Best Turntable with Speakers: A Deep Dive for Audiophiles into the Top Models

The way we listen to music has taken a different turn in the last decade. Our generation listens to music more from our smartphones, laptops or iPads. Music is accessed more easily. Smartphones, together with apps that stream music, have revolutionized how music is played and how music is availed around us. Gone are the days when CDs were bought, these days nobody sits behind a radio waiting for their favourite song to play. Nowadays, we listen to our favourite music using top streamed platforms: Apple Music and Spotify.

A whole music collection at the tips of your fingers is wonderful, but there is still a craving to experience music on a more physical level. As a result, more and more people want to purchase vintage music items such as vinyl and turntables. While there is a diverse variety of reasons that people might purchase it, undoubtedly, the most distinct one is that the turntable makes everyone feel nostalgic. They have a sense of timelessness that smartphones lack. Whether you are a member of the older or younger generation, you are sure to understand the appeal of the turntable.

In case you are considering starting your journey with vinyl or even want to switch from the current product that you use, it is crucial to find the best turntable with speakers. Here are some of the factors that you need to take into account and assess before you make a decision to purchase your turntable.

Key Features of the Best Turntable with Speakers

Cartridge

The cartridge is located on the tonearm of a turntable. The stylus, better known as the “pick-up” or “needle” is found in the cartridge. The stylus’ job is to read the grooves of the record and then produce sound based on that reading. A very important feature! Most turntables have a pre-mounted cartridge installed. The pre-mounted cartridge offers a decent sound experience for most users, but if you are looking for excellent sound quality and you want the best turntable with speakers then you might want to consider spending a bit more to upgrade this.

The cartridge has a direct effect on the playback speed. The average playback speeds on most turntables with speakers are 33-1/3 and 45 RPM. This is totally fine if you plan on listening to modern records. But for playing some of the golden oldies, it is recommended to upgrade to a specialised cartridge as the older records have wider grooves on them.

Drive Styles: Belt Drive vs Direct Drive

Belt drive turntables connect the motor to the platter using a rubber belt. Turntables with this type of drive are the best turntables with speakers for audiophiles. The sound produced is way more smoother compared to direct-drive turntables. The rubber belt does a great job of lowering the vibrations from the motor and takes away “wow and flatter” - the measure of how precisely the turntable spins the platter. If there's too much variation, you might hear a noticeable wobble in the audio. A lower number is ideal under 0.25% to keep your audio sounding crisp and clear.

Direct-drive turntables, as you may have guessed, have the motor and platter directly attached. This direct setup gives steady speeds and strong torque. Because of this they are great for DJs and scratching. For normal music listeners, more vibrations are felt on the platter and this could negatively affect the sound quality.

Phono preamp

The phono preamp adds support to the cartridge signal. While the cartridge creates a distinct signal, it can be weak at first. The phono preamplifier gains the signal so that you are able to hear the music on the speakers. On some turntables, the phono preamp is built into the receiver, on others it is in a powered speaker. It can also be a separate component on some turntables.

Having it as a separate component can be a bit of a hassle, but it works really well if you have a high-quality cartridge. The two combined will give you the best turntable with speakers. You can also decide if you want to use it as a moving magnet or a moving coil cartridge.

Manual vs Automatic Turntables

The major difference between manual and automatic turntables is how much you have to do to get the turntable going and to stop it. There are essentially 3 different types: manual, semi-automatic, and automatic.

Manual turntables require the most assistance when starting and stopping your records. This is done by using the lever to lift the tonearm on the record’s lead grove. To stop it, lift the tonearm off. This is the best turntable with speakers for those who value sound quality above convenience. There is no automated noise produced with manual turntables.

Semi-automatic turntables follow the same start process as manual turntables by lowering the tonearm. The stop process however is different to the manual stop process. Once the record ends the tonearm lifts automatically and the motor turns off. Having this automatic turn-off prevents the styles form around in the groove when it is not stopped.

A fully automatic turntable is the most convenient out of the three styles. All you have to do is press a button to get your record playing. The needle is then carefully set at the start of the record. When the record is done playing, just like clockwork, the tonearm is lifted and it is reset at the starting spot with the motor turned off.

USB Output

If you still want to add some digital features to the analogue experience of your turntable, you can always opt for a turntable that offers a USB output. This will allow you to create digital copies of your music. You can listen to your favourite albums on the go.

Design

The appeal of turntables goes far beyond the music aspect. Turntables are a great way to express yourself and add some style to your space. If style is important for you then make sure to look for a turntable that matches your interior space.

Connectivity

If you want to connect your turntable to wireless speakers or headphones, there are turntables that offer Bluetooth connectivity. This is a common feature on modern turntables so this shouldn’t be hard to find.

Turntable With Built-in vs Powered Speakers

Finally, when the time comes for you to buy your turntable you will have two primaries to decide from the speaker option. Turntable with built-in speakers or a turntable with powered speakers. Both of them are pretty okay. However, the turntables with built-in speakers are more convenient. You don’t need to plug in anything, you press play and you are set. Furthermore, this is also the best turntable with speakers if you need to save space, as it requires no room for speakers. Additionally, the turntable can be put anywhere you want it with no worries about placing the speakers as well.

The sound quality of built-in speakers will be fine if you’re a casual listener. If you think of yourself as an audiophile then you’ll notice the sound accuracy isn’t as good as external speakers. Specifically, the bass does not go as deep and the stereo is not as accurate. Powered speakers allow you to hook the turntable to external speakers. If you really value having a nice sound and being able to move the music around until it’s perfect, then this is the best turntable with speakers for you. It is going to require more effort, and it would cost some cash. The drawback of external speakers is the cost of having to set everything up. If you are searching for a small, simple-to-use turntable, then this might not be the most suitable for you.

Best Turntable with Speakers - Top 8 Reviews

Angels Horn Vintage Record Player with Dual Bookshelf Speakers

This Angels Horn vintage record player turntable utilises a 2-speed turntable with a belt drive and a moving magnetic AT-3600 stylus to enjoy all of your 33 1/3 and 45 RPM records. Sound quality is the priority for this vinyl record player and you can hear how good it is as soon as you press play. A great surprise for the music listener with an authentic, attractive-looking LP player and a warm, clear sound without distortion. You’ll quickly realise why this is a record player worth it if you’re looking for the best turntable with speakers.

This vintage vinyl record player’s performance is outstanding, providing realism with a high-quality Audio Technica brand phono cartridge to ensure a well-crafted wooden design and instrumental reproduction. These characteristics are superior to other cheaper players. The turntable is accompanied by two bookshelf speakers.

The Bluetooth function enables you to wirelessly capture and play music from your smart device, laptop, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices. Connect the included twin speakers or the AC adapter to your personal power speakers using the double RCA output cables and you are ready to go.

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Audio-Technica AT-LP60X Turntable and Edifier R1280T Active Speaker

The sound of the Digitalis combination is perfect, with good value. Audio Technica doesn’t need an introduction; the Japanese company has been producing high-quality audio devices since the late 1960s. This model is the most popular and highly demanded. The Edifier active speakers perfectly recognizable comfortable sound at a nice price. The speakers are enclosed in a 100-per cent medium-density fibreboard to avoid distortion caused by resonance for better sound quality. You can listen to your vinyl right away – the turntable is equipped with a built-in phono stage. Connecting is very simple, apart from that, there are additional input speakers, and you can quickly connect a laptop or PC or a TV or a smartphone.

Fully automatic operation with two speeds – 33 1/3 and 45 RPM, aluminium platter, and integral Dual Magnet phono cartridge with a replaceable diamond stylus. You can connect it to a stereo system or power speakers with phono and line-level inputs as it has a built-in preamp. The wood accent makes them look elegant for use in the home or in an office setting. Two line-in dials are located at the back of the speaker to adjust bass and volume according to your preference. The R1280T has dual stereo line-in ports as well as a dynamic treble enhancement for port A. This is the best turntable with speakers for those who want a good value turntable with a great appearance.

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Mersoco Portable Bluetooth Turntable

The Mersoco Portable Bluetooth Turntable has a briefcase design, making it simple to move from room to room or take with you. The vinyl record player does not only play vinyl/albums but also plays your favourite digital songs with extra functions like headphone listening, Aux-in and RCA-out connection, and Bluetooth input. You have a 2-speed turntable with a belt drive on this turntable.

Your vinyl collection can be played with simple speed settings of 33, 45, and 78 RPM. The 45-RPM adaptor is also included. The turntable can wirelessly stream music to your smartphone, laptop, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. The turntable's built-in speakers offer a dynamic, full-range stereo sound that can be utilised for a home music experience. You can also play music from your smartphones and iPods, MP3 players, and other digital sound devices through the 3.5mm headphone and Aux-in jacks. There is one RCA output cable to hook up your external speaker via RCA cable to get a louder sound included with the turntable. This is the best turntable with built-in speakers if you plan to utilise your turntable for more than just playing vinyl.

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Udreamer Vinyl Record Player

The Urdreamer vinyl record player turntable offers a portable design and wooden aesthetic. With three different speeds (33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM) and record size specifications (7′′, 10′′, and 12′′) you are able to immerse yourself in your music for your relaxation. You can listen to music from your phone, and use additional built-in stereo speakers, and wireless music playback technology. In addition, you can play music from a drive with the USB feature and the turntable features a headphone jack. Advanced 5.3 version Bluetooth is offered on this model.

The auto stop button when enabled will automatically stop spinning the turntable. When disabled the turntable will continue spinning. A spring and belt-driven system in the base absorbs shocks and provides excellent audio with less contact with the board. There are two built-in 3W speakers, along with an independent woofer, which provides you with quality stereo sound with good bass and treble. You can also connect an external speaker via RCA cable if you want to use your own speakers. This is the best turntable with built-in speakers to play any size of vinyl.

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1 BY ONE Bluetooth Turntable with Bookshelf Speakers

The 1 By One Bluetooth turntable has an iron platter that is engineered with high precision to maintain uniform inertial mass allowing optimal stability and rotation, thereby enhancing high-fidelity playback. The tonearm counter-balance and anti-skating system which are a part of any respectable classic turntable setup allow the stylus to move smoothly across records without skipping or distortion. The top-quality Audio-Technica Moving Magnet-type cartridge and stylus create rich, warm audio and outstanding sound.

The high-quality Audio-Technica Moving Magnet-type cartridge and stylus produce rich, warm audio and outstanding sound. The built-in phono line and pre-amplifier are switchable allowing easy connections of the included speakers or other powered speakers through the dual RCA output cables.

The turntable speakers also stream music from any media player such as iPhones, Android smartphones, Android tablets, and USB-MP3 players. Unfortunately, other features such as Bluetooth headphones/speakers are not available.

You can connect your turntable to a computer via USB to convert vinyl audio into MP3s that can be stored and played digitally on your computer. This is the best turntable with speakers for great sound quality.

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Retrolife Individual Suitcase Record Player

The Retrolife Individual Suitcase Record Player is functional and at the same time stylishly designed. With a square spread, a classic exterior size with a black PU leather case and vintage bronze metal, this edition's player can be taken anywhere, thanks to its inherent stable handle. This is the best turntable with built-in speakers for people who want a compact turntable that produces good sound quality.

Four different types of connections are offered. Use the turntable’s built-in Bluetooth audio system to play digital audio, connect external speakers to the RCA output or an Aux-in line for non-Bluetooth music devices such as MP3 players, or connect your headphones for listening.

This turntable uses a belt-driven operation, enhanced by the Anti-Resonance design for the ultimate sound effect, ensuring a perfect listening atmosphere. You don’t have to worry about extra equipment to play your favourite records; beginners and vinyl enthusiasts will find this product appealing. It can be used in your bedroom to listen to my favourite records, and it can also be used in the living room or an office. It comes with a couple of nifty knobs, such as the Auto-stop switch, so when the record is finished, it immediately stops spinning, and using the switch is a breeze between Bluetooth, aux-in, and phono.

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Majority Vinyl Record Player

The Majority vinyl record player combines function and fashion with a wooden finish. The luxe aesthetic delivers a stylish audio solution.

The turntable has the ability to connect to external speakers. You can also stream music from your phone to the turntables’ internal speakers. The AT3600L cartridge by Audio-Technica ensures a high fidelity and a dependable range of audio with all aspects of playing vinyl, enabling you to spin classics and new releases with high quality. With a choice of three speeds, the turntable plays 33/45/78 records.

It also offers USB recording. Capture your favourite tracks straight away on a USB flash drive. Get started with the “Record” button and let your creations be safe with the “Cut” option – it’s the ultimate way to easily turn your favourite vinyl tracks into digital files that can be played anytime.

This model includes a precision-engineered platter. Stream vinyl records on a stable foundation with a thoughtfully crafted platter that is perfect for vinyl. The vibration-dampening feet enable this turntable to diminish unwanted resonance, allowing for a distortion-free vinyl sound experience. This is the best turntable with speakers for vinyl lovers who want a stylish turntable that offers good music quality.

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Trynnay Vinyl Record Player

The Trynnay vinyl record player combines nostalgia with a twist of modern style. It has a belt-driven system with a balanced tonearm that has lift control which provides three playback speeds (33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM) and three record sizes (7′′, 10′′, and 12′′). This allows you to listen to all your records. Apart from nostalgia, this turntable enables you to play vinyl records, and stream music from your phone and other audio devices wirelessly. The modern-style turntable will go perfectly in your living areas.

The standout feature is the system’s base, which, as the name suggests, has a spring and belt-driven mechanism for shock absorption and enhanced sound. The dynamic full-range stereo speaker will do well for everyday listening. If you’re looking for more sound performance, you can connect external powered speakers using the RCA output. You can also enjoy even more options with AUX and USB playback for seamless music listening. This is the best turntable with built-in speakers who like an easy set-up that offers good sound quality.

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Conclusion

Whether you're a self-proclaimed audiophile or you are just getting started on your vinyl journey, picking the best turntable with speakers will be an essential part of your music experience. The best turntables with speakers reviewed in this guide offer many features and designs to please your taste and budget. Spend the time to discover what sound qualities, visual aspects, and auxiliary functions meet your requirements. You can enjoy the timeless warmth of vinyl records for years to come.