The Best Turntables Under 1000 Dollars

Discover the best turntables under $1000 that deliver impressive sound without breaking the bank. From sleek designs to advanced features, these picks will elevate your vinyl experience.

Finding the perfect turntable can be overwhelming, especially with so many options out there. I know how it feels to want quality without breaking the bank.

That’s why I’ve put together this guide on turntables under 1000 dollars. Let’s dive in and discover the best picks that won’t let you down!

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Turntables Under 1000 Dollars

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The Best Turntables Under 1000 Dollars At A Glance

Product Price Rating
Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB $399.00 4.7
Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO $599.00 4.7
Rega Planar 78 Rega Planar 78 N/A 4.5
Rega Planar 2 Rega Planar 2 $699.00 4.8
Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK $149.00 4.5
Victrola Hi-Res Silver Victrola Hi-Res Silver $399.99 3.8
Rega Planar 1 Plus Rega Planar 1 Plus $775.00 4.5
Rega Planar 1 Rega Planar 1 $499.99 4.3
No image U-Turn Orbit Special N/A N/A
Pro-Ject T2 Pro-Ject T2 $649.00 4.5
Pro-Ject T1 Evo Pro-Ject T1 Evo $599.00 4.2

The Best Turntables Under 1000 Dollars | All Our Picks

Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB

Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB
4.7
$407.85

Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB - Professional USB turntable with direct drive.

Pros:
  • Professional features
  • USB connectivity
  • Sturdy build
Cons:
  • Pricey
  • Heavy
  • No built-in speakers
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05/27/2025 05:15 pm GMT

Pros

  • Professional features
  • USB connectivity
  • Sturdy build

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Heavy
  • No built-in speakers

Key Features

  • Direct Drive System: Provides high-torque motor for quick start-up and consistent speed.
  • USB Output: Allows for easy digital conversion of vinyl records to digital audio files.
  • Adjustable Anti-skate Control: Ensures optimal tracking and reduces record wear for a better listening experience.

Summary

The Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB is a solid choice for anyone looking to dive into the world of vinyl. With its professional-grade direct drive system, I can enjoy smooth playback and reliable performance, making it perfect for both casual listeners and serious audiophiles alike.

One of my favorite features is the USB output, which allows me to easily digitize my vinyl collection. Plus, the adjustable tracking force and anti-skate settings give me the ability to customize my listening experience. While it’s a bit on the heavier side, the build quality ensures durability, so I know it can handle regular use without a hitch.

Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO

Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO
4.7
$599.00

Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO - Carbon tonearm for superior sound.

Pros:
  • Carbon tonearm
  • Great sound quality
  • Minimalist design
Cons:
  • Manual speed change
  • Dust cover not included
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05/27/2025 05:15 pm GMT

Pros

  • Carbon tonearm
  • Great sound quality
  • Minimalist design

Cons

  • Manual speed change
  • Dust cover not included

Key Features

  • Carbon Tonearm: Features a lightweight carbon fiber tonearm for enhanced rigidity and improved sound quality.
  • High-Quality Cartridge: Equipped with an Ortofon 2M Red cartridge for excellent audio performance and clarity.
  • Adjustable Speed Settings: Offers easy speed adjustments between 33 and 45 RPM for versatile playback options.

Summary

The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO features a carbon tonearm that takes your vinyl listening experience to a whole new level. I love how it delivers superior sound quality, making every note crisp and clear, which is perfect for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

While it’s packed with great features, like adjustable speed settings and a sleek design, I do find that it might require some setup for optimal performance. But once I have it dialed in, I can’t help but admire how it enhances my record collection!

Rega Planar 78

Best 78rpm Turntable
Rega Planar 78 Turntable
4.5

A dedicated single-speed turntable designed exclusively for 78 RPM records, featuring the RB220 tonearm and a 24V low-noise motor.

Pros:
  • High-quality build
  • Precise speed control
  • Minimalist design
  • Durable components
Cons:
  • Limited to 78 RPM
  • No anti-skating adjustment
  • Manual operation
  • Separate cartridge purchase required
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Pros

  • High-quality build
  • Precise speed control
  • Minimalist design
  • Durable components

Cons

  • Limited to 78 RPM
  • No anti-skating adjustment
  • Manual operation
  • Separate cartridge purchase required

Key Features

  • Single-Speed Design: Specifically engineered for 78 RPM records to deliver optimal playback quality.
  • RB220 Tonearm: Equipped with a high-performance tonearm that enhances tracking and sound clarity.
  • 24V Low-Noise Motor: Provides stable rotation with minimal vibration for improved audio fidelity.

Summary

The Rega Planar 78 is a fantastic turntable specifically crafted for those cherished 78 RPM records. With its RB220 tonearm and a 24V low-noise motor, I find that it delivers smooth playback and crystal-clear sound quality, making it a joy to spin my vintage vinyl.

While it shines in its dedicated design, keep in mind that it only operates at 78 RPM, so it might not be the best choice if you plan on playing other speeds. Overall, it’s a solid pick for anyone looking to enjoy their 78s without any fuss!

Rega Planar 2

Rega Planar 2
4.8
$775.00 $649.97

Rega Planar 2 Turntable - Sleek design with premium components.

Pros:
  • Glass platter
  • High-quality tonearm
  • Excellent speed stability
Cons:
  • Pricey upgrade options
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05/27/2025 05:59 pm GMT

Pros

  • Glass platter
  • High-quality tonearm
  • Excellent speed stability

Cons

  • Pricey upgrade options

Key Features

  • Sleek Design: The Rega Planar 2 boasts a modern, minimalist aesthetic that complements any decor.
  • Premium Components: Built with high-quality materials for superior sound performance and durability.
  • Easy Setup: User-friendly design ensures quick and straightforward assembly for an enjoyable listening experience.

Summary

The Rega Planar 2 Turntable combines a sleek design with premium components, making it a standout choice for any vinyl enthusiast. I love how it effortlessly blends style and functionality, featuring a lightweight yet rigid construction that enhances sound quality.

One of the key benefits is its ease of use, perfect for both beginners and seasoned audiophiles. However, some may find that its minimalist design lacks certain advanced features, but I believe its exceptional performance more than makes up for that.

Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK

Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK
4.5
$199.00

Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK - Affordable fully automatic belt-drive turntable with excellent sound quality.

Pros:
  • Easy to set up
  • Good sound quality
  • Compact size
Cons:
  • Built-in preamp may not be the best quality
  • Plastic build
  • Limited customization options
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05/27/2025 09:27 am GMT

Pros

  • Easy to set up
  • Good sound quality
  • Compact size

Cons

  • Built-in preamp may not be the best quality
  • Plastic build
  • Limited customization options

Key Features

  • Fully Automatic Operation: Simplifies the vinyl playback process with automatic start and stop functionality.
  • Belt-Drive System: Provides smooth and stable rotation for enhanced sound quality and reduced vibrations.
  • Compact Design: Ideal for small spaces, making it a perfect choice for casual listeners and vinyl enthusiasts alike.

Summary

The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to dive into vinyl without breaking the bank. This fully automatic belt-drive turntable delivers impressive sound quality, making your favorite records come alive with clarity and depth.

It's super user-friendly, so I can just push a button and let it do its thing, perfect for those who are new to vinyl. While it may not have all the advanced features of higher-end models, its simplicity and solid performance make it a great entry-level option for music lovers.

Victrola Hi-Res Silver

Victrola Hi-Res Silver
3.8
$599.99 $379.99

Premium turntable with wireless connectivity and high-quality components.

Pros:
  • aptX Adaptive Bluetooth
  • Ortofon 2M Red cartridge
  • Carbon fiber tonearm
  • Gold-plated RCA outputs
Cons:
  • Manual operation
  • Higher price point for this brand
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05/27/2025 05:57 pm GMT

Pros

  • aptX Adaptive Bluetooth
  • Ortofon 2M Red cartridge
  • Carbon fiber tonearm
  • Gold-plated RCA outputs

Cons

  • Manual operation
  • Higher price point for this brand

Key Features

  • Wireless Connectivity: Enjoy streaming music effortlessly via Bluetooth, connecting to speakers and headphones without the hassle of wires.
  • High-Quality Components: Designed with premium materials to deliver exceptional sound quality and durability for audiophiles.
  • Sleek Design: Modern aesthetics that complement any home decor, making it an attractive addition to your living space.

Summary

The Victrola Hi-Res Silver is a premium turntable that combines stylish design with top-notch performance. I love the wireless connectivity feature, allowing me to stream my favorite vinyl tracks straight to my Bluetooth speakers without any hassle.

With its high-quality components, this turntable delivers impressive sound quality, making it a perfect addition to any audiophile's setup. However, I do notice that some users might find it a bit tricky to set up initially, but once it's up and running, the audio experience is definitely worth it.

Rega Planar 1 Plus

Rega Planar 1 Plus
4.5
$775.00

Rega Planar 1 Plus Turntable - High-quality entry-level turntable with built-in phono preamp and high-gloss finish.

Pros:
  • High-quality components
  • Built-in phono preamp
  • Sleek design
Cons:
  • Higher price compared to other budget options
  • Manual operation may not be for everyone
  • No built-in speakers
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05/27/2025 07:20 pm GMT

Pros

  • High-quality components
  • Built-in phono preamp
  • Sleek design

Cons

  • Higher price compared to other budget options
  • Manual operation may not be for everyone
  • No built-in speakers

Key Features

  • Built-in Phono Preamp: Eliminates the need for an external preamp, providing convenience and simplicity for users.
  • High-Quality Sound: Designed to deliver exceptional audio performance, making it ideal for entry-level audiophiles.
  • High-Gloss Finish: Aesthetic appeal with a sleek, modern design that enhances any audio setup.

Summary

The Rega Planar 1 Plus is a fantastic entry-level turntable that I really enjoy for its sleek high-gloss finish and user-friendly design. With a built-in phono preamp, it makes setting up and enjoying my vinyl collection a breeze, allowing me to connect directly to my speakers without any extra gear.

While it’s an excellent choice for beginners, I do notice that its simplicity might not satisfy more advanced audiophiles looking for extensive customization options. However, for anyone wanting to dive into the world of vinyl with great sound quality, the Planar 1 Plus is a solid and stylish option.

Rega Planar 1

Rega Planar 1
4.3
$499.99

Rega Planar 1 - Entry-level turntable with high-quality performance.

Pros:
  • Simplicity and ease of use
  • Excellent sound quality for the price
  • Minimalist design
Cons:
  • Manual operation may not be preferred by all users
  • No built-in phono preamp
  • May require upgrades for audiophile performance
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05/27/2025 07:19 pm GMT

Pros

  • Simplicity and ease of use
  • Excellent sound quality for the price
  • Minimalist design

Cons

  • Manual operation may not be preferred by all users
  • No built-in phono preamp
  • May require upgrades for audiophile performance

Key Features

  • High-Quality Sound: The Rega Planar 1 delivers exceptional audio performance, making it ideal for both beginners and audiophiles.
  • User-Friendly Design: Easy setup and operation, allowing users to enjoy vinyl music without complicated adjustments.
  • Stylish Aesthetics: Modern design with a sleek finish that complements any home decor while showcasing your vinyl collection.

Summary

The Rega Planar 1 is my go-to entry-level turntable that delivers impressive sound quality without breaking the bank. With its sleek design and easy setup, I find it perfect for both newcomers and seasoned vinyl enthusiasts alike.

What I really love about this turntable is its high-quality performance, providing a rich and detailed listening experience. However, it’s worth noting that while it excels in sound, it may lack some advanced features that more seasoned audiophiles might desire. Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to dive into the world of vinyl.

U-Turn Orbit Special

Pros

Cons

Key Features

  • Compact Design: The U-Turn Orbit Special features a sleek, minimalist design that fits seamlessly into any audio setup.
  • High-Quality Sound: Equipped with precision components, it delivers exceptional audio clarity and depth for an immersive listening experience.
  • Easy Setup: The turntable is user-friendly with straightforward assembly, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned audiophiles.

Summary

The U-Turn Orbit Special is a stylish and versatile turntable that brings the vinyl experience to life. I love how it combines a sleek design with high-quality sound, making it a perfect addition to any music lover's setup.

One of the standout features is its customizable options, allowing me to choose different finishes and upgrades to match my aesthetic. However, I have noticed that it may require a bit of setup for optimal performance, which could be a slight drawback for those looking for a plug-and-play solution.

Pro-Ject T2

Pro-Ject T2 SuperPhono
4.5
$749.00

An audiophile entry-level turntable featuring a built-in phono preamp and Sumiko Rainier MM cartridge.

Pros:
  • Excellent sound quality
  • Built-in phono preamp
  • Stylish design
  • Easy setup
Cons:
  • Limited bass depth
  • Fixed anti-skate setting
  • No VTA adjustment
  • Upgrade limitations
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05/27/2025 07:19 pm GMT

Pros

  • Excellent sound quality
  • Built-in phono preamp
  • Stylish design
  • Easy setup

Cons

  • Limited bass depth
  • Fixed anti-skate setting
  • No VTA adjustment
  • Upgrade limitations

Key Features

  • Built-in Phono Preamp: Simplifies setup by eliminating the need for an external preamp.
  • Sumiko Rainier MM Cartridge: Offers high-quality audio performance with detailed sound reproduction.
  • Audiophile Entry-Level Design: Combines user-friendly features with superior sound quality for beginners.

Summary

The Pro-Ject T2 is an outstanding entry-level turntable that brings audiophile quality to those just starting their vinyl journey. With its built-in phono preamp, I can easily connect it to any audio system without needing extra gear, making setup a breeze.

Equipped with a Sumiko Rainier MM cartridge, the T2 delivers rich and detailed sound, enhancing my listening experience. While it’s perfect for newcomers, seasoned audiophiles might find it lacks some advanced features, but for its price and performance, it’s a fantastic choice to get into the world of vinyl.

Pro-Ject T1 Evo

Pro-Ject T1 Evo
4.2
$599.00

Pro-Ject T1 Evo Turntable - High-quality turntable with Bluetooth connectivity.

Pros:
  • High-quality sound
  • Bluetooth enabled
  • Stylish design
Cons:
  • Manual operation
  • No built-in preamp
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05/27/2025 07:20 pm GMT

Pros

  • High-quality sound
  • Bluetooth enabled
  • Stylish design

Cons

  • Manual operation
  • No built-in preamp

Key Features

  • High-Quality Sound: The Pro-Ject T1 Evo is designed to deliver exceptional audio fidelity, ensuring a rich listening experience.
  • Bluetooth Connectivity: Enjoy wireless streaming by connecting the turntable to Bluetooth speakers or headphones for added convenience.
  • Sleek Design: With its modern aesthetics, the T1 Evo complements any decor while providing a compact and stylish solution for vinyl enthusiasts.

Summary

I'm really impressed with the Pro-Ject T1 Evo turntable. It offers high-quality sound and is perfect for vinyl enthusiasts looking to enjoy their favorite records with ease. One of its standout features is Bluetooth connectivity, allowing me to wirelessly connect to speakers and enjoy my vinyl collection without the hassle of cables.

While the T1 Evo boasts an elegant design and user-friendly setup, I do notice that it may lack some advanced features found in more premium models. However, for someone like me who values simplicity and quality, this turntable strikes a great balance between performance and convenience.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Turntables Under 1000 Dollars

Buying Guide for Turntables Under $1000

Buying Guide for Turntables Under $1000

When I'm on the hunt for a turntable under $1000, I want to make sure I'm making an informed decision. There are several factors that can significantly impact my listening experience. Here’s what I consider important when choosing the perfect turntable.

1. Build Quality

It’s essential to ensure the turntable is built to last. A sturdy construction helps reduce vibrations, which can affect sound quality.

I look for materials like MDF, aluminum, or high-density plastics. A good base will provide stability and enhance audio performance.

2. Drive Type

Turntables typically come in two drive types: belt-driven and direct-drive. Each has its pros and cons.

Belt-drive turntables are often quieter and better for audio fidelity, while direct-drive models are preferred by DJs for their speed and reliability. I consider how I plan to use the turntable before making my choice.

3. Cartridge and Stylus

The cartridge and stylus play a crucial role in sound quality. They convert the grooves in the vinyl into audio signals.

I look for models that come with a good-quality cartridge or the option to upgrade later. This investment can significantly impact the overall listening experience.

4. Connectivity Options

Modern turntables offer various connectivity options, which can enhance versatility. I check for USB outputs, Bluetooth capabilities, and RCA outputs.

Having these options allows me to connect to speakers, amplifiers, or even digital devices, making my setup more flexible.

5. Features and Functions

Different turntables come with unique features that can enhance usability. I pay attention to extras like adjustable speed settings, anti-skating mechanisms, and built-in preamps.

These features can improve playback quality and make the turntable easier to use, especially if I'm just starting out.

6. Brand Reputation and Reviews

Researching the brand's reputation can provide insight into the quality and reliability of the turntable. I look for brands known for their craftsmanship and customer satisfaction.

Reading reviews from other users helps me gauge the performance and durability of the model I’m considering.

Top Turntables Under 1000 Dollarss of 2025 | Final Thoughts

Choosing the right turntable under $1000 can elevate your vinyl listening experience without breaking the bank. I've highlighted some fantastic options that combine quality, performance, and stylish design.

Whether you're a seasoned audiophile or a newcomer to vinyl, these turntables offer great sound and features to suit your needs. It's time to spin your favorite records and enjoy the rich, warm tones that only vinyl can deliver!

The Top Turntables Under 1000 Dollars of 2025 | Frequently Asked Questions

What features should I look for in a turntable under $1000?

Look for features like a good cartridge, adjustable tonearm, built-in preamp, and quality build to ensure optimal sound quality.

Are belt-drive or direct-drive turntables better under $1000?

Belt-drive turntables are generally better for sound quality, while direct-drive models offer faster start-up times and durability.

Can I connect a turntable under $1000 to my home audio system?

Yes, most turntables under $1000 can be connected to home audio systems, especially if they have a built-in preamp or RCA outputs.

Is it worth investing in a turntable under $1000?

Yes, a quality turntable under $1000 can significantly enhance your listening experience and is a great investment for vinyl enthusiasts.

How important is a good cartridge for turntables under $1000?

A good cartridge is crucial as it affects sound quality, tracking ability, and overall performance of the turntable.

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