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10 Best Automatic Turntables 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Sony PS-LX310BT Belt Drive Turntable: Fully Automatic Wireless Vinyl Record Player with Bluetooth and USB Output Black

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,182
Platter Material

Most important from
3672 reviews

Platter Material
Records lay flat without wobbling, ensuring songs play smoothly without skips.

The Sony PS-LX310BT turntable is a well-rounded choice for those who appreciate the convenience of modern technology with the classic vinyl experience. One of its standout features is the fully automatic operation, which makes playing records as simple as pressing a button. This makes it a great option for beginners or those who prefer a hassle-free listening experience. The two-speed options (33⅓ and 45 rpm) cover most vinyl records, and the included 45 rpm adaptor is a handy addition stowed beneath the deck for easy access.

The built-in preamp and three gain settings allow for flexible audio setups, whether you're using wired or wireless connections. Speaking of wireless, the Bluetooth capability is a significant advantage for connecting to modern speakers or headphones without the need for extra cables. The USB output is another modern touch, making it easy to convert your vinyl records to digital MP3 files for on-the-go listening. Performance-wise, the aluminum die-cast platter and newly designed straight tonearm are designed to enhance sound quality by reducing vibrations and improving tracking.

However, it is worth noting that the turntable is primarily made of plastic, which may not appeal to purists seeking a more premium build. Additionally, at 7.9 pounds, it is relatively lightweight, which could potentially affect its stability compared to heavier models. Included accessories like the dust cover, vibration dampening slip mat, and USB cable add good value, making it a complete package for its price range. In summary, the Sony PS-LX310BT is a user-friendly, feature-rich turntable that combines both classic and modern elements, ideal for casual listeners and those new to the vinyl hobby.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,182
Platter Material

Most important from
3672 reviews

Platter Material
Records lay flat without wobbling, ensuring songs play smoothly without skips.
#2

Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Professional Turntable

Rating
9.8
Tonearm Type
Speed Options

Most important from
270 reviews

Tonearm Type
This turntable equals and exceeds performance expectations, offering features like RCA output jacks, quick disconnect power, and VTA tone arm adjustment.
Speed Options
A recommended buy for audiophiles on a budget, offering rock-stable speed and dead-quiet operation.

The Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 is a professional-grade turntable designed primarily for DJs and audiophiles looking for high-quality playback. One of its standout features is the high-torque direct-drive system, which allows for quick start-up times and stable rotation—great for mixing and scratching. The low-noise operation ensures that any unwanted sounds are minimized, providing an excellent listening experience. The turntable has a sturdy, high-stability design that helps maintain performance even during intense use. Moreover, it offers three tempo ranges, enabling DJs to adjust the pitch to suit different tracks seamlessly.

The PLX-1000 is heavier than some competitors, weighing in at 38 pounds, which might make it less portable. While it is built for professional use, the lack of automatic features means it requires manual operation, which may not appeal to users seeking a more casual experience. Additionally, it does not include a built-in preamp, so connecting it to an audio system may require additional equipment, depending on your setup.

The Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 excels in delivering professional playback quality and stability, making it an excellent choice for DJs and serious music lovers. However, its manual operation and added weight could be drawbacks for those who prefer a more convenient or portable option.

Rating
9.8
Tonearm Type
Speed Options

Most important from
270 reviews

Tonearm Type
This turntable equals and exceeds performance expectations, offering features like RCA output jacks, quick disconnect power, and VTA tone arm adjustment.
Speed Options
A recommended buy for audiophiles on a budget, offering rock-stable speed and dead-quiet operation.
#3

Audio-Technica AT-LP60X Fully Automatic Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable (Black) Bundle with Bluetooth Studio Monitors - Pair (2 Items)

The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X is a fully automatic belt-drive turntable that comes in a sleek black design. One of its notable strengths is the anti-resonance, die-cast aluminum platter, which helps to reduce unwanted vibrations, ensuring a clearer sound quality. Its fully automatic operation makes it user-friendly, as it takes care of the tonearm placement and record playing with just the press of a button. This turntable includes a built-in preamp, making it easy to connect to speakers or other audio systems without needing an additional component.

The bundle also includes Bluetooth studio monitors, which add value by providing wireless connectivity, allowing you to stream music conveniently from your personal devices such as computers or laptops. However, this model is best suited for casual listeners rather than audiophiles seeking high-end performance. With a maximum rotational speed of 45 RPM, it covers the basic speed options required for most records. The lightweight materials (wood and plastic) contribute to its practicality but may not appeal to those looking for a more premium build.

The style is modern, but the product could be considered somewhat bulky given its dimensions of 23.9 x 18.3 x 16.3 inches and weight of 19.26 pounds. The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X is a solid choice for individuals seeking an easy-to-use, automatic turntable with the added benefit of Bluetooth connectivity for modern convenience.

Buying Guide for the Best Automatic Turntables

Choosing the right automatic turntable can greatly enhance your music listening experience. Automatic turntables are designed to make playing records easier by automatically placing the needle on the record and lifting it off when the record is finished. When selecting an automatic turntable, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and enjoy your vinyl collection to the fullest.
Drive TypeThe drive type of a turntable refers to how the platter is powered. There are two main types: belt-drive and direct-drive. Belt-drive turntables use an elastic belt to spin the platter, which helps reduce motor noise and vibration, making them ideal for home listening. Direct-drive turntables have the motor directly connected to the platter, providing more consistent speed and torque, which is preferred by DJs for scratching and mixing. If you are a casual listener, a belt-drive turntable might be the best choice for its sound quality. If you plan to use the turntable for DJing, a direct-drive model would be more suitable.
Cartridge TypeThe cartridge is the component that holds the needle (stylus) and converts the grooves on the record into an audio signal. There are two main types: moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC). MM cartridges are more common, easier to replace, and generally more affordable, making them a good choice for most users. MC cartridges are typically more expensive and offer higher fidelity sound, which might appeal to audiophiles. Consider how much you value sound quality and how often you might need to replace the cartridge when making your choice.
Built-in PreampA preamp boosts the audio signal from the turntable to a level that can be played through speakers. Some turntables come with a built-in preamp, while others require an external one. A built-in preamp simplifies setup and is convenient for beginners or those with limited space. However, external preamps can offer better sound quality and more customization options. If you are new to turntables or want a straightforward setup, a built-in preamp is a good feature to look for. If you are more experienced or want to fine-tune your audio setup, you might prefer a turntable without a built-in preamp.
Speed SettingsTurntables typically support different speed settings to play various types of records. The most common speeds are 33 1/3 RPM (revolutions per minute) for LPs and 45 RPM for singles. Some turntables also support 78 RPM for older records. It's important to choose a turntable that supports the speeds of the records you own. If you have a diverse collection, look for a model that offers all three speeds. If you primarily listen to modern LPs and singles, a turntable with just 33 1/3 and 45 RPM settings will suffice.
Build QualityThe build quality of a turntable affects its durability and sound performance. Look for a turntable with a solid, heavy base (plinth) to minimize vibrations and improve sound quality. Materials like wood, metal, and high-quality plastics are preferable. A well-built tonearm and platter also contribute to better performance and longevity. If you plan to use your turntable frequently or want it to last for many years, investing in a model with good build quality is important. For occasional use, a lighter, more affordable model might be sufficient.
Automatic FeaturesAutomatic turntables offer features like auto-start, auto-stop, and auto-return, which make playing records more convenient. These features are especially useful for beginners or those who prefer a hassle-free listening experience. Auto-start places the needle on the record at the beginning, auto-stop lifts the needle at the end, and auto-return brings the tonearm back to its resting position. If you value convenience and ease of use, look for a turntable with these automatic features. If you prefer a more hands-on approach, a manual turntable might be more appealing.

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