Finding a great turntable under $500 can feel overwhelming. With so many options out there, it’s easy to get lost in the details.
I've navigated this world and know what to look for. Let’s dive into the best choices that won’t break the bank!
Want to skip our guide? Here's all our picks:
Darkside Vinyl participates in the Amazon Associates program as well as multiple other affiliate programs. We may earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. This doesn't affect our reviews, opinions, or editorial decisions. Learn more.
Turntables Under 500 Dollars
I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
Why Trust Our Rankings?
Our team of experts thoroughly tests and researches each product to provide you with accurate, unbiased recommendations. Learn more about our review process.
The Best Turntables Under 500 Dollars At A Glance
| Product | Price | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB | $399.00 | 4.7 |
|
Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK | $149.00 | 4.5 |
|
Rega Planar 1 | $499.99 | 4.3 |
|
Pro-Ject Primary E | $299.00 | 4.1 |
The Best Turntables Under 500 Dollars | All Our Picks
Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB
Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB
Get it from Amazon
4.7
$394.51
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
I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
03/24/2025 08:35 pm GMT
Pros
- Professional features
- USB connectivity
- Sturdy build
Cons
- Pricey
- Heavy
- No built-in speakers
Key Features
- Professional USB Turntable: Ideal for DJs and audiophiles, providing high-quality sound and performance.
- Direct Drive System: Ensures quick start-up times and consistent playback speed for enhanced audio fidelity.
- Versatile Connectivity: Equipped with USB output for easy connection to computers and digital recording software.
Summary
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB is a fantastic professional USB turntable that I love using for its direct drive capabilities, which provide quick start-up and accurate playback. I appreciate the built-in USB output, making it super easy to digitize my vinyl collection and share my favorite tracks online.
One of the standout features is the adjustable tracking force and anti-skate control, allowing me to customize my listening experience. While it’s a bit heavier than some portable options, its solid construction ensures stability during playback, making it a great choice for both beginners and serious audiophiles alike.
Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK
Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK
Get it from Amazon
4.5
$149.00
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
I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
03/25/2025 06:25 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: Easy to use with automatic start and stop functions for hassle-free playback.
- Belt-Drive Design: Reduces vibrations for improved sound quality and clarity during playback.
- Built-in Phono Preamp: Allows direct connection to speakers or audio systems without needing a separate phono preamp.
Summary
The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to dive into vinyl without breaking the bank. Its fully automatic belt-drive system makes it super easy to use—just press a button, and you're ready to enjoy your favorite records with great sound quality.
While it’s an affordable option, I appreciate how it doesn’t skimp on features like the built-in phono preamp and the ability to switch between two speeds. Just keep in mind that it might not have all the advanced customization options that more expensive models offer, but for a hassle-free listening experience, it really hits the mark!
Rega Planar 1
Rega Planar 1
Get it from Amazon
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
I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
03/25/2025 03:48 am 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 Performance: Delivers exceptional sound quality and clarity for an entry-level turntable.
- User-Friendly Design: Simple setup and operation make it accessible for beginners.
- Stylish Build: Sleek and modern aesthetics that complement any home audio setup.
Summary
The Rega Planar 1 is my go-to entry-level turntable that delivers impressive sound quality without breaking the bank. I love how easy it is to set up and use, making it perfect for anyone new to vinyl or looking to upgrade their listening experience.
This turntable features a high-quality design, with a solid build that minimizes vibrations for a cleaner sound. While it may lack some advanced features found in pricier models, the Planar 1 really shines in delivering that warm, rich audio that vinyl enthusiasts crave.
Pro-Ject Primary E
Pro-Ject Primary E Phono Turntable
Get it from Amazon
4.1
$299.00
Pro-Ject Primary E Phono Turntable - High-quality entry-level turntable with pre-mounted cartridge and minimalist design.
Pros:
- High-quality components
- Pre-mounted cartridge
- Minimalist design
Cons:
- Higher price compared to other budget options
- No built-in speakers
- Manual operation may not be for everyone
I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
03/25/2025 03:56 am GMT
Pros
- High-quality components
- Pre-mounted cartridge
- Minimalist design
Cons
- Higher price compared to other budget options
- No built-in speakers
- Manual operation may not be for everyone
Key Features
- High-Quality Sound: The Pro-Ject Primary E delivers excellent audio performance, making it ideal for entry-level audiophiles.
- Pre-Mounted Cartridge: Comes with a pre-installed cartridge for easy setup and immediate use out of the box.
- Sleek Minimalist Design: Features a clean and simple aesthetic that fits well in any modern home environment.
Summary
The Pro-Ject Primary E is a fantastic entry-level turntable that combines high-quality sound with a sleek, minimalist design. I love that it comes with a pre-mounted cartridge, making setup a breeze for anyone new to vinyl.
While it delivers impressive audio performance for its category, I do notice that it may lack some advanced features that audiophiles might desire. However, for those just starting their vinyl journey, the Primary E offers a perfect blend of style and functionality.
Top Turntables Under 500 Dollarss of 2025 | Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect turntable under $500 is all about balancing quality and features. I’ve highlighted some fantastic options that deliver great sound without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a vinyl newbie or a seasoned collector, these turntables offer excellent performance and style. Enjoy your listening experience and happy spinning!
The Top Turntables Under 500 Dollars of 2025 | Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in a turntable under $500?
Look for features like a built-in preamp, adjustable tracking force, and a good cartridge. Consider if it has USB connectivity for digitizing vinyl.
Are belt-drive or direct-drive turntables better?
Belt-drive turntables are generally better for audiophiles due to lower vibration, while direct-drive models are preferred by DJs for quick start-up times.
Can I connect a turntable to my existing sound system?
Yes, most turntables can connect to a sound system, but ensure you have the necessary inputs or a built-in preamp if your system lacks one.
How important is the cartridge on a turntable?
The cartridge is crucial as it affects sound quality. Investing in a quality cartridge can significantly enhance your listening experience.
Is it worth investing in a turntable under $500?
Yes, a turntable under $500 can offer excellent quality and features for casual listeners and audiophiles alike, making it a great entry point into vinyl.
Why You Should Trust Darkside Vinyl's Reviews
You might be wondering, "How do I know these reviews are legit?"
Fair question, and here's why you can trust our process:
We Test Products Ourselves
Our team puts products to the test, using them in real-life situations to give you the most accurate feedback possible. This hands-on experience means we’re giving you insights based on how products actually perform, not just how they’re advertised.
We Gather Feedback From Real Customers
We don’t just rely on our own opinions. We also listen to the experiences of real-life customers. Their feedback helps us see how products hold up over time and in various situations.
We Analyze Amazon Reviews
With thousands of reviews available on Amazon, we sift through customer feedback to identify consistent trends. This helps us identify what users love—and what they don’t—about each product.
We Dive Into Online Communities
We pay attention to what people are saying on platforms like Reddit, where real users share their honest opinions. These candid discussions provide additional insights that we incorporate into our reviews.
