10 Best Record Players For Beginners 2025 in the United States

The 1 by ONE High Fidelity Belt Drive Turntable is an excellent option for beginners looking to dive into the world of vinyl. One standout feature is its built-in speakers, which make it easy to set up and enjoy music right out of the box without the need for external equipment. The turntable supports both 33 and 45 RPM speed settings, catering to a wide range of vinyl records. It also includes Bluetooth functionality, allowing you to stream music from smartphones and other devices, which adds to its versatility. The magnetic cartridge and adjustable counterweight work together to enhance sound quality, delivering a rich audio experience that minimizes distortion, making it great for those who want to enjoy their records fully.

While the built-in speakers are convenient, they might not provide the same quality as a separate sound system, which could be a drawback for serious audiophiles. The turntable's all-in-one design may limit its upgrade potential, meaning as your vinyl collection grows, you might find yourself wanting to invest in higher-quality components. The power button operation could be a little confusing for some users, as it requires a long press to turn on and then another press to start playing, which could lead to some initial frustration.

The 1 by ONE turntable is user-friendly and stylish, making it a great entry point for new vinyl enthusiasts. If you’re looking for high-end audio fidelity or plan to expand your setup significantly, it might be worth considering additional components or more advanced models as your needs evolve.

The Sony PS-LX310BT is a great option for beginners looking to dive into vinyl. Its fully automatic operation makes it incredibly easy to use—just press a button for it to start playing records and automatically return the arm when done, which is perfect for those who might feel intimidated by manual setups. The turntable supports two speeds, 33 1/3 and 45 rpm, accommodating a wide range of vinyl formats. Its Bluetooth capability allows users to connect wirelessly to speakers or headphones, making it a convenient choice for modern listening needs.

One standout feature is the built-in preamp, which allows for flexible connections to various audio systems, whether wired or wireless. Additionally, the USB output lets you convert your vinyl records into digital MP3 files, providing an easy way to enjoy your music on the go.

The stable aluminum die-cast platter minimizes vibrations, which enhances sound clarity. The newly designed aluminum straight tonearm improves tracking, contributing to a richer audio experience. On the downside, the PS-LX310BT is predominantly constructed from plastic, which could raise concerns about long-term durability compared to more premium materials. While it offers excellent sound for beginners, audiophiles might find it lacking in some advanced features and sound fidelity. Furthermore, while Bluetooth is a handy feature, it may not provide the same sound quality as a wired connection.

The Vintage Vinyl Record Player, model M49 by cotsoco, is designed with beginners in mind. It features a belt-driven turntable with three-speed settings (33, 45, and 78 RPM), allowing users to play records of different sizes. The built-in Bluetooth receiver and two stereo speakers enable easy wireless music streaming from smartphones, while the AUX input and RCA line-out provide additional connectivity options for external speakers or headphones.

The device also includes a removable cover to protect the vinyl and turntable from dust, adding to its retro aesthetic appeal. Weighing 4.76 pounds and made from wood, it offers a portable yet sturdy construction that doubles as a stylish home decor piece. A notable strength is its simplicity in setup and operation, which is great for vinyl enthusiasts who are just starting out.

However, audiophiles might find the built-in speakers lack the depth and quality of sound that more advanced systems offer. Additionally, while the built-in preamp and Bluetooth capabilities are convenient, the absence of automatic operation means manual handling is required, which could be a slight inconvenience for some users. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Vintage Vinyl Record Player's combination of vintage charm and modern functionality makes it an appealing choice for those new to the world of vinyl records.