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9 Best record players for beginners with headphone jack 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Vinyl Record Player 3-Speed Bluetooth Suitcase Portable Belt-Driven Record Player with Built-in Speakers RCA Line Out AUX in Headphone Jack Vintage Turntable

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,386
Speed Settings
Build Quality
Additional Features

Most important from
4662 reviews

Speed Settings
Plays all three speeds, and the needle is protected when the device is closed for transporting.
Build Quality
This record player is incredible! Very well priced and built with a retro antique look that fits any household setting.
Additional Features
The dust cover makes it easy to pack up and travel with, and it looks sleek both opened and closed.

The Retrolife Vinyl Record Player is a great entry-level choice for those new to vinyl. It combines modern features with a vintage look, making it visually appealing with its black PU leather finish and retro bronze accents. The suitcase design with a solid handle adds to its portability, making it easy to carry around for parties or gatherings.

With built-in Bluetooth speakers, you can stream music directly from your devices, or you can connect external speakers via RCA output or Aux-in for a richer sound experience. The headphone jack is a useful feature for private listening sessions, making it versatile for different settings like your bedroom, living room, or office. This turntable supports three different speeds (33, 45, and 78 RPM) and can play records of three different sizes, giving you flexibility in your vinyl collection.

The belt-driven system and anti-resonance design aim to provide better sound quality, although it may not match the high fidelity of more expensive models. The setup is straightforward, requiring no extra equipment, which is perfect for beginners who want to start enjoying their vinyl records quickly. Useful features like the auto-stop switch and quick mode switch between Bluetooth, Aux-in, and Phono modes add to its user-friendliness. However, the built-in speakers may not satisfy audiophiles looking for premium sound quality, and the material, while visually appealing, might not be as durable as higher-end models. The maximum rotational speed of 78 RPM is standard but limits you to playing only specific types of records. This record player offers a good balance of convenience, portability, and essential features at an affordable price, making it an excellent choice for vinyl newcomers.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,386
Speed Settings
Build Quality
Additional Features

Most important from
4662 reviews

Speed Settings
Plays all three speeds, and the needle is protected when the device is closed for transporting.
Build Quality
This record player is incredible! Very well priced and built with a retro antique look that fits any household setting.
Additional Features
The dust cover makes it easy to pack up and travel with, and it looks sleek both opened and closed.
#2

1 by ONE Belt Drive Turntable with Bluetooth Connectivity, Built-in Phono Pre-amp, USB Digital Output Vinyl Stereo Record Player with Magnetic Cartridge, 33 or 45 RPM

Rating
9.6
Built-in Preamp
Cartridge and Stylus
Build Quality

Most important from
4556 reviews

Built-in Preamp
Switching between Line Out and Phono allows playback on various devices, and the built-in preamp enhances versatility.
Cartridge and Stylus
The diamond-tipped stylus captures the grooves completely, delivering clean, clear, and rich sound.
Build Quality
The build quality is impressive for its price point, with a nice looking base and good construction that should last a long time.
Additional Features
Bluetooth connectivity works seamlessly with speakers and headsets, providing flexibility in listening options.

The 1 by ONE Belt Drive Turntable is a user-friendly choice for beginners delving into the world of vinyl. One of its standout features is the built-in preamp, which means you can connect it to any amplifier or speakers without needing extra equipment. It also supports both 33 and 45 RPM speeds, allowing you to play a wide variety of records. The magnetic cartridge with a diamond-tipped stylus ensures a high clarity audio experience, and the adjustable counterweight helps to achieve smooth playback, preventing record damage and minimizing skipping and distortion.

This turntable’s build quality is decent, though its plastic construction may not feel very premium. However, it should be sturdy enough for general use. A significant plus is the Bluetooth connectivity that allows you to pair wireless headphones or speakers, providing flexibility in how you listen to your music. For those who want to digitize their vinyl collection, the USB output is a handy feature, enabling you to convert records to MP3 format via a computer.

It’s important to note that this model does not come with built-in speakers, so external speakers or headphones are necessary. Also, some Bluetooth speakers might face compatibility issues, so ensure your devices match the required Bluetooth protocols. Accessories like the anti-skating weight, slip mat, and cartridge alignment protractor are included, aiding a smoother setup. This turntable is best suited for beginners who are looking for a straightforward, versatile player with good connectivity options and a focus on audio quality.

Rating
9.6
Built-in Preamp
Cartridge and Stylus
Build Quality

Most important from
4556 reviews

Built-in Preamp
Switching between Line Out and Phono allows playback on various devices, and the built-in preamp enhances versatility.
Cartridge and Stylus
The diamond-tipped stylus captures the grooves completely, delivering clean, clear, and rich sound.
Build Quality
The build quality is impressive for its price point, with a nice looking base and good construction that should last a long time.
Additional Features
Bluetooth connectivity works seamlessly with speakers and headsets, providing flexibility in listening options.
#3

Victrola Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Portable Suitcase Record Player with Built-in Speakers | Upgraded Turntable Audio Sound| Includes Extra Stylus | Turquoise, Model Number: VSC-550BT-TQ

Rating
9.3
Build Quality
Additional Features

Most important from
17930 reviews

Build Quality
Very cool turquoise color and semi-nostalgic look make it an attractive piece.
Additional Features
Decent little unit for the money, but it benefits greatly from using external speakers.

The Victrola Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Portable Suitcase Record Player (Model VSC-550BT-TQ) is a beginner-friendly vinyl player that combines retro charm with modern functionality. It features a 3-speed belt-driven turntable (33 1/3, 45, 78 rpm) that sits on sound isolating feet, which helps to minimize vibrations for better sound quality. This model includes an upgraded audio system and a built-in preamp, making it easy to start enjoying your records without needing additional equipment.

The carry handle and suitcase design add portability, making it convenient to take your tunes anywhere. The turquoise color and vintage aesthetic make it an attractive addition to any room. For connectivity, it includes built-in Bluetooth speakers, RCA output for external speakers, and a line input for non-Bluetooth devices. Importantly, it has a headphone jack for private listening sessions.

The record player also comes with an extra stylus and all the necessary controls like power, volume, input select knob, and an auto-stop switch that halts the record when it finishes playing. However, the build quality is primarily plastic, which might not be as durable as other materials. It's a great choice for beginners who want an easy-to-use, stylish record player with versatile features at an affordable price point.

Rating
9.3
Build Quality
Additional Features

Most important from
17930 reviews

Build Quality
Very cool turquoise color and semi-nostalgic look make it an attractive piece.
Additional Features
Decent little unit for the money, but it benefits greatly from using external speakers.

Buying Guide for the Best record players for beginners with headphone jack

Choosing the right record player can be a delightful journey into the world of vinyl. As a beginner, it's important to understand the key features that will enhance your listening experience and ensure you get the most out of your investment. Here are some essential specifications to consider when selecting a record player, especially one with a headphone jack.
Built-in PreampA built-in preamp is a feature that amplifies the audio signal from the record player to a level that can be used by speakers or headphones. This is important because it simplifies the setup process, especially for beginners who may not have external audio equipment. If you want a straightforward, plug-and-play experience, look for a record player with a built-in preamp. If you plan to upgrade your audio system in the future, you might consider a model with a switchable preamp, allowing you to use an external preamp later on.
Speed SettingsRecord players typically support different speed settings, such as 33 1/3 RPM, 45 RPM, and sometimes 78 RPM. These speeds correspond to the types of records you can play. Most modern records are 33 1/3 RPM, while singles are often 45 RPM. If you have or plan to collect older records, you might need the 78 RPM setting. Ensure the record player you choose supports the speeds of the records you intend to play.
Cartridge and StylusThe cartridge and stylus are critical components that affect the sound quality and longevity of your records. The cartridge holds the stylus, which reads the grooves of the record. For beginners, a pre-installed cartridge and stylus are convenient and ensure proper alignment. As you become more experienced, you might want to upgrade these components for better sound quality. Look for a record player with a replaceable cartridge and stylus to allow for future upgrades.
Drive TypeRecord players come with either belt-drive or direct-drive systems. Belt-drive turntables use an elastic belt to spin the platter, which can reduce motor noise and vibration, making them ideal for home listening. Direct-drive turntables have the motor directly connected to the platter, offering more consistent speed and durability, which is preferred by DJs. For beginners focused on home listening, a belt-drive system is usually sufficient.
Build QualityThe build quality of a record player affects both its durability and sound performance. Heavier, more solidly built turntables tend to have better vibration isolation, which can improve sound quality. Look for materials like metal and high-quality plastics. A well-built record player will not only last longer but also provide a more stable platform for your records, reducing wear and tear.
Headphone JackA headphone jack allows you to listen to your records privately, which is great for late-night listening or when you don't want to disturb others. When choosing a record player with a headphone jack, consider the quality of the built-in headphone amplifier. Some models offer better sound quality through the headphone jack than others. If private listening is important to you, test the headphone output if possible or look for reviews that mention the headphone listening experience.
Additional FeaturesSome record players come with additional features like Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports for digitizing your vinyl collection, and built-in speakers. These features can add convenience and versatility to your setup. Consider which additional features are important to you based on how you plan to use your record player. For example, if you want to easily convert your vinyl to digital files, a USB port is essential.

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