platter from vibration caused by the motor. This phenomenon also prevents device noise produced by the motor. The platter that sits on the bearing is placed at a distance from the motor. However, this leads to lower torque and wears down quickly.
  1. Direct Drive Turntables- A direct-drive turntable does not use belts and instead uses a motor to drive a platter on which a vinyl record is placed. Some direct-drive turntables reduce the space between motor and platter even further by employing the platter as the rotor in the turntable’s synchronous motor. These are commonly used by DJs. The motor is placed under the platter thereby allowing control and speed when pitched to and fro. However, the motor being placed under leads to unwanted vibration and may affect the quality of the sound produced. It can be understood that they have higher torque and thus, leads to consistency in speed. The increased torque makes the platter ignorant or less sensitive to outside forces and most suitable for DJ.
  1. Idler Wheel Turntables- These turntables required a high torque drive mechanism in order to spin at the correct speed even when the platter was filled with multiple records. They used a high-torque drive system known as a “idler wheel,” also known as “rim drive.”… Idler wheel was a solid, simple, and gutsy drive device.  It is similar to the direct drive turntables. It has a rubber wheel connected to the motor which connects it to the platter and rotates it. But it’s not popular because of its moving parts and hard to find at the time of need.

Features of Turntable:

  1. Cartridge- Turntables come with a cartridge and a needle like stylus. These cartridges are premounted on the tonearm. The stylus in the cartridge reads the bumps on the surface and understands the grooves to produce sound.
  1. Type of Drive- The type of drive talks about the way in which the motor is connected to the platter. The elastic band that connects to the motor turns the platter in a belt-driven table. It is beneficial for those who believe that this process is helpful in reducing noise arising from the motor and gives way to quality sound experience. 

The Direct Drive turntables offer fine rotation of the platter. The precision is such that it leads to instant speed and the platter would spin without much resistance, even when the motor is turned off. This quality makes it a favourable choice for DJs.

  1. USB output- People mostly buy turntables because of its analog facility and the ambience it brings. But nowadays one can also buy turntables with a USB feature that lets them create digital copies of the music so that they can be preserved for a longer time. This feature allows the user to carry out their music with them even if they go outside the house. This feature is a true example of more and better turntable fans.
  1. Phono preamp- Turntables need a phono preamplifier to strengthen the signals and to bring them up to a level that would help in generating the sound/music out from the speakers. The signals that initially come out of the cartridge are very weak and precise which makes it almost impossible to create a sound that’s more than just feeble noise. Such amplifiers can be built into speakers, installed as a different unit or even inside the turntable.
  1. Manual and automated-  The manual lever gives the user the freedom to control the tonearm by physically lifting it and placing the stylus in the record and then lift it up as per their wants. The automated mechanism of the device can affect the sound quality as the motor tends to make noise. This might be a negative factor for those who are stringent about the quality of their music.

Advantages of Turntables

1.Good sound quality- If you belong to the part of the population that has been fortunate enough to listen to the music on a turntable, You’d understand what this point is about. When you are listening on a turntable you are having the pleasure of hearing uncompressed exclusive music that gives an impression that you are listening directly to the artist.You will realise that there is no loss of tone because the manufacturers need not compress the music file which happens in the case of streamed audio.Those who have had an experience of going to a live performance can agree that turntables tend to provide warm sound than the recording that has been converted into a digital format. People who have sentimental memories or attachments with the music or the artist will always prefer turntables over digital music players.

2. Economy- Turntables can be bought at a very low price and are easy to find. People can buy turntables on amazon on a discount season at unbelievable prices. If you come from a family that has a lot of dics that you have conserved, selling them for a little extra money to buy digital record players to play the same music is a waste. Instead, you may easily purchase a turntable and preserve your family’s tradition. If you own an old turntable, incase of any doubts or problems while playing music on turntables, you can simply search on youtube.

3. Vintage soundDespite the hike in technology, it has not yet been possible to convert all kinds of music in digital format. For example, the jazz music from the 1900’s have not yet been converted into digital form and one can only have the pleasure of listening to it on a turntable. Therefore, we can conclude that one significant advantage is that the user can get access to a lot of vintage songs that have yet not been converted into digital forms. The elite part of the population that genuinely respects and identifies the art and hardwork of the artist look up to turntables despite the young generation’s craze towards the popularity of streaming live and digital music.

4. Ritual of music listeningIn this fast changing world, we all can agree to one fact that if not everything else, music is therapeutic. It is often advised that instead of listening to music along with doing courses, one should always set aside some time to simply sit down while listening to music. Turntable makes this easier. You can put your errands on hold while you sit down the side A of your dics. After you are done, you can get up and turn your disc. Thereby listen to side B of your disc. This ritual improves your focus and calms you down to the core. With passing time you will realise that the turntable not only acts as a piece of art at your home but also provides you with a healing therapy that no other therapist can.

5, Long lasting- A well designed turntable can last for ages. You may have a turntable that belongs to someone beyond the third generation of your family. Even if the belt of the turntable has worn out, it can easily be replaced. This makes the investment worth it. Minor defects and replacements do not affect the quality of the sound. The music on day one and years later would sound the same. It can be an ideal gift for grandparents.  

 Tend to Disadvantages of Turntables

  1. Maintenance– In order to keep your turntable as good as new, it requires periodic and regular maintenance. The cartridges wear off easily and therefore have to be replaced by calling a repairman so that he can align it professionally. Other options could be calling a dealer or otherwise you can learn to tune the turntable. However, learning to tune a system by hand may require a lot of time and energy to perfect. It can also be noted that everytime you play a record you open the gateway to permanent damage. Repeated playback may misalign or cause permanent damage to the cartridges. 
  2. Reduction in the book value- Book value of commodity is the net worth of the asset after reduction of depreciation due to constant wear and tear of the asset. You might have bought a turntable in $ 500 but if you try to sell it after a year or so, you will not get back the same price even if the turntable was kept unused. It can be noted that while the turntable does not have to face the risk of becoming worthless, the only disadvantage is that they do not carry their value unless one is an exclusive model. When that happens, it can bring back a lot more remuneration than the actual cost incurred. 
  3.  Rare equipment- Since the turntable comes from a very old time the equipment is notoriously exclusive. It is difficult to locate the exact required equipment without facing a whole lot of biased reviews. There might be cases where the user buys hundreds of dollars worth equipment before actually finding the right one. It is also mandatory to find the right equipment for your model otherwise it will affect the sound quality. 
  4. Surface noise- Since the motor in most of the turntables is placed right beneath the platter, it often leads to a lot of surface noise.The motor being placed under leads to unwanted vibration and may affect the quality of the sound produced. It can be understood that they have higher torque and thus consistent speed. The increased torque makes the platter ignorant or less sensitive to outside forces and most suitable for DJ. However, when it comes to everyday music therapy at home, this might serve as a negative factor. 
  5. Expensive equipment- The stylus can cost as less as $1 or can go as high as $20. A costly stylus is generally of better quality. Same concept goes for cartridges, elastic belts and the platter. Unless great care is taken of the turntable, the investment might not be worth it. Sometimes, the cost outweighs the benefits. 

Feature to look for before buying a turntable

  1. Motor drive with stable speed and low noise- The six senses of humans are very sensitive. Adding onto that the human ear is very sensitive to the frequencies of a turntable. The wow and flutter which means the slow and fast speed fluctuations of the turntable might cause some undesirable noise. The good quality turntable makes sure that the motor and power supply produce minimal noise. When compared to the turntables of the 1960s and 1970s, the quality of motors have significantly improved. Now the turntable is designed in such a way that very little electromagnetic noise is transferred between the motor and power supply outlet which carries current to the cartridge and signal wires. 
  2. High quality phono-cartridge- The cartridge is the core of the turntable. It is the cartridge that does the magic of turning physical bumps and grooves into electronic music signals. Needless to say, good quality phono=cartridges with higher resonance and better dynamics are essential to produce good quality sound.The buyer can check that they are buying the moving coil cartridge and not the magnetic ones since the prior has less moving mass. It is therefore considered that the moving coil cartridge produces better sound and is suitable for high-end turntables.
  3. Low vibration- The working of a turntable depends on the phenomenon that the stylus is able to read into the bumps and grooves of the record. Therefore, it is a condition essential and not the condition collateral to make sure that the device causes minimum vibration.The cartridges pick up vibrations very easily and may transform them into undesirable noise and distortion. The buyer can make sure that the motor is not placed beneath the platter and if it is beneath the platter, it produces low vibration. Furthermore, if the turntable uses a motor bearing it will act as cherry on the cake. Adding onto that, low vibration produces better sound and fully functional tonearm. 
  4. Low resonance tonearm that moves freely- Give below are the factors that determines the quality of the tone arm-
  • Resonance- In order to give the cartridge stable and phenomenal working conditions to the tonearm, it must have very little resonance. In the case of pop or jazz, one can listen to every detail and beat of the song if the turntable resonates.
  • Free movement of the tonearm- It is another significant factor to listen to superior music. The tonearm must be able to freely move in all directions. High quality bearings with little friction and tight tolerances must be made sure to achieve good sound in the turntable.

Here are top 13 Turntables

  1. Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC Turntable with Ortofon 2M Red Cartridge (Matte Walnut)

Features:

  • Platter size and weight- The given product is a little big in size thereby increasing the overall weight of the device. This feature immensely increases the smoothness while rotation. This is the reason behind the improved quality of sound. The platter size is 300mm made up of metal and felt mat.
  • Synchronous motor- The quality of the belt drive, and its precision is another noticeable feature. The approved belt design reduces the noise of the AC motor. The motor decoupling which means fully utilising the damping and effectively using the ultra precision of the frequency leads to ultimate stability. Less vibration gives the ultimate listening experience.
  • Ortofon 2M cartridge- It comes with a red cartridge which is not shabby at all. It is accompanied with a stylus which can be plugged in and plugged out as per the convenience of the user. This product gives an ultimate superiority to traditionally used cartridges.

Advantages:

  • Cotton fibre tonearm- Cotton fiber tonearms are generally expensive. However, this turntable, in spite of having cotton fibre tonearm, is categorised as cheap. Talking facts- if you buy a turntable and then install a cotton fibre tonearm it’s cost will immediately hike and this turntable will suddenly seem like a good bargain.
  • Minimum noise- Even if you increase the volume to maximum level, you cannot hear the hum of the motor. Some good earphones in a very quiet environment where your hearing senses are at their peak, you might hear a minimum amount of hum but it is impossible to track in between the music. This enhances your listening experience. 
  • Fully manual and equipped – The user has the  freedom to lift the tonearm as per his convenience and then place it back on rest. It comes along with a stylus which can be used by simply plugging it in. This makes using the good easier for the user. One need not buy several pieces of equipment before using the turntable.  

Disadvantages:

  • Irremovable cartridge shell- The cartridge shell used in the device is not removable which makes changing the cartridges a difficult job for novice users. However an expert can be called for the repair work. It may or may not lead to hefty cost depending on the cartridge used and the quality of service you opt for.
  • Changing the belts- This might sound easy but requires precision and effort when done by someone who is not a professional. As a general notion, people are terrified of stretching or changing the drive belt on their turntables. The turntables come with a plastic tool which makes the above work easier. However, once misplaced, the given task is tedious.
  • Loose screws- On regular usage, the hinge screws become loose and before you know it you will be tightening these screws every other month so that your turntable’s lid can remain open while you are changing the records.
  1. Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK Fully Automatic Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable, Black

Features 

  • Speed- The above product comes with two kinds of speed- 33-⅓ and 45 RPM. The different kinds of speed gives versatility to the turntable and different audiences can select the kind of speed as per their wants and preferences. 
  • Dual magnet phono-cartridge- The fully automatic belt drive stereo turntable comes with dual magnet phono=cartridge and replaceable diamond stylus. This not only reduces the noise but also makes it convenient for the user. As an overall purchase it proves to be economical. 
  • Anti-resonance- The product has a die-cast aluminium platter which makes the product anti-resonant. One can also play thicker records from the 1940s and 1960s with much ease and premium sound qualities.

Advantages 

  • Quality- This fully automatic belt drive is made up of great quality products. It already has a good quality built in tonearm and an attached stylus. This good quality stylus is a reason behind its superior quality sound. The turntable has a built in amplifier and has a line and phono at the back. 
  • Noise reduction- Even if you increase the volume to maximum level, you cannot hear the hum of the motor. Some good earphones in a very quiet environment where your hearing senses are at their peak, you might hear a minimum amount of hum but it is impossible to track in between the music. This enhances your listening experience.

Disadvantages

  • Sync issue- The buyers tend to have a little bad experience after using the device for a few weeks. There is a need to fix the sync issue every now and then. It is not difficult for a regular turntable user, however, it does create hassle and deteriorates the listening experience. 
  • High maintenance- The turntable requires comparatively higher maintenance than the digital music players in the short term. The equipment is exclusive and sometimes difficult to find. But when we talk about long term investment and cost, turntables prove to be pretty cheap. 
  1. Audio-Technica AT-LP60BK Fully Automatic Belt Driven Turntable – Black

Features 

  • Fully automatic- This kind of turntable places the stylus on the record itself for you and automatically returns the tonearm when you reach the end of the record. The speed is also adjusted automatically based on the choice of your track. 
  • Turntable platter- The platter of the device is made up of die-cast aluminium. It also has a removable dust cover which protects the platter and delays depreciation.
  • Wow and flutter- It is less than 0.25 percent and therefore signal to noise ratio is greater than 50 dB. It also has a pre-amplifier which improves the sound quality. 

Advantages 

  • Good quality- This fully automatic belt drive is made up of great quality products. It already has a good quality built in tonearm and an attached stylus. This good quality stylus is a reason behind its superior quality sound. The turntable has a built in amplifier and has a line and phono at the back. 
  • Less motor noise- Even if you increase the volume to maximum level, you cannot hear the hum of the motor. Some good earphones in a very quiet environment where your hearing senses are at their peak, you might hear a minimum amount of hum but it is impossible to track in between the music. This enhances your listening experience.

Disadvantages 

  • Automatic speed- Since the product is fully automatic and selects the speed itself, sometimes it may select a speed that is not correct. In such cases, it will have to be adjusted. This might deteriorate the listening experience of the user. 
  • Sensitive tonearm- The buyers need to be careful of the tonearm because it is very sensitive. It can start moving even with a little bump and could damage the turntable and cartridge.
  1. 1 BY ONE Belt-Drive Wireless Record Player with Audio-Technica MM Phono Cartridge, Built-in Preamp, Adjustable Counterweight, USB Digital Output (Red)

Features 

  • Authentic belt driven system- 1byone record player is made up of aluminium die-cast platter. The belt drive is made up of premium quality. It has a polished stainless steel spindle with a torque motor accompanied with a durable  rubber belt which produces inertial mass in a uniform manner. Thereby giving it perfect stability and rotation.
  • Fully manual and equipped – The user has the  freedom to lift the tonearm as per his convenience and then place it back on rest. It comes along with a stylus which can be used by simply plugging it in. This makes using the good easier for the user. One need not buy several pieces of equipment before using the turntable.  
  • Playback- It has perfect playback because of the anti-skating system and tonearm counter weight. These tools prevent scratches and keep clarity on the musical peak.

Advantages 

  • Built-in bluetooth- In the above product you can simply connect you bluetooth device that is a wireless speaker or headphones for a superior wireless experience. You can also connect this turntable to your computer with a USB and enjoy your experience.   
  • Less motor noise- Even if you increase the volume to maximum level, you cannot hear the hum of the motor. Some good earphones in a very quiet environment where your hearing senses are at their peak, you might hear a minimum amount of hum but it is impossible to track in between the music. This enhances your listening experience

Disadvantages 

  • High maintenance- The turntable requires comparatively higher maintenance than the digital music players in the short term. The equipment is exclusive and sometimes difficult to find. But when we talk about long term investment and cost, turntables prove to be pretty cheap. 
  • Changing the belts- This might sound easy but requires precision and effort when done by someone who is not a professional. As a general notion, people are terrified of stretching or changing the drive belt on their turntables. The turntables come with a plastic tool which makes the above work easier. However, once misplaced, the given task is tedious.
  1. Victrola Bluetooth Record Players & Turntable, Espresso (B07G237HMN)

Features 

  • Mid century modern bluetooth record player- This product combines the modern style and the traditional feel of music listening. The user can either listen to the radio with an analog tuner or stream music using the bluetooth connectivity. 
  • Built-in speakers- Unlike the traditional turntables this one consists of in-built stereo speakers which saves the user the hassle of buying and installing the speakers separately. 

Advantages 

  • Aux cable- The product has an outlet for an aux cable using which one can connect it to a bigger speaker. This not only allows the listener to have some quiet time but can also be used when he is sitting with a group of people.  
  • Excellent sound quality- The product has an excellent sound quality. It is a general notion among the buyers that this product does not mean just throwing away money instead it is worth the money. 
  • Less motor noise- Even if you increase the volume to maximum level, you cannot hear the hum of the motor. Some good earphones in a very quiet environment where your hearing senses are at their peak, you might hear a minimum amount of hum but it is impossible to track in between the music. This enhances your listening experience

Disadvantages 

  • Requires high maintenance- The turntable requires comparatively higher maintenance than the digital music players in the short term. The equipment is exclusive and sometimes difficult to find. But when we talk about long term investment and cost, turntables prove to be pretty cheap.
  1. Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK Direct-Drive Turntable, Black

Features 

  • Manual operation- the given product offers three kinds of speed- 33/45/78 RPM speeds.The different kinds of speed gives versatility to the turntable and different audiences can select the kind of speed as per their wants and preferences. 
  • Low frequency feedback- Direct drive turntables offer damped based construction for reduction of low frequency feedback coloration. It uses the RCA connector type and uses wired connectivity technology.
  • Equipment included- The above package includes AC adapter, removable hinged dust cover, USB cable, 45 RPM adapter, RCA output cable, felt mat and counterweight.

Advantages 

  • Vibration absorption- The metal bottom panel adds weight to the device which helps to absorb the vibration caused by the motor which enhances the quality of listening experience of the user. 
  • Fully equipped – The user has the  freedom to lift the tonearm as per his convenience and then place it back on rest. It comes along with a stylus which can be used by simply plugging it in. This makes using the good easier for the user. One need not buy several pieces of equipment before using the turntable.

Disadvantages 

  • Over-priced- The entire product except the tonearm is made up of plastic and has a metal bottom panel that adds to its weight.On close inspection it is found that it is a cheaply made instrument that looks from a distance.   
  • High maintenance- The turntable requires comparatively higher maintenance than the digital music players in the short term. The equipment is exclusive and sometimes difficult to find. But when we talk about long term investment and cost, turntables prove to be pretty cheap. 
  1. Victrola Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Suitcase Turntable with Speakers, Brown

Features 

  • Mid century modern bluetooth record player- This product combines the modern style and the traditional feel of music listening. The user can either listen to the radio with an analog tuner or stream music using the bluetooth connectivity. 
  • Turntable platter- The platter of the device is made up of die-cast aluminium. It also has a removable dust cover which protects the platter and delays depreciation.
  • Wow and flutter- It is less than 0.25 percent and therefore signal to noise ratio is greater than 50 dB. It also has a pre-amplifier which improves the sound quality.

Advantages 

  • Economic investment This turntable can be bought at a very low price and is easy to find. If you own an old turntable you can simply search on youtube incase of any doubts or problems you are facing while playing music on turntables.
  • Excellent sound quality- The product has an excellent sound quality. It is a general notion among the buyers that this product does not mean just throwing away money instead it is worth the money. 

Disadvantages 

  • Looks cheap- the given product looks like an exclusive model when looked at the picture but looks cheap when looked closely. The look can stand as an obstacle for those who enjoy the intricate look of the turntables.
  •  Loose screws- On regular usage, the hinge screws become loose and before you know it you will be tightening these screws every other month so that your turntable’s lid can remain open while you are changing the records.
  1. Suitcase USB Turntable for 33/45/78 RPM Record,Vintage Vinyl Record Player with Stereo Speakers, RCA Output&Line-in and USB Direct Encoding,Blue

Features 

  • Diamond needle- the stylus of the above product is of premium quality. The free movement of the tonearm and the stylus makes it easier for the user.
  • Equipment included- The above package includes AC adapter, removable hinged dust cover, USB cable, 45 RPM adapter, RCA output cable, felt mat and counterweight.

Advantages 

  • Built-in speakers- Unlike the traditional turntables this one consists of in-built stereo speakers which saves the user the hassle of buying and installing the speakers separately. 
  • Built-in bluetooth- In the above product you can simply connect you bluetooth device that is a wireless speaker or headphones for a superior wireless experience. You can also connect this turntable to your computer with a USB and enjoy your experience.

Disadvantages 

  • Over-priced- The entire product except the tonearm is made up of plastic and has a metal bottom panel that adds to its weight.On close inspection it is found that it is a cheaply made instrument that looks from a distance.   
  • High maintenance- The turntable requires comparatively higher maintenance than the digital music players in the short term. The equipment is exclusive and sometimes difficult to find. But when we talk about long term investment and cost, turntables prove to be pretty cheap. 
  1. Portable Turntable with Stereo Speakers,3 Speed Vinyl Record Player (Black)

Features 

  • Stereo speakers- Unlike the traditional turntables this one consists of in-built stereo speakers which saves the user the hassle of buying and installing the speakers separately.
  • Playback- It has perfect playback because of the anti-skating system and tonearm counter weight. These tools prevent scratches and keep clarity on the musical peak.

Advantages 

  • Portability-  The product comes in a suitcase box which makes it immensely portable. The buyer can carry this turntable to all kinds of desirable places.
  • Aux cable- The product has an outlet for an aux cable using which one can connect it to a bigger speaker. This not only allows the listener to have some quiet time but can also be used when he is sitting with a group of people.  

Disadvantages 

  • Lack of bass-there has been a complaint of lack of bass. This makes the listening experience below par. The USB recording system is completely useless because of this. 
  • Record skips- The turntable comes with a lift lever compartment but this feature sometimes leads to skipping of recording. Thereby, deteriorating the listening experience.
  1.  SUCA-AUDIO Phono Preamp for Turntable MM Phonograph Stereo Audio Tube Preamplifier with Mini Hi-Fi Stereo, Gain Adjustable Function & DC 12V Power Adapter, Suitable for record player (6A2 Tubes, Black)

Features 

  • Phono preamp- The amplifier installed in the device converts phono signals into line level signals. This component clears the sound quality and reduces the motor noise. 
  • Diamond needle- the stylus of the above product is of premium quality. The free movement of the tonearm and the stylus makes it easier for the user.

Advantages 

  • Warm sound- This device does make a difference. It has an installed pre amplifier that adds more warmth to the sound. The device is quiet and therefore the sound of music is amplified. 
  • Portability-  The product comes in a suitcase box which makes it immensely portable. The buyer can carry this turntable to all kinds of desirable places. Distance is no longer a barrier to music. 

Disadvantages 

  • Requires maintenance- The turntable requires comparatively higher maintenance than the digital music players in the short term. The equipment is exclusive and sometimes difficult to find. But when we talk about long term investment and cost, turntables prove to be pretty cheap. 
  • Weak cables- The cables are of low quality and may break easily even by the slightest pressure. There might be popping noises when used with an amplifier. 
  1. Victrola VSC-400SB-CNV Bluetooth Suitcase Turntable Canvas – Stickers (White)

Features 

  • Turntable platter- The platter of the device is made up of die-cast aluminium. It also has a removable dust cover which protects the platter and delays depreciation.
  • Wow and flutter- It is less than 0.25 percent and therefore signal to noise ratio is greater than 50 dB. It also has a pre-amplifier which improves the sound quality. 

Advantages 

  • Aux cable- The product has an outlet for an aux cable using which one can connect it to a bigger speaker. This not only allows the listener to have some quiet time but can also be used when he is sitting with a group of people.  
  • Excellent sound quality- The product has an excellent sound quality. It is a general notion among the buyers that this product does not mean just throwing away money instead it is worth the money. 

Disadvantages 

  • Changing the belts- This might sound easy but requires precision and effort when done by someone who is not a professional. As a general notion, people are terrified of stretching or changing the drive belt on their turntables. The turntables come with a plastic tool which makes the above work easier. However, once misplaced, the given task is tedious.
  1. Numark PT01USB | Portable Vinyl-Archiving Turntable for 33 1/3, 45, & 78 RPM Records

Features 

  • USB connection- The product offers USB connection with USB cable. One can plug the cable to the device and then play the audio. 
  • Dust cover- The device comes with a protective dust cover and a carrying handle which is integrated to the device. It delays the wear and tear of the device and assists the user to conveniently carry the product around. 

Advantages 

  • Less motor noise- Even if you increase the volume to maximum level, you cannot hear the hum of the motor. Some good earphones in a very quiet environment where your hearing senses are at their peak, you might hear a minimum amount of hum but it is impossible to track in between the music. This enhances your listening experience.
  • Portability-  The product comes in a suitcase box which makes it immensely portable. The buyer can carry this turntable to all kinds of desirable places. Distance is no longer a barrier to music. 

Disadvantages 

  • Over-priced- The entire product except the tonearm is made up of plastic and has a metal bottom panel that adds to its weight.On close inspection it is found that it is a cheaply made instrument that looks from a distance.   
  1. House of Marley, Stir It Up Turntable – 45/33 RPM, Signature Black

Features 

  • Low frequency feedback- Direct drive turntables offer damped based construction for reduction of low frequency feedback coloration. It uses the RCA connector type and uses wired connectivity technology.
  • Equipment included- The above package includes AC adapter, removable hinged dust cover, USB cable, 45 RPM adapter, RCA output cable, felt mat and counterweight.

Advantages 

  • Appearance- The device looks extremely vintage and can easily grab the attention of anyone who is around it. 
  • Sound quality- There have been reviews that the quality of music played on this turntable is better than that of an Iphone. 

Disadvantages 

  • Needs assembling- The turntable might require someone to assemble the part of the turntable.
  • Requires maintenance- The turntable requires comparatively higher maintenance than the digital music players in the short term. The equipment is exclusive and sometimes difficult to find. But when we talk about long term investment and cost, turntables prove to be pretty cheap. 

Conclusion 

We have concluded about the 13 best turntables but we have mentioned about the best one from the above one.

 These are the most preferable turntables from the above list –