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

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.

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.

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.