Introduction
Best Record Players of 2024 Vinyl records have made a comeback in a big way, and for audiophiles, nothing can beat the rich, warm sound of a high-quality record player. While digital music offers convenience, vinyl provides an immersive listening experience that reflects the depth and character of the original recordings. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out on your vinyl journey, choosing the right turntable is a must to get the best sound.
In 2024, record players have evolved with advanced technology, offering superior sound quality, precision engineering, and modern features like Bluetooth connectivity and USB recording. But with so many options on the market, finding the right turntable can be overwhelming. That’s where this guide comes in!
In this buyer’s guide, we’ll explore the best record players of 2024, from high-end audiophile turntables to budget-friendly options. We’ll also break down the key factors to consider when shopping, ensuring you get the best value for your money. Let’s dive into the world of vinyl and find the perfect turntable for your setup!
1. What to Look for in a Record Player ( Best Record Players of 2024)
- Sound quality: The heart of the experience
The main reason vinyl enthusiasts choose a record player over digital music is the warm, analog sound.
Look for a turntable with a high-quality tonearm, cartridge, and stylus to ensure accurate sound reproduction.
The material and texture of the platter also play a role—heavier platters help dampen vibrations for clearer playback.
- Build quality and design: Durability matters
A well-built record player minimizes unwanted resonance and distortion.
Materials such as aluminum, acrylic, and MDF (medium density fiberboard) help absorb vibrations and enhance stability.
A heavy chassis and dampened feet also contribute to better sound isolation.
- Drive type: belt-drive vs. direct-drive
Understanding how the platter spins can help determine the best turntable for your needs:
Belt-drive turntables:
Use a rubber belt to connect the motor and platter.
Reduce motor noise and vibration, producing a purer sound. Preferred by audiophiles for home listening. Examples: Rega Planar 3, Pro-Ject Debut Pro. Direct-drive turntables: The motor is directly connected to the platter for precise speed control. More torque, making them ideal for DJs who need to spin and scratch records. Examples: Technics SL-1200 Series. 4. Cartridge and stylus: The key to detailed playback The cartridge contains the stylus (needle) and converts vibrations from the groove into sound. Moving magnet (MM) cartridges: More common, easy to replace, and offer great sound quality. Examples: Ortofon 2M Red, Audio-Technica VM540ML Moving coil (MC) cartridges: Offer better detail and dynamic range but are more expensive and require special preamps. Examples: Ortofon Quintette Blue, Denon DL-103. Upgrading the cartridge is one of the best ways to improve a turntable’s performance.
- Connectivity Options: Modern Features for Vinyl Lovers
Traditional turntables output analog signals that require RCA connections to speakers or an amplifier.
Some turntables include built-in preamps, allowing you to connect directly to powered speakers.
USB Connectivity: Lets you digitize your vinyl collection for playback on a digital device.
Bluetooth and Wireless: Modern turntables offer Bluetooth streaming, but this can degrade sound quality slightly compared to a wired connection.
- Speed Settings and Playback Controls
Most records run at 33 1/3 RPM (LPs) or 45 RPM (singles), so your turntable should support both.
Some high-end models also support 78 RPM for older shellac records.
Manual, semi-automatic or fully automatic controls determine how much interaction you have with the tonearm when playing a record.
- Price vs. Performance: Finding the Right Balance
Entry-level ($150–$300): Great for beginners but may lack advanced features and high-end sound quality. (Example: Audio-Technica AT-LP60X)
Mid-range ($400–$800): Balanced sound quality with upgrade potential. (Examples: Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO, Fluence RT85)
High-end ($1,000+): Excellent sound clarity, build quality and customization. (Examples: Technics SL-1200GR, Rega Planar 8)
2. Top Record Players of 2024 (Best Record Players of 2024)
High-End Audiophile Turntables ($1000+)
For the serious vinyl enthusiast, these turntables offer premium components, superior sound clarity, and precision engineering.
- Technics SL-1200GR – A Legendary Direct-Drive Turntable
Key Features:
Direct-drive motor for high torque and stability.
Precision-engineered tonearm to minimize distortion.
Robust aluminum chassis for excellent vibration damping.
Highly customizable for various cartridge and tonearm setups.
- Rega Planar 8 – Minimalist Design, Maximum Sound Quality
Key Features:
Ultra-lightweight skeletal plinth to minimize unwanted resonances.
Hand-assembled RB880 tonearm for precise tracking.
Utilizes Neo PSU power supply to ensure precise speed control.
Comes pre-fitted with a high-end MC cartridge option.
- Linn Sondek LP12 – A Timeless Classic
Key Features:
Modular, upgradeable design that can evolve over time.
Wood plinth option for a vintage aesthetic.
Precise speed control for ultra-smooth playback.
Available in multiple configurations to match any budget.
Best Mid-Range Turntable ($400–$1000)
For those who want great sound without the premium price, these models balance affordability and performance.
- Pro-Ject Debut Pro – Balanced performance with upgrade potential
Key Features:
Precision aluminum platter for improved speed stability.
Carbon-fiber tonearm for precise tracking.
Pre-installed Sumiko Rainier cartridge for detailed playback.
Solid MDF plinth with damping feet to reduce vibration.
- Audio-Technica AT-LP7 – Premium sound with a sleek design
Key Features:
Belt-drive system to reduce motor noise.
Comes with VM520EB dual moving-magnet cartridge.
Built-in phono preamp with bypass option.
Sturdy construction with acrylic platter for stable playback. - U-Turn Orbit Theory – Minimalist beauty with solid sound
Key Features:
Comes with Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge for high-fidelity sound experience.
External belt-drive system for quiet operation.
Acrylic platter for speed stability.
Hand-assembled in the USA with excellent quality control.
Best Budget-Friendly Turntable ($150–$400)
Perfect for beginners or casual vinyl listeners who want quality playback without spending a lot of money. - Fluance RT85 – Best Budget Audiophile Turntable
Key Features:
Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge for detailed sound.
Wooden plinth and acrylic platter for better resonance control.
Adjustable counterweight for precise tracking.
Speed-adjustable belt drive with automatic stop function. - Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB – A DJ-style turntable for home use
Key Features:
Direct-drive motor with quartz speed control.
Comes with VM95E moving magnet cartridge.
USB output for converting vinyl to digital files.
Adjustable tracking force and pitch control. - Sony PS-LX310BT – Best Beginner Turntable with Bluetooth
Key Features:
Fully automatic one-button operation.
Built-in Bluetooth for wireless streaming.
Integrated preamp for easy setup.
Good sound quality for a budget-friendly model.
3. Accessories to Enhance Your Vinyl Experience
- Speakers and Amplifiers – Bringing Your Vinyl to Life
The turntable alone doesn’t produce sound – you need a good speaker setup to experience the full depth of your records. Here are the options:
🔹 Passive Speakers + Amplifier (Best Sound Quality)
Offers the best sound fidelity, with more customization and upgrade options.
Recommended Brands: KEF, Klipsch, ELAC, Wharfedale.
✔ Best For: Audiophiles who want high-fidelity, customizable sound.
🔹 Powered (Active) Speakers (Convenience and Simplicity)
Built-in amplifier means no external amp is needed – just plug and play.
Often includes Bluetooth, AUX and RCA inputs for flexibility.
Recommended Brands: Audioengine A5+, Klipsch The Sixes, Edifier S2000MKIII.
✔ Best for: For those who want great sound with a simple setup.
🔹 Headphone Amplifier (for private listening)
Enhances sound detail and clarity for headphone users.
Recommended models: Schiit Magni+, iFi Zen DAC V2.
✔ Best for: For late-night vinyl sessions without disturbing others.
- Phono Preamp – Boosting your turntable’s signal
Most turntables produce a very weak signal that requires a phono preamp before connecting to speakers or an amplifier. Some turntables have built-in preamps, but an external phono preamp provides better sound quality.
🔹 Why do you need a phono preamp?
Improves clarity and reduces background noise.
Essential for turntables without a built-in preamp (e.g., Rega, Pro-Ject models).
🔹 Best phono preamps to consider
Budget: ART DJPre II, Schiit Mani 2.
Mid-range: iFi Zen Phono, Cambridge Audio Alva Duo.
High-end: Pro-Ject Tube Box S2, Lehmann Audio Black Cube.
✔ Best for: Anyone looking to enhance sonic detail and boost their turntable’s signal.
- Record cleaning kit – protect your vinyl and stylus
Dust, dirt, and static can negatively impact sound quality and damage your records over time. A proper cleaning routine is essential for longevity.
🔹 Must-have cleaning accessories
Carbon fiber brush – Removes dust before each play (e.g., AudioQuest Anti-Static Brush).
Record cleaning solution and microfiber cloth – Deep cleans vinyl grooves (e.g., Spin-Clean Record Washer).
Stylus brush – Gently removes dust from the needle (e.g., Onzo Zerodust).
Anti-static gun or mat – Reduces pops and crackles caused by static electricity (e.g., Milty Zerostat 3).
✔ Best for: Anyone who wants to protect their records and maintain great sound quality.
- Record storage and display – Keeping your collection organized
Storing your vinyl properly keeps them from warping, scratching, and collecting dust.
🔹 Best storage solution
Vinyl record crates – Classic wooden or metal crates keep records upright and organized.
Wall-mounted record shelves – Great for displaying your favorite album covers.
Record storage cabinets – The IKEA Kallax is a popular, affordable option for larger collections.
✔ Best for: Vinyl collectors who want both functionality and style in their setup.
- Record Weights and Clamps – Improve Playback Stability
The record weights or clamp helps level the record and reduces vibrations, improving the contact between the stylus and the groove.
🔹 Benefits of Using Record Weights or Clamps
Reduces unwanted resonances and vibrations.
Improves tracking and sound clarity.
Useful for slightly distorted records.
✔ Best For: Audiophiles who want to increase sound stability and accuracy.
- Upgraded Cartridges and Stylus – Taking Your Sound to the Next Level
The cartridge and stylus are the most important components affecting sound quality. Upgrading them can dramatically improve clarity, detail, and tracking.
🔹 Best Cartridge Upgrades
Entry-Level Upgrades: Ortofon 2M Red, Audio-Technica VM95ML.
Mid-range upgrades: Ortofon 2M Blue, Nagaoka MP-110.
High-end upgrades: Ortofon 2M Black, Hana ML.
✔ Best for: People who want to get richer, more detailed sound from their turntable.
- Turntable isolation and vibration control – eliminate unwanted noise
Turntables are sensitive to vibrations, which can cause distortion. These accessories help improve sound clarity:
🔹 Ways to reduce vibration
Isolation feet/pads – absorb external vibrations (e.g., Isoacoustics OREA, Sorbothane pads).
Turntable wall mounts – isolate your setup from floor vibrations.
High-mass plinths – help absorb heavy bass resonances.
✔ Best for: People who experience vibrations from foot traffic or speaker interference.
4. Tips for Getting the Best Sound from Your Turntable
- Place the Turntable Properly – Minimize Vibrations
Where you place your turntable has a direct impact on sound quality.
🔹 Best Practices for Placement
Use a Stable, Level Surface – Make sure your turntable is placed on a solid, vibration-free surface so there are no obstructions or unwanted noises.
Avoid placing it near speakers – Sound waves emitted from speakers can cause vibrations, which can cause distortion. Keep the turntable separate from speakers.
Use Isolation Pads or Wall Mounts – Helps absorb vibrations from floors or furniture (e.g., IsoAcoustics OREA, Sorbothane pads).
✔ Best of All: Eliminate distortion caused by external vibrations.
- Upgrade Your Cartridge and Stylus – The Biggest Sound Improvement
The cartridge and stylus are the first points of contact with your record, so upgrading them can greatly improve clarity and detail.
🔹 Best Cartridge Upgrades
Budget upgrades: Audio-Technica VM95ML, Ortofon 2M Red.
Mid-range upgrades: Ortofon 2M Blue, Nagaoka MP-110.
High-end upgrades: Ortofon 2M Black, Hana ML, Denon DL-103.
✔ Best for: Improving sound accuracy, reducing distortion, and enhancing detail.
- Set the correct tracking force and anti-skate
Incorrect tracking force can cause poor sound quality and premature record wear.
🔹 How to set tracking force correctly
Use a digital tracking force gauge (such as the Ortofon DS-3) for precise adjustments.
Follow the tracking force recommended by the cartridge manufacturer (typically 1.5g–2.5g).
Adjust the Anti-Skate control to match the tracking force to prevent the stylus from being pulled too hard toward the center or outer edge.
✔ Best for: Ensuring that your stylus tracks the groove properly without fraying.
- Keep your records and stylus clean – Reduce noise and improve playback
Dust and dirt can cause crackling, skipping, and fraying. Keeping your records and stylus clean protects both sound quality and record longevity.
🔹 Cleaning routine for great sound
Use a carbon fiber brush (e.g., AudioQuest Anti-Static Brush) before each play.
Deep clean with a record washer (e.g., Spin-Clean, Pro-Ject VC-E) every few weeks.
Clean the stylus regularly with a stylus brush or gel cleaner (e.g., Onzo Zerodust). Use an anti-static sleeve to prevent dust from accumulating (e.g., MoFi Inner Sleeves).
✔ Best for: Reducing unwanted pops, crackles, and improving audio clarity.
- Use a high-quality phono preamp – Boost sound clarity
A phono preamp amplifies the weak signal from the turntable to line level, allowing it to be heard through the speakers. While some turntables have built-in preamps, an external phono preamp typically provides better sound quality.
🔹 Best external phono preamp by budget
Budget: ART DJPre II, Schiit Mani 2.
Mid-range: Cambridge Audio Alva Duo, iFi Zen Phono.
High-end: Pro-Ject Tube Box S2, Lehmann Audio Black Cube.
✔ Best for: Enhancing detail, dynamics, and reducing background noise.
- Upgrade your speakers or headphones – the final step to high-fidelity sound
Your speakers or headphones determine how your music sounds. Even the best turntable won’t sound great if you’re using low-quality speakers.
🔹 Best speaker options for vinyl
Powered (active) speakers: Plug-and-play convenience (e.g., Audioengine A5+, Klipsch The Sixes).
Passive speakers + amplifier: Best for high-fidelity sound (e.g., KEF LS50 Meta, Wharfedale Linton).
Headphones: A great option for private listening (e.g., Sennheiser HD660S, Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro).
✔ Best for: Bringing out the full warmth and depth of vinyl records.
- Use Record Weights or Clamps – Improve Stability and Sound
Record weights or clamps help keep the record flat against the platter, reducing unwanted vibrations and improving stylus contact.
🔹 Benefits of Using Record Weights
Reduces warp and improves tracking.
Enhances bass response and overall clarity.
Prevents resonance for a more natural sound.
✔ Best For: Audiophiles who want better stability and sonic precision.
- Adjust Tonearm Height and Alignment – Fine-tune to perfection
Incorrect tonearm height (vertical tracking angle, or VTA) and cartridge alignment can cause distortion, sibilance, and tracking issues.
🔹 How to optimize tonearm and cartridge alignment
Use a protractor tool (free printable protractors are available online).
Adjust the VTA so that the tonearm is level when playing a record.
Make sure the azimuth (stylus angle) is exactly perpendicular to the record groove.
✔ Best for: Minimizing distortion and getting the clearest possible sound.
- Control Room Acoustics – Maximize Sound Performance
Even the best system won’t sound great in a poor acoustic environment.
🔹 How to Control Room Acoustics
Place the speakers correctly (avoid placing them too close to walls).
Use sound-absorbing panels to reduce echo and reflections.
Try different listening positions to find the best spot for stereo imaging.
✔ Best for: Getting a more immersive and balanced listening experience.
- Play high-quality pressings – not all vinyl is the same
The quality of your records matters! Poorly pressed or worn-out records will never sound great, no matter how good your setup is.
🔹 How to find the best pressings
Look for 180g or 200g audiophile pressings (e.g., Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab, Analog Productions).
Avoid cheap, low-quality reissues from unknown sources.
Check online forums (e.g., Discogs, Steve Hoffman Forum) for the best pressings.
✔ THE BEST: Ensuring your turntable performs at its best with high quality vinyl.
Conclusion
Owning a high-quality record player is the first step toward enjoying vinyl to its fullest. To truly improve your listening experience, proper setup, maintenance, and thoughtful upgrades are a must. From choosing the best turntable to investing in high-fidelity speakers, preamps, and accessories, every detail contributes to richer, more immersive sound.
By following the tips in this guide — such as optimizing turntable placement, upgrading your cartridges, maintaining clean records, and fine-tuning tracking settings — you can hear vinyl records the way they’re meant to be heard.
Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or just starting your vinyl journey, the right setup can make a huge difference. With careful attention to detail, your turntable can deliver the deep, warm, and vibrant sound that digital formats often struggle to replicate.
