Home Theater Systems Buying Guide
8 Turntables on Every Vinyl Lover's Holiday Wishlist
Yes, vinyl has made a comeback. Dust covers are being pulled off old collections. Teens and twenty-somethings are building theirs for the first time. But a quality turntable is the key to experiencing vinyl in all of its analog glory.
To help you shop for long-time vinyl lovers and new collectors, we curated a list of turntables that will make anyone merry (or maybe yourself — we won't tell).
So get your holiday shopping list, and let's dive right in:
1. Audio-Technica AT-LP60 USB Fully Automatic Stereo Turntable ($99)
Getting into vinyl? The AT-LP60 USB is one of our top-selling budget turntables, making it a gift that’ll leave anyone — and your wallet — happy. This turntable is ready to go as soon as you take it out of the box, so new vinyl collectors can enjoy the benefits of true analog recordings that digital files cannot compete with. The AT-LP60 comes with a built-in phono preamp, so you can plug it into a pair of powered speakers and start spinning Christmas morning. You can even connect the turntable to a stereo receiver, computer, and portable music player.
2. Pro-Ject VT-E Right Handed Vertical Standing Turntable ($349)
Ready to defy gravity? Whether you like the untraditional look or the fact that it takes up a fraction of the usual space needed, the VT-E offers a unique option for the vinyl enthusiast. Equipped with all the usual high-end tech you’ve come to expect from Pro-Ject, the VT-E Right Handed Vertical Turntable is an out-of-the-ordinary option for the out-of-the-ordinary person. Connect the turntable to a pair of Audioengine A2+ desktop speakers (which come in matching colors: red, black, and white) for a matching setup.
3. Teac TN-400S Belt-Driven Turntable with S-Shaped Tonearm ($399)
Got a huge collection of classic vinyl? Now you can play them all! With the ability to play 33s, 45s, and 78s, the TN-400S will make sure everything in your collection sounds great. The curved tone-arm improves tracking and an upgraded AudioTechnica cartridge delivers precise, accurate audio. Connect this turntable to a variety of sources, thanks to the built-in phono stage.
4. TN-420 Turntable Tie-Dye ($399.99)
Let's not beat around the bush here. With a name like 420 and a tie-dye finish, there's nothing subtle about the TN-420 — and we love that. Plus, it sounds as good as it looks. The TN-420 has a built-in phono preamp so you can start spinning immediately after unboxing, and a USB digital output so you can transfer your beloved classic vinyl records into digital files.
5. U-Turn Orbit Special Turntable ($479)
Made in America, U-Turn’s Orbit Special Turntable packs top-level tech into a beautiful package. A real, solid wood plinth (which comes in Walnut and Maple) provides a gorgeous foundation, while the acrylic platter offers a clearer, rumble-free sound. The Orbit Special comes with a high-quality Ortofon cartridge, which is especially great for a turntable under $500. Yes, this turntable is one that’s easy on the eyes and easy on your wallet.
6. Pro-Ject Classic Sub-Chassis Turntable ($1,099)
This recommendation comes from WWS’ very own Ken Zelin. Here’s what Ken has to say about the ProJect CLASSIC:
“It's built BETTER and STURDIER than most turntables made in the 1970's but it has up-to-date performance. Comes complete with a super-good Ortofon cartridge. $1099 and looks and sounds like it's a $2500 turntable.”
7. Pro-Ject 6Perspex DC Turntable Superpack with Sumiko Blue Point Special EVO III ($1,999)
When moving up the project line to the upper echelons of performance, one choice is crystal clear — literally. Made entirely from inert acrylic, this table offers excellent decoupling and isolation. The thick, heavy platter maintains consistent speeds, lowering distortion and increasing audio clarity. The real cherry on top? The Sumiko cartridge, which offers unparalleled performance in the category. To ensure your records are ready to play on Christmas day, add on the Pro-Ject VC-S record cleaning machine.
8. ELAC MRC901 Miracord 90th Anniversary Turntable ($2,499.98)
When it comes to audiophile legacy, few names in turntables bear as much clout as Miracord. In an homage for the 90th anniversary of the famed builder, Elac offers a truly audiophile experience with the Miracord 90th Anniversary turntable. With a 12 lbs. plinth, decoupled feet, and a customized platter, this table is devoted to sending high quality sound to your amplifier with as little distortion and interference as possible.
(BONUS) 9. The Aboslute Sound Magazine Subscription
For the serious audio fan you want to impress this year, consider adding on a subscription to The Absolute Sound magazine. It's an industry best, and an audiophile's dream. They'll get the latest on the best gear from headphone amplifiers to floorstanding loudspeakers.
Give the gift of vinyl.
The best part about gifting a turntable for the holidays? They'll be able to enjoy it for years to come. For more gift ideas for the music and movie buff in your life, check out the 2017 World Wide Stereo Holiday Gift Guide now.
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