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10 Best Turntables 2025 in the UK

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Audio-Technica LP60XBTW Full Automatic Wireless Belt-Drive Turntable White

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,170
Built-in Preamp
Built-in Preamp
Fully automatic arm controls and a built-in preamp make this turntable very easy to use.

The Audio-Technica LP60XBT is a versatile turntable offering both wired and wireless connectivity, making it a good fit for those looking to enjoy vinyl records with modern convenience. Its fully automatic belt-drive system is simple to use, appealing to beginners or those who prefer minimal set-up effort. The built-in preamp allows easy connection to speakers without needing additional equipment, which is a plus for users who want simplicity.

This model supports two speed settings—33 1/3 and 45 RPM—catering to a wide range of vinyl collectors. The integral dual moving magnet phono cartridge comes with a replaceable diamond stylus, providing decent sound quality that should satisfy most casual listeners.

The turntable's lightweight design, at just 2.6 kilograms, could lead to vibrations if not placed on a stable surface, affecting sound performance. For users keen on aesthetics and space-saving, the white color and compact dimensions are a benefit, fitting nicely into most home setups. The Bluetooth feature is a standout, offering seamless connection to modern headphones or speakers.

The LP60XBT is ideal for those seeking a straightforward and affordable entry into the world of vinyl, especially if wireless capability is a priority. More experienced audiophiles, however, might want to explore higher-end models for superior sound quality and build materials.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,170
Built-in Preamp
Built-in Preamp
Fully automatic arm controls and a built-in preamp make this turntable very easy to use.
#2

Audio-Technica LP120XUSBBK Manual Direct-Drive Turntable (Analogue & USB) Black

Rating
9.8
Built-in Preamp
Tonearm Type
Built-in Preamp
The built-in preamp is a significant advantage, eliminating the need for additional equipment.
Tonearm Type
The manual tonearm operation is easy, though some may find it a hassle at the end of playback.

The Audio-Technica LP120XUSBBK is a versatile and reliable turntable that is well-suited for both vinyl enthusiasts and those looking to digitize their records. Its direct-drive mechanism, which uses a DC servo motor, ensures stable and consistent playback, eliminating issues often associated with belt-drive systems. The die-cast aluminum platter with a felt mat is professional grade, offering excellent anti-resonance properties for clearer sound quality. Additionally, the turntable supports multiple speed settings (33, 45, and 78 RPM), making it compatible with a wide range of vinyl records, including older 78 RPM records. This feature is supported by adjustable dynamic anti-skate control, which helps to maintain consistent sound quality and reduces wear on the records and stylus.

The built-in preamp is a notable convenience, allowing for easy connection to various audio systems without requiring an external preamp. The USB connectivity is another significant advantage for those who want to convert their vinyl records to digital files, providing a straightforward way to preserve music collections. However, weighing in at 8 kilograms, the turntable is relatively heavy, which could be a downside for users who need to move it frequently or have limited space. Additionally, while the manual operation gives users more control, it may not appeal to those who prefer automated systems.

The tonearm is designed for precision and durability, further enhancing the audio experience. In summary, the Audio-Technica LP120XUSBBK excels in delivering high-quality sound and versatility, making it an excellent choice for both casual listeners and serious audiophiles, though its weight and manual operation may not suit everyone.

Rating
9.8
Built-in Preamp
Tonearm Type
Built-in Preamp
The built-in preamp is a significant advantage, eliminating the need for additional equipment.
Tonearm Type
The manual tonearm operation is easy, though some may find it a hassle at the end of playback.
#3

Audio-Technica LP60XBTBK Fully Automatic Wireless Belt-Drive Turntable Black

Rating
9.7
Built-in Preamp
Built-in Preamp
Built-in preamp is a game-changer, eliminating the need for external equipment and enhancing convenience.

The Audio-Technica LP60XBTBK is a fully automatic turntable designed for convenience and versatility. It features a belt-drive mechanism, which tends to produce less motor noise compared to direct-drive systems, making it suitable for home listening. The integral Dual Moving Magnet phono cartridge with a replaceable diamond stylus ensures good sound quality and ease of maintenance.

The plastic platter is less durable and may not provide the same stability as metal or acrylic platters, which could impact sound quality slightly. It operates at two speeds (33 1/3 and 45 RPM), accommodating both standard LPs and singles. One of its standout features is the built-in switchable phono preamp, allowing direct connection to speakers without needing an external preamp. The Bluetooth connectivity option is great for users who prefer wireless setups, making it compatible with modern Bluetooth speakers and headphones.

The tonearm is automatic, which means less manual intervention but may not offer the same level of precision or control as manual tonearms. The dust cover helps protect the turntable and records from environmental factors. Weighing 2.6 kg and made primarily of plastic, it's lightweight and easy to move, although the material choice might not offer the best longevity. Ideal for casual listeners who value ease of use and wireless functionality, but those seeking top-tier audiophile performance might find the plastic build and automatic tonearm limiting.

Rating
9.7
Built-in Preamp
Built-in Preamp
Built-in preamp is a game-changer, eliminating the need for external equipment and enhancing convenience.

Buying Guide for the Best Turntables

Choosing the right turntable can greatly enhance your vinyl listening experience. It's important to consider various specifications that affect sound quality, ease of use, and compatibility with your existing audio setup. Understanding these key features will help you select a turntable that meets your needs and preferences, ensuring you enjoy your music 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 can reduce motor noise and vibration, making them ideal for audiophiles seeking high sound quality. Direct drive turntables have the motor directly attached to the platter, offering quicker start-up times and more consistent speed, which is preferred by DJs for scratching and mixing. If you're focused on sound quality for home listening, a belt drive might be best. If you're interested in DJing or need quick response times, consider a direct drive.
Cartridge TypeThe cartridge is the component that holds the stylus (needle) and converts the grooves on a 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 suitable for most users. MC cartridges can offer superior sound quality but are typically more expensive and require a compatible phono preamp. If you're new to vinyl or have a standard audio setup, an MM cartridge is a practical choice. If you're an audiophile seeking the best sound and have the necessary equipment, consider an MC cartridge.
Platter MaterialThe platter is the rotating surface on which the record sits. Common materials include plastic, aluminum, and acrylic. Plastic platters are lightweight and affordable but may not provide the best sound quality. Aluminum platters are more durable and offer better sound isolation, reducing vibrations. Acrylic platters are often found on higher-end models and can further enhance sound quality by reducing resonance. If you're looking for a basic setup, a plastic or aluminum platter will suffice. For improved sound quality, especially if you have a high-quality audio system, consider a turntable with an acrylic platter.
Speed SettingsTurntables typically offer speed settings of 33 1/3 RPM and 45 RPM, which correspond to the most common types of vinyl records. Some models 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 primarily listen to modern LPs and singles, a turntable with 33 1/3 and 45 RPM settings will be sufficient. If you have a collection of older 78 RPM records, ensure the turntable can accommodate this speed.
Built-in PreampA preamp boosts the audio signal from the turntable to a level that can be processed by speakers or an amplifier. Some turntables come with a built-in preamp, which simplifies setup and is convenient for connecting directly to powered speakers or a standard audio system. If your audio setup already includes a phono preamp or if you plan to upgrade to a high-quality external preamp, you might not need a built-in option. For ease of use and flexibility, especially if you're new to vinyl, a turntable with a built-in preamp is a good choice.
Tonearm TypeThe tonearm holds the cartridge and stylus and guides them across the record. There are straight and S-shaped tonearms, each affecting tracking and sound quality. Straight tonearms are often lighter and can provide better tracking, which is beneficial for sound quality. S-shaped tonearms are more common in DJ turntables and can offer better stability for scratching. If you're focused on home listening and sound quality, a straight tonearm might be preferable. If you're interested in DJing, an S-shaped tonearm could be more suitable.