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Record player recommendations?

Posted on 4/3/24 at 7:39 pm
Posted by KCRoyalBlue
Member since Nov 2020
998 posts
Posted on 4/3/24 at 7:39 pm
I thought about posting this on the Music Board, but figured I'd try here first.

I'd like to buy a nice middle-of-the-road record player. Loved the sound of one as a kid (I'm 49) and feeling nostalgic. Miss that slight crackle and warm sound.

Any recommendations? I'd like to keep it under $500 for budget constraints. Not really sure what options are available. Pure sound quality would be my first priority in that budget range.
This post was edited on 4/6/24 at 12:31 am
Posted by VABuckeye
Naples, FL
Member since Dec 2007
35696 posts
Posted on 4/4/24 at 6:23 am to
U-Turn Audio

Very nice beginner turntables and you can spend less or more than your budget. I have a U-Turn and it works great.
Posted by Obtuse1
Westside Bodymore Yo
Member since Sep 2016
26119 posts
Posted on 4/5/24 at 3:17 am to
Music Hall, Fluance, Rega, U-Turn, and Pro-Ject. Take your pick. I personally think the Fluance RT-85 is the best bang for the buck in the price range given the Ortofon Blue cartridge. I think U-Turn is better at the $400 range but the U-Turn Special @550 comes with an Ortofon Red cartridge which is a step down from the Blue. The Red is a $100 cartridge and the Blue is a $200 cartridge.

You ask about other gear which begs me to make sure you have a receiver/integrated with a phono input. If not you will need a phono pre-amp which could change the whole discussion.

It would also be helpful if you listed the gear you plan to use the turntable with just to make sure your aren't overspending compared to your gear unless you plan to upgrade it. You could also be understanding your associated gear but your budget is set so that isn't an issue.
Posted by CoolBerth
Member since Apr 2024
7 posts
Posted on 4/5/24 at 5:43 am to
For a budget of up to $500, you can find several excellent record players that offer great sound quality and a nostalgic feel. Here are a few recommendations:

- Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB - This is a direct-drive turntable with a built-in phono preamp, USB output, and adjustable tracking force. It offers solid performance and build quality for the price.
- Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC - Known for its excellent sound quality and minimalist design, the Debut Carbon DC features a carbon fiber tonearm and a high-quality Ortofon cartridge.
- Rega Planar 1 - Rega turntables are known for their musicality and simplicity. The Planar 1 is a belt-drive turntable with a low-vibration motor and a high-gloss finish.
- U-Turn Audio Orbit Plus - The Orbit Plus is a great entry-level turntable with a precision tonearm and a low-resonance acrylic platter. It offers good sound quality and customization options.
- Denon DP-300F - This is a fully automatic turntable with a built-in phono preamp and a sleek, modern design. It offers a good balance of features and sound quality.
Posted by prplhze2000
Parts Unknown
Member since Jan 2007
51619 posts
Posted on 4/7/24 at 7:38 am to
Technic
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