For $249 you can get the fluance 81, with the AT VM95E cart, and a built in preamp, and anti-skate adjustment, and track force, and you don’t have to move the belt to change the speed. That is my number recommendation to someone starting out.
No real reason other than it was a complete oversight, Gene. I reviewed the RT85 a few months ago and really recommend it. The RT81 and could have easily made the list being under $400
I’ve been rocking a U-Turn orbit for about 7 years. I loved the fact that I could customize it from the factory. I did some minor upgrades when I purchased it then a couple more later on. Can’t find a reason to get something else. Just dropped an Ortofon Blue cartridge in now I’m good for a while. Love your videos!
I got into vinyl this past April and started with the AT LP60BT. (Walmart version). Once I realized vinyl was not a fad for me I quickly eyed the AT LP120XBT USB. Just got it last week for $300! For me, I'm still running Bluetooth and the idea of recording my records via the USB connection was a powerful factor for me. I am absolutely satisfied with my purchase and noticed the upgrade immediately. I also got an acrylic mat. Love it.
An acrylic mat? That's Rick's favourite playing surface, and it's exactly the upgrade I made to my LP60XBT. I also swapped out the conical stylus and fitted an elliptical, taking the 60X up a few notches.
Yeah, absolutely you can. This elliptical cartridge is identical to the housing of the white ATN3600L cartridge in order to fit the headshell. It's a product sold by LP Gear, and the cartridge itself is actually a dark blue colour instead of white, and has an LP logo on the front. A lot of turntables come from the factory still with capacity to burn, and I'd say that cartridges like this were more than likely intended to be used as upgrades for the LP60X and so on.
Hi, great video. I’m just getting my turntable out of storage and back into use. It’s a Rega Planar 3 from around 1984. It’s in mint condition and I can’t wait. I have an Audiolab 8000a amplifier from the same era and a pair of KEF RDM1 speakers from around 1998.
How do you feel about the Fliance turntables compared to your picks. I have the Flounce RT82. I truly enjoy listening to you and respect your comments. I started my vinyls in 1973.
Hi Michael! I actually kicked myself later because I think highly of the Fluance. I reviewed the RT85 on this channel earlier this year. It didn't make the cut because I was trying to keep it under $400 here, but the RT82 certainly could have. I'm glad you brought it up.
Two more worth consideration: Fluance RT83 Reference Turntable with Ortofon 2M Red Cartridge - $350. Pro-Ject Essential III Beatles Turntable - George Harrison, Special Edition, Pre-Mounted Ortofon OM10 Cartridge - $399.00
I love those 2M's...I found a Blue and Bronze used, 5 hours on the styli...the Bronze looks good with the Garrard DD75 with the redwood appearing plynth...
I owned a Dual CS-515 for about 30 years. RIP, I cried all day when it died. When I needed to replace my turntable I went with a Fluance RT-82. I think in the mid-range, considering the cartridge, you can't do really better. My Dual was semi-automatic (auto-return), while the Fluance only has the auto-stop function (the tone-arm does not return by itself, but the turntable stops after a while). Those who are new to vinyl and want a fully manual turntable, in my humble opinion, only want unnecessary problems.
I do agree with you on that, Pierre - for those new to vinyl, fully manual can be intimidating. BTW - the Fluance turntables could easily have made the list.
I got my set up in the late 90’s. I have the Realistic Optimus turntable, receiver, tape deck,and speakers. I also had the carousel CD player but it broke, so now I’m using a Bose Wave.
I got my Audio-Technica AT-LP60 (not the bt version) used years ago and it's been a great machine for me. All ive done over the years is change the needle and swap the mat out. I just ordered an AT-LP120XUSB-BK (onsale for 350 which was Nice) as ive found a few rca red seal 78 shellacs from the 40s and 50s in good condition and i want to actually be able to play them, and a few albums i have are not available for mp3 or cd purchase so having the usb option will be great to digitize and archive these recordings that got left behind. Super excited to get it this week and do the set up :)
I've had a U-Turn Orbit for almost ten years now that I keep as a back up. I always recommend the Orbit when asked about turntables. And yes, their customer service is one of the best in the industry.
I just started and bought the AT-LP70XBT-BZ on sale for $199.99 and will be using my Sony WH-CH720Ns to listen until I can purchase the Klipsch R-41PM. My dad was a DJ in the 80s we’re from the south Bronx. Unfortunately, all of his equipment is gone besides a Pyramid EQ from the 80s, an Onkyo amp from the 90s, and a Yamaha receiver from 2013. I may inherit these as they’ve been collecting dust for year.
Always good advice for the newbies. Hopefully they'll get those TT so more records can get made. So much hiding in those grooves that a conical stylus cannot get to. Gotta start somewhere 😊. Well 👍 done I'll take 2 🍺🍺. Greg
Hi Rick, an interesting and informative review. I am sure there are more entry level turntables sold than any other price point with manufacturers price to trying to capture sales and hold onto customers for their more expensive models. In the UK, What Hifi did a recent review of turntables at different price points. Of the 6 bands two companies held 5 spots - Rega and Project. Rega’s entry level Planar 1 has been the go to first turntable for years, the Planar 3 with their new cartridge and the Planar 6 with their MC cartridge were the other two entries My set up is a Rega Elecit amp, Planar 6 with MC preamp and Neo power supply with AE 500 stand speakers, Rega Apollo CD player. Best, Pat
Hi Rick! Great video...I'm always looking at new(er) 'tables in case the urge to buy something new (sounds like a US Beatles record...I digress😎)... Right now my main 'table is a Technics SL-1510 with an Ortofon Concorde STD cartridge.. It plugs into a Sansui 2000x receiver and Advent Legacy III speakers... In the wings I have my first, a Dual 1218, a Dual 506, 506-1, 1019, 1225, 2326, 1237 (yes, I love my Duals), 2 Garrard DD75's and a whole slew of other cartridges... Been at it awhile...
Don't know how to send you photos, but here's my setup, which cost me a little over $2k. I did not purchase it all at once, adding the CD player in particular, later. Turntable: Audio-Technica LPW40WN - $379 Speakers: Audioengine A5+ - $399 Subwoofer: Audioengine S8 - $349 CD Player: Marantz CD6007 - $599 Source Selector: Rolls SS412 - $109 Speaker Stands: Kanto SP32 - $189 Furniture: Pangea Audio Vulcan TTx2 Turntable Stand with Mega Vinyl Record Storage - $260
@ yes, the Pangea shelves are amazing and I want to purchase a second. But they have been out of stock for about 6 months. They come from China so I’m not holding my breath!
I haven't yet. I had with the LP60 and it usually had to do with the speakers being on the same surface as the turntable. Not always - but it did solve some issues.
Been playing records since early 70's grew up with the typical BSR console type player with fm& am radio 8 track player ceramic cart thats all I knew before high school but got a job during high school in a record store that had the real deal the TT's you mentioned are good choices the u- turn is one I would consider if I wanted a manual never liked the round belt I knew when I saw it that belt would fall off if they used a flat belt they never would of had any problems but glad they fixed it I do have a pr0-ject debut 3 manual TT currently I have 8 TT's set up I like automatic TT's cause I love the mechanical aspect of the TT its like a little robot that I grew up watching shows like lost in space , I am not good at sending pictures so I will not waste your time with my fumbling but I have 3 Dual tt's 1237 ,1246,and the 1009sk which is my most prized turntable and only one that I did not have to repair ,then I have a garrard auto slim MPK 2 with an AT-3600l cart it had a sonotone ceramic cart but i switched it then the AT-60 lab series this is my second fav I have my original onkyo CP-1055F2 direct drive computer controled quartz drive TT from 1985 still runs great then a BSR 610 ,audiotechnica ATLP-120 usb quartz drive manual,then the pro-ject Debut 3 with an acrylic platter it came with metal platter but switching speed worried I might drop platter onto wood base of tt and scratching wood surface I have a fischer c 20 if I remember with the ceramic cart which is the type my father had and got it to remember him by and I found an aiwa fullt automatic from 1999 looks like the atlp-60 and I have vhe ELAC 40 sold by realistic that I am am having a difficult time in repairing so many small plastic gizmos untill I can get a manual for it I,it worked when I first got it but it not at this time the only TT to stump me so far,been fascinated by the turntable for as long I can remember ,I am more partial to the older models from late 60's to early 70's would love to get my hands on thorens automatic player but so far not yet ,I will try to send a pic or two if I can sending piucs to other people on a cmputer is not my beat thing JRo
Having been around for a long time and around the industry/hobby equally, for around $400 or less I would advise folks to steer clear of the Audio Technica turntables. It is not that they have glaring flaws and are overall bad, but they are not built that well and can't really grow. They are good for youngins and will get one by for a short time in a pinch. However, for the same money or a tiny bit more, one can do far better and have a table that can last longer such as U-Turn as you mentioned (although I would advise to at least change the cartridge on the basic to something like the Ortofon OM5 at least. Better yet would be to go with the Orbit Custom and swap out the cartridge and add a Cue lever = $354). Fluance is another very good choice, they have 5 turntables under $400 to choose from. They have the RT80, but I would advise for $50 more ($250) to start with the RT81 as it is a lot more table for the money. Music hall and Pro-Ject are top choices in my book. In my travels I always found more folks looking for a turntable that is a slight notch above Entry Level. I also found that they think they have to spend close to $1000 or more, then I show them that all they need is $600 to get into a table that is massively upgradeable and will last them for years! For as little as $600 one can get a serious table from the likes of Pro-Ject (my personal first choice), Music Hall, Rega and so on. Such tables can be upgraded in many ways later with ease (different mat, platter in some cases, wider range of cartridge and even the tonearm on some). I also advise that even if one wants to get a $400 or less table, they need not worry about phono stage being built in or not. There are plenty of outboard phono stages for around $200 to $400 more that can travel with one even if swapping out the turntable later. One can get a "Entry-level table and an outboard phone stage for around as little as $400. All that said though, at least in the US, if one is going to purchase anything audio (or electronic and the like) it better be within the next couple of months, because come February, prices and availability are going to be high and scarce in the US. There won't be such a thing as a $400 turntable. What do I run? I'm not ashamed: I run vintage tables (Denon DP47f, Pioneer PL510A, Pioneer PL-530). Sure, I can't swap out tonearms and the Anti-skate on the Denon is automatic and I can't adjust tonearm height, but everything else I can. Those table are also built like tanks. Even with the stock arms I have a wide variety of carts I can use. I just installed a Sumiko Olympic on the PL510A and it is the best that table has ever sounded. I was running AT carts before and the Sumiko turned out to be an extreme upgrade for that one. Of course, I am cheating a little running it through a high-end phono preamp.
@@TheJoyofVinylRecords Yes, I was not sure what to expect with the Sumiko, I was not sure it would sound any better or different than the ATs I had been running, but I was pleasantly surprised by it. I t sounds way better then the ATs and the ATs were not bad, I just wanted something different within my budget. I almost got a Hana, but decided that was not money well spent on a 1972 table I paid $25 for. I was thinking about getting a Hana for my Denon, but decided it is easier to just replace the stylus on my 2M Bronze, which is just about due. I'm also not a fan of MC carts. I have a new MC cart in the wings I may try one day (Denon DL110), I bought it about 10 years ago and never installed it. Glad I got it though because it is now over four times what I paid. I got it for around $80, they now go for $400.
Thank you very clear info as always . Just fir my pro ject t1 . Now I have to find a recommendable budgetcohone stage . Any suggestions from your side highly appreciated as the internet and RUclips are wrecking my head whatcto go for . Tbank you and kind regards from Ireland. R
Hi Rudy! By budget are you looking for something around the same price range ($400 and less)? There are quite a few that fall into that category which are good to begin with. 🍺
I’m still on the fence, in regards to vinyl. I have the ProJect Debut Carbon turntable with the Sumiko cartridge, which has been working fine. For power and the phono preamp, I am running the Music Hall a30.3 integrated amplifier (85/160 watts at 8/4 ohms respectively) with Sparkos Labs discrete op amps. I also have the Music Hall pa2.2 phono preamp, which I need to hook up and see if I get any sound improvements. Even after listening to a 45-rpm MoFi Dire Straits self-titled album, I still feel that streaming off of my Cambridge Audio MXN10 or playing a CD from my Music Hall cd-dac15.3, gives me better dynamics, darker background, deeper and wider soundstage, and an overall better experience, than vinyl playback. My other issue with vinyl, is that it is so freakin’ expensive and I’ve noticed some quality control issues outside of the higher quality pressings. Now, I recently upgraded my speakers, but have not listened to any vinyl on the new speakers. Waiting to break them in.
Do you mind me asking which speakers? I too have seen QC issues with new pressings on a handful of records. It does seem to me that the issues I'm seeing were very rare decades ago.
@ The speakers are Cabasse Murano Alto’s and sound ridiculously good! Bought them while they were 50% off. I mean, the Dire Straits MoFi record sounded pretty good on my previous Wharfedale Diamond 225 speakers with a 10” sub, but the sound from the Cabasse speakers put me at a new level indeed! No need for a sub and the bass sounds so much tighter and instruments sound so realistic and separated with CD’s and streaming. I just quickly listened to Sultans of Swing on the MoFi vinyl using the onboard phono amp, and I notice some harshness in his voice and the cymbals. When I play the same song over the Cambridge Audio MXN10, that harshness is no longer there and the instrument separation is better. I wonder, now that I have more revealing speakers, I may need to upgrade the cartridge and phono stage.
@@TheJoyofVinylRecords Yeah, I received a brand new record that was warped when I pulled it out. I’ve only purchased a few used vinyls. I do notice the slightly warmer sound from vinyl, but I’ve read a review that Music Hall amplifiers have a bit of warmth to them already, which helps when listening to digital.
@@TheJoyofVinylRecords Sorry, I did some internet searches regarding the Dire Straits self-titled 45-rpm (accidentally said 33-rpm earlier) MoFi album and others have complained about sibilance on some of the recordings, which explains what I am hearing. Will listen to some of my other records for comparison.
@@TheJoyofVinylRecords One day! - As a non-user you might be the best candidate for the job, you can "go in blind" as it were, reviewing not only the headphone but also comparing it as a "" non headphone guy" and how the experience compares with the same LP. I'm speakers downstairs and "open back" headphones upstairs. No bluetooth, always wired.
Hi, I was wondering if you could give me any advice on a pre amp? My current set up is a cheap pre amp from Amazon, which I don’t think is bringing out the best quality, the pro- ject T1 with ortofon om 20 stylus. Unfortunately I don’t have a lot of space to play with, and was considering getting MOON 110LP V2 PHONO PREAMPLIFIER? I would really appreciate any feedback / recommendations you have as I’m at a bit of a loss. Thank you
Hi Laura! If you want to stick with Pro0-Ject for synergy - i recommend the Pro-ject tube box or their phonobox. I've used their tube box in the past for a few years and was happy with it. Both are within the same price range of the Moon
@@TheJoyofVinylRecordsAh ok, thats good to know, thank you. Which would you personally recommend out of them both? And are they fairly generous with their loudness in sound? Not sure if you can alter much, like the gain etc. Something small that delivers is what I’m after, doesn’t necessarily have to be Pro - ject. I’m uk based, so anything here would be preferable :)
@@Laura_M8 I would choose the Tube box.If you're opposed to tubes - the solid state version has received praise. They are both small . Being UK based - Rega makes a phono stage but I haven't had any experience with it, and it also appears to have a small form factor (same price range as all the others).
So basically it all boils down to preference. There is nothing that would increase or hinder the listening experience? Im a millennial so the feel of using the machine isn’t something I care about. I just want one for the ability to play what my parents have passed to me.
I find this entry level terminilogy curious. My first turntable was the classic original AR unit with the superior 3 point suspension that AR invented and has never been surpased. It had no antiskate but it was wonderful. Now vinyl has become sort of a cult. Listening to some of these gurus makes CD's sound better and better. I have several good turntables but I don't go nuts over all these do's and don't's. Life it too short. Bear in mind that both vinyl and CD have flaws. Just enjoy the music. Remember that you cannot reproduce a concert hall in your room. It's all an ilusion.
I got my first turntable in the 1970s. The difference back in the day was that LPs were mainstream. When the cassette and CD overtook LP, any advocacy of LP became misinterpreted as something it never was. Anyway, we’ve seen these videos because a few generations now don’t know anything about them.
![Best Turntables 2025 - [don’t buy one before watching this]](/img/1.gif)
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For $249 you can get the fluance 81, with the AT VM95E cart, and a built in preamp, and anti-skate adjustment, and track force, and you don’t have to move the belt to change the speed. That is my number recommendation to someone starting out.
Just got this a few weeks ago and really enjoying it.
I have the AT-VM95C/H, and while it sounds great, I have issues with the right channel being distorted (either not enough signal or too much signal).
I was shocked he didn't mention Fluance. I'm sure there's a reason; I'd love to know what it is!
Hi Greg - I should have included the Fluance in my list - glad you brought it up!
No real reason other than it was a complete oversight, Gene. I reviewed the RT85 a few months ago and really recommend it. The RT81 and could have easily made the list being under $400
I’ve been rocking a U-Turn orbit for about 7 years. I loved the fact that I could customize it from the factory. I did some minor upgrades when I purchased it then a couple more later on. Can’t find a reason to get something else. Just dropped an Ortofon Blue cartridge in now I’m good for a while. Love your videos!
Appreciate it, Craig!
I got into vinyl this past April and started with the AT LP60BT. (Walmart version). Once I realized vinyl was not a fad for me I quickly eyed the AT LP120XBT USB. Just got it last week for $300! For me, I'm still running Bluetooth and the idea of recording my records via the USB connection was a powerful factor for me.
I am absolutely satisfied with my purchase and noticed the upgrade immediately. I also got an acrylic mat. Love it.
An acrylic mat? That's Rick's favourite playing surface, and it's exactly the upgrade I made to my LP60XBT. I also swapped out the conical stylus and fitted an elliptical, taking the 60X up a few notches.
@@31cifyAwesome! I didn't realize you could change out the stylus on the LP60X for something other than what it comes with.
Great to hear!!!
Yeah, absolutely you can. This elliptical cartridge is identical to the housing of the white ATN3600L cartridge in order to fit the headshell. It's a product sold by LP Gear, and the cartridge itself is actually a dark blue colour instead of white, and has an LP logo on the front. A lot of turntables come from the factory still with capacity to burn, and I'd say that cartridges like this were more than likely intended to be used as upgrades for the LP60X and so on.
Hi, great video. I’m just getting my turntable out of storage and back into use. It’s a Rega Planar 3 from around 1984. It’s in mint condition and I can’t wait. I have an Audiolab 8000a amplifier from the same era and a pair of KEF RDM1 speakers from around 1998.
That's very cool that you have a Planar from the 80s, Eustace!
How do you feel about the Fliance turntables compared to your picks. I have the Flounce RT82. I truly enjoy listening to you and respect your comments. I started my vinyls in 1973.
Hi Michael! I actually kicked myself later because I think highly of the Fluance. I reviewed the RT85 on this channel earlier this year. It didn't make the cut because I was trying to keep it under $400 here, but the RT82 certainly could have. I'm glad you brought it up.
@@TheJoyofVinylRecords Thank you for your reply.
Great video as always 👍 Very nice with some good advice 🎸🥁 All the best from Kristiansand 😁
Cheers Norway 🇳🇴 🍺
The ProJect and Rega tables are outstanding. I have one of each and I love them both for different reasons.
Rega makes wonderful products
U-turn doesn’t get enough press. They’re great entry level tables. Glad they’re mentioned.
Great customer service as well.
Great video ! Love good values ! BTW, Costco currently has the Denon DP-300F Fully Automatic Turntable for $199.99 !
Nice!
Two more worth consideration:
Fluance RT83 Reference Turntable with Ortofon 2M Red Cartridge - $350.
Pro-Ject Essential III Beatles Turntable - George Harrison, Special Edition, Pre-Mounted Ortofon OM10 Cartridge - $399.00
I love those 2M's...I found a Blue and Bronze used, 5 hours on the styli...the Bronze looks good with the Garrard DD75 with the redwood appearing plynth...
I second that on the Fluance, Geoffrey - great turntable and could easily have made the list.
Audio Technica LWP30. Fully manual. Have had it over a month now and I have not been disappointed.
Great to hear!
I owned a Dual CS-515 for about 30 years. RIP, I cried all day when it died. When I needed to replace my turntable I went with a Fluance RT-82. I think in the mid-range, considering the cartridge, you can't do really better. My Dual was semi-automatic (auto-return), while the Fluance only has the auto-stop function (the tone-arm does not return by itself, but the turntable stops after a while). Those who are new to vinyl and want a fully manual turntable, in my humble opinion, only want unnecessary problems.
I do agree with you on that, Pierre - for those new to vinyl, fully manual can be intimidating. BTW - the Fluance turntables could easily have made the list.
I got my set up in the late 90’s. I have the Realistic Optimus turntable, receiver, tape deck,and speakers. I also had the carousel CD player but it broke, so now I’m using a Bose Wave.
I got my Audio-Technica AT-LP60 (not the bt version) used years ago and it's been a great machine for me. All ive done over the years is change the needle and swap the mat out. I just ordered an AT-LP120XUSB-BK (onsale for 350 which was Nice) as ive found a few rca red seal 78 shellacs from the 40s and 50s in good condition and i want to actually be able to play them, and a few albums i have are not available for mp3 or cd purchase so having the usb option will be great to digitize and archive these recordings that got left behind. Super excited to get it this week and do the set up :)
That's great - I'd love to hear your thoughts on it once it's set up
I had the music hall, great sounding turntable! Few build quality problems, but this was 10 years ago, maybe they are all solid now.
I've had a U-Turn Orbit for almost ten years now that I keep as a back up. I always recommend the Orbit when asked about turntables. And yes, their customer service is one of the best in the industry.
On board with that, Mark! My 8 year old U-Turn is also a backup and I have an Orbit special in the review room.
I bought a Monoprice turntable, recommend by Steve Gutenberg, several years ago and love it. Great price.
I just started and bought the AT-LP70XBT-BZ on sale for $199.99 and will be using my Sony WH-CH720Ns to listen until I can purchase the Klipsch R-41PM. My dad was a DJ in the 80s we’re from the south Bronx. Unfortunately, all of his equipment is gone besides a Pyramid EQ from the 80s, an Onkyo amp from the 90s, and a Yamaha receiver from 2013. I may inherit these as they’ve been collecting dust for year.
You'll enjoy the Klipsch I'm sure. 🎶
Always good advice for the newbies. Hopefully they'll get those TT so more records can get made.
So much hiding in those grooves that a conical stylus cannot get to. Gotta start somewhere 😊. Well 👍 done I'll take 2 🍺🍺. Greg
Cheers my friend!
Hi Rick, an interesting and informative review. I am sure there are more entry level turntables sold than any other price point with manufacturers price to trying to capture sales and hold onto customers for their more expensive models. In the UK, What Hifi did a recent review of turntables at different price points. Of the 6 bands two companies held 5 spots - Rega and Project. Rega’s entry level Planar 1 has been the go to first turntable for years, the Planar 3 with their new cartridge and the Planar 6 with their MC cartridge were the other two entries My set up is a Rega Elecit amp, Planar 6 with MC preamp and Neo power supply with AE 500 stand speakers, Rega Apollo CD player. Best, Pat
Hi Pat! Rega is one of those products I always recommend to those with higher budgets. Can never go wrong with Rega
Hi Rick! Great video...I'm always looking at new(er) 'tables in case the urge to buy something new (sounds like a US Beatles record...I digress😎)...
Right now my main 'table is a Technics SL-1510 with an Ortofon Concorde STD cartridge..
It plugs into a Sansui 2000x receiver and Advent Legacy III speakers...
In the wings I have my first, a Dual 1218, a Dual 506, 506-1, 1019, 1225, 2326, 1237 (yes, I love my Duals), 2 Garrard DD75's and a whole slew of other cartridges...
Been at it awhile...
I recommend the Dual turntables as well. Cheers 🍻
Don't know how to send you photos, but here's my setup, which cost me a little over $2k. I did not purchase it all at once, adding the CD player in particular, later.
Turntable: Audio-Technica LPW40WN - $379
Speakers: Audioengine A5+ - $399
Subwoofer: Audioengine S8 - $349
CD Player: Marantz CD6007 - $599
Source Selector: Rolls SS412 - $109
Speaker Stands: Kanto SP32 - $189
Furniture: Pangea Audio Vulcan TTx2 Turntable Stand with Mega Vinyl Record Storage - $260
Those Pangea stands are the bomb aren't they?
@ yes, the Pangea shelves are amazing and I want to purchase a second. But they have been out of stock for about 6 months. They come from China so I’m not holding my breath!
Have you had any comments regarding the skipping issue on the 70xbt? Thoughts?
I haven't yet. I had with the LP60 and it usually had to do with the speakers being on the same surface as the turntable. Not always - but it did solve some issues.
Been playing records since early 70's grew up with the typical BSR console type player with fm& am radio 8 track player ceramic cart thats all I knew before high school but got a job during high school in a record store that had the real deal the TT's you mentioned are good choices the u- turn is one I would consider if I wanted a manual never liked the round belt I knew when I saw it that belt would fall off if they used a flat belt they never would of had any problems but glad they fixed it I do have a pr0-ject debut 3 manual TT currently I have 8 TT's set up I like automatic TT's cause I love the mechanical aspect of the TT its like a little robot that I grew up watching shows like lost in space , I am not good at sending pictures so I will not waste your time with my fumbling but I have 3 Dual tt's 1237 ,1246,and the 1009sk which is my most prized turntable and only one that I did not have to repair ,then I have a garrard auto slim MPK 2 with an AT-3600l cart it had a sonotone ceramic cart but i switched it then the AT-60 lab series this is my second fav I have my original onkyo CP-1055F2 direct drive computer controled quartz drive TT from 1985 still runs great then a BSR 610 ,audiotechnica ATLP-120 usb quartz drive manual,then the pro-ject Debut 3 with an acrylic platter it came with metal platter but switching speed worried I might drop platter onto wood base of tt and scratching wood surface I have a fischer c 20 if I remember with the ceramic cart which is the type my father had and got it to remember him by and I found an aiwa fullt automatic from 1999 looks like the atlp-60 and I have vhe ELAC 40 sold by realistic that I am am having a difficult time in repairing so many small plastic gizmos untill I can get a manual for it I,it worked when I first got it but it not at this time the only TT to stump me so far,been fascinated by the turntable for as long I can remember ,I am more partial to the older models from late 60's to early 70's would love to get my hands on thorens automatic player but so far not yet ,I will try to send a pic or two if I can sending piucs to other people on a cmputer is not my beat thing JRo
Hi JRo! 8 turntables! Wow. Love the reference to Lost In Space. I loved that show back in the day and even had a toy robot to match!
Having been around for a long time and around the industry/hobby equally, for around $400 or less I would advise folks to steer clear of the Audio Technica turntables. It is not that they have glaring flaws and are overall bad, but they are not built that well and can't really grow. They are good for youngins and will get one by for a short time in a pinch. However, for the same money or a tiny bit more, one can do far better and have a table that can last longer such as U-Turn as you mentioned (although I would advise to at least change the cartridge on the basic to something like the Ortofon OM5 at least. Better yet would be to go with the Orbit Custom and swap out the cartridge and add a Cue lever = $354).
Fluance is another very good choice, they have 5 turntables under $400 to choose from. They have the RT80, but I would advise for $50 more ($250) to start with the RT81 as it is a lot more table for the money.
Music hall and Pro-Ject are top choices in my book.
In my travels I always found more folks looking for a turntable that is a slight notch above Entry Level. I also found that they think they have to spend close to $1000 or more, then I show them that all they need is $600 to get into a table that is massively upgradeable and will last them for years! For as little as $600 one can get a serious table from the likes of Pro-Ject (my personal first choice), Music Hall, Rega and so on. Such tables can be upgraded in many ways later with ease (different mat, platter in some cases, wider range of cartridge and even the tonearm on some).
I also advise that even if one wants to get a $400 or less table, they need not worry about phono stage being built in or not. There are plenty of outboard phono stages for around $200 to $400 more that can travel with one even if swapping out the turntable later. One can get a "Entry-level table and an outboard phone stage for around as little as $400.
All that said though, at least in the US, if one is going to purchase anything audio (or electronic and the like) it better be within the next couple of months, because come February, prices and availability are going to be high and scarce in the US. There won't be such a thing as a $400 turntable.
What do I run? I'm not ashamed: I run vintage tables (Denon DP47f, Pioneer PL510A, Pioneer PL-530). Sure, I can't swap out tonearms and the Anti-skate on the Denon is automatic and I can't adjust tonearm height, but everything else I can. Those table are also built like tanks. Even with the stock arms I have a wide variety of carts I can use. I just installed a Sumiko Olympic on the PL510A and it is the best that table has ever sounded. I was running AT carts before and the Sumiko turned out to be an extreme upgrade for that one. Of course, I am cheating a little running it through a high-end phono preamp.
I do like Sumiko carts. I recently popped in a Hana SH and instantly fell in love with it
@@TheJoyofVinylRecords Yes, I was not sure what to expect with the Sumiko, I was not sure it would sound any better or different than the ATs I had been running, but I was pleasantly surprised by it. I t sounds way better then the ATs and the ATs were not bad, I just wanted something different within my budget. I almost got a Hana, but decided that was not money well spent on a 1972 table I paid $25 for. I was thinking about getting a Hana for my Denon, but decided it is easier to just replace the stylus on my 2M Bronze, which is just about due. I'm also not a fan of MC carts. I have a new MC cart in the wings I may try one day (Denon DL110), I bought it about 10 years ago and never installed it. Glad I got it though because it is now over four times what I paid. I got it for around $80, they now go for $400.
Thank you very clear info as always . Just fir my pro ject t1 . Now I have to find a recommendable budgetcohone stage . Any suggestions from your side highly appreciated as the internet and RUclips are wrecking my head whatcto go for . Tbank you and kind regards from Ireland. R
Hi Rudy! By budget are you looking for something around the same price range ($400 and less)? There are quite a few that fall into that category which are good to begin with. 🍺
Nobim looking for spnething around 100 euro/dollars. Would be good to get something without any noise. Tbank you for reply
Fluance and AT LP120 are great turntables.
They really are!
Recently saw the Denon DP300F on sale for $199.
you dont need the background blur, just focus on your face for natural boka effect
I’m still on the fence, in regards to vinyl. I have the ProJect Debut Carbon turntable with the Sumiko cartridge, which has been working fine. For power and the phono preamp, I am running the Music Hall a30.3 integrated amplifier (85/160 watts at 8/4 ohms respectively) with Sparkos Labs discrete op amps. I also have the Music Hall pa2.2 phono preamp, which I need to hook up and see if I get any sound improvements. Even after listening to a 45-rpm MoFi Dire Straits self-titled album, I still feel that streaming off of my Cambridge Audio MXN10 or playing a CD from my Music Hall cd-dac15.3, gives me better dynamics, darker background, deeper and wider soundstage, and an overall better experience, than vinyl playback. My other issue with vinyl, is that it is so freakin’ expensive and I’ve noticed some quality control issues outside of the higher quality pressings. Now, I recently upgraded my speakers, but have not listened to any vinyl on the new speakers. Waiting to break them in.
Do you mind me asking which speakers?
I too have seen QC issues with new pressings on a handful of records. It does seem to me that the issues I'm seeing were very rare decades ago.
@ The speakers are Cabasse Murano Alto’s and sound ridiculously good! Bought them while they were 50% off. I mean, the Dire Straits MoFi record sounded pretty good on my previous Wharfedale Diamond 225 speakers with a 10” sub, but the sound from the Cabasse speakers put me at a new level indeed! No need for a sub and the bass sounds so much tighter and instruments sound so realistic and separated with CD’s and streaming. I just quickly listened to Sultans of Swing on the MoFi vinyl using the onboard phono amp, and I notice some harshness in his voice and the cymbals. When I play the same song over the Cambridge Audio MXN10, that harshness is no longer there and the instrument separation is better. I wonder, now that I have more revealing speakers, I may need to upgrade the cartridge and phono stage.
@@TheJoyofVinylRecords Yeah, I received a brand new record that was warped when I pulled it out. I’ve only purchased a few used vinyls. I do notice the slightly warmer sound from vinyl, but I’ve read a review that Music Hall amplifiers have a bit of warmth to them already, which helps when listening to digital.
@@TheJoyofVinylRecords Sorry, I did some internet searches regarding the Dire Straits self-titled 45-rpm (accidentally said 33-rpm earlier) MoFi album and others have complained about sibilance on some of the recordings, which explains what I am hearing. Will listen to some of my other records for comparison.
Fluance!!!!!!!!!
I second this! I got my rt81 Plus for under 400 dollars. You can't go wrong with Fluance.
I should have included Fluance! My bad there.
What about a video on HEADPHONES for vinyl..... under 500 and 501 to 1k.. ?
Hi Judge! I'm probably not the best one to do that as I've never used headphones (except for when I record podcasts). Maybe someday
@@TheJoyofVinylRecords One day! - As a non-user you might be the best candidate for the job, you can "go in blind" as it were, reviewing not only the headphone but also comparing it as a "" non headphone guy" and how the experience compares with the same LP. I'm speakers downstairs and "open back" headphones upstairs. No bluetooth, always wired.
Under 400 I would get an ATLP120 instead.
Significantly better than a ATLP60/70 and has room for growth since it uses standard type cartridges.
RT-81+
Kicked myself after - would have been a perfect inclusion. Oh well... at least it's captured in the comments! 🍺🍺🍺
Hi, I was wondering if you could give me any advice on a pre amp? My current set up is a cheap pre amp from Amazon, which I don’t think is bringing out the best quality, the pro- ject T1 with ortofon om 20 stylus. Unfortunately I don’t have a lot of space to play with, and was considering getting MOON 110LP V2 PHONO PREAMPLIFIER? I would really appreciate any feedback / recommendations you have as I’m at a bit of a loss. Thank you
Hi Laura! If you want to stick with Pro0-Ject for synergy - i recommend the Pro-ject tube box or their phonobox. I've used their tube box in the past for a few years and was happy with it. Both are within the same price range of the Moon
@@TheJoyofVinylRecordsAh ok, thats good to know, thank you. Which would you personally recommend out of them both? And are they fairly generous with their loudness in sound? Not sure if you can alter much, like the gain etc. Something small that delivers is what I’m after, doesn’t necessarily have to be Pro - ject. I’m uk based, so anything here would be preferable :)
@@Laura_M8 I would choose the Tube box.If you're opposed to tubes - the solid state version has received praise. They are both small . Being UK based - Rega makes a phono stage but I haven't had any experience with it, and it also appears to have a small form factor (same price range as all the others).
@@TheJoyofVinylRecordsAre you referring to the Pro - ject tube box S2?
@ Yes- exactly.
Orbit = great value
So basically it all boils down to preference. There is nothing that would increase or hinder the listening experience? Im a millennial so the feel of using the machine isn’t something I care about. I just want one for the ability to play what my parents have passed to me.
I would go with the ATLP70 then
I find this entry level terminilogy curious. My first turntable was the classic original AR unit with the superior 3 point suspension that AR invented and has never been surpased. It had no antiskate but it was wonderful. Now vinyl has become sort of a cult. Listening to some of these gurus makes CD's sound better and better. I have several good turntables but I don't go nuts over all these do's and don't's. Life it too short. Bear in mind that both vinyl and CD have flaws. Just enjoy the music. Remember that you cannot reproduce a concert hall in your room. It's all an ilusion.
I got my first turntable in the 1970s. The difference back in the day was that LPs were mainstream. When the cassette and CD overtook LP, any advocacy of LP became misinterpreted as something it never was.
Anyway, we’ve seen these videos because a few generations now don’t know anything about them.
I’d argue a bit to go up to the $2000 range. It’s an investment you won’t regret if you love vinyl.
I don't disagree - this is mainly for those starting out or on a low budget (like I once was) 😎