The MYKESONIC Vertical Record Player definitely wins points for its eye-catching design. The vertical layout is not just a space-saver; it also adds a modern twist that stands out in a world full of traditional turntables. If you’re looking to fit something stylish on a dorm shelf or a compact apartment console, this player checks that box nicely.
However, while it looks great, the vertical design comes with a trade-off. The confidence I usually feel when setting down a record on a standard platter simply isn’t there. It feels a bit less stable, and that can be unnerving, especially for someone who’s used to the solid feel of a traditional turntable.
Right out of the box, the MYKESONIC is all about convenience. With built-in speakers, I was able to get music playing in mere minutes—no need to fuss with external amps or powered speakers. This is a huge plus for anyone who just wants to kick back and enjoy some tunes without a weekend-long setup project.
03Connectivity & Features
The MYKESONIC does come with some nice features that add to its versatility. The Bluetooth capability is particularly handy for casual listening; I found it great for streaming from my phone when I didn’t want to mess with records. That said, let’s be real: Bluetooth isn’t going to give you the same audio fidelity as a decent set of wired speakers.
Plus, the inclusion of RCA output and a headphone jack is a nice touch that opens up options for connecting to better external speakers. It’s a step above what you’d find in many budget suitcase players, and that gives it a bit more longevity if you decide to upgrade your setup down the line.
In practice, the MYKESONIC is designed for the casual listener, and I can see how it fits that niche. If you live in a smaller space and want a one-box solution for playing records without the hassle of additional gear, it definitely delivers. However, I noticed that the limitations of the built-in speakers can start to feel like a bottleneck as you dive deeper into your vinyl collection.
One of the more significant drawbacks of the MYKESONIC is its limited upgrade path. While the RCA output offers some flexibility, the overall design and components don’t lend themselves to future enhancements. You can’t easily swap out the tonearm or upgrade the cartridge the way you could with more traditional setups, which might leave some users feeling stuck.
