Best Record Player Under 1000 Dollars

How I tested turntables under $1000

When deciding on the best turntable under $1000, I use the following additional pieces of equipment to evaluate the playback quality:

• Stereo receiver: Yamaha R-N303
• Phono preamplifier: Emotiva XPS-1
• Speaker wire: AudioQuest Type-9
• Stereo speakers:
  1. Bookshelf:
     • PreSonus Eris E3.5
     • KEF Q350
  2. Floor Standing:
     • Fluance Signature HiFi 3-Way

The selection of tracks helped me define the depth of the soundstage and the details present in vocals and instrumental passages:

• Pink Floyd – Dark Side of the Moon [1973]
• Stravinsky – The Rite of Spring [2017]
• Dvorak – Symphony No.9 [2016]
• Radiohead – In Rainbows [2007]
• Daft Punk – Random Access Memories [2013]
• John Williams – Jurassic Park [1993]
• Bon Iver – Bon Iver [2011]

Best Turntables Under $1000 Reviews

Audio-Technica AT-LP7 – best overall

Without a doubt, the fully manual Audio-Technica AT-LP7 is my top pick under $1000, and for good reason. Navigating the fine line between wallet-friendly and high-end, between retro charm and modern tech, this turntable is a great achievement by Audio-Technica. It doesn’t claim to be premium, but it’s definitely in the running.

Holding the AT-LP7, you immediately notice its heft and solidity. It stands out in my collection as the heavyweight champion, with its 40mm-thick MDF body giving it a substantial and grounded feel. Moreover, the player features an anti-resonance platter crafted from 20mm thick polyoxymethylene. This material, combined with a sensor-monitored motor, guarantees a consistently accurate rotation speed.

I like its solid J-type tonearm with metallic gimbal suspension system and precision bearings – it allows for consistent, accurate tracking of each note. However, I am not a fan of the VM520EB cartridge the player comes with; as for me, it delivers quite a “thin” sound. I’d recommend upgrading to a more sophisticated AT-OC9XEB cart that provides better channel separation and far richer sound.

What surprised me the most was the AT-LP7’s built-in phono preamp. I’m a purist at heart, preferring minimalism in design, yet this feature won me over. It adeptly manages both MM and MC cartridges, delivering a performance that, while not quite rivaling a standalone phono stage, impressively holds its ground. The bass punches well, and the treble reaches high, albeit not as expansively as some aficionados might desire. The ability to bypass it, should you prefer your own external setup, is a thoughtful touch.

And then, the power cord. An AC adapter in this day and age might raise eyebrows, but I suspect it’s a strategic choice to minimize electrical hum. In my experience, it did its job well, keeping unwanted noise out of my sonic sanctuary.

Rega Planar 2 – also a great choice

If the lustrous design is an imperative factor for you, you should cast a glance at this Rega Planar 2.

Compared to the Audio-Technica AT-LP7, the Planar2 boasts a far more refined look. It has an acrylic high-gloss laminated plinth and a float glass ‘Optiwhite’ 10 mm platter, enhancing the device’s design.

The components of this model are as great as its look. It is equipped with a 24V low-noise motor that doesn’t disrupt the playback. Although I’m not a fan of straight tonearms, I must admit that this one does the job well. With its ultra-low friction bearings and lightweight housing that includes an integrated arm clip, it provides outstanding performance. Plus, the tonearm is versatile, fitting a broad selection of cartridges. Speaking about the included cartridge – I love it! Yes, it’s still not a high-end model, but it sounds much better than AT-LP7’s stock cart – the delivered audio is harmonious, powerful, with an extensive soundstage and natural musicality. Furthermore, thanks to the redesigned feet, the player maintains a more stable position and effectively reduces vibrations.

You may ask me, “If the Planar 2 is so good, why doesn’t it top the list?” The answer is simple – our winner, Audio-Technica AT-LP7, is more user-friendly with its built-in preamp, straightforward setup, and conveniently located controls. The Planar 2’s power button is located under the plinth, there is no speed selector and the tonearm balancing is a bit tricky for beginners.

Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO – good choice under $600

Pro-Ject, a brand I highly admire, stands out for its top-notch design, bright colors, and excellent sound quality at an affordable price. Since launching the Debut line in 1990, these turntables have become favorites among vinyl lovers. The reviewed Carbon EVO exemplifies this tradition, combining a legacy of excellence with quality components, all while maintaining an attractive price point.

This belt-drive turntable features an isolated motor with a new suspension solution that ensures whisper-quiet operation. Thanks to three height-adjustable metal feet, you can find a perfect location for the device without compromising the right level positioning. Next, you can easily change the replay speed with a push of a button. Also, the electronic system controls the speed accuracy to provide a consistent playback tempo.

The included Sumiko Rainier cartridge sparks debate among audiophiles, yet in my experience, it performed well across a variety of music genres. However, it’s important to note that the EVO is a solid yet mid-tier option, so expecting a high-end cartridge might not be reasonable here.

The setup is simple. However, I want to warn you that the tonearm might require additional adjustment. Be careful when setting the tracking force; otherwise, it will affect the playback quality and the longevity of the stylus. And the design of the cover leaves room for improvement. The absence of rubber protectors is peculiar, especially given the turntable’s glossy finish, which makes it prone to scratches over time. Additionally, the hinges could definitely be more robust.

NAD C 588

NAD has been a significant player in the hi-fi scene for over four decades but hasn’t quite made a lasting impression with its turntables, despite numerous models like the famous 1980s 5120. Now, with the new C 588 turntable, made by Pro-Ject, NAD is revisiting its vinyl roots. This collaboration signals a promising new direction, tying back to NAD’s most successful turntable era. So, let’s take a closer look at this model.

The NAD C 588’s high-precision AC motor is isolated from the platter, ensuring smooth and accurate performance. It includes a carefully designed belt that minimizes unwanted vibration.

Just like Rega Planar 2, this record player has a glass platter that is heavy enough to absorb resonance and remaining vibrations. However, it features an Ortofon 2M Red cartridge, renowned for being a top performer among mid-range cartridges. Its dynamic range and clarity brought new life to Miles Davis’ “Kind of Blue,” revealing intricate details with a crisp, clean treble and a bass that’s both tight and punchy. The wide soundstage presented each instrument distinctly, although I noticed it faltered slightly with lower-quality pressings. Overall, it’s a remarkable performer that truly shines with high-quality recordings.

What I liked about this turntable is that you get control over the tracking angle and azimuth. But on the other hand, this might be a confusing feature for those who are just starting their vinyl journey.

Music Hall Classic

The Music Hall Classic is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a quality turntable to start their vinyl journey. This semi-automatic TT is super easy to use, making it perfect for beginners. On the other hand, this model is built of quality materials so that more demanding listeners will appreciate it as well.

The turntable comes with an aluminum platter and a felt mat, ensuring smooth playback, while the adjustable vibration-damping feet minimize any noise or resonance, keeping the sound beautifully transparent. The automatic lift feature simplifies the playback process significantly, provided you position the cue lever correctly once the record stops. Despite the cue lever’s light feel, dropping the needle has consistently been a smooth process. Plus, the touch-sensitive electronic speed control of 33/45 RPM makes it easy to find the right speed for your music. And with its uni-pivot tonearm design, you can be sure that your records are being played accurately.

The Music Hall Classic is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a quality turntable to start their vinyl journey. This semi-automatic TT is super easy to use, making it perfect for beginners. On the other hand, this model is built of quality materials so that more demanding listeners will appreciate it as well.

The turntable comes with an aluminum platter and a felt mat, ensuring smooth playback, while the adjustable vibration-damping feet minimize any noise or resonance, keeping the sound beautifully transparent. The automatic lift feature simplifies the playback process significantly, provided you position the cue lever correctly once the record stops. Despite the cue lever’s light feel, dropping the needle has consistently been a smooth process. Plus, the touch-sensitive electronic speed control of 33/45 RPM makes it easy to find the right speed for your music. And with its uni-pivot tonearm design, you can be sure that your records are being played accurately.

And last but not least, the Classic boasts a gorgeous, timeless dark walnut wood veneer finish, making it an excellent addition to any home entertainment system.

Pioneer PLX-1000 – for DJ

I’ll start with an interesting detail about the PLX-1000 – it wasn’t actually manufactured by Pioneer but by Hanpin. And this fact becomes apparent in its construction. Don’t get me wrong, the player is sturdy and well-suited for heavy use in clubs. However, discerning professionals might spot the difference. Nonetheless, novice DJs will enjoy mixing a wide range of music genres, from bass, house, hip-hop/reggae, and D&B to drum ‘n’ bass on this deck.

Starting off, it features a high-torque direct-drive engine with an aluminum & steel tonearm for stable rotation and long-lasting performance. The player also has a stylus protection system for worry-free DJ mixes, as well as an adjustable strobe disk for exact speed conversions between 33 1/3 and 45 RPM. Next, gold-plated RCA output connectors provide low impedance and outstanding sound quality, plus, interchangeable power and audio connectors make attaching and replacing them a breeze.

A customizable, multi-tempo pitch control extends from +/-6 percent to 0.1 percent, providing you with the flexibility and accuracy you need to fine-tune the beat pace. In my opinion, an integrated preamp might only satisfy someone new to music listening. To my ears, the audio sounds muffled and blurred, as though it’s echoing through a tunnel with varying resonances. However, swapping out these parts has transformed the setup. So, you’ll need to invest a bit more to reveal this deck’s true potential.

TEAC TN-3B

The TEAC TN-3B is a decent quality machine that is under $1000, yet it takes last place on my list. The main reason is its unclear target audience. On the one hand, it boasts contemporary features (USB, built-in preamp) that are appealing to modern vinyl newcomers. On the other hand, its fully manual operation may pose challenges for those who prefer more technology-driven convenience.

Nevertheless, let’s see what the TN-3B offers. The body of this turntable feels substantial and far from cheaply made – this heft and build quality contribute to its overall performance and durability. The TT features an AC motor and is noted for a low level of wow and flutter (less than 0,1%). But the thing I like the most is the TN-3B’s tonearm. Developed in collaboration with SAEC, a renowned high-end tonearm manufacturer, this new tonearm employs knife-edge, pivot-point bearings, which I found to deliver excellent stability and resolution. The well-articulated arm and appropriately weighted platter work harmoniously to reduce unnecessary vibrations.

The built-in preamp is ok, but if you’re all about squeezing every drop of quality from your records, you might find it a bit lacking. Also, the AT-VM95E cartridge that comes with the player? It’s pretty clear on most tracks, but it has a bit of trouble when it comes to sibilance. Those sharp “S” sounds can get hissy and distorted, which kind of interrupts the vibe. This was something I had to face head-on with a variety of albums, realizing that to really hit that sweet spot of audio fidelity, investing in a better cart was the way to go. It’s an extra step, and yes, it means spending more, but for that perfect sound, it’s worth considering.

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