The Turntable Renaissance

The Numbers Don’t Lie If you’re wondering just how big the turntable trend has become, consider this: global turntable sales are expected to reach $1.6 billion by 2026. Additionally, the vinyl records market is growing even faster, with over 43 million records sold in the U.S. alone in 2023 (Recording Industry Association of America). Clearly, it’s not just a passing fad—people are serious about their analog audio.

The turntable trend is still on a roll with no slowdown in sight. That’s right, people are dusting off their vinyl records and shelling out big bucks to relive the glory days of analog sound. But why are they doing it? Generally, turntable enthusiasts fall into two main camps: those who want to look cool and those who actually care about sound quality. So, how do you choose the best turntable for you? Let’s break it down.

The Two Camps

1. Aesthetics-first Crowd: These folks just want a turntable that looks pretty on their bookshelf. They don’t care much about sound quality; they want something that’ll make their Instagram followers jealous. We get it—vinyl nostalgia is strong. But let’s not pretend like they’re actually listening to anything. For this crowd, it’s simple: buy whatever looks best. They’re the same folks who’ll plug an analog signal into a digital streaming speaker, defeating the purpose of going analog in the first place. Also, often you’ll see them placing their speakers right next to the turntable on the same table. 🤯 Nothing triggers me more than this rookie/aesthetic-crowd mistake! Turntables are incredibly sensitive to vibrations, and this setup will butcher your sound. Do your records a favor and give your turntable the isolated space it deserves!

2. The Analog Enthusiasts: These enthusiasts appreciate the enhanced sound qualities of pure analog recording. They want their music to sound as good as it did back in the day. Nothing beats the warmth and richness of analog sound. But let’s also acknowledge that these folks are a bit fanatical, spending thousands on turntables and high-end components. To each their own!

A quick, but important, note on achieving  Vinyl “Umami”

For those intrigued by vinyl and considering a turntable, there are a couple of quick things to consider, especially if you’re interested in the true vinyl sound. Not all vinyl is equal, and you’ll quickly see that not every album delivers that audiophile “umami” if it’s poorly recorded or produced. Some records will take you to a special place far above any digital option, while others might sound worse than low-quality, compressed streaming. Modern vinyl can be hit or miss, with some companies cutting corners in production. Older vinyl in good condition is typically a safe bet, but there’s no guarantee!

Initial Considerations

When buying your first turntable, it’s important to balance your budget across your entire audio setup. As a general rule, don’t spend more on your turntable than you did on your speakers or amp. Speakers and amplification play a bigger role in overall sound quality. A well-matched system will give you better performance than splurging on a high-end turntable while skimping on other components.

Another key decision is whether to choose a turntable with a built-in phono stage (preamp) or go for a separate one. Built-in preamps are convenient for beginners and simplify the setup process. However, a separate phono stage offers better sound quality and flexibility. For the stylus type, most beginners will benefit from a Moving Magnet (MM) cartridge. Moving Coil (MC) cartridges provide superior sound fidelity but are more expensive and require specific system matching.

To get the best bang for your buck, focus on a balanced system. Start with a turntable in the $300–$500 range paired with quality speakers and an amp. Down the road, simple upgrades like a new cartridge or improved isolation can elevate your listening experience without a significant investment.

Pro-Ject RPM 1  (above) appeals to the aesthetic and sound crowds alike.

Choosing the Best Turntable for You

If you’re thinking about jumping on the turntable bandwagon, here are some options to consider based on your vibe and budget. Think of this as a point in the right direction:

Turntables for Tightwads (Under $200)

• Audio-Technica AT-LP60: Affordable and reliable, perfect for beginners. See it on Amazon
• Victrola Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Suitcase Turntable: Stylish, portable, and packed with Bluetooth functionality See it on Amazon Victrola Vintage

Turntables for Newbies (Under $500)

• Pro-Ject T1: A solid entry-level audiophile turntable with exceptional sound quality See it on Amazon
• U-Turn Audio Orbit Plus: Minimalist design with a great price-to-performance ratio See it on Amazon

Pro-ject T1 (above)

Turntables for Wannabe Ballers (Under $2000)

• Rega Planar 3: Highly regarded for its sleek design and stellar sound reproduction.
• Technics SL-1200MK7: A legendary model for DJs and audiophiles, known for impeccable build quality and performance.
• Anything from Pro-Ject, Rega or VPI (made in USA)  (I use a discontinued VPI Scout)

Pro Tips for Getting Started

• Understand your setup needs: Do you need built-in speakers or a preamp, or are you planning to hook it up to an external sound system?
• Factor in the extras: High-quality vinyl records can cost $20–$40 each, and you may need to budget for cleaning supplies and better cartridges.
• Know your priorities: If you’re all about the visuals, go for style. If sound quality is your goal, invest in a proper audiophile turntable.

The Final Groove

Now that you know how to choose the best turntable for you, go forth and rock the vinyl. Whether you’re spinning Fleetwood Mac or the latest indie release, there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy the turntable experience. Just don’t blame us if you end up with a turntable that sounds off-key—at least it’ll look cool on your shelf.

Note: This article includes affiliate links which help me generate revenue; however, I encourage you to support your local HiFi dealer whenever possible. These businesses are invaluable for professional assistance and setup help.