You want high-end styling and build: We like how this turntable looks, but it doesn't feel particularly luxe or well-built. Type Make sure the record player you’re purchasing can play all records in your collection. One that plays 78rpm is no use if it doesn’t also play 33s and 45s. You want some 21st-century touches: Lately we’ve seen a few turntables with Bluetooth, or USB outputs. This ain’t one of them.

It’s understandable that you may be considering buying a second-hand record player, especially if you’re only planning to use it infrequently. You’re expecting wireless to match wired: It sounds better hard-wired, no two ways about it. But that's always going to be the case. It's also worth knowing that most record players can be plugged into a separate amplifier hi-fi system, too. Value for money: Considering its stylish design, built-in speakers, and Bluetooth connectivity, the ION Audio Luxe LP offers good value for money. However, the sound quality from the built-in speakers may not be suitable for audiophiles or those seeking a high-fidelity listening experience. In that case, investing in an external speaker setup might be necessary. Pros:Technically speaking, a record player is a standalone device that not only spins your vinyl but also includes a built-in amplifier and speaker(s) so you can hear the music without plugging the player into a hi-fi system. Some are even portable, giving you the option to power them from batteries. The Planar 1 Plus is essentially the brilliant five-star entry-level Rega Planar 1 turntable with the equally five-star Rega Fono Mini A2D phono stage built in. Both have won Awards, and Rega thought it only felt natural to combine them together. We absolutely agree. Audio-Technica’s original AT-LP5turntable was a winner. Launched in 2016, its combination of solid engineering, useful features and fine sound was enough to make it one of our go-to recommendations for anyone wanting a sensibly priced, fuss-free record player with the added bonus of a USB output.

This might be the best in the list for high-performing audio and specs, but it isn’t the prettiest or most elegant model. This turntable is designed to look like a turntable, albeit a nicely constructed and finished one. A hefty, smoothly finished chassis is topped by a tactile aluminium plinth. Finding the best record player for you can seem confusing, but there are some key details you need to consider when choosing your next turntable. Once you have chosen, it's also crucial you set up your turntable correctly. While some record players are relatively "plug and play", many require a little more time and effort to hear at their best. Want to know more? Read our complete guide to choosing the right turntable. How we test record players Bluetooth connectivity: The Bluetooth feature allows users to stream music from their smartphones or other devices through the turntable’s speakers. This adds versatility and enhances the overall listening experience, as users can enjoy their digital music library in addition to their vinyl records. Please note that this extended warranty is currently only available on products sold within the UK, EU or EEA, and is subject to the terms and conditions as detailed on the extended warranty certificate provided.You're after bass: There's some good extension, but control and solidity aren't really up there with the best. Built-in speakers: This turntable comes with built-in stereo speakers, making it easy to start listening to your records without any additional equipment. A: Yes, the turntable supports 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM, allowing you to play any LP/record in your collection. ION Audio Premier LP & Vinyl Alive: This turntable also offers wireless Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream your vinyl records to any Bluetooth speaker. It also includes a USB port for converting vinyl records into digital files. In addition to the built-in speakers, the Premier LP provides the ability to connect to external Bluetooth speakers (not included). Simply set up the Premier LP near your Bluetooth speakers, pair the devices and you’re good to go. This eliminates the need for tedious cables, freeing you from the restraints of wiring. Complete vinyl solution

It sounds fantastic. It doesn’t matter the sort of music you like to listen to either, the Debut Carbon Evo laps it up. In our testing we noted that every circumstance delivers a detailed and revealing listen, able to focus on the minutiae even as it describes the complete picture completely convincingly. It has all the warmth and weight the vinyl format is famous for, but it doesn’t get bogged down – instead it simply motors along in the most natural way imaginable. The What Hi-Fi?team has more than 100 years of collective experience in reviewing, testing and writing about consumer electronics – and that includes plenty of record players. We have state-of-the-art testing facilities in London, Reading and Bath, where our team of expert reviewers do all our in-house testing. This gives us complete control over the testing process, ensuring consistency across all products.We always ensure we spend plenty of time with each turntable, setting them up correctly, and trying them with different electronics, in different positions and with different music.And with USB turntables, we rip vinyl music onto our laptops to test the process and quality of this feature.This Debut Pro turntable is terrific at digging deep into the production and revealing layers of instrumental textures that most at this level ignore. It sounds incredibly precise and crisp. Its presentation is a little on the lean side, but the upside of such a balance is agility.It produces a stable and controlled sound too, one that retains its composure even when the music becomes dense and demanding. Stereo imaging and a spacious soundstage prove admirable and we are impressed with the sonic authority on offer. You’ll also have to manually queue records, which isn’t a deal breaker by any means but may put off anyone looking for a fully automatic player. If that's you, the Denon DP-300F (also in this guide) is a great choice for a fully automated vinyl experience. Collection and delivery costs are included for the first 2 years in the event of an item becoming faulty In terms of quality, the ION Audio Max LP doesn’t disappoint. It’s primarily made of wood and plastic, which ensures durability while keeping the device lightweight. Weighing just 7.71 pounds, it’s easy to move around, making it a great choice for those who want to use it in different rooms or locations. The turntable has a protective dust cover, a 45 adapter, and a felt slipmat. These accessories enhance the user experience and ensure that your records and the device stay in top condition. The quality of the ION Audio Max LP is evident in its construction, design, and the accessories that come with it. Key Features and Functionality

Top-of-the-range record players can cost thousands of pounds, so it’s really important to do your research first if you’re looking for something with premium sound and a price to match. While purists may prefer the slightly more insightful Rega Planar 3/Elys 2, the Technics SL-1500C offers crisp presentation, a built-in phono stage and electric speed control, making it a great choice for those not totally engrossed in vinyl. Once primed for action, the Planar 2 delivers punchy basslines, room-filling scale impressive attention to detail and rhythmic subtlety. There's no built-in phono stage, so it needs to hook up to a stereo amplifier that has one, or you can always buy a separate one. If that's within your budget, you'll find that the Planar 2 delivers a clear step-in performance from the Planar 1 – and at a very competitive price. These simply require you to plug them into the mains and you're away. However, their sound quality is generally no match for turntables with separate speakers. Should you buy a USB record player? However, if you don't have as strong an ear for music or you simply don't need perfection, you'll be just as happy with a cheaper turntable. That's why we've included different record players with varying budgets so that the more typical music fan can still enjoy what's here. How much should I spend on a turntable?We’re impressed with the level of detail too. The DG-1 S is a precise and highly resolving product, one that’s able to dig up plenty of information and organise it into a cohesive and musical whole. It is a hugely entertaining sound, one that’s rhythmically surefooted and has a spring in its step when it comes to rendering dynamic nuances. These vinyl players often feature retro styling, reminiscent of the classic Dansette record players of the 1960s. Unfortunately, though, they tend not to sound as good as they look. You want a turntable to be as solid and sturdy as possible to minimise unwanted vibrations from outside.