There comes a time, in every music lover’s life, that they must consider the possibility of a turntable. Sure, they’re not for everyone. They’re tricky, they’re impractical and they can be an expensive venture. But… that’s not exactly the point. And if you’re considering entering the world of analogue, you already know this to be true. Turntables are cooler than cool, and they epitomise true hi-fi. Who cares if they’re tricky, impractical and expensive?
Well, we care. A bit. Nobody wants their indoctrination into the world of analogue to be eve slightly negative, which is why we make sure we stock turntables which are perfect for analogue-beginners. Perfect in terms of ease-of-use, perfect in terms of practicality and perfect in terms of price. We bring you our favourite entry-level turntables in the hope that you will take one more step towards being a vinyl head. Trust us, it’s a wonderful thing to be.
1. Lenco L-83 – £99
Going cheap is a dangerous game in the turntable world. Very dangerous. But the Lenco L-83 is potentially the most low-cost turntable that isn’t at all dangerous. In fact, it’s really rather sound – despite costing under£100. It may be cheap, but it neither looks or sounds it. This metallic grey turntable offers USB direct encoding – for MP3s – and also has a built in pre-amplifier, so as a beginner’s turntable it has a lot of offer. It features a moving magnetic cartridge, mechanical arm lift, track splitting, auto return and auto stop – so considering the price it can hardly be deemed ‘basic’. It isn’t be best sounding turntable on this list, no. But its a bloody good start.
2. Pro-Ject Elemental – £159
Whenever we have someone amble into the store and enquire about getting their first turntable set up – this is always the first thing we recommend. Beautifully contemporary and minimalist, it’s quite a thing to look at , and despite the meagre price of £159 it still packs a serious punch in the sound department. Perfect for beginners or as a gift, this is a simple and straightforward turntable that is easy to use, easy to set up and boasts a serious longevity. It comes complete with an Ortofon OM cartridge too, so it’s pretty much ready to toll. Budget, yes. But we will never refer to as that it in any way but the price!
3. Thorens TD 158 – £256.50
If you want the pedigree without the pricetag, this new offering from Thorens may just be what you need. And at £256, you really can’t argue at that. Complete and comfortable, this turntable offers a perfect combination of Thorens’ famous sound quality and good value. Fully automatic and loaded with features – this is ‘plug and play’ in the truest sense of the phrase!
4. Pro-Ject Essential II – £209
Slipping up the pricescale, but still remaining firmly in the realms of affordable, we have another Pro-ject. The Essential II is a multiple award winner, and a real crowd pleaser. Ideal for those looking to get into vinyl and who want a little more more than just a basic deck. It features an internal phono stage which will allow it to be plugged into any amp. Very very handy – especially for beginners! Best of all, the USB output allows for vinyl to be recorded digitally. Great for the crossover period.
5. Pro-Ject Debut Carbon – £325
It’s likely you’ve heard of the Debut Carbon before. And it’s for a very good reason! It epitomises just how accessible (read: affordable) hi-end vinyl playback is this day-and-age, and we believe that everyone deserves to hear their favourite music in its best possible form. It works so well – even the critics agree that it’s underpriced at £325. Yepm that’s right. A top of the range turntable for under £350. And it looks… like THAT!
Phew. Not easy deciding is it? But at least you now know there are options. Good options. Get yourself any one of these and you won’t be disappointed. Unsure? Then give us a shout. We know all there is to know about the above – and beyond!