Entry-Level Turntables: What to Check Before You Buy

Start with the basics: speeds and record compatibility

Most modern records spin at 33 1/3 or 45 rpm, but 78 rpm records also exist. Many entry-level turntables offer only two speeds, which is fine if you only play LPs and 45s. If you own or plan to collect older 78s, look for a three-speed model. The Library of Congress recommends handling grooved discs by the edge and label areas, so a turntable with a platter that lets you drop the record on easily and a spindle that fits all your records is worth checking.

Before you settle on a model, confirm which speeds it supports. If you only have LPs and 45s, a two-speed turntable is enough. For 78s, you will need a turntable with a dedicated 78 setting. See our guide to turntable speeds and playing 78 rpm records for more detail.

Tonearm and cartridge: Protect your records

The tonearm and cartridge are the heart of a turntable. A counterweight on the tonearm allows you to set the tracking force, which is the downward pressure the stylus applies to the record groove. Incorrect tracking force can cause skipping or premature wear. Many entry-level turntables skip the counterweight in favor of a spring that is set at the factory. That design may be simpler, but it does not let you adjust for different cartridge weights or set the exact force recommended by the stylus maker.

Look for a turntable with a replaceable cartridge and stylus. That way you can upgrade later or replace a worn stylus instead of buying a whole new turntable. If you are new to setup, a turntable with a pre-mounted cartridge and a manual tonearm is easy to learn on. Read about tracking force and how to set the counterweight before you buy, so you know what to expect.

Drive system: Belt drive vs. direct drive

The drive system determines how the platter rotates. Belt-drive turntables use a rubber belt to connect the motor to the platter. The belt isolates the motor's vibrations from the record, which can reduce audible rumble. Direct-drive turntables have the motor directly under the platter, which gives faster start-up and is popular with DJs. For entry-level home listening, belt drive is usually the quieter and more forgiving choice.

Belt-drive turntables are also simpler when the belt needs replacing, and many entry-level models use belt drive. Direct-drive turntables tend to cost more and are not necessary unless you plan to scratch or beat-match. Compare the two in our article on belt drive vs. direct drive and see our picks in the best belt drive turntables guide.

Built-in speakers, phono preamp, and connectivity

One of the biggest decisions is whether you want a turntable with built-in speakers or one that connects to separate speakers. Built-in speakers are convenient, but they are usually small and may not deliver the best sound. If you plan to use your existing stereo or powered speakers, you need a turntable with a phono preamp built in or a receiver with a phono input. Some turntables have a switchable phono preamp, so you can use either a phono input or a line input on your amp.

Bluetooth is another option. Bluetooth Classic is the radio protocol used for wireless audio streaming, according to the Bluetooth Special Interest Group. A turntable with Bluetooth output can pair with wireless speakers or headphones, but the analog signal is converted to digital before transmission. That conversion is not necessarily a problem, but some listeners prefer a wired connection. Check out our guides to built-in speaker turntables and Bluetooth turntables to decide what fits your setup.

USB output and digitizing

If you want to digitize your vinyl, a turntable with a USB output lets you record directly to a computer. Many entry-level models include a built-in analog-to-digital converter and come with ripping software. That is a convenient way to preserve your records without a separate audio interface. USB output is separate from Bluetooth or built-in speakers; you can find turntables that combine both.

Before you choose a turntable with USB, check whether the software and drivers are compatible with your operating system. Some models only support Windows, while others also work on macOS. For more details, see our best USB turntables guide and the USB turntable digitizing article.

Record care and maintenance

Even the best entry-level turntable will sound poor if your records are dirty or warped. The Library of Congress recommends storing records upright, away from heat and humidity, and cleaning them with a soft brush or a canned-air cleaner. A turntable with a dust cover helps keep the platter and stylus free of dust, but you still need to handle records carefully.

A good entry-level turntable should not have a heavy tracking force that digs into the grooves. After you set the counterweight, check the anti-skate if your model has it. Learn how to clean your vinyl and maintain your turntable with our vinyl cleaning guide and maintenance checklist.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Do I need a phono preamp?

Most turntable cartridges produce a very low-level signal that needs RIAA equalization before it can be played through a regular amplifier. If your amplifier or receiver has a phono input, you do not need a separate preamp. Otherwise, your turntable must have a built-in phono preamp, or you will need an external one.

Are built-in speakers any good?

Built-in speakers are acceptable for casual listening and are convenient if you want a single-box solution. However, they are usually small and cannot deliver deep bass or wide soundstage. If sound quality is important to you, consider a turntable without built-in speakers and pair it with powered speakers or a stereo system.

Is a belt drive better than direct drive for a beginner?

Belt drive is generally recommended for home listening because the belt isolates motor vibrations, reducing potential rumble. Direct drive is more common among DJs because it offers faster start-up and constant speed. For a beginner, belt drive is often quieter and more affordable.

Can I play 78 rpm records with an entry-level turntable?

Only if the turntable has a 78 rpm speed setting. Many entry-level models only offer 33 and 45 rpm. Furthermore, 78s are made of shellac and require a larger stylus than modern vinyl. Some turntables include a 78 stylus or accept a separate one, but not all do. Check the specifications before you buy.

Does Bluetooth degrade audio quality?

Bluetooth Classic, the standard used for wireless audio, converts the analog signal to a digital format and compresses it, which can affect audio fidelity. However, for many listeners the convenience outweighs the slight loss in quality. If critical listening is your goal, a wired connection is preferable.