You never know which media format is going to stick.
Floppy disks? Nope. CDs? Not really.
But vinyl? Well, vinyl sales have grown by 260 percent since 2009.
Odds are, if you’re a music enthusiast, you help make up that statistic. And as a vinyl lover, there’s one thing you can’t do without: an awesome turntable that’ll look great in your apartment.
Keep reading for our four top turntables to start the new year off right (listening to vinyl, that is).
For the Amenities Lover: The Audio Technica AT-LP120
Here’s why we love the Audio Technica AT-LP120: it’s largely considered one of the best turntables for the burgeoning vinyl enthusiast.
Why? Because it’s easy to set up, generally nice-looking, and it’s got so many awesome features.
This bad boy comes loaded with its own internal preamp. That means you won’t need a photo input to spin from it. If that sounds like gibberish to you, then this is the record player for you-it’s perfect for beginners.
It’s also got a USB output for those who want to rip their records to mp3. Pair that with an auto return function so you don’t have to hover around your records while they play, and you’ve got a pretty sweet workhorse of a turntable.
For the DJ: The Technics SL-1200
Ask any DJ and they’ll tell you which piece of gear has lasted them the longest. You won’t be surprised to hear that many of their responses are the Technics SL-1200 turntable.
Its direct drive motor is super high-drive, which means DJs can spin and spin (and spin and spin) their hearts out without worrying if their turntable can hold up to the job.
If you opt for this turntable, there’s one thing to keep in mind. Technics stopped manufacturing these in 2010. Once they realized they were so popular, they began again in 2016.
Make sure you double-check the manufacturing date on yours before you purchase!
For Audio Junkies: Fluance Turntables
Fluance is legendary for the sound quality of their turntables. Different models come with different bells and whistles, but overall, you can expect epic sound from a Fluance.
Fluance turntables are also super easy to set up since they come preinstalled with a phono preamp already. Once you’re ready to upgrade to a separate preamp, you can simply turn the built-in one off.
The combination of ease of setup and quality of sound make Fluance turntables a perfect medium between beginner and advanced vinyl spinner. If you’re looking for great value, Fluance is your ticket.
For the Dedicated Hobbyist: Pro-Ject Debut Carbon
Are you ready to take your hobby up a level? If so, the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon is the turntable for you.
First of all, it’s one of the sleekest looking turntables on the market today. Second of all, you won’t get bogged down by bells and whistles you don’t want to fuss with.
This one is clean, simple, and to the point. Ditch the auto-return and speed buttons in favor of a more intentional listening session.
Turntables & Other Tech
Now that you’ve got the skinny on the best turntables for vinyl on the market, you can go forth and make your decision with confidence. Keep spinning, friend.
Want to read more about the latest in tech? Check out our tech articles for everything you need to know!
