Here are the links to the Turntables listed in the video: 5⃣ Pro-Ject Debut Carbon: (Amazon) geni.us/QYzHD9 4⃣ Fluance RT81: (Amazon) geni.us/ttdxiE8 3⃣ Denon DP-300F: (Amazon) geni.us/yO1Qn 2⃣ Audio-Technica AT-LP60: (Amazon) geni.us/dmTXD 1⃣ Audio-Technica AT-LP120X: (Amazon) geni.us/ZUxWrhK I hope you liked the video! Please let me know below if you would like me to review a product that was not covered in this roundup. CheerS!
I've owned high end/priced turntables before and they were great but... My Technics 1200 finally gave out on me a few years back so I decided to try out a Audio Technica LP-120XUSB. Have to say it has been a great player for over 2 years now. It sounds amazing, direct drive and functions perfectly, no issues. I would highly recommend it, even for those that think they have to spend mega money for audiophile equipment, it made me think.
I have the technics 1200GR. Besides the great quality it's made in a country where people want to be paid and are not ruled by communist. That's how they can get these poor quality made products at a price point we paid for 40 years ago.
@@Lee.Higginbotham LOL I feel the same as you but don't fool yourself. Technics makes a lot of their products in the same countries and factories as Japan based Audio Technica.
About seven months ago, I bought an AT-LP120XUSB. I can't say anything bad about this TT. I haven't got that much money, but if you can afford it, get it. I have got a lot of mono records I bought a new head shell and a mono cartridge. It's a bit difficult to set up (a protractor is a must), but once you have it aligned, no problem. Vinyl rules!
I also like the extra features of the AT LP120 that are originally meant for DJs. The target light comes handy when your room is not bright enough to find a track, and the reverse play is fun for listening to 'secret messages', and sometimes it can even fix skips.
I have the AT LP120xbt and I have to say this is legitimate. It's modeled after the Technics 1200. It is a solid table. Don't be turned away because of the name, it is a audiophiles dream. I am totally satisfied with this table. Love it.
I've owned an AT-LP 120USB. for the past 3 to 4 years. It's never failed me, tracks great and has never skipped on any record. This turntable is a real solid performer. The newer Audio Technica have probably replaced this model. Build quality on mine may be better. More metal and less plastic than the newer models.
I have a superb REGA Planar 1 - British made and with a price tag, which makes it exceptional value considering its build quality and outstanding sound.
simon bartlett 0 seconds ago i agree, i have a 1986 Rega Planar 3 with an RB 300 tone arm, and theres nothing that can match it for the money. well i paid 185 british pounds for it back in the day. Have had a new drive belt and replaced a capacitor on it but thats all in 37 years. Not bad i say.
RT-85 should be #1. Comes with Ortofon blue, excellent dampening and leveling flexibility. Belt driven. Acrylic platter. Sounds amazing looks gorgeous.
Nice budget beginner tables. Never belt drive for me though. I would say, get a Technics 1200 (new or even used), a Reloop 7000 or 8000, a Pioneer 1000 and yes, or the Audio Technica that was shown. It's an investment, so get something that will outlast you. So many easy to get, play as you pay options now a days. A $1,000 or more turntable for less than $50 a month. That's just me. There are many people still using Technics Turntables that were and still are around $500, that they bought 30 - 40 years ago, which have never given them a problem. Ebay has a ton of them, in excellent shape too.
Hmm, well I’ve had my belt driven Thicc (🤭) platter-as-heavy-as-a-house CAs for what, two decodes now? I”m still kinda partial to em. But hey, I also like rosewood bodied phono cartridges and I wash/vacuum my vinyl. I’m just weird like that 🤙. Equipment is cool, but I’m more into how it presents the music. Experimenting with tone arms and cartridge pairings is fun (I like both MM & MC - depends on the music and the tone arm matchup). Speaking of which, back to the music, Heilung (vinyl) is spinning, then maybe followed by some Alita Battle Angel soundtrack (vinyl), a dash of Woodkid (not vinyl) and wrapping w Doobies Black Water (vinyl). Wonder if the the new Tears for Fears “The Tipping Point” album will release on vinyl?
I have an older version of the Audio-Technica AT-LP120, and it is worth the money, I have upgraded some parts on it; a heavier counter weight, an Ortofon 2m red cartridge, and a cork platter mat. I love it. I still use the built in pre-amp, which when fed through a good equalizer sounds amazing, especially if you use headphones so you don't have to worry about vibrations.
I have this exact turntable and it, sadly, has a pronounced rumble. I bought a 2nd one just to see if the rumble was isolated to one specific unit. Nope. The 2nd one rumbled just like the first one. You can actually hear the turntable running even when it's not playing a record. The turntable rumble that you hear is transferred directly to the playback. This is a good unit for general listening. But for making digital archive recordings, this model is a bad choice as you'll hear the turntable rumble in each and every playback/recording. The features and pre-amp are good. But the rumble outweighs all. A noisy turntable is a bad turntable. The rumble due to the direct-drive motor setup. If you remove the aluminum platter the spindle turns very erratically and produces the same rumble. Exactly the same rumble you hear with the platter installed, but more obvious with the platter removed.
New turntables have come a long way, but I will never sell my Technics 1210ls5mg. Just a work if art, and sounds great too! Nothing wrong with owning to though...
I'd rather have put in the RT-85 instead of the RT-81 (which is an excellent choice for vinly starters). It's in or slightly above the price range of the Debut Carbon, but comes with a superior 2M Blue and an acrylic platter. Plus, its W&F (0.07%) rating is far superior to the rather mediocre 0.2% of the Pro-Ject.
Can not recommend the LP120x enough . My 1210 died on me after 24 years of use . I was gonna pay out 800 quid for a new one then was told about the 120x at nearly a quarter of the price . It does everything I want it to do and it does it really well . The only fault with it I can say is start up and stopping is a little slow . Not ideal if you want to dj with it but for listening to vinyl it is perfect .
Agreed. I have one as well and its a great option if you can't afford really high end gear. And dialing in the balance of the tone arm isn't that difficult. If you don't know how to do it, there are tutorials on YT. Regardless, above all else it makes my records sound better than ever. And I've got some records from 50 years ago and they sound CLEAN on this turntable. Really impressed with it.
@@dontmindmyname7563 You need to be patient and source locally, such as through craigslist or other local classified listings. Ebay tends to be priced higher.
I remember in the 80's and 90's when a turntable was, the most part of the time, the only way to listen to music. They were cheap and easy to buy. Nowadays they are very expensive.
Don't listen to those who say Technics this, Technics that. It's a pain to find the parts as you will need them in an aging TT that will soon be obsolete and expensive to fix, and the newer Technics models are insanely expensive and not as good as the old ones. Choose practicality and features over looks and price. The difference between entry/mid and high level TT aren't worth the price difference (diminishing returns).
I've had the Audio-Technica AT-LP120X for almost a year now......love just about everything about it, definitely the best sounding turntable I've ever owned. Just the usual cue lever issues, otherwise, it is awesome......
I adore my Fluance rt81 such a wonderful piece of audio equipment. Did the 24hour motor burn in runs nice with no speed or wow problems. I use the Edifier 1280t speakers paired with the Fluance the sound is rich, full with plenty of sparkle and bass. Favorite album is Rush "Moving Pictures " and does that albums sound detailed and very satisfying. I will stay with this setup no need or want to buy anything else when it comes to turntable or speakers.
Having a list of the TOP 5 turntables and including Audio Technica twice and no mention of any Rega decks makes this a review worth skipping. Just like any quality records will be with any kind of bass played back on your Audio Technica turntable.
I absolutely love love love my audio technic a 120 X it’s a very fantastic record player I bought a record player before this and it was pretty good but the sound was not that great and the beast was left to be desired. I have two turntables one is the audio technic a 140 it’s a good player record player as well the one thing I did wish that the audio technic a 120 X hard but the 140 does have is one of my favorite features and that is the forward and reverse playback I love the sound quality of the audio technic a 120 X and the fact that you have two options the line out and the phone a preamp which is fantastic all the way through. I’m so glad that the audio technical us are not as expensive as far as an arm and a leg is concerned I highly recommend audio technic out to anyone who wants to get into vinyl.
The Video should be "Top 5 up to £xxx". You can spend over £10k or more on a top Turntable. These on your list are good for someone starting on the Vinyl road.
These are simply the cheapest 'Mass Produced' one: right? Try some far better one like: Technics SL-1500C, Cambridge Audio Alva TT, any Music Hall TT's, and I really like the Pro-Ject’s 6Perspex SB table with my Goldring E3 Phono Cartridge. Current set up in listening room is my Dual 5000 and my Ortofon 2M Black MM Cartridge : Classic stuff.
I had purchased an AudioTechnica AT-LP60 but immediately returned it when I realized that it's cartridge could not be removed. For a little more I got the Fluance RT81, AND an extra stylus for playing 78s which I needed to digitize some of my parents old records. Plus, the cartridge that comes with it is far superior to the LP60, and it looks a whole lot better too.
Rare breed that will still digitize their folks old 78s...that's cool. Likewise, my parents still have some of theirs kickin' around...but they've never expressed an interest in having me convert them, thankfully. Did you do much noise reduction during the conversion?
@@SilentKnight43 - I have yet to complete the process, but I’ll get there. The main reason I’m wanting to do these 78s is because they’re French, my dad picked them up when he was stationed in Paris in the mid 50s. The Fluance looks 100x better than the AudioTechnica as well!
Best turntable is vintage turntable. An AR XA/XB has less wow and flutter (0.08) than 1.5k turntables, but you can pick one up for less than 100 if you know where to look. 1500% cheaper for better quality.
I just ordered a Fluance RT85. Really looking forward to it arriving in the mail and hooking it up. My turntable broke a few years ago so I am looking forward to a much upgraded turntable.
Just outta curiousity how come no one ever talks about the Audio-Technica AT-LP 140XP...??? Just curious my friend. I purchased one myself, for DJ Skratching, & havent seen anything about both that turntable, & the Reloop Spin, as well.... Thanx..... 👍👌💪🙏🔥💯🐺😎
The 140 is too high priced in Australia, I was dubious about the quality of hum shielding since my old 120USB was atrocious for buzz/hum, I finally broke out the 1200 MK4 and it's perfect then I started to hear hum through the blank grooves and had to remount the transformer
This video reminded me of the old "Stereo Reviews" magazine reviews on equipment "For the money,this (speaker,cassette deck,CD player,tuner,preamp) is the bomb"
I have the 2013 version of the AT-LP120. It's great if you have 78s. I bought a Shure cartridge for 78s while they were still available. Great for digitizing LPs!
you are 1000% on it there is nothing beter than a technics sl 1200Mk2 or a 1210 Mk2 i have the sl1210 Mk2 that i got in 1989 and i have a old technics sl 3300 from 1980
@@dyrnenorka Mine is a Technics SL D303 fully automatic, it still works almost perfect. I am not sure what year it was made, but I think it was made in the early 80s.
@Icky Icky Batang There is nothing wrong with a good belt driven turntable, just belts have to be replaced over time. It is about how quiet they run and how well they track a record at a light stylus pressure. Under 2 grams of stylus weight on the stylus and very low noise from the turntable, with a perfect speed is the goal. A $4000 dollar turntable does NOT buy you perfection because records are not perfect. I like direct drive because there are no belts to replace and most seem to last the test of time.
I love my AT120, the only thing I wish it did that it doesn't is the automatic start and arm return. I am blind and have unsteady hands, can't say how many time's I've either missed the record or had a hand tremor that sent the arm flying. Everything else about this player is fantastic.
I'm still running my Dual CS-505-3 with Goldring GX1012, great turntable, although I recently found a new Dual CS-505-4 costs about the same as a Rega RP3 (I'm in the UK).
@@simonoleary9264 so cool my kids bought me a new turntable for Christmas exactly like the old one I'm still waiting for it along with a set of pinnacle loudspeakers I can't wait to play it I have 12oo albums I have been collecting since I was twelve I'm very excited about it but my wife of 37 years is not as excited as me
@@roberthill4652 That's awesome. Hope enjoy your revised setup 🙂. I started my collection in the early 80's, but switched to CD's in the mid 90's. Still got all my vinyl though and have started adding to it again (mostly original pressings). I've got nowhere near 1200, although my wife inherited all her mum's 1st day releases of the Beatles albums (she's a huge Beatles & Queen fan). Hope you really enjoy your Christmas prezzie.
Not a bad listing but I wohld still advice to buy a good vintage turntable (serviced!) With a good cart like the Nagaoka np110. Would cost about the same but give better sound.
Bought AT.LP 120X over a year ago. I have an AT 95e cartridge with my own AT head shell. It's a grate turntable, very easy to use. Play it a lot and the only issue I have is the cuing has lost its dampening so when I cue a record the tone arm drops like a rock. Until I top up the dampening fluid I have to let the tone arm down slowly.
I have a BSR from the early 70s and a pioneer from the 90s they both have all the features that are mentioned in the video, taking care of my equipment and my vinyl collection has been a priority of mine since the 60s love the old school stuff, how the speakers "jump" to life when the diamond slowly settles down on the record.
Bought some technics 1210 mk5 back in the day, unfortunately I had to sell them :( £400 each brand new, now 1210 mk7 around £799 each, pure madness lol
This is a good video. I think it bears mentioning the AT-LP60 is a very good beginning turn table, but is very limited in its capabilities. Number one is the tracking weight of the tonearm. It tracks around 4 grams which is a bit heavy and will cause premature wear in good vinyl. It is great for old records that may be a little worn already. The other is you cannot upgrade this table very much. The conical cartridge it comes with is good, but an elliptical would be a lot better sounding. On the plus side, replacements are cheap. Thanks.
Not the "five best turntables on the market today" by any possible yardstick. Should be renamed, "the likeliest turntables to generate Amazon commission via link click-through."
Sorry, but you made one wrong comment. I found a record that I could not play on my AT-LP120USB. It was an OLD 16". 16-2/3 RPM record that probably would not play on ANY modern turntable, but it was still a record with music on it.
My daily driver is a Pioneer PL117D with an Audio-Technica AT-VMN95ML - using the ART Pro Audio DJ PRE II Phono Preamplifier ( 12 volt PSU) connected to a DBX 3BX Series II, the Behringer Ultragraph Pro FBQ3102 and my Pioneer VSX 933 - strictly for playing my vinyl collection -
Interesting that you count "fully automatic" as a pro, when it is always regarded as a no-no by anyone seriously into vinyl. I spent around £250 on my fairly high end turntable, arm and cartridge combination, although that was admittedly in the mid 1970s. I've recently had the arm overhauled by the manufacturer, but it all still works perfectly and sounds great, which rather shows the value of buying decent gear in the first place. Oh, and it's curious that all of your links lead to Amazon - almost as if this is a sales pitch.
I have 3 of the turntables which you have shown in this video and wish to make some corrections about the Denon Dp-300f and Audio-Technica AT-Lp60. I love the Pro-Ject for it's fabulous sound but it certainly is a pain to have to get near it before the side of a record is finished, to prevent the tone-arm from moving onto the record inlay and crashing onto the spindle. The Denon DP-300f, has an aluminium plinth and not a plastic one as you have mentioned. It's a brilliant turntable which truly comes to life once the stock cartridge is upgraded and has all the essentials for good sound reproduction. The Audio-Technica Lp60 is the one with an all plastic design. It is good for the price but it tracks at a higher force (3.5 grams) than the Pro-Ject's 1.8 grams and Denon's 2 grams and the sound quality, though at par for the money, is nothing to write home about.
Owned a Technics SLQ2 direct drive back in the day and upgraded to a Dual years later. But I've been table-less these days - might be in the market to get a new one again. Good video.
I have a set of ATLP140's I bought for listening and scratching. Just as good as the Technics and you save $800 per deck. Upgrading the cartridge to the AT XP5 or XP7 makes them even better. Had them for a full year now and they are still solid after playing them just about every day
Technics SL-1200 MK2 has been considered a music instrument since decades ago, due to be industrial standard and the capability to manipulate music the way you do with so pice of art. 40 years even abused on these deks, and still working today.
I would add the Audio Technica AT LP 140(X). It’s the big brother to the AT LP 120(X). It has better build quality and a higher torque motor than the 120, and has all the same features.
The LP140X is a better DJ table because of the extra beef and higher torque motor, but the motor on the 120XUSB is actually quieter, which is better for sound quality. The 140 has a damped platter that the 120 doesn't have, but the 140 also doesn't have the USB feature or built in pre-amp....that could be viewed as a plus or a minus depending on your needs, but just wanted to clarify that there are some feature differences.
@@scottspencer4018 I already know everything you said. Those are the reasons I said what I said. And I’ve never heard any motor noise from either the 120 or the 140. I don’t know why people keep saying that about these TTs, since it hasn’t been my experience with them. And I know about both from first hand experience. Can YOU say the same?
@@7JANEWAY The older gen 120USB has slight cogging noise from the motor and the tonearm isn't curved in sharp enough, hence the cart needs twisting inward with 52mm Technics overhang (needle to back washer), when I switched to the 1200 MK4 I had to realign all my carts
Plastic is not very good at dampening vibration. The pickup is incredibly sensitive to any movements or vibrations (even sound in the air), so a denser plinth will help to absorb some of these.
@@simonoleary9264 and I can't hear any vibration I can't tell the difference between one that's 300 like mine and one that's 2000 like I've heard it's not that much better to cost much much more
For the Fluance RT81 with built-in preamp, can I use this turntable with a pair of Edifier S3000 Pro bookshelf speakers (just ordered them)? Thanks for the list!
“Top best” - on what criteria? Very misleading! Stock-footage, and what seem to be a computer voice, most of the time reading company information. There is no product quality comparison whatsoever. Clearly a channel that exists just to make money through ads and affiliate links...
the only reason these channels exist is to get money from the referral sales from their affiliate links in the description. guarantee you the only reason that these turntables are featured here, and frankly the only reason that you see certain manufacturers and not others in any of their other videos is because those manufacturers have affiliate programs. the nonsense scripts that accompany these videos are a sign that these people don't care about the actual products or providing us with an unbiased review. CZcams has got to give us better option than just disliking and unsubscribing. I would love to be able to just block channels like this from ever showing up in my feed..
I think all these “Top 5” or “Top 10” turntable videos should stop pushing the Fluance RT-81 and go to the RT-83 or higher. The RT-81 has speed issues as well that have been fixed in the RT-83 and above. The speed adjustments on the 81 are a pain in the butt while there is no need for those on the upper models. The 83 is Much better and also comes with the Ortifon 2m red cartridge.
They actually fixed it in the RT-82 and higher. If you plan on upgrading your cartridge, I usually just recommend the RT-82 since with the RT-83 it's the same table just slightly better cartridge. RT-82 through 85 are the same table just different cartridges and platters.
The AT LP 120XUsb has no VTA, vertical tracking adjustment. It's a great low to mid level entry TTwith plenty of features for an audiophile, but you're pretty much stuck with the AT cartridges and you can upgrade it for a better AT, but I wished the 120x had the same features of the previous model like the VTA, better torque, and reverse button, although it fixed previous mistakes. If you want all these features, you'd have to save for the at lp 140xusb.
None of these turntables are in the same league as a Rega P3, but on the other hand, none of them cost as much. The Pro-ject Debut Carbon is close to the Rega P1, though, both in quality and price.
I don't understand why some people put thousands of dollars into a turntable. You can buy a good quality Technics turntable that has virtually no wow/ flutter or any kind of noise and a good strobe and cue system. The main thing about the sound quality of a turntable is the cartridge. The turntable will only sound as good as the cartridge. Swapped my old cartridge out for an Ortofon and I could not believe the difference it made
Yep but the atlp120 is a direct drive with noise motor, ok for dj not for for melomane who want listening the music.The belt drive for this is best for me.And i think with your choice of turn table the project debut carbon is the best and the comparable is rega pl2 and fluance rt85
It amazes me how the younger generation is so into this outdated technology. I grew up with LPs and had a huge vinyl collection, but the only thing I really miss is shopping for records. I miss flipping through them at the store and looking at the jacket art and the descriptions in the back. I don't miss anything else about them whatsoever.
The number one sounds good except for the plastic build. I dont like turntables with a built in pre amp. Even the ones that are switchable because they don't completely give you a direct signal.
i agree, i have a 1986 Rega Planar 3 with an RB 300 tone arm, and theres nothing that can match it for the money. well i paid 185 british pounds for it back in the day. Have had a new drive belt and replaced a capacitor on it but thats all in 37 years. Not bad i say.
@@simonbartlett1558 I bought an old p3 from ebay about a month ago. Early 90s model I think. Absolutely love it, sold my planar 1 to my brother who now has a good starter system.
Here are the links to the Turntables listed in the video:
5⃣ Pro-Ject Debut Carbon: (Amazon) geni.us/QYzHD9
4⃣ Fluance RT81: (Amazon) geni.us/ttdxiE8
3⃣ Denon DP-300F: (Amazon) geni.us/yO1Qn
2⃣ Audio-Technica AT-LP60: (Amazon) geni.us/dmTXD
1⃣ Audio-Technica AT-LP120X: (Amazon) geni.us/ZUxWrhK
I hope you liked the video! Please let me know below if you would like me to review a product that was not covered in this roundup.
CheerS!
Bruh, don’t use the links, just search them up. They are amazon affiliate links :/
We deserve better
None of these approach anything that could be tagged as the "best" turntables available. Just stupid.
Rega Planar P1 better than both of the AudioTechnicas
Audio-Technica AT-LP60 it's not one of the best.
I've owned high end/priced turntables before and they were great but...
My Technics 1200 finally gave out on me a few years back so I decided to try out a Audio Technica LP-120XUSB.
Have to say it has been a great player for over 2 years now. It sounds amazing, direct drive and functions perfectly, no issues.
I would highly recommend it, even for those that think they have to spend mega money for audiophile equipment, it made me think.
Stock cartridge or have you upgraded? What receiver do you use? Thanks!
I have the technics 1200GR. Besides the great quality it's made in a country where people want to be paid and are not ruled by communist. That's how they can get these poor quality made products at a price point we paid for 40 years ago.
@@Lee.Higginbotham LOL I feel the same as you but don't fool yourself. Technics makes a lot of their products in the same countries and factories as Japan based Audio Technica.
It is a great choice, I wish it had auto return
I have one too and love it. Just wish it had auto return, can't fall asleep listening to it unless u attach a on/off timer to the power cord.
About seven months ago, I bought an AT-LP120XUSB. I can't say anything bad about this TT. I haven't got that much money, but if you can afford it, get it. I have got a lot of mono records I bought a new head shell and a mono cartridge. It's a bit difficult to set up (a protractor is a must), but once you have it aligned, no problem. Vinyl rules!
I got mine at Best Buy. It saves shipping charges.
I also like the extra features of the AT LP120 that are originally meant for DJs. The target light comes handy when your room is not bright enough to find a track, and the reverse play is fun for listening to 'secret messages', and sometimes it can even fix skips.
i fixes skips a it can pull out stubborn dust particles when played in resverse where in normal play would click or sometimes skip
I have the AT LP120xbt and I have to say this is legitimate. It's modeled after the Technics 1200. It is a solid table. Don't be turned away because of the name, it is a audiophiles dream. I am totally satisfied with this table. Love it.
You should have gave some prices or at least some price ranges on your top five turntables
I've owned an AT-LP 120USB. for the past 3 to 4 years. It's never failed me, tracks great and has never skipped on any record. This turntable is a real solid performer. The newer Audio Technica have probably replaced this model. Build quality on mine may be better. More metal and less plastic than the newer models.
Also says the AT120 plays at 35.5 rpm. Great! I’ve been looking for one of those.
Lol
I have a superb REGA Planar 1 - British made and with a price tag, which makes it exceptional value considering its build quality and outstanding sound.
simon bartlett
0 seconds ago
i agree, i have a 1986 Rega Planar 3 with an RB 300 tone arm,
and theres nothing that can match it for the money. well i paid 185 british pounds for it back in the day.
Have had a new drive belt and replaced a capacitor on it but thats all in 37 years.
Not bad i say.
RT-85 should be #1. Comes with Ortofon blue, excellent dampening and leveling flexibility. Belt driven. Acrylic platter. Sounds amazing looks gorgeous.
Still have my bang Olsen hifi system I bought in 1979 with matching speakers belt drive turn table still used today
Nice budget beginner tables. Never belt drive for me though. I would say, get a Technics 1200 (new or even used), a Reloop 7000 or 8000, a Pioneer 1000 and yes, or the Audio Technica that was shown. It's an investment, so get something that will outlast you. So many easy to get, play as you pay options now a days. A $1,000 or more turntable for less than $50 a month. That's just me. There are many people still using Technics Turntables that were and still are around $500, that they bought 30 - 40 years ago, which have never given them a problem. Ebay has a ton of them, in excellent shape too.
100% right. My 1210 is 35. Only a new lamp for the cardridge
Hmm, well I’ve had my belt driven Thicc (🤭) platter-as-heavy-as-a-house CAs for what, two decodes now? I”m still kinda partial to em. But hey, I also like rosewood bodied phono cartridges and I wash/vacuum my vinyl. I’m just weird like that 🤙. Equipment is cool, but I’m more into how it presents the music. Experimenting with tone arms and cartridge pairings is fun (I like both MM & MC - depends on the music and the tone arm matchup). Speaking of which, back to the music, Heilung (vinyl) is spinning, then maybe followed by some Alita Battle Angel soundtrack (vinyl), a dash of Woodkid (not vinyl) and wrapping w Doobies Black Water (vinyl). Wonder if the the new Tears for Fears “The Tipping Point” album will release on vinyl?
I have had the Pro-Ject Carbon for years and love it. They have models with auto speed change, and preamp. Mine has a digital out.
You have ever heard of Rega or Thorens?
I have an older version of the Audio-Technica AT-LP120, and it is worth the money, I have upgraded some parts on it; a heavier counter weight, an Ortofon 2m red cartridge, and a cork platter mat. I love it. I still use the built in pre-amp, which when fed through a good equalizer sounds amazing, especially if you use headphones so you don't have to worry about vibrations.
I have this exact turntable and it, sadly, has a pronounced rumble. I bought a 2nd one just to see if the rumble was isolated to one specific unit. Nope. The 2nd one rumbled just like the first one. You can actually hear the turntable running even when it's not playing a record. The turntable rumble that you hear is transferred directly to the playback. This is a good unit for general listening. But for making digital archive recordings, this model is a bad choice as you'll hear the turntable rumble in each and every playback/recording. The features and pre-amp are good. But the rumble outweighs all. A noisy turntable is a bad turntable. The rumble due to the direct-drive motor setup. If you remove the aluminum platter the spindle turns very erratically and produces the same rumble. Exactly the same rumble you hear with the platter installed, but more obvious with the platter removed.
New turntables have come a long way, but I will never sell my Technics 1210ls5mg. Just a work if art, and sounds great too! Nothing wrong with owning to though...
Was about to post ( Nice but i'll stick to my Technics ) 😊 Thumbs up.
I own AT LP120X it's not fully plastic built arm it's metal ,platter aluminum and turntable has some metal in it's base and it weights a ton.
I'd rather have put in the RT-85 instead of the RT-81 (which is an excellent choice for vinly starters). It's in or slightly above the price range of the Debut Carbon, but comes with a superior 2M Blue and an acrylic platter. Plus, its W&F (0.07%) rating is far superior to the rather mediocre 0.2% of the Pro-Ject.
Can not recommend the LP120x enough . My 1210 died on me after 24 years of use . I was gonna pay out 800 quid for a new one then was told about the 120x at nearly a quarter of the price . It does everything I want it to do and it does it really well . The only fault with it I can say is start up and stopping is a little slow . Not ideal if you want to dj with it but for listening to vinyl it is perfect .
Thank you Benjamin for your thoughtful comment. I appreciate, mate!
Agreed. I have one as well and its a great option if you can't afford really high end gear. And dialing in the balance of the tone arm isn't that difficult. If you don't know how to do it, there are tutorials on YT. Regardless, above all else it makes my records sound better than ever. And I've got some records from 50 years ago and they sound CLEAN on this turntable. Really impressed with it.
But doesn't it have a pitch pod in the interior base?
I think in 2021 the best turntable Pioneer PLX-1000
Used SL-1200MK2?, purchased mine in 2020 for $300USD. The SL-1200MK2 tonearm is superior to the entire line up you reviewed in my opinion
good choice and a good price. I'd pay that all day.
Forever 1210
Damn, where can I find a 1200 for only $300? All the listings on ebay are $400+
@@dontmindmyname7563 You need to be patient and source locally, such as through craigslist or other local classified listings. Ebay tends to be priced higher.
I remember in the 80's and 90's when a turntable was, the most part of the time, the only way to listen to music. They were cheap and easy to buy. Nowadays they are very expensive.
Don't listen to those who say Technics this, Technics that.
It's a pain to find the parts as you will need them in an aging TT that will soon be obsolete and expensive to fix, and the newer Technics models are insanely expensive and not as good as the old ones.
Choose practicality and features over looks and price.
The difference between entry/mid and high level TT aren't worth the price difference (diminishing returns).
Should be called best budget turntables, and the list is pretty much reversed in my opinion. The Project and Fluance are the best two listed here....
Except the Fluance RT81 is $600.and it's belt driven.
@@uncleremus64 Fluance RT81 is $249.99 dummy it’s just out of stock atm
@Robert Helix Yeah the project is pretty bad, but not having a built in preamp is not a bad thing.
Hipster turntables 🤣
Yeah I came here to say the same. They started out good and got progressively worse as it went on.
I inhereted my stepfathers old 1980 Sony PS-T 22 direct drive TT it´s awsome with a new cartrage :P
I've had the Audio-Technica AT-LP120X for almost a year now......love just about everything about it, definitely the best sounding turntable I've ever owned. Just the usual cue lever issues, otherwise, it is awesome......
looking for my first turn table and leaning towards this one especially to sample records for recording is that possible?
All you got to do to fix the cue lever is to use silicon oil and it will work as brand new. There are videos showing how to apply it.
I adore my Fluance rt81 such a wonderful piece of audio equipment. Did the 24hour motor burn in runs nice with no speed or wow problems. I use the Edifier 1280t speakers paired with the Fluance the sound is rich, full with plenty of sparkle and bass. Favorite album is Rush "Moving Pictures " and does that albums sound detailed and very satisfying. I will stay with this setup no need or want to buy anything else when it comes to turntable or speakers.
Still using my NationalPanasonic SL-15 circa 1975, though I fear it is coming to the end of its life. This was useful to watch.
Having a list of the TOP 5 turntables and including Audio Technica twice and no mention of any Rega decks makes this a review worth skipping. Just like any quality records will be with any kind of bass played back on your Audio Technica turntable.
I absolutely love love love my audio technic a 120 X it’s a very fantastic record player I bought a record player before this and it was pretty good but the sound was not that great and the beast was left to be desired. I have two turntables one is the audio technic a 140 it’s a good player record player as well the one thing I did wish that the audio technic a 120 X hard but the 140 does have is one of my favorite features and that is the forward and reverse playback I love the sound quality of the audio technic a 120 X and the fact that you have two options the line out and the phone a preamp which is fantastic all the way through.
I’m so glad that the audio technical us are not as expensive as far as an arm and a leg is concerned I highly recommend audio technic out to anyone who wants to get into vinyl.
I have the first one. It is Perfect to me.
The Video should be "Top 5 up to £xxx". You can spend over £10k or more on a top Turntable. These on your list are good for someone starting on the Vinyl road.
These are simply the cheapest 'Mass Produced' one: right? Try some far better one like: Technics SL-1500C, Cambridge Audio Alva TT, any Music Hall TT's, and I really like the Pro-Ject’s 6Perspex SB table with my Goldring E3 Phono Cartridge. Current set up in listening room is my Dual 5000 and my Ortofon 2M Black MM Cartridge : Classic stuff.
I had purchased an AudioTechnica AT-LP60 but immediately returned it when I realized that it's cartridge could not be removed. For a little more I got the Fluance RT81, AND an extra stylus for playing 78s which I needed to digitize some of my parents old records. Plus, the cartridge that comes with it is far superior to the LP60, and it looks a whole lot better too.
Rare breed that will still digitize their folks old 78s...that's cool. Likewise, my parents still have some of theirs kickin' around...but they've never expressed an interest in having me convert them, thankfully. Did you do much noise reduction during the conversion?
@@SilentKnight43 - I have yet to complete the process, but I’ll get there. The main reason I’m wanting to do these 78s is because they’re French, my dad picked them up when he was stationed in Paris in the mid 50s. The Fluance looks 100x better than the AudioTechnica as well!
@@doplinger1 Hope you get good results.
Best turntable is vintage turntable. An AR XA/XB has less wow and flutter (0.08) than 1.5k turntables, but you can pick one up for less than 100 if you know where to look. 1500% cheaper for better quality.
I just ordered a Fluance RT85. Really looking forward to it arriving in the mail and hooking it up.
My turntable broke a few years ago so I am looking forward to a much upgraded turntable.
Just outta curiousity how come no one ever talks about the Audio-Technica AT-LP 140XP...??? Just curious my friend. I purchased one myself, for DJ Skratching, & havent seen anything about both that turntable, & the Reloop Spin, as well.... Thanx..... 👍👌💪🙏🔥💯🐺😎
The 140 is too high priced in Australia, I was dubious about the quality of hum shielding since my old 120USB was atrocious for buzz/hum, I finally broke out the 1200 MK4 and it's perfect then I started to hear hum through the blank grooves and had to remount the transformer
This video reminded me of the old "Stereo Reviews" magazine reviews on equipment
"For the money,this (speaker,cassette deck,CD player,tuner,preamp) is the bomb"
The scratches and clicks sound even better on high tech turntables..
I have the 2013 version of the AT-LP120. It's great if you have 78s. I bought a Shure cartridge for 78s while they were still available. Great for digitizing LPs!
I will stick with my direct drive Technics made in the early 80s !
you are 1000% on it there is nothing beter than a technics sl 1200Mk2 or a 1210 Mk2 i have the sl1210 Mk2 that i got in 1989 and i have a old technics sl 3300 from 1980
@@dyrnenorka Mine is a Technics SL D303 fully automatic, it still works almost perfect. I am not sure what year it was made, but I think it was made in the early 80s.
@Icky Icky Batang There is nothing wrong with a good belt driven turntable, just belts have to be replaced over time. It is about how quiet they run and how well they track a record at a light stylus pressure. Under 2 grams of stylus weight on the stylus and very low noise from the turntable, with a perfect speed is the goal. A $4000 dollar turntable does NOT buy you perfection because records are not perfect. I like direct drive because there are no belts to replace and most seem to last the test of time.
I love my AT120, the only thing I wish it did that it doesn't is the automatic start and arm return. I am blind and have unsteady hands, can't say how many time's I've either missed the record or had a hand tremor that sent the arm flying. Everything else about this player is fantastic.
I prefer a dual 1214 with a Stanton cartridge or technique DL 12 linear tracking turntable
I'm still running my Dual CS-505-3 with Goldring GX1012, great turntable, although I recently found a new Dual CS-505-4 costs about the same as a Rega RP3 (I'm in the UK).
@@simonoleary9264 so cool my kids bought me a new turntable for Christmas exactly like the old one I'm still waiting for it along with a set of pinnacle loudspeakers I can't wait to play it I have 12oo albums I have been collecting since I was twelve I'm very excited about it but my wife of 37 years is not as excited as me
@@roberthill4652
That's awesome.
Hope enjoy your revised setup 🙂.
I started my collection in the early 80's, but switched to CD's in the mid 90's.
Still got all my vinyl though and have started adding to it again (mostly original pressings).
I've got nowhere near 1200, although my wife inherited all her mum's 1st day releases of the Beatles albums (she's a huge Beatles & Queen fan).
Hope you really enjoy your Christmas prezzie.
Not a bad listing but I wohld still advice to buy a good vintage turntable (serviced!) With a good cart like the Nagaoka np110.
Would cost about the same but give better sound.
Funny how no one mentions the Music hall turntables with adjustable antiskating for under EUR 500 and a nice cartridge !
Bought AT.LP 120X over a year ago. I have an AT 95e cartridge with my own AT head shell. It's a grate turntable, very easy to use. Play it a lot and the only issue I have is the cuing has lost its dampening so when I cue a record the tone arm drops like a rock.
Until I top up the dampening fluid I have to let the tone arm down slowly.
I have a BSR from the early 70s and a pioneer from the 90s they both have all the features that are mentioned in the video, taking care of my equipment and my vinyl collection has been a priority of mine since the 60s love the old school stuff, how the speakers "jump" to life when the diamond slowly settles down on the record.
Think i’s stick to my Pioneer PL L800 then this Chineses 💩
Years ago I had a Pioneer 828 receiver and a Dual 1219 turntable. It was the bomb back then.
Technics SL1200, Rega RP3, Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Recordmaster Hires, what else ?
These are budget decks. How about something like a Rega Planar from an authorised dealer network?
Just ordered an Ortofon 2M Blue for my Pro-Ject Debut Carbon. How is AT better than the others on this list ?
Bought some technics 1210 mk5 back in the day, unfortunately I had to sell them :( £400 each brand new, now 1210 mk7 around £799 each, pure madness lol
This is a good video. I think it bears mentioning the AT-LP60 is a very good beginning turn table, but is very limited in its capabilities. Number one is the tracking weight of the tonearm. It tracks around 4 grams which is a bit heavy and will cause premature wear in good vinyl. It is great for old records that may be a little worn already. The other is you cannot upgrade this table very much. The conical cartridge it comes with is good, but an elliptical would be a lot better sounding. On the plus side, replacements are cheap. Thanks.
Thanks for this detailed feedback and helping our community. Truly appreciated, mate!
It tracks at 3.5g and Michael Fremer said that "It will take good care of your records"
It's 2021. We need easily swapped cartridges, built in preamp and fully automatic starts and stops for every record new and old!!!
so buy A Crosley
@@lilst2852 I Know, but they have all those features.
You can have al that if you want, but you're spending money on those features that can be used to improve sound quality instead.
Not the "five best turntables on the market today" by any possible yardstick.
Should be renamed, "the likeliest turntables to generate Amazon commission via link click-through."
Hallo mate, can you name few turntables that are affordable? Im new to this.
Sorry, but you made one wrong comment. I found a record that I could not play on my AT-LP120USB. It was an OLD 16". 16-2/3 RPM record that probably would not play on ANY modern turntable, but it was still a record with music on it.
No rega planar 1?
I suspect the choice was limited to those decks that could raise ☹️revenue via the Amazon links.
My daily driver is a Pioneer PL117D with an Audio-Technica AT-VMN95ML - using the ART Pro Audio DJ PRE II Phono Preamplifier ( 12 volt PSU) connected to a DBX 3BX Series II, the Behringer Ultragraph Pro FBQ3102 and my Pioneer VSX 933 - strictly for playing my vinyl collection -
Interesting that you count "fully automatic" as a pro, when it is always regarded as a no-no by anyone seriously into vinyl. I spent around £250 on my fairly high end turntable, arm and cartridge combination, although that was admittedly in the mid 1970s. I've recently had the arm overhauled by the manufacturer, but it all still works perfectly and sounds great, which rather shows the value of buying decent gear in the first place. Oh, and it's curious that all of your links lead to Amazon - almost as if this is a sales pitch.
I have 3 of the turntables which you have shown in this video and wish to make some corrections about the Denon Dp-300f and Audio-Technica AT-Lp60.
I love the Pro-Ject for it's fabulous sound but it certainly is a pain to have to get near it before the side of a record is finished, to prevent the tone-arm from moving onto the record inlay and crashing onto the spindle.
The Denon DP-300f, has an aluminium plinth and not a plastic one as you have mentioned. It's a brilliant turntable which truly comes to life once the stock cartridge is upgraded and has all the essentials for good sound reproduction.
The Audio-Technica Lp60 is the one with an all plastic design. It is good for the price but it tracks at a higher force (3.5 grams) than the Pro-Ject's 1.8 grams and Denon's 2 grams and the sound quality, though at par for the money, is nothing to write home about.
Thank you for your valuable feedback, Sergei!
Owned a Technics SLQ2 direct drive back in the day and upgraded to a Dual years later. But I've been table-less these days - might be in the market to get a new one again. Good video.
U can dj with the lp120usb audio te hnica.if u got no money these will do.just good mixing.scratching but u need a expensive needle
Thanks for all your help, been looking at Audio technica.
Going to stick with my 1971 Dual 1216. A fine piece of musical engineering.
Nothing beats TECHNICS.
I have a set of ATLP140's I bought for listening and scratching. Just as good as the Technics and you save $800 per deck. Upgrading the cartridge to the AT XP5 or XP7 makes them even better. Had them for a full year now and they are still solid after playing them just about every day
Does the LP120 have an auxiliary plug in?
Do you have any broadcast turntables used for radio broadcasting?
Technics SL-1200 MK2 has been considered a music instrument since decades ago, due to be industrial standard and the capability to manipulate music the way you do with so pice of art. 40 years even abused on these deks, and still working today.
Still have my 70s Technics SL1300 (with Audio-Technica cartridge , don't think I would trade it for any of these
How about the TEAC TN-400BT?
Used Dual with an adapter. German > Chinese manufacturing, but Pro-ject not far behind.
I would add the Audio Technica AT LP 140(X). It’s the big brother to the AT LP 120(X). It has better build quality and a higher torque motor than the 120, and has all the same features.
The LP140X is a better DJ table because of the extra beef and higher torque motor, but the motor on the 120XUSB is actually quieter, which is better for sound quality. The 140 has a damped platter that the 120 doesn't have, but the 140 also doesn't have the USB feature or built in pre-amp....that could be viewed as a plus or a minus depending on your needs, but just wanted to clarify that there are some feature differences.
@@scottspencer4018 I already know everything you said. Those are the reasons I said what I said.
And I’ve never heard any motor noise from either the 120 or the 140. I don’t know why people keep saying that about these TTs, since it hasn’t been my experience with them.
And I know about both from first hand experience. Can YOU say the same?
@@7JANEWAY The older gen 120USB has slight cogging noise from the motor and the tonearm isn't curved in sharp enough, hence the cart needs twisting inward with 52mm Technics overhang (needle to back washer), when I switched to the 1200 MK4 I had to realign all my carts
Maybe. But I’ve never had that experience, as I’ve already made quite clear.
What’s wrong with it being plastic build ?
Plastic is not very good at dampening vibration.
The pickup is incredibly sensitive to any movements or vibrations (even sound in the air), so a denser plinth will help to absorb some of these.
@@simonoleary9264 and I can't hear any vibration I can't tell the difference between one that's 300 like mine and one that's 2000 like I've heard
it's not that much better to cost much much more
On no my Xerxes doesn't have a USB output, I should trade it in for one of these that does?
Dont think id buy a belt driven turntable again after the direct drive Technics.
Shame Rega never got a mention.
For the Fluance RT81 with built-in preamp, can I use this turntable with a pair of Edifier S3000 Pro bookshelf speakers (just ordered them)? Thanks for the list!
You did not mention on the ATLP120X if the anti skate works properly or not unlike the ATLP120
No Rega, Thorens, EAT or U-Turn? That’s weird.
I would have left out the ATLP60 and found a spot for the Rega Planar P1+
I'm not sure about the belt turntable cause can't what if the belt comes off? How does it run
I miss the Rega Planar 1, truly the best sounding turntable at the moment. for a price of 369 Euro.
“Top best” - on what criteria? Very misleading! Stock-footage, and what seem to be a computer voice, most of the time reading company information. There is no product quality comparison whatsoever. Clearly a channel that exists just to make money through ads and affiliate links...
And its interesting, that 4 of 5 Players have something to do with Audio Technica. Pure accident?
He explains what it's based on. Guessing you didn't actually watch the video.
It seems the criteria is "under 500 dollars". For a couple hundred more there are tables that are miles above these.
the only reason these channels exist is to get money from the referral sales from their affiliate links in the description. guarantee you the only reason that these turntables are featured here, and frankly the only reason that you see certain manufacturers and not others in any of their other videos is because those manufacturers have affiliate programs.
the nonsense scripts that accompany these videos are a sign that these people don't care about the actual products or providing us with an unbiased review. CZcams has got to give us better option than just disliking and unsubscribing. I would love to be able to just block channels like this from ever showing up in my feed..
What do you guys think about the Pro-ject 2 experience dc acryl?
Love my old Pioneer PL 518 semi automatic return, it will outlast me
1) AT LP120XUSB = $350
2) AT LP60, now AT LP60X = $140 - $200
3) Denon DP-300F = $430
4) Fluance RT81 = $250
5) Pro-Ject Debut Carbon = $600
I think all these “Top 5” or “Top 10” turntable videos should stop pushing the Fluance RT-81 and go to the RT-83 or higher. The RT-81 has speed issues as well that have been fixed in the RT-83 and above. The speed adjustments on the 81 are a pain in the butt while there is no need for those on the upper models. The 83 is Much better and also comes with the Ortifon 2m red cartridge.
Cheers, mate! Thank you for the feedback. I’ll review the RT series again.
They actually fixed it in the RT-82 and higher. If you plan on upgrading your cartridge, I usually just recommend the RT-82 since with the RT-83 it's the same table just slightly better cartridge. RT-82 through 85 are the same table just different cartridges and platters.
Theres no speed issues with rt81
Love my 83!
The AT LP 120XUsb has no VTA, vertical tracking adjustment.
It's a great low to mid level entry TTwith plenty of features for an audiophile, but you're pretty much stuck with the AT cartridges and you can upgrade it for a better AT, but I wished the 120x had the same features of the previous model like the VTA, better torque, and reverse button, although it fixed previous mistakes.
If you want all these features, you'd have to save for the at lp 140xusb.
Is the Rega Brand any near these Turntable options?
Does this mean that an ATLP120USB is better than a Rega P1 or Rega P3?
None of these turntables are in the same league as a Rega P3, but on the other hand, none of them cost as much. The Pro-ject Debut Carbon is close to the Rega P1, though, both in quality and price.
Mark Sieving Got this noted ! Thank you!
The audio technia AT LP-1240 Is a wicked DJ turntable.
I don't understand why some people put thousands of dollars into a turntable. You can buy a good quality Technics turntable that has virtually no wow/ flutter or any kind of noise and a good strobe and cue system. The main thing about the sound quality of a turntable is the cartridge. The turntable will only sound as good as the cartridge. Swapped my old cartridge out for an Ortofon and I could not believe the difference it made
#1 AT is actually a former Panasonic/Technics player, only made of cheaper plastic!
I bought VPI HW-40, limited model. And i’m happy as elefant))
Yep but the atlp120 is a direct drive with noise motor, ok for dj not for for melomane who want listening the music.The belt drive for this is best for me.And i think with your choice of turn table the project debut carbon is the best and the comparable is rega pl2 and fluance rt85
It amazes me how the younger generation is so into this outdated technology. I grew up with LPs and had a huge vinyl collection, but the only thing I really miss is shopping for records. I miss flipping through them at the store and looking at the jacket art and the descriptions in the back. I don't miss anything else about them whatsoever.
What is 33,5 or 35,5 rpm?
33,3 rpm & 45 rpm are the exact rpm
But does HE know that?
@@sjefhendrickx2257 gin idee
The number one sounds good except for the plastic build. I dont like turntables with a built in pre amp. Even the ones that are switchable because they don't completely give you a direct signal.
Where can a 4 pin cartridge be acquired ? Thanks for any help.
What if you are in the UK richer sounds atr still selling these if not should be able to post out the UK check website for details
I think a Rega rp1 should of got a mention, for the money it is quality.
i agree, i have a 1986 Rega Planar 3 with an RB 300 tone arm,
and theres nothing that can match it for the money. well i paid 185 british pounds for it back in the day.
Have had a new drive belt and replaced a capacitor on it but thats all in 37 years.
Not bad i say.
@@simonbartlett1558 I bought an old p3 from ebay about a month ago. Early 90s model I think. Absolutely love it, sold my planar 1 to my brother who now has a good starter system.
Thanks what is cost