In an age of mindfulness and focusing on the present moment, returning to the past is not always recommended. Except when it comes to music.
Vinyl music has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years as more people seek out an authentic way to connect with music. This has led to a booming market of record players, from state-of-the-art modern turntables to vintage-inspired models that hark back to a simpler time.
For audiophiles taking their first tentative steps into vinyl music, or seasoned fans looking to double down on authenticity, we dove into the world of records to find the best vintage turntables on the market right now. My favorite vintage turntable is the Electrohome Kingston 7-in-1 because of it’s authentic design. Check it out at Amazon.
The list below is not exhaustive, but it’s a good starting point to get an overview of the options available and the main features provided by different manufacturers.
Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-SV
In the world of audio equipment, Audio-Technica is a household name. After starting in Japan in 1962, it’s now a worldwide group of companies that has won several awards, as well as being selected to supply microphones and wireless systems for the Grammy Awards. In a nutshell, Audio-Technica is known as a brand that understands sound.
This particular turntable by Audio-Technica is an updated version of the AT-LP120-USB model that is no longer in production. So, what are the main features of the AT-LP120XUSB-SV, and what makes it a good option?
Check out the Audio-Technica at Amazon
First, it has a new direct-drive, DC servo motor with a three-speed (33, 45, and 78 RPM) fully manual operation and a USB output to convert vinyl records into digital audio files.
Second, it comes with adjustable dynamic anti-skate control and a selectable phono preamplifier to connect the turntable to a home stereo. Additionally, it has a detachable dual RCA output cable.
Other key features include:
- Variable pitch control with quartz speed lock
- Balanced S-shaped tonearm with hydraulically damped lift control and lockable rest
- AC adapter and 45 RPM adapter
- Professional-grade anti-resonance, die-cast aluminum platter with felt mat
- AT-HS6 universal ½”-mount headshell
- AT-VM95E dual magnet phono cartridge with 0.3 x 0.7 mil elliptical stylus
- Removable hinged dust cover
The AT-LP120XUSB-SV regularly receives five-star online reviews with most users praising the minimal style, affordability, and quality of the model. It’s also noted as a good option for people that are building a record collection, or for those returning to vinyl after embracing digital music.
Wockoder Wireless Portable Turntable
The Wockoder Wireless Portable Turntable is a blend of vintage aesthetics with digital technology. The result is a versatile turntable that not only looks the part but is also a practical option when searching for the best vintage turntable.
One of the benefits of this vinyl turntable is the built-in stereo speaker system, which makes it easy to use and transport without having to bring an external speaker. The wooden antique design is another highlight to introduce a retro vibe to any room and provide a little more authenticity when listening to vinyl records.
Check out the Wockoder Turntable at Amazon
Despite channeling the past with the design, Wockoder hasn’t forgotten the demands of the 21st Century as this portable turntable comes with wireless connectivity to play music from a phone or computer. The Wireless Portable Turntable is also on the market at an affordable price to provide an inexpensive stepping-stone for audiophiles just branching out on their vinyl journey.
Let’s see what else the Wockoder can do:
- 3-speed belt-drive turntable (33, 45 and 78 RPM)
- Plays three record sizes (7”, 10” and 12”)
- Straight-style tonearm
- Improved shock absorption through the spring-equipped base
- Vibration absorption rubber foot pads
- Bluetooth input
- RCA output
As you can see, there is more to this Wockoder model than an attractive design. It’s actually the best of both worlds – vintage style with modern features and the added bonus of being affordable.
SeeYing Turntable
This is another all-in-one turntable that has fused the old with the new to provide an affordable option for vinyl music fans. The SeeYing turntable has incorporated vintage design with wood paneling and built-in stereo speakers. But it has also been kitted out with modern features, such as Bluetooth, FM radio, and USB connectivity.
And that’s not all. The SeeYing Turntable has vinyl to MP3 encoding capabilities, which means that your favorite vinyl sounds can be stored digitally for future listening. Not bad for a compact turntable at a budget price.
Check out the SeeYing Turntable at Amazon
Another clever feature is the option to store 20 radio stations through the memory function so that when your favorite radio show ends, you can switch straight back to listening to vinyl records.
The features of the SeeYing Turntable are:
- Belt-driven system
- 3-speed phonograph (33, 45 and 78 RPM)
- Supports three record sizes (7”, 10” and 12”)
- Built-in speakers
- RCA output and AUX input
- Convert vinyl to MP3
- Wireless connectivity and FM radio
- Remote control operation
The SeeYing Turntable has been designed with the modern music listener in mind and caters for all tastes. It may not be top of the range or have the most retro appearance, but for shoppers looking for a model that offers more than just playing records, it’s a good option.
D&L Vintage Record Player
If an authentic vintage style is top of the list when it comes to purchasing a turntable, then D&L have just the model.
This wooden turntable fits the bill when it comes to decoration and will certainly add a retro vibe to any room. Aside from the aesthetics, it’s also a 7-in-1 multi-functional music system that can play vinyl records, CDs, cassette tapes, and radio, as well as having Bluetooth connectivity for streaming music up to 33 feet.
Check out the D&L Vintage Record Player at Amazon
What about the record playing features? They are listed below:
- 3-speed belt-drive turntable (33, 45 and 78 RPM)
- Plays three record sizes (7”, 10” and 12”)
- 2 built-in stereo speakers
- 3.5mm AUX input, RCA output, 3.5mm headphone jack
- Direct recording to USB
- 1 replacement stylus needle
The multi-functional system of the D&L Vintage Record Player is a good start for those that are new to vinyl music and don’t want to lose touch with digital technology. The all-in-one approach also makes it a useful portable option or a thoughtful gift for a music-loving friend.
Although it has received many good reviews online, the only consistent downside is that the speaker quality could be better. However, that is often the case with built-in speakers, and it can easily be fixed by connecting the turntable to an external speaker system.
Electrohome Kingston 7-in-1 Vintage Record Player
Out of all the turntables in this article, the Kingston by Electrohome is the most authentic-looking model with an acoustically designed wooden cabinet and a vintage-inspired finish.
Electrohome has been manufacturing audio products for more than 100 years and describes the Kingston as having “the charm of yesterday with the music technology of today”. It’s certainly an attractive turntable and, thankfully, has more to offer than just good looks.
Check out the Electrohome Kingston 7-in-1 at Amazon
As a 7-in-1 stereo system, the Kingston can play the vinyl albums in your growing collection, AM and FM radio, and CDs. It also has Bluetooth connectivity, AUX input, and a USB dock. Additionally, it has vinyl to MP3 recording and playback to ensure the Kingston is up to date with the modern world, even if it looks like it belongs to the past.
Other important features include:
- 3-speed belt-drive turntable (33, 45 and 78 RPM)
- Ceramic cartridge with sapphire tipped stylus
- 2x 2” speakers
- 2x 3.5” speakers
- Headphone jack, AUX input, and RCA output
- Remote control operation
The Kingston by Electrohome consistently receives top reviews from users, with many commenting on the quality of the craftsmanship. For a vintage record player that looks the part and performs well, this turntable ticks all the right boxes.
Choosing a vintage turntable
From multi-functional systems to retro-inspired designs, and everything in between, there has never been a better time to invest in a turntable and embrace vinyl music.
Shopping for a turntable is just the start of the vinyl adventure, but with so many similar options available online it can be hard to make a decision.
Hopefully, the above overview has provided a useful starting point to help you find a model that suits your style and needs. Then all you have to do is sit back and relax while listening to music on your vintage turntable.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. Is it worth buying vintage turntables?
A. It can depend on many things. Preference and budget. Going vintage can allow you to get a quality turntable at a low cost. In the age of rising cost, inflation, it can be almost impossible to buy a new turntable so sometimes vintage is the only way.
Also, vintage turntables are considered by some to be superior in build and quality so they do produce a better sound.