Every music enthusiast needs a turntable. However, deciding which type or brand to buy can be challenging with many available options. That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide of the top 15 best turntables under $500 to help you make the right decision for your needs.
From simple and easy-to-use models to more advanced options with all the bells and whistles, there’s something for everyone in our selection. And with prices starting at just $250, you don’t have to break the bank to get your hands on a great quality turntable.
How do we select the best turntables under $500
We love music, and we know you do too. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best turntables under $500 just for you. We’ve scoured the internet and tested out many different models, so you can be sure that you’re getting the best bang for your buck.
Here’s how we did it: first, we made a list of all the features that we thought were important in a good turntable. Then, we went out and found the models with the most positive reviews from customers and experts alike. Finally, we narrowed it down to the five best turntables under $500 based on our experience.
What to consider when shopping for the best turntables under $500?
When it comes to turntables, there are a few things you need to take into account before making your purchase. The first is, of course, your budget. How much are you willing to spend on a turntable? If you’re looking for the best turntables under $500, you’re in luck. There are plenty of great options available within this price range.
Next, you need to consider what features you’re looking for in a turntable. Do you want something simple and easy to use, or do you want something that has all the bells and whistles? Once you’ve decided on your must-have features, you can start narrowing down your choices.
The best turntables under $500: (Reviews & Recommendations)
Making a decision about a turntable purchase shouldn’t be too tough after you are aware of the distinctions among various turntable kinds and features and have considered your budget.
Top 15 Turn Tables under $500:
- Fluance RT85
- Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB
- Reloop 4000 MK2
- Audio-Technical AT-LP60X-BW
- Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO
- U-Turn Audio – Orbit Plus Turntable
- Crosley C200 Direct-Drive Turntable
- Denon DP-400 Semi-Automatic Analog Turntable
- Audio-Technica AT-LP5 Direct-Drive Turntable
- REGA – Planar 1
- Pioneer Pro DJ Black PLX-500-K
- Sony PSHX500 Hi-Res USB Turntable
- Teac TN-300SE-MB Analog Turntable
- Music Hall MMF 2.2 Belt Driven Turntable
- U-Turn Audio – Orbit Plus Turntable
Reviews:
Fluance RT85 Turntable
Fluance is a Canadian company that has been in business since 1999. Their RT85 turntable is one of their top products. It has a unique design and comes in black or white color. It has a solid MDF plinth with an aluminum platter.
The platter is belt driven and the motor is isolated to reduce vibration. The RT85 has a built-in phono preamp and an RCA output. It includes a dust cover, power cord, and 45 RPM adapter. The Fluance RT85 is a great turntable for those looking for good sound quality without spending much money.
Features:
- Operation of the turntable: semi-automatic
- Cartridge Moving magnet/Ortofon type/model: 2M Blue
- No phono preamp
- 33-1/3 and 45 RPM are the speeds.
- Driven by a belt
Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB Turntable
Audio-Technica’s AT-LP120XBT-USB is a Bluetooth-enabled turntable that gives you the best of both worlds: the ability to play your vinyl records and wirelessly stream your music to your Bluetooth speakers or headphones. Here’s an overview of this great turntable.
The AT-LP120XBT-USB is a fully automatic belt-drive turntable with a built-in phono preamp. It has a sleek design and a sturdy build, making it perfect for those who want a high-quality turntable that looks great and performs even better. It is simple to connect to your computer using the USB output so you may digitize your vinyl collection.
Features:
- Manual control of the turntable
- Dual moving magnet/Audio-Technica AT-VM95e cartridge type/model
- Preamp for phono: Yes
- 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM are the speeds.
- Driving Approach: Direct
Reloop 4000 MK2 Turntable
The Reloop 4000 MK2 is a high-quality turntable perfect for any professional DJ. This turntable features a powerful direct drive motor, a sturdy cast aluminum platter, and a precision tonearm.
The Reloop 4000 MK2 includes a dust cover, slipmat, and 45 RPM adapter. With its high-quality construction and features, the Reloop 4000 MK2 is the perfect turntable for any DJ who wants the best sound quality.
Features:
- A direct drive motor that provides high torque and low noise operation.
- A heavy-duty cast aluminum platter that ensures smooth, consistent rotation.
- A precision tonearm with an adjustable counterweight and anti-skate control.
- A built-in phono preamp allows the turntable to be used with a wide range of amplifiers and sound systems.
- Manual turntable operation
- Dual moving magnet/Ortofon OM Black cartridge type/model
- Preamp for phono: Yes
- 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM are the speeds.
- Driving Approach: Direct
Audio-Technical AT-LP60X-BW Turntable
This belt-drive turntable, an upgraded version of the AT-LP60, is simple to set up and use and can easily compete with similarly priced or even more expensive alternatives because the AT-LP60X-BW has an internal phono preamp, so you can connect it to sound systems without phono inputs. If you don’t need the preamp, you can turn it off.
This turntable is a great entry-level turntable for those looking to enter the vinyl world. It is simple to set up and use and has a modern look. Thanks to the built-in phono preamp and excellent sound quality for an entry-level turntable, you may connect it straight to your stereo or speaker system. The AT-LP60X-BW is a great choice for those looking for an affordable, easy-to-use turntable that sounds great.
Features:
- Automatic turntable operation
- Dual moving magnet cartridge, model ATN3600L
- Preamp for phono: Yes
- 33 13, 45 RPM are the speeds.
- Drive Approach: Belt Expert
Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO Turntable
This turntable, the company’s first new Debut model in ten years, features a minimalist design approach and a laser-like focus on superior sound quality. The belt-driven Carbon Evo was expertly crafted in the Czech Republic and had a heavier platter than its forerunners. It also has additional internal dampening to keep it separate from the surface it rests on.
The Debut Carbon EVO’s redesigned tonearm is the first thing you’ll notice about it.. This arm is made from a special carbon fiber material that provides stiffness and damping, resulting in improved tracking and reduced vibration. The arm also features an adjustable counterweight, allowing you to fine-tune the tracking force for optimal performance.
Features:
- Manual control of the turntable
- Model: Moving Magnet/Sumiko Ranier Cartridge
- Preamp Phono: No way
- 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM are the speeds.
U-Turn Audio – Orbit Plus Turntable
The Orbit Plus is a belt-drive turntable with a built-in preamp, making it easy to connect to your stereo system. The platter is made of acrylic, which helps reduce vibration and improve sound quality. The arm is adjustable to get the perfect tracking force for your cartridges.
It has a basic design and a turntable with graceful lines. Because of its aesthetic appeal, this turntable from U-Turn audio is popular with many people.
Although the design is straightforward, the turntable will nonetheless be powerful. It is quite beautiful in terms of design and appearance. And won’t appear out of place in the house.
Features:
A new turntable on the market, the U-Turn Audio Orbit Plus, is getting much attention for its features.
- This particular model is designed to be easy to use and to provide a high-quality sound.
- It also has a sleek design, making it an attractive addition to any home entertainment setup.
One of the best features of the U-Turn Audio Orbit Plus Turntable is its ease of use. - The manufacturers have ensured that even those unfamiliar with turntables can easily set it up and get it working.
- The instructions are clear and concise, and everything needed for assembly is included in the box.
- Another great feature is the sound quality.
- This turntable produces a rich, full sound that will please even the most discerning audiophile.
Crosley C200 Direct-Drive Turntable
One of the most well-liked turntables on the market is the Crosley C200 Direct-Drive Turntable. It’s a fantastic option for both novice and seasoned DJs. The direct-drive motor provides high torque and speed, making it easy to scratch and mix. Thanks to the built-in phono preamp, the turntable may be connected to any sound system. The Crosley C200 also features a cueing lever, adjustable pitch control, and a slipmat.
A direct-drive turntable with a tough appearance is the C200. You’ll notice that the majority of what is necessary is present. However, while some parts are of high quality, some might not be as much. It was made specifically to perform the task and shares many similarities with other top turntables under $500 in appearance.
It includes a sliding pitch adjustment and a strobe speed indicator, and it can play at 33 and 45 rpm. A counterweight, a hydraulic lift control, and a locking rest are all parts of the tonearm.. It is made of aluminum and has an “S” shape. It is an Audio-Technica NP5 cartridge. By no means is this their top-of-the-line, and we believe.
Features:
- The Crosley C200 Direct-Drive Turntable is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable, high-quality turntable.
- The direct-drive motor provides superior speed stability and reduced wow and flutter, while the die-cast aluminum platter ensures smooth, consistent rotation.
- The built-in phono preamp allows you to connect the turntable directly to your stereo system, while the adjustable tracking force and anti-skate controls ensure optimal sound quality.
- The included dust cover protects your records from dust and debris, and the RCA outputs make it easy to connect to your home stereo system.
- . The S-shaped tonearm provides precise tracking and improved sound quality.
Denon DP-400 Semi-Automatic Analog Turntable
Like much of Denon’s equipment, the DP-400 is well-equipped. The speed sensor-controlled automated turntable may operate at 33, 45, and 78 rpm. Depending on your preferences, a belt-driven weighted platter is installed for high-quality reproduction and can accommodate both MM and MC cartridges.
Contrary to assertions, manufacturers do not believe the tonearm is revolutionary. Utilizing it with an established, tried-and-true method gives users of the more-or-less “S”-shaped device a sense of ease.
As the name suggests, the Denon DP-400 Semi-Automatic Analog Turntable is a record player between fully automatic and manual turntables. It’s a great choice for those who want to get the most out of their vinyl collection without dealing with the hassle of setting up a complicated turntable.
The DP-400 has a sleek, minimalist design that will look great in any home. It has a built-in phono preamp to connect it directly to your speakers or amplifier. The tonearm is movable for precise tracking, and the platter is made of die-cast aluminum.
Features:
This turntable is a great option for those looking to get into vinyl without spending much money.
- It features a built-in phono preamp, meaning you can connect it directly to your speakers or amplifier.
- It has a USB output so that you can easily digitize your records.
- The DP-400 also comes with a dust cover and an acrylic platter, which helps to reduce vibrations and improve sound quality.
Audio-Technica AT-LP5 Direct-Drive Turntable
With the Denon DP 400 Turntable, you’ll rekindle your love for vinyl.. Its structure is extremely strong and can survive for a very long period. It also contains an automatic speed sensor for the perfect sound. This turntable might be what you’re looking for if you want a classy appearance and sound.
The Denon DP 400 turntable’s tonearm curves in an s-shape. Every location on the vinyl can have its angle tracking optimized. The music is also stopped automatically after the vinyl, which is quite handy.
Features:
- The Audio-Technica AT-LP5 Direct-Drive Turntable is a great way to play vinyl records.
- The turntable has a sleek and modern design that will look great in any home.
- The turntable is easy to set up and use, and it comes with a built-in pre-amp so you can connect it to your stereo system.
- The turntable has a direct drive motor that is designed for superior performance.
- The turntable has a direct-drive motor for quick start-up and a smooth, consistent platter rotation.
- The platter is made of die-cast aluminum for stability and durability.
- The turntable has a built-in phono pre-amplifier and a wide range of audio systems.
- The turntable comes with a detachable RCA output cable for easy connection to your audio system.
REGA – Planar 1 Turntable
According to the theory, planar 1 should not sound as fantastic as it does out of the box. While the tonearm on the Rega Carbon cartridge, an AT-91 rebranded as the Rega Carbon, is superb, it shouldn’t be able to compete with the carbon-fiber tonearm on the Debut Carbon.. Nevertheless, many claim that the Rega Planar 1 sounds better without any improvements. Overall, it looks like the Planar 1’s superior build quality contributes to its amazing sound.
The REGA Planar 1 Turntable is high-quality, with great sound and performance. It is easy to set up and use and has a built-in phono preamp to connect to your stereo system. The Planar 1 also includes a dust cover to protect your records.
Features:
- The REGA Planar 1 Turntable provides excellent sound quality, making it a great audiophile choice.
- The turntable is easy to set up and use, so you can enjoy your music without hassle.
- The sleek design of the turntable makes it a great addition to any home entertainment system.
- The REGA Planar 1 Turntable is a high-quality turntable that can provide users with excellent sound quality.
- The turntable is easy to set up and use, and it comes with a built-in phono preamp, making it ideal for use with a wide range of stereo systems.
- The REGA Planar 1 Turntable is a great value for the price, and it comes with a dust cover and a cartridge, making it
Pioneer Pro DJ Black PLX-500-K Turntable
The Pioneer Pro DJ PLX-500-K is a great product for anyone looking to get into the world of DJing. It is a very user-friendly turntable with all the essential features you need to get started.
It has excellent construction quality and feels very sturdy and solid. I was delighted with this turntable’s overall performance and excellent sound quality.
This product is fantastic! I would strongly advise it to anyone looking for a new turntable. The Pioneer Pro DJ Black PLX-500-K boasts excellent features and is very user-friendly. The sound quality is excellent, and I adore the modern style.
Features:
- The Pioneer Pro DJ Black PLX-500-K is a professional-grade turntable designed for DJs.
- The turntable has a direct drive motor designed for high-torque and accurate playback.
- The turntable has a built-in phono pre-amplifier that allows you to connect it to a mixer or amplifier without needing an external phono pre-amplifier.
- The Pioneer Pro DJ Black PLX-500-K is a professional-grade DJ turntable built to last.
- The turntable has a sleek, black finish that will look great in any DJ setup.
- The Pioneer Pro DJ Black PLX-500-K has a detachable power and audio cable, so you can easily transport it to your gigs.
- The turntable has a built-in phono preamp.
Sony PSHX500 Hi-Res USB Turntable
Sony’s PSHX500 is a Hi-Res USB Turntable with great sound quality and convenience. This turntable is perfect for vinyl lovers who want to convert their records to digital files. The PSHX500 features a built-in phono preamp, allowing you to hook it up to your stereo system without needing an external preamp.
The turntable also includes a USB output, so you can easily connect it to your computer and transfer your vinyl collection to digital format. With its needle-drop protection and auto-return feature, the PSHX500 is a great choice for a high-quality, easy-to-use turntable. The PSHX500 is a fantastic option for anyone searching for a high-quality, user-friendly.
Features:
- The Sony PSHX500 Hi-Res USB Turntable is a great way to enjoy your vinyl collection.
- It has a built-in phono preamp to connect it to your stereo system without a separate preamp.
- The turntable has a USB output, so you can connect it to your computer and digitize your vinyl collection.
- The Sony USB Turntable features a built
- The Sony PSHX500 Hi-Res USB Turntable is a great way to play vinyl records and transfer them to your computer.
- The turntable has a built-in phono preamp to connect it directly to your stereo system.
- The turntable has a USB output, so you can easily transfer your vinyl records to your computer.
- The turntable has a sleek design and is easy to use.
Teac TN-300SE-MB Analog Turntable
The Teac TN-300SE-MB Analog Turntable is a high-quality turntable with superb sound quality. It has a built-in phono pre-amplifier, allowing it to be used with any amplifier or receiver. The TN-300SE-MB also features a USB output, allowing you to digitize your vinyl collection.
Audiophiles will be impressed with the TEAC TN-300 analog turntable’s great sound, good looks, and ability to playback music on a Mac or PC using USB output.
This TEAC TN-300 review should assist you in comprehending why it is the ideal option for excellent music if you are searching for the best sounds at some of the best prices.
More than anything, you don’t want anything that will fail after just a few brief uses. You want a true gadget that can carry a melody and doesn’t overly disturb the music or break up the sound too much.
Features:
- The Teac TN-300SE-MB Analog Turntable is a great way to enjoy your vinyl collection.
- The turntable has a built-in phono preamplifier, so you can connect it to your stereo system without buying a separate phono preamp.
- The TN-300SE-MB has a solid MDF base with isolation feet that help reduce vibration and feedback.
- The turntable comes with a detachable
- The TN-300SE-MB Analog Turntable is a great way to enjoy your vinyl collection.
- This turntable features a built-in phono preamp, making connecting to your stereo system easy.
- The TN-300SE-MB also features a USB output, allowing you to digitize your vinyl collection.
- This turntable has a dust cover, slip mat, and 45rpm adapter, everything you need to get started.
Music Hall MMF 2.2 Belt Driven Turntable
The Affordable Music Hall MMF-2.2 turntable is an audiophile with two speeds and a belt drive. The bearing, the motor, and the arm are the three most essential parts of the MMF-2.2’s structure, which has been streamlined. It has a cartridge attached and is fully functional.
This Music Hall MMF 2.2 Belt Driven Turntable is a high-quality turntable that offers superior sound quality. The belt drive design reduces noise and vibration, providing an exceptionally smooth and quiet operation. The solid MDF plinth provides a stable platform for the turntable, minimizing unwanted vibrations.
Features:
- The Music Hall MMF 2.2 Belt Driven Turntable is a great way to play vinyl records.
- It has a sleek design that will look great in any home.
- The turntable is easy to set up and use.
- It comes with a dust cover to keep your records clean.
- The Music Hall MMF 2.2 Belt Driven Turntable is an excellent value for the price.
- The Music Hall MMF 2.2 Belt Driven Turntable is a great way to enjoy your music.
- It is easy to set up and use.
- The turntable is belt driven, which means that it is very quiet.
- The sound quality is excellent.
- This turntable comes with a dust cover, which helps to keep your records clean.
- The Music Hall MMF 2.2 Belt Driven Turnt.
U-Turn Audio – Orbit Plus Turntable
U-Turn Audio is a fantastic example of American achievement. They have three founders who are passionate music fans. They searched for high-quality turntables in college but could not discover any that fit their needs or budget.
U-Turn Audio’s Orbit Plus Turntable is a high-quality, automatic turntable that makes record playback easier.
Features:
- The U-Turn Audio Orbit Plus Turntable is great for listening to your favorite vinyl records.
- It has a sleek, modern design that will look great in any home.
- It’s easy to set up and use, so you can start enjoying your music immediately.
- The Orbit Plus Turntable has a built-in preamp to connect it to your stereo or home theater system.
- The U-Turn Audio Orbit Plus Turntable is a great way to listen to your vinyl collection.
- It has a built-in preamp to hook it to your stereo or powered speakers.
- The Orbit Plus has a cueing lever, allowing you to cue up your records without touching the platter.
- The platter is made of acrylic, which helps to reduce vibration and improve sound quality.
Summary:
There are, without a doubt, some excellent turntables available for less than $500. That’s fantastic, but it makes selecting the best one for yourself more difficult.
I think U-Turn Audio – Orbit Plus Turntable delivers the best price for pure listening. It is the only turntable on our list with a carbon-fiber tonearm; generally, such an arm is only seen on much more expensive turntables. One of the better cartridges in this list is the Ortofon 2M Red.
FAQ’s
What is the best turntable for under $500?
- REGA – Planar 1
- Pioneer Pro DJ Black PLX-500-K
- Sony PSHX500 Hi-Res USB Turntable
- Teac TN-300SE-MB Analog Turntable
- Music Hall MMF 2.2 Belt Driven Turntable
- U-Turn Audio – Orbit Plus Turntable
What’s the difference between a cheap and expensive turntable?
The sound quality and record wear and tear are poor due to basic tonearms on inexpensive turntables doing this task rather poorly. More precision in the tonearm, mounting, and bearings of better turntables produce a higher quality sound.
What makes a good quality turntable?
The key to a good turntable is that it precisely reads the record grooves and reproduces the sound of the recorded music without introducing noise or distortion. Four key requirements must be met by a turntable in order to reproduce recorded music with excellent fidelity: Low-vibration motor and chassis.
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