5 Best Turntables Under $2000 in 2023
Are you looking for the best turntables under $2000? Look no further! We’ve done the research and compiled a list of our top picks to help you find the perfect turntable. Whether you’re an audiophile or just getting into vinyl, there’s something here to fit your needs.
From classic designs to modern features, we’ve got it all covered. So get ready to spin some records with these five best turntables under $2000!
What are The Best Turntables Under $2000?
Best Overall Turntable | Music Hall MMF-5.3 2 Speed Belt Driven Audiophile Turntable |
Best Budget Turntable | Gemini Sound TT-4000 |
Best Mid-Range Turntable | Rega Planar 3 |
Best High-End Turntable | Andover Audio Andover-One Turntable |
Best Value for Money Turntable | Thorens TD 206 Evolution |
Music Hall MMF-5.3 2 Speed Belt Driven Audiophile Turntable
Best Overall Turntable
Drive Type: belt-drive
Connectivity Technology: Wired
Material: Plastic
Item Weight: 24 Pounds
Motor Type: AC Motor
Power Source: Adaptor
The Music Hall MMF-5.3 2 Speed Belt Driven Audiophile Turntable is a top-tier record player that features innovative design and quality craftsmanship, guaranteeing an excellent listening experience.
The unique dual-plinth construction helps to isolate the sound reproduction components from each other to reduce vibration and optimize sound clarity. DC synchronous motor technology allows for superior speed stability and precision tracking, while the 9-inch alloy tonearm has an adjustable counterweight for perfect balance when playing records.
This system also includes an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge with a replaceable nude elliptical diamond stylus for effortless playback of all your favorite vinyl. The Music Hall MMF-5.3 combines dependability, power, style, and performance making it one of the best overall audiophile-grade record players available today.
What we like/dislike
Pros:
– Unique dual-plinth construction isolates sound reproduction components, reduces vibration, and optimizes sound clarity
– DC synchronous motor technology for superior speed stability and precision tracking
– 9” alloy tonearm with adjustable counterweight for perfect balance when playing records
– Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge with replaceable nude elliptical diamond stylus provides effortless playback of all vinyl
– Stylish high gloss black lacquer finish for an attractive look and feel
– Special vibration-damping adjustable feet ensure optimal performance in any environment
Cons:
– Does not include a dust cover
– Not compatible with 78 RPM records
– Record clamp is sold separately
– No automatic tonearm lift and cueing device included
– Speed adjustment requires manual pulley changeover which may be inconvenient for some users
– Setup instructions may be complicated for inexperienced users
Gemini Sound TT-4000
Best Budget Turntable
Drive Type: Direct-drive
Connectivity Technology: Wired
Material: Plastic
Motor Type: DC Motor
Signal Format: Digital
Power Source: Corded Electric
The Gemini Sound TT-4000 Turntable is an excellent choice for vinyl enthusiasts seeking a budget solution. It has all the features you’d expect from a higher-end turntable, such as a die-cast aluminum platter, high torque direct drive motor, and statically balanced S-shaped tonearm with hydraulic lift and anti-skate mechanism but at an affordable price.
The package also comes with an HDCN-15 headshell/cartridge and elliptical stylus that give you crystal clear sound quality every time. Additionally, this record player includes an auto-stop feature for convenience and it’s built to last due to its redesigned chassis-reinforced housing construction.
Lastly, it is equipped with phono preamp output switchable RCA phono/line outputs plus a USB connection allowing you to easily connect to other devices or computers for recording your records using the included Audacity software. Overall, the Gemini Sound TT-4000 Turntable offers great value for money and will certainly satisfy even the most discerning vinyl fanatics!
What we like/dislike
Pros:
– Die-cast aluminum platter and high torque direct drive motor for crystal clear sound quality
– Statically balanced S-shaped tonearm with hydraulic lift and anti-skate mechanism for stable rotation and accurate tracking
– HDCN-15 headshell/cartridge with elliptical stylus ensures the sharp sound output
– Auto stop feature for convenience
– Redesigned chassis reinforced housing construction provides durability
– Phono preamp plus switchable RCA phono/line outputs make a connection to other devices or computers easy
– High-resolution USB connection allows recording of vinyl using included Audacity software
– Affordable price great value for money
Cons:
– No built-in speaker
– The platter may be too light for some users
– Cartridge/headshell is low quality
– Limited Pitch range adjustment
– Not suitable for DJs who need to scratch records
– Not compatible with 78 RPM discs
Rega Planar 3
Best Mid-Range Turntable
Drive Type: belt-drive
Motor: 24 V low-noise motor
Connectivity: RCA / Phono
Power (additional): Mini DIN for connection to Neo PSU (optional upgrade)
Weight: 6.0 kg
The Rega Planar 3 is a great mid-range turntable that offers exceptional value for money. It is equipped with the RB330 precision tonearm, and you have the option of fitting either the Rega Elys 2 MM or Exact MM cartridge.
The double brace technology ensures maximum structural rigidity while dampening external vibrations, and its 24 V low-noise motor makes it even quieter than other models in its class.
Furthermore, this Rega record player includes a 12 mm float glass opti-white polished platter and a high gloss plinth with three color options to choose from. Advanced EBLT drive belts are factory fitted starting from March 2021 making this an even better buy!
Lastly, it comes with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects so you can rest assured your purchase will last for years to come.”
What we like/dislike
Pros:
– RB330 precision tonearm for superior sound quality
– Option to fit Rega Elys 2 MM or Exact MM cartridge
– Double brace technology for maximum structural rigidity
– 24 V low noise motor to reduce vibrations and increase quietness
– 12 mm float glass opti-white polished platter for a smooth listening experience
– High gloss plinth with three color options available
– Advanced EBLT drive belt factory fitted from March 2021 onwards
– Lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects
Cons:
– Does not include a pre-installed cartridge
– More expensive than many other models in its class
– Not compatible with all types of cartridges
– Can take some time to get used to the setup and calibration process
– May require additional accessories for full functionality (e.g. external power supply)
Andover Audio Andover-One Turntable
Best High-End Turntable
Drive Type: Belt-drive
Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth
Material: Hardwood
Signal Format: Digital
Power Source: Corded Electric
The Andover Audio Andover-One Turntable is a great choice for high-end turntables. It comes with the Songbird Internet Streamer which has an impressive $99 value, and its plug-and-play technology makes setup easy.
The midcentury design of this turntable exudes elegance while its Bluetooth (APT-X Codec) ensures crystal clear sound quality. Its preinstalled Ortofon 2M “Silver” cartridge offers unhindered performance thanks to IsoGroove Technology, and its walnut hardwood frames bring a timeless touch to any room.
Plus, the Andover One Turntable can be expanded with record storage stands and dual 10” subwoofers for even more convenience and enjoyment. In conclusion, if you’re looking for a reliable and stylish high-end turntable, the Andover Audio Andover One Turntable is an excellent choice!
What we like/dislike
Pros:
– Includes Songbird Internet Streamer ($99 Value)
– Plug-and-Play Technology for Easy Setup
– Elegant Mid-Century Design
– Bluetooth (APT-X Codec) for Clear Audio Quality
– Preinstalled Ortofon 2M “Silver” Cartridge with IsoGroove Technology for Noise Free Performance
– Genuine Walnut Hardwood Frames for a Timeless Touch to Any Room
– Ability to Expand with Record Storage Stands and Dual 10″ Subwoofer
Cons:
– Relatively High Price Point
– Heavy Weight (44.1 lbs)
– Lack of Automatic Arm Lifting Feature
– Does Not Include Preamp for Connecting Other Audio Components
– No USB or Optical Inputs
– Limited Compatibility with Vinyl Records
Thorens TD 206 Evolution
Best Value for Money Turntable
Drive Type: belt-drive
Motor: servo-controlled DC motor
Power Supply: external plug-in power supply, 12 V DC/AC, 6 W min.
Weight: 5.6 kg
The Thorens TD 206 Evolution is the best value-for-money turntable with great features. The low noise, low voltage electronically speed-controlled DC motor ensures that performance stays consistent even when the power output changes. It also offers adjustable belt tension for optimal sound quality.
Additionally, its two-part aluminum/acrylic platter helps keep records playing without skipping and its new TP 90 tonearm has precision Japanese bearings which make tracking accurate and easy to adjust VTA, azimuth, and overhang settings. Finally knowing this turntable was made in Germany gives you peace of mind as the craftsmanship is unbeatable at this price point!
All in all, I would highly recommend the Thorens TD 206 Evolution if you’re looking for an excellent turntable without breaking your budget.
What we like/dislike
Pros:
– Low Noise, Low Voltage electronically speed controlled DC Motor
– Adjustable belt tension for best performance
– Two-part aluminum/acrylic platter for skipping prevention
– New TP 90 tonearm with precision Japanese bearings for accurate tracking
– Tonearm adjustable for VTA, azimuth, and overhang settings
– Made in Germany ensuring craftsmanship is unbeatable at this price point
Cons:
– May not be compatible with all speakers or audio systems
– Might require an extra phono preamp for connection to modern amplifiers
– Tracking force may need adjustment due to the tonearm’s fixed headshell design
– Can be difficult for non-experts to set up and fine-tune tonearm settings
What Should You Consider When Buying The Best Turntables Under $2000
Are you looking for the best turntable under $2000? If so, you’re in luck! With so many great options on the market today, finding a high-quality turntable that fits your budget can be easier than ever.
But with all the choices available, it can be difficult to make sure you get exactly what you need. By considering these steps before purchasing a new record player, you’ll have confidence knowing that your choice is right for both your budget and sound quality needs.
Research the different types of turntables available
When shopping for the best turntables under $2000, you’ll want to research the different types of record players available. From belt-driven and direct drive options to manual vs. automatic operation models, there are a variety of different turntables out there that can fit a range of budgets and needs.
Consider your budget and what features you need
Consider your budget and the features you need from your turntable. Knowing how much you have to spend will help narrow down your search and make sure you get something that fits within your price range. Additionally, think about what features are most important for you– such as adjustable speeds or built-in preamps– so you can prioritize them when doing research.
Look for a turntable with a good tonearm, cartridge, and preamp
Look for a turntable with a good tonearm, cartridge, and preamp. The tonearm is responsible for tracking the record’s grooves accurately while the cartridge converts analog sound into digital signals. A quality preamp can boost signal strength and provide added clarity to your sound.
Make sure the turntable is compatible with your existing audio setup
When it comes to choosing a turntable, compatibility with your existing audio setup is essential. Turntables come in various sizes and shapes, with different features and functions that can help you achieve the best sound quality for your music.
It is important to consider whether your current setup has the appropriate components for connecting a new turntable or if any additional modifications would be needed. Furthermore, you should also think about how the turntable will be powered – some use an AC adapter while others need batteries.
Additionally, check what kind of input and output options are available on the device. If you plan on using a receiver, amplifier, or preamp, make sure the turntable’s outputs are compatible with their inputs. Many higher-end models offer a USB connection that allows you to transfer music from the record player directly to your computer or other digital devices.
It is also important to research different types of cartridges, as these can affect sound quality significantly. Generally speaking, moving magnet cartridges produce better sound than ceramic ones and are typically more expensive, but they also require more maintenance than their counterparts.
On the other hand, ceramic cartridges are more affordable and require less upkeep, but the sound quality may not be as good.
Find out if any additional accessories come with the turntable
Finally, find out if any additional accessories come with the turntable. Many models come with a dust cover and record clamp to reduce resonance and protect your vinyl records from damage, while others include extra cables or USB sticks for digital audio transfer.
FAQs
Conclusion
When it comes to finding the best turntable under $2000, there are many factors to consider. From the sound quality and cartridge type to preamps, tonearms, and compatibility with existing audio setups, you’ll want to make sure that all your needs will be met. Earlier we wrote a list of turntables under $1000. Maybe you should interested in reading this.
With this article’s helpful advice on what features to look for in a new turntable as well as FAQs about the topic, we hope that you now feel more informed and confident when making your decision.
Whether you opt for an automatic or manual model, moving magnet, or ceramic cartridge – whichever is right for you – remember that research should always come first! Best of luck picking out the perfect turntable!
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