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In the era of smartphones and iPods, turntables have been a distant memory. But people with true taste in music still prefer them over any modern device.
Do you have an old record you love to play and need an affordable turntable that doesn’t break the bank? Well, the reduced demand and availability of premium models have made turntables a bit expensive.
But I did all the hard work on your behalf to curate a list of the best turntables under $300. I’ve thoroughly analyzed all products for sound quality, durability, and ease of use to help you confidently pick one.
Read the detailed reviews and choose a fantastic turntable under $300 to enjoy listening to your favorite tracks without spending a fortune.
Things I Looked for When Choosing the Best Turntables under $300
The audio quality of a turntable depends on several factors, and I considered all of them to curate this list. Below I’ve mentioned these factors to help you make an informed choice. The plinth and platter material has a significant impact on the sound quality. In addition, it also affects the sound quality by controlling the vibrations. You can find turntables under $300 with dense aluminum plinths and weighted platters that produce resonate-free sound. Even if you are on a tight budget, make sure the turntable’s plinth is dense. The photo cartridge converts the vibrations into electrical impulses to amplify the sound quality. Generally, cheap turntables lack a removable phono cartridge, which is difficult to replace when damaged. When choosing an affordable turntable, look for tonearms made using quality materials. Also, you’ll find turntables featuring an adjustable tonearm for optimal sound quality. The preamp amplifies the small output to match a typical stereo amplifier. Although many vinyl players under $300 have a phono preamp, some models don’t feature one.Plinth and Platter Material
Phono Cartridge
Performance of the Tonearm
Avoid options with a plastic tonearm, as the sound deteriorates after a few days. Phono Preamp
Why You Should Trust this Guide
Choosing a turntable is difficult and gets even more challenging when you are on a budget. This guide will give you a detailed review of the top 5 vinyl players under $300. By reading the reviews, you can learn what turntable suffices your requirements and fits the bill.
Also, I have listed multiple options, and you can easily pick one based on the reviews and comparison.
Brand
Speed
Preamp
Type
Connectivity
Tonearm
Review
Audio Technica
33-1/3, 45 rpm
Yes
Belt
Wireless
Yes
Review
Victrola
33 1/3, 45, 78 rpm
No
Belt
Wireless
Yes
Review
Fluance RT82
33 1/3, 45 (78 RPM – No)
No
Belt
Wired
Yes
Review
Sony PS-LX310BT
45 rpm
Yes
Belt
Wireless
Yes
Review
Angels
33 1/3, 45 rpm
Yes
Belt
Wireless
Yes
Review
Top 6 Turntables and Record Players Under $300:
If you ask me for a recommendation,
Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK Fully Automatic Stereo Turntable – Editor’s Choice
Key Specs:
- Speed: 33-1/3 rpm and 45 rpm
- Phono Preamp: Yes
- Drive Type: Belt
- Connectivity Technology: Wireless
- Replaceable Tonearm: Yes
The Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK is a modern-looking vinyl player with amazing sound quality that you would want for listening to more songs. It lets you choose between 7” and 12” records, making the vinyl player versatile.
The drive belt gives you full control over the spinning record, and you can get two options for adjusting the speed.
In addition, the die-cast aluminum platter eliminates vibration, producing a resonate-free sound. I loved the sleek tonearm. It’s replaceable and reduces the resonance to keep the sound quality up.
With built-in hi-fi audio, the turntable offers Bluetooth connectivity, and you can pair it with your favorite speakers. Although the Bluetooth connection is good, the vinyl player has an average wireless range.
You get multiple buttons at the front giving you control over speed. Lastly, you can set it up easily even if you haven’t used a turntable before.
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality
- The stable base reduces vibrations
- You play 7” and 12” records with it
- The plastic case protects the records
Cons:
- Lacks the aesthetics of a turntable
- The buttons are hard to press
Verdict
If you want to go down memory lane with an easy-to-play turntable, the Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK is a great option. It’s fully automatic, so there are no struggles with adjusting the tonearm and cartridge. Place the vinyl record and enjoy listening.
Victrola Nostalgic 3-Speed Turntable – Budget Option
Key Specs:
- Speed: 33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM
- Phono Preamp: No
- Drive Type: Belt
- Connectivity Technology: Wireless
- Replaceable Tonearm: Yes
If you are on a budget and need a turntable that reminds you of the old days, go with this vinyl player from Victoria Nostalgic. The wooden record player has a dense platter and heavy plinth to produce premium sound for uninterrupted entertainment.
The well-balanced metal tonearm adjusts automatically and comes with a replaceable cartridge. Unlike Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK, you get bigger knobs for ease of control.
Besides vinyl records, this 6-in-1 entertainment center can play cassettes, AM/FM radio, or stream music from your smartphone via Bluetooth or an audio jack, fulfilling your need for speakers.
Considering the weight, the Victrola Nostalgic 3-Speed Turntable is pretty heavy and not good for commuting.
Another advantage of this best turntables under $300 bucks is the 3-speed belt that plays all your 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM records. Lastly, it comes in multiple vintage and modern color options to enhance your space’s aesthetics.
Pros:
- The wooden body is highly durable
- All-in-one device for playing records, cassettes, and more
- Bigger knobs for easy control
- Easily connects with iPhone and Android over Bluetooth
Cons:
- Heavy
- Replacing the tonearm cartridge is
Verdict
If you need premium sound quality without breaking the bank, the difficult Victrola Nostalgic 6-in-1 Record Player deserves your attention. Since it’s Bluetooth-enabled, you can use it as a casual speaker.
Fluance RT82 Reference High-Fidelity Vinyl Turntable – Premium Pick
Key Specs:
- Speed: 33 1/3 RPM, 45 RPM (78 RPM – No)
- Phono Preamp: No
- Drive Type: Belt
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Replaceable Tonearm: Yes
Are you looking for a high-fidelity record player? Fluance RT82 has got everything you need. Equipped with an Ortofon OM10 cartridge, and an aluminum platter, there is no room for resonance.
The automatic turntable comes pre-assembled, and you can get started with it within seconds. The tonearm isn’t just stylish but does its job well and features a replaceable cartridge. Though, you have to be gentle, as it’s prone to scratches.
Inside the player, it has a Servo motor speed adjustable motor that lets you play multiple types of records. The visible drive belt gives this turntable a more vintage look.
There’s only one dial on this turntable to select the speed making the interface easier. Additionally, the cue levels work fine but might feel loose at times.
Under this vinyl player, there are four rubberized feet that keep the wooden plinth stable while reducing vibrations and noise. With Fluance RT82, you get spectacular signal clarity and pure analog performance without any fancy features.
Pros:
- The Servo motor adjusts speed automatically
- Excellent musical accuracy
- Highly portable
- The aluminum platter and wooden plinth reduce resonance
Cons:
- Separate phono preamp required
- No volume adjuster
Verdict
If sound quality is your first preference, you can consider the Fluance RT82 Reference High-Fidelity Vinyl Turntable. The high mass MDF wood and sound isolation feet improve the audio quality making it an unbeatable record player under 300. You might miss unavailability features and versatility.
Sony PS-LX310BT Belt Drive Turntable – Value for Money
Key Specs:
- Speed: 45 RPM
- Phono Preamp: Yes
- Drive Type: Belt
- Connectivity Technology: Wireless
- Replaceable Tonearm: Yes
When it’s Sony, you can expect premium sound quality and best-in-class hardware. The PS-LX310B is a sleek record player with modern aesthetics. The fully automatic turntable comes ready to play, and you can start listening to your favorite soundtracks.
Unlike most record players, it lets you select between 7” and 12”, so you don’t need two turntables. The tonearm seriously impressed me, and it adjusts automatically to minimize resonance.
Furthermore, you get controls for the speed and start/stop eliminating the need to download a mobile app. The translucent dust covers to safeguard your previous records while keeping the tonearm and other components clean.
While the Sony PS-LX310BT hits the nail in every aspect, it’s difficult to pair to speakers over Bluetooth. The base is also prone to scratches, and you’ll need to keep it with care.
Rest, it’s an amazing option if you are tied with a budget and want a branded vinyl record player.
Pros:
- Fully automatic, so there is no need to set up anything
- Gives you complete control over the speed
- Sony ships two dust covers
- Durable
Cons:
- Gets scratched easily
- The Bluetooth connectivity isn’t that strong
Verdict
If you have a collection of vinyl players you want to play without the fuss of setting up a turntable, go for Sony PS-LX310BT. With its classy design and multiple connectivity options, this turntable is a bang for the buck at this price point.
ANGELS HORN Vinyl Record Player – Complete Package
Key Specs:
- Speed: 33 1/3 & 45RPM
- Phono Preamp: Yes
- Drive Type: Belt
- Connectivity Technology: Wireless
- Replaceable Tonearm: Yes
A turntable is nothing without good speakers, so Angels Horn is here with a complete package. The speakers also compliment the record player’s aesthetics giving other turntables a run for their money.
The vinyl record player features a basic design with a wooden plinth for added weight and reduced vibrations. Since it’s completely automatic and comes pre-assembled, you can start playing the tracks you love.
The belt-driven mechanism offers multiple speed settings, and the high-end stylus does justice to the sound. I own several budget turntables, and most of them have record-size selectors.
Unfortunately, the ANGELS HORN Vinyl Record Player lacks a size selector, hindering its versatility. Another reason why this turntable is at #5 is the weight, as it’s not very portable.
Speaking of its design, the vintage look can fit anywhere in your home and office. Lastly, the record player offers wireless connectivity reducing the clutter of wires.
Pros:
- You can adjust the counterweight force to balance the stylus
- Minimalist design with a vintage look
- You can control the volume directly through the player
- The heavy plinth reduces vibrations
Cons:
- Not very portable with speakers
- The belt makes noise sometimes
Verdict
The ANGELS HORN Vinyl Record Player is a complete package under $300. The turntable doesn’t require assembly and comes with Bluetooth 4.2 for seamless connectivity. Another reason to love it is the vintage wooden design.
FAQs on Best Turntables Under $300
A: It depends on the sound quality and features you expect. Generally, entry-level record players with decent sound quality cost $250-500. If you go for premium options, you’ll need to spend more. A: If you have vinyl records and want to enjoy a vintage listening experience, you must consider buying a turntable. A: Any turntable can ruin the records if you don’t use it properly. Go for turntables that belong to good brands and are made using high-quality materials.Q: How much do you need to spend on a good turntable?
Q: Is it worth buying a turntable?
Q: Do cheap turntables ruin records?
Final Thoughts
That’s everything you need to know about the best turntables under $300. I hope this guide has helped you decide on the right option for your budget.
If you ask me for a recommendation, I suggest Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK Fully Automatic Stereo Turntable. It doesn’t require assembly and can play 7” or 12” vinyl records. The wireless connectivity is seamless, and you get an excellent listening experience with the built-in phono preamp.
Helpful Sources to Understand:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phonograph
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belt-drive_turntable
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Direct-drive_turntable