These days, turntables are pretty advanced. There are many moving components, and each one must be calibrated correctly to achieve optimal performance.
When choosing a high-end turntable, there are a few things to consider. You’ll want to evaluate cost, connectivity, quality and more to ensure you pick the right product for your needs.
Regardless of your specifications, if you enjoy music and want the mellow vibe of vinyl, it is easy to find a model that matches your home audio system.
Whether you like the traditional vintage aesthetic of vinyl players or something more clean and trendy, we’ve found the best high-end turntables on the market.
Top High-End Turntables
No matter what your listening preferences are, the best high-end turntables can keep you grooving with epic audio quality. Keep reading to see precisely which high-end turntable suits your needs.
1. Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO, Audiophile Turntable
Consider this new Pro-Ject model if you’re looking to upgrade from an entry-level turntable.
The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO is pretty handy as it allows for tweaking while remaining uncomplicated. Derived on Pro-Ject’s entry-level deck, the Carbon EVO still comes with significant upgrades.
You’ll find rocker switches on this model to help calibrate the rotation speed. There’s also a new 1.7kg steel platter with an inner thermoplastic elastomer dampening ring for noise reduction.
EVO’s simplicity mirrors its predecessor. It has no frills or loud high whistling plus an ultra-precision chip in the belt-driven deck’s motor.
The tonearm, however, does not automatically return after a side is completed. For an optimal experience, make sure to position the Evo on a flat surface.
Additionally, this model is easy to level thanks to its adjustable feet.
Key Features
Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) dampingWired connectivityElectronic speed changeIntegrated headshell and tonearm
Pros
Sturdy constructionNo manual speed changeAvailable in multiple colorsRobust motor suspension
Cons
Not the best tonearm rest
2. Rega RP6 Turntable with RB303 Tonearm
Rega RP6 Turntable with RB303 Tonearm
GLOSS BLACK – INCLUDES MANUAL, TTPSU POWER SUPPLY, DUST COVER – DOES NOT INCLUDE CARTRIDGEThe RP6 has been designed and engineered to achieve outstanding performance way beyond the expectations…
The RP6 has a high-gloss MDF base, the same Rega dust cover and a glass platter. Rega’s affordable turntables dominate the market, but its high-end turntables are featured in many high-end hi-fi systems.
With this model, structural resonances are moved to higher frequency ranges, offering reduced damping and minimal engine vibration without mechanical assistance.
Rega is all about elegance. Moreover, Rega refines its core concept as it moves up the range. Or, depending on your perspective, it gives a more cost-effective version of its top-of-the-line decks.
The turntable’s housing is lighter, while two metal stiffeners attach it to the RP5. Better yet, the platter is a two-layer glass with an aluminum base.
A glass rim enhances the peripheral moment and dampens the base platter.
The Rega turntables come with a Rega tonearm. It has an incredibly smooth damping technology that softly descends the needle to groove.
Key Features
Hand-assembled tonearmDesigned by 3D CAD technologyRCA portsPre-installed cartridge33.3 & 45 RPM speeds
Pros
Low learning curveSuperb sound claritySolid engineering
3. Audio-Technica AT-LP3BK Fully Automatic Stereo Turntable
In terms of both convenience of use and sound quality, the Audio Technica AT-LP3 turntable is a bargain. Its symmetrical straight tone arm comes with a 1/2″ mount universal headshell and an AT91R Dual Moving Magnet phono cartridge.
Audio Technica AT-LP3 includes a damped base structure to decrease low-frequency feedback coloring and unintentional needle skipping.
Compared to the AT-LP60, this belt-driven turntable is a great upgrade. That said, it’s a bit more pricey.
The stylus can be lifted and lowered accurately at any position on a record. Also, the AT91R MM cartridge has an aluminum cantilever and is placed on a standard HS3 headshell.
For those on a budget, the built-in phono amplifier is handy. It accepts MM and MC cartridges, which is unusual among turntables featuring integrated phono preamplifiers.
The AT-LP3 is automated and includes extra switches, including play, pause, change rotation speeds and record size.
Overall, since it’s readily customizable, different phono circuits and cartridges make it the perfect entry-level model.
Key Features
Balanced tonearmDamped construction 45 RPM adapterAutomatic belt-drive
Pros
Impressive sound qualityAutomatic tonearmBuilt-in phono stageRemarkable pricing
4. 1 BY ONE Wireless Turntable HiFi System
Sale
1 BY ONE Wireless Turntable HiFi System
Solid iron platter, precision-manufactured iron platter produces uniform inertial mass for perfect…Adjustable counterweight force, essential for any serious classic Turntable, Tonearm counterweight…
The 1 BY ONE Wireless Turntable HiFi System with 36 Watt Bookshelf Speakers looks retro and elegant. It comes with wireless connectivity features.
This edition has an iron platter for precise rotation and rigidity.
To listen to vinyl records over the stereo system without phono input or manually via the phono preamplifier, you may switch the Phono/Line output. Its exterior has logical buttons that make it easy to use.
This turntable’s USB connection allows you to digitize vinyl audio and play it on your computer, smartphone or tablet. The digital USB output allows you to digitize and preserve your analog record collection.
Also worth mentioning is its easy-to-use adjustable counterbalance and anti-skating power. These tools work together to avoid scratches on vinyl by keeping peaks clear, balancing channels and eliminating noise and distortion.
The turntable plays 33 and 45 RPM records and includes an Audio-Technica cartridge for superb sound. This 1 BY ONE turntable is a fantastic option for music lovers.
Additionally, the bundled software allows you to backup your vinyl collection to MP3 so you can store it digitally.
Key Features
Built-in preampBluetooth connectivityTwo-speed record modesAudio-Technica cartridge
Pros
Value for moneySleek designEasy to install and operateBuilt-in switchable phono line
5. Audio-Technica Direct-Drive Turntable
If you want to listen to vinyl in excellent quality, look no further. The solid engineering, practical features and great quality make this device one of our top picks for buyers looking for a low-maintenance record player with a USB output.
The new cartridge is easy to install, and the built-in phono stage now accepts both rotating magnet and coil cartridges.
Under the mid-range bracket, it’s one of the rare models with a calibrated S-shaped tonearm, hydraulic lift control and locking rest. It also includes a variable anti-skate system.
The Audio-Technica Direct-Drive Turntable comes in black or silver and features a sophisticated matte finish on most of its components, such as the variable speed control start/stop button and quartz lock.
It’s important to note that this product is a direct drive turntable. Since the motor is immediately under the spindle, it’s faster to start and more efficient than the belt-driven rivals.
This turntable has an integrated phono preamp so that you can connect it to an external audio system. A detachable dust cover keeps the Audio-Technica turntable clean.
In a nutshell, you should get this turntable since it includes a manual record player, direct-drive and USB connectivity.
Key Features
Built-in preampDirect drive functionalityPitch controlUSB connectivity
Pros
Well defined audio clarityIts build design dampens distortionsEasy to set up
Cons
Made of plasticLacks bass control
6. ANGELS HORN High Fidelity Vinyl Bluetooth Turntable
ANGELS HORN High Fidelity Vinyl Bluetooth Turntable
【Stable Aluminum Platter】Our turntable features a belt drive mechanism with an aluminum die-cast…【Wireless Connectivity】Built-in Bluetooth 5.0, you can enjoy your vinyl collection with all the…
ANGELS HORN is a well-known name in the turntable market. Specifically, this Bluetooth model has a switchable phono stage and wireless connection.
This high-end turntable has a belt drive system and an aluminum die-cast platter to lessen vibration for better clarity and sound.
Its high-quality rotating magnet-type cartridge and stylus can generate rich, pleasant audio with remarkable sound accuracy.
You need to place the record on the platter and click start. It delivers excellent sound when paired with a high-end stereo.
The platter spins smoothly and steadily for better clarity. Its infrastructure is made of plastic and is relatively light.
This Bluetooth table has a switchable phono stage and wireless connection. You can use its Bluetooth 5.0 feature to stream music to your wireless speakers, soundbar or headphones.
Key Features
Solid aluminum platterBuilt-in Bluetooth 5.0 connectivitySupports vinyl recordsAdjustable counterweight & cartridge
7. Denon Fully Automatic Analog Turntable with Built-in Phono Equalizer
The Denon DP-300F is an excellent alternative for those looking to explore vinyl on a budget. Its more robust base structure helps reduce vibrations, delivering noise-free, rich and clear audio.
This turntable has a DC motor with 33.3 and 45 rotation speeds. You also get a built-in preamp, a swappable cartridge, great price, robust construction, sleek design and more.
Since this is an automatic model, you don’t have to bother with positioning the stylus and tonearm on your record since the turntable does it for you.
Its die-cast aluminum structure with gloss coating offers a solid frame and slight vibration.
This product has handy play/stop buttons that control the motor and tonearm. It features a heavier base for less vibration and better performance.
Additionally, its redesigned tonearm includes a detachable headshell for easy cartridge swapping.
Key Features
Two-speed turntableBelt-driven DC motorFully automatic
Pros
Ideal for startersIncludes a built-in phono preampDamped against motor vibrations
Cons
Lacks a USB connectivityMid-range sound quality
8. Crosley Belt-Drive 2-Speed Vinyl Bluetooth Turntable
The Crosley C62 is a fascinating high-end turntable. It’s a terrific place to begin for music lovers or casual listeners.
This model is worth the price as it comes with speakers, has a decent design and can be upgraded in the future.
Both the turntable and speakers are varnished in walnut, lending them a beautiful vintage look that’s somewhat subtle. This manual two-speed (33 1/3 & 45 RPM) turntable has an MDF plinth covered in a simulated walnut veneer.
Due to its simple two-knob design, it’s easy to change speeds, volume and even stream music from any personal collection. The matte black aluminum tonearm offers a changeable counterweight to adjust tracking force for extra balance.
The turntable also comes with a pre-mounted AT-3600 Moving-Magnet cartridge. You can always upgrade your cartridge and stylus as your record collection expands.
Inputs and outputs are switched on and off for ease of use. The Crosley C62 also has a built-in amplifier for the speaker and a Bluetooth module for streaming music from a smartphone.
Key Features
Built-in preampAdjustable counterweightAluminum tonearmBuilt-in Bluetooth
Pros
Comes with speakersIncredible sound qualityTop-quality design
9. Sony PS-LX310BT Belt Drive Turntable
Sony PS-LX310BT Belt Drive Turntable
EASY OPERATION: Effortlessly enjoy your favorite records with one-step auto start, stop and returnTWO SPEEDS: 33 1/3 rpm and 45 rpm, with the 45 rpm adaptor stowed neatly in a slot beneath the deck
Sony was generous enough to bundle up a plug-and-play fully automatic deck with a phono stage and Bluetooth at a low price. This model is ideal for those who dislike balancing and changing weights before using their turntable.
The PS-LX310BT is surprisingly light, considering the features buried under the black plastic casing. One-step auto playback lowers the tonearm, finds the groove and starts the music.
After the record is over, the tonearm returns to its resting position. There’s nothing to set up except the belt to drive the platter. Furthermore, there’s no need to align cartridges, set tracking force or anti-skate.
The headshell is permanently affixed to the tonearm, so there’s no option to install or modify a cartridge. Typically, all the mechanical parts on this model are bound to increase distortions and noise.
Its automatic mode is great for leisurely use, and the Sony turntable achieves it better than its counterparts.
There are many methods to connect your speakers. The line out connects straight to your speakers through the turntable’s built-in phono preamp.
You can also use the phono out to connect your preamp. It works with any AUX audio device, including portable speakers and bookshelf stereos.
Keep in mind that since RCA cables are hardwired, you’ll need a dual RCA to 3.5mm converter to connect to an AUX input.
Key Features
Bluetooth connectivityPlug & PlayPre-installed cartridgeBelt-drive mode
Pros
Simple, elegant designIncredible audio qualityRecords audio via USB
Cons
Most parts made of plastic
10. Fluance RT85 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable
Fluance RT85 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable
PURE ANALOG LISTENING EXPERIENCE – Premium components allow this high fidelity belt driven turntable to…HIGH PERFORMANCE CARTRIDGE – The Audio Technica AT95E featuring a diamond elliptical tipped stylus is…
The Fluance RT81 has a classic, simple appearance. Fluance’s portfolio includes notable models like the RT84 and RT85, which are both twice as expensive as the RT81.
Although this model sits on the “basic” status, Fluance truly puts lots of focus on the RT81’s sound.
The plinth has two analog terminals with dual grounding pins. One is for phono-level output, while the other is reserved for line-level output, with a button for auto-stop.
This is a stylish turntable featured in Piano Black, White Gloss or Natural Walnut coloring. It comes with an aluminum S-shaped tonearm buttressed with steel bearings.
The Audio Technica AT95E moving magnet stylus sits in the grooves of your classic vinyl record with a tracking force of just 2.0 grams.
This turntable’s tonearm has a smooth bearing movement and innovative anti-skating technology that literally caress your record, eliminating scratching and ensuring the stylus properly seats deep in the groove for flawless playback.
Its bundled Audio Technica AT95E isn’t for audiophiles, but it’s an excellent starter cartridge with a replacement needle. Overall, the Fluance RT81 is a great record player for vinyl beginners.
Key Features
Six-foot RCA cableMDF buildAluminum platterBuilt-in phono preamp
Pros
Superb entry-level turntableEasy to configureExcellent bargain
Summary
The audiophile turntables we recommend are the products of careful design and construction. In some models, Bluetooth connectivity or USB ports aren’t available since they aren’t needed to play vinyl.
High-end turntables aren’t cheap, and their buyers will more likely have high-end audio systems to sync them with. Take your time to consider the options and see which works best for you.