Home Theater
May 4, 2023

The Best Turntables Under $500

The top 3 recommended turntables are: Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK Direct-Drive Turntable, Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC Turntable, and Fluance RT85 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable.

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The Best Turntables Under $500

What to consider when buying:

- Belt drive vs Direct drive
- Cartridge type (Moving magnet or Moving coil)
- Platter size and material
- Speed settings
- Connectivity options
- Built-in preamp or not
- Ease of setup and use
- Build quality and durability

Winner: Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK Direct-Drive Turntable

Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK Direct-Drive Turntable - Analog & USB ...

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Review rating: 4.6 stars (3,066 ratings) on Amazon

Suggested retail price: $349

Specs:
- Direct-drive motor
- Professional-grade anti-resonance platter
- Adjustable dynamic anti-skate control
- Switchable phono preamp
- USB output for digital conversion
- 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM speeds

Why it's recommended:
The AT-LP120XUSB-BK is a versatile, well-built turntable that offers exceptional sound quality for its price point. Its direct-drive motor ensures accurate speed control and low wow and flutter, while the adjustable dynamic anti-skate control reduces distortion and ensures an even tone. The switchable phono preamp allows for easy connectivity to most stereo systems, and the USB output allows for easy digital conversion. This turntable is perfect for both beginner and intermediate audiophiles who want a high-quality turntable without breaking the bank.

Runner-up: Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC Turntable

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Review rating: 4.7 stars (322 ratings) on BH Photo

Suggested retail price: $449

Specs:
- Carbon fiber tonearm with Ortofon 2M Red cartridge
- DC-powered motor
- 33 and 45 RPM speeds
- Heavy steel platter with felt mat
- Anti-resonant MDF plinth

Why it's recommended:
The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC is a stylish turntable that offers excellent sound quality and build quality. Its carbon fiber tonearm and Ortofon 2M Red cartridge ensure accurate playback of your favorite records, while the heavy steel platter with felt mat reduces vibration and improves isolation. The MDF plinth reduces resonance and adds to the overall aesthetic of the turntable. This turntable is perfect for audiophiles who value design and want a high-quality turntable that won't break the bank.

Also great: Fluance RT85 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable

Fluance RT85 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable R...B08FVS918Q ...

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Review rating: 4.7 stars (310 ratings) on Fluance

Suggested retail price: $499

Specs:
- Acrylic platter
- Ortofon OM10 cartridge
- S-shaped tonearm with aluminum headshell
- Auto-stop function
- Built-in phono preamp
- Adjustable counterweight and anti-skating

Why it's recommended:
The Fluance RT85 is a high-end turntable that offers exceptional sound quality and a wide range of features. Its acrylic platter reduces vibration and improves accuracy, while the Ortofon OM10 cartridge and S-shaped tonearm with aluminum headshell ensure precise tracking and sound reproduction. The built-in phono preamp allows for easy connectivity to most stereo systems, and the adjustable counterweight and anti-skating make setup a breeze. This turntable is perfect for serious audiophiles who want a high-quality turntable with all the bells and whistles.