Best Record Players in the UK

Although what we have on our hands is still, technically speaking, an entry-level turntable, that didn't stop the manufacturer from implementing a 24v motor. This synchronous AC motor comes with an entirely new Printed Circuit Board and an aluminium pulley that reduce the vibration transfer, produce far less noise, and deliver a much better speed stability. However, the improvements to the previously mentioned speed stability do not stop there, since this vinyl player also includes a 23-mm, higher mass, phenolic platter that features an upgraded flywheel effect responsible for securing a steady and reliable music signal. The last aspect of sound quality worth mentioning is the factory fitted Rega Carbon cartridge that is easy to set up, install, and, above all else, outstanding when it comes to accurately reproducing music.

As far as the looks go, the model clearly does not intend to trail behind either, featuring an entirely new thermoset, gloss laminated plinth with an incredibly stylish and improved appearance sporting a remarkable modern design and a new ergonomically positioned on/off switch located on the underside. The only real downside to this contemporary look is the lack of casing, so, even despite the presence of a dust cover, the model still tends to collect the said dust. But, other than that, the Rega RG-Planar-1-BK is the kind of vinyl record player that you can easily recommend to any of your friends that appreciate a contemporary design and value a clear and stable music signal.

Completely automatic control is another advantage of this turntable. All you need to do to turn the device on is press the start button. The drive will be put into action and will start to rotate a record; the tone arm will be placed on it automatically at the same time and the playback will start. When you need to stop the playback, replace the record, or turn it over, just press the stop button. The best thing is that the operation process is completely time-saving since no extra actions are required. And if you want to pause the song you just need to press the lift button. Frankly speaking, if you adjust your device in advance, the operation of the Audio-Technica AT-LP60BK will be reduced to a manipulation of only three buttons; even a child will be able to use it.

Despite an easy operation assembly, it is essential to remember about the set-up control. You can play 7" and 12" records at 33 ⅓ or 45 rotations per minute. For more accurate signal transmission and to protect vinyl and player from damage, it is crucial to set the switches in the right position. There are only two of them so there won't be confusion.

The integral dual-magnet is a photo cartridge with a removable stylus that provides an undoubted quality of a sound signal. In case you need to replace it you should go after the ATN3600L model.

This turntable works with 7", 10", and 12" records at 33-⅓, 45, and 78 RPM speed. You can also digitize your vinyl records with this device. Moreover, there is a USB port on the back panel so you can always connect Max LP to your PC or laptop. In addition, it is supplied with a special software, namely EZ Vinyl/Tape Converter, and even with a cable for connection. One of the useful features of this software is an opportunity to separate files automatically according to the order of songs on the vinyl record. And, finally, you can always connect any other audio device (like a cassette player, for example) to the AUX-in located on the back panel and convert with its help.  

Despite the fact that the MAX LP is more for a novice user it is supported with a built-in preamplifier and 2" stereo speakers on each side. If their power isn't enough you can always connect it to your sound system. One of the best solutions will be a receiver as with its help you will be able to control the sounding of all your devices.  

You can listen to music through your headphones and enjoy it in private without disturbing your family or roommates since this turntable has headphones output for private listening.

While this particular device obviously pays homage to that old school record player style, you shouldn't get too discouraged if you are part of the newer generation that didn't grow up with one of these in your house. Sure, the model may look the part, but it is actually quite a high-end piece of technology that anyone will be able to appreciate, regardless of their age. With vinyl-to-MP3 recording function, you will be able to effortlessly transform audio from vinyl records into MP3 format files for later playback on your mobile devices anytime, anywhere.

Furthermore, this product features built-in full range stereo speakers, a 3.5-mm audio input, and an RCA Line-Out, so you shouldn't have any troubles trying to connect this device to any type of external speaker. And if you don't feel like messing around with cords and cables, the developers have you covered with a built-in Bluetooth that is capable of converting this elegant piece of technology into a wired speaker. All you have to do is just connect your smartphone to this Bluetooth turntable and you shall have the opportunity to experience your favourite music through a much better sound source. 

Of course, if you do not care for all of this latest technological gizmo, you can always play 7", 10", and 12-inch records at three drastically different speeds. The operation principle when it comes to playing the aforementioned recording is semi-automatic, utilising a stylus needle in order to deliver the kind of sound quality one comes to expect from a vinyl player. So, in case we haven't made ourselves clear yet, the 1byone 471UK-0002 is a record player with Bluetooth that will easily be able to attract some of the more old-school crowd but will also satisfy a younger audience thanks to a number of inputs and modern solutions that make this retro player a piece of high-end technology.

On the performance subject, it is hard to overestimate the model's damped base construction and how much it does to reduce the low-frequency feedback colouration that often plagues mid-range turntables.

A similar sentiment can be extended towards the AC adaptor and how well it handles the AC/DC conversion outside of the chassis, reducing the noise levels in the signal chain.

But, as much as these two matter, we can't say that the tonearm doesn't play its part too. More specifically, the balanced S-shaped tonearm with its hydraulically-damped lift control and lockable rest, keeping the audio crisp and clear.

Sure, there are many other parts that contribute too. You can say that about the variable pitch control with a quartz speed lock. You can't ignore the built-in switchable phono pre-amplifier for phono- and/or line-level output.

The removable plug-type target light doesn't have anything to do with the model's performance but it does make it easier to cue in low-light conditions, so the component deserves a little attention as well.

The adjustable dynamic anti-skate control, however, does have everything to do with the model's performance, especially considering the relatively subpar felt mat.

To sum it all up, Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB will be able to make your records sound as good as they can possibly sound. It will allow you to control the speed, tempo, and the overall playback/rhythm. Its streamlined profile will work great with modern interiors.