Best Record Player With Built-in Preamp

Turntables under $1000

Rega Planar 1 Plus – best overall

It’s difficult to overestimate Rega Planar 1 Plus. To begin with, a Rega Planar 1 vinyl player and a Rega Fono Mini A2D preamplifier are both award-winning products, and Rega combined them together. I must admit the result is great, though, being an audiophile, I’m not a big fan of players with built-in phono stages.

The turntable delivers , crispy clear sound. It’s highly adept at handling high frequencies and features plenty of distinction between vocals and instruments. Actually, the sound is remarkably close to that of a Planar 1 with an external Fono Mini A2D. This is what distinguishes this model from the competitors, even such a serious one as Audio-Technica AT-LP7 with its premium-quality cartridge.

The 1 Plus comes ready to work right from the box with a high-mass playing surface for vinyl records – the 23mm phenolic platter ensures more reliable speed stability. The integrated MM cartridge has already been appropriately mounted on the hand-made RB110 tonearm, which is an additional convenience for users. By the way, if you wish to upgrade this TT in the future, I do recommend replacing the included cart with the AT-VM95ML – it features much better channel separation and low distortion, meaning it easily handles any musical genre. Now, let’s return to the 1 Plus’s tonearm. It features patented, super-low friction, unique zero-play bearings, and a stronger headshell . However, I guess balancing the arm may be a bit challenging for beginners because of the high set anti-skate/bias.

Finally, this record player has an improved 7mm thick acryl housing, which boosts accuracy in speed consistency and reduces noise and vibrations caused by interference that can affect the sound quality. I love how Planar 1 Plus looks with its minimalistic yet luxurious design.

Audio-Technica AT-LP7

Audio-Technica was established in 1962; now, it’s a world-recognized manufacturer of phono cartridges. They invented the Dual Moving Magnet stereo cartridge, known for perfect channel separation, a comprehensive frequency response, and excellent tracking.

The AT-LP7 continues the brand’s traditions. It outperforms even the strongest competitors, including Rega Planar 1 Plus, due to the premium-quality Dual Moving Magnet Cartridge with a removable headshell and a 0.3×0.7 elliptical bonded needle. In addition, that needle may be swapped out for another VM needle, allowing users to upgrade it without purchasing a new cartridge.

The deck includes a J-shaped tonearm with a metallic gimbal suspension mechanism and precise bearings – such a construction effectively reduces tracking errors. The tonearm also features an anti-skate control and adjustable counterweight; plus, its height can be changed to fit various cartridges.

This turntable features a fully manual belt-drive operation with two speeds: 33,1/3 and 45 RPM; moreover, the motor includes a speed sensor to maintain accurate platter rotation. Further, there is an integrated switchable phono/line preamp for connecting to devices with or without a special phono input. Besides, you can easily switch between moving magnet and moving coil cartridges with a selector knob.

The AT-LP7 comes pre-installed with anti-vibration feet, allowing you to securely set the device on surfaces like wood or tiled floors without adding extra vibrations into the room. The сhassis is made of 40mm-thick MDF – it’s an excellent material for sound insulation.

Now that I’ve described all the AT-LP7’s features in detail for you, let’s compare it with our gold medalist – Rega Planar 1 Plus. The first thing you notice the players differ significantly in appearance. But despite this difference, they both perform well. However, personally, I prefer the AT-LP7’s fully manual system (a nod to audiophiles) and its construction that provides a super smooth operation. Besides, I like its J-type tonearm (this type is known for better tracking). On the other hand, the Planar 1 Plus has a much better built-in preamp. I suspect that AT-LP7’s phono stage doesn’t include a subsonic filter, which may cause woofer pumping.

Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USBXP – professional DJ turntable

Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USBXP is a 12″ vinyl record player with a direct-drive, high-torque multipole motor. The anti-resonant, damped die-cast aluminum platter ensures that the motor can be both powerful and sensitive enough to suit all requirements of professional DJs. In addition, the turntable has excellent tracking ability and can accommodate most types of records.

Not every player can boast 3 RPM speeds. On the contrary, AT-LP1240-USBXP gives you certain flexibility – you have a choice of 33/45/78 RPM speeds, meaning you can listen to any vinyl format. Moreover, this model allows for fully manual operation, taking your music playing experience to the next level. Besides, it has convenient pitch control, quick start-up time, a steady speed, easy back-cueing, forward and reverse play, and is completely silent. The AT-XP5 DJ phono cartridge also assures optimal compatibility with DJ mixers. I should say that I was pleasantly surprised with the performance of this cart – it delivers almost as a good sound as my favorite Ortofon. The audio is deep and balanced, featuring crisp high notes and robust bass.

However, I had mixed feelings about the tonearm. On the one hand, I love its S-type form (it’s just perfect for tracking); on the other hand, the arm lift control lever has a somewhat cheap feel, and I’d like the counterweight to be heavier.

If you value modern functionalities, you’ll appreciate that music files are easily imported into the device through a USB cord connection. You’ll also have access to album artwork that you can display on the computer screen or TV monitor while playing music.

Finally, the turntable comes with a switchable phono pre-amplifier and RCA output cables. Plus, it has an integrated audio interface for converting analog music to digital files through widely used computer applications like Audacity.

Turntables under $500

Audio-Technica AT-LPW50PB – best under $500

We have several turntables made by the Audio-Technica brand, and there is a good reason for it – they all are built with true vinyl lovers in mind! Our current AT-LPW50PB model doesn’t have an extraordinary J-shaped tonearm like AT-LP7. And it can’t boast added bonuses like AT-LP1240-USBXP, but it has its own decent set of features. So let’s take a closer look at them!

Our current model can’t boast AT-LP7’s exceptional construction or AT-LP1240-USBXP’s added bonuses. And, surely, I won’t sing praises to this babe’s build quality, especially after handling its big brothers. Nonetheless, the AT-LPW50PB is completely suitable for those who are looking for a more affordable yet decent turntable. So let’s take a closer look at its features!

Audio-Technica AT-LPW50PB is a fully manual (rare characteristic for TTs in this price range), belt-drive turntable with multitasking usage capacities. It includes an adaptable dynamic anti-skate control that keeps the right platter rotation speed for precise playback, a motor with a speed sensor system, and a fully manual belt-drive operation allowed by two speeds: 33 ⅓ and 45 RPM. 45 RPM – the most common vinyl format used mainly in Europe or Japan.

Though this turntable didn’t even come close to the above-mentioned models in terms of construction, it still has a heavy anti-resonance die-cast aluminum platter with a rubber mat to avoid unwanted vibrations. And, I must admit, it does the job well. The AT HS4 removable mount headshell and AT VM95E Dual Moving Magnet cartridge with 0.3 x 0.7 mil elliptical stylus ensure convenient cartridge upgrades in the future. Finally, a 45 RPM adapter and RCA audio cable allow for connection versatility.

The cons? First, the power switch is located at the back, requiring you to stretch over the top to toggle it.

And second, after a few days of use, the speed selector knob, made of plastic with an aluminum shell attached on top, came apart due to the glue giving way. It’s a simple fix, though: just apply some gel-style super glue and press it down with a book for an hour, and it’s as good as new.

Now, onto the sound. For not really critical ears, it’s good out of the box with an internal phono stage. If you want to sound this TT a bit better, upgrade the needle and make sure to use adequate-quality speakers.

Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB – also great

The Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB and our top pick, the Rega Planar 1 Plus, share a similar appearance with their slim bodies and straight tonearms, but don’t let this fool you – they are in different weight categories. The former is an exemplar of the middle class while the latter is an upper crust. However, the T1 Phono SB is a decent representative of its price range.

It features a CNC-machined plinth with no empty spaces inside – this type of construction successfully lowers vibrations and keeps sound from deteriorating. Furthermore, an 8mm solid bead-blasted glass platter (rarely seen in this price region) spins easily on any LP surface while maintaining perfect speed constancy.

I also like a combo of the one-piece aluminum tonearm and Ortofon OM 5E cartridge, which promises good audio performance. Plus, the provided Allen key gives you the option to customize the tracking force.

The table also comes ready to use straight out of the package with the included 7-inch single adapter and a power source.

Honestly, I prefer the construction of the Phono SB over that of the Audio-Technica AT-LPW50PB. However, here are the reasons it didn’t receive higher scores: despite Pro-Ject’s claim that there’s no need to adjust the cartridge or counterweight, I’ve had problems with the tonearm skating and causing violent skips a few seconds into the first track. Additionally, the spindle appears slightly too large, causing some of my records to get stuck on it. I nearly damaged my copy of John Coltrane’s ‘Giant Steps’ trying to remove it from the player.

Denon DP-300F – fully automatic

If you are a beginner looking for a fully automatic turntable with a preamp (KW), take a closer look at the Denon DP-300F. This stylish TT has a belt-drive system and a DC motor, offering straightforward two-speed (33 and 45 RPM) functionality right out of the box.

I like the DP-300F’s appearance – its glossy exterior is eye-catching, though such designs typically demand extra care to combat dust – the nemesis of vinyl lovers. Thankfully, the dust cover can stay closed during play, reducing maintenance woes. Another positive aspect I want to mark is flawless auto features (self-stop and stylus lift) – for newbies, it adds a level of convenience that’s hard to beat. By the way, the following model (Fluance RT81) can’t boast such a well-thought auto-stop function.

However, the DP-300F’s build is a bit disappointing – its plastic body is very lightweight (even cheaper Fluance RT81 feels more durable), making it prone to external vibrations. It wobbled even when I just walked nearby. The solution here is to weigh the TT’s bottom – this will definitely improve its performance.

The turntable’s S-shaped tonearm is a nice touch, but the included CN-6518 stylus and an integrated phono stage didn’t quite hit the mark for me. The depth I expected from analog audio was missing. My Fleetwood Mac records, for example, sounded flat. However, upgrading to a higher-quality needle and connecting an external preamp will transform the listening experience. I do recommend stepping beyond DP-300F’s built-in capabilities – then, you’ll be able to realize Denon’s full potential.

Turntables under $300

Fluance RT81

If you’ve never heard about the Fluance brand, you’re missing out! This Canadian company has been in business since 1999 when it began producing speakers. Their enthusiasm developed over time to include record players in the broader realm of sound. The RT81 is their top entry-level model – it has a lot to offer, making it an excellent buy for a really affordable price.

The RT81 features a beautiful, authentic wood finish and a more solid build than its mentioned-above counterpart, making it vibration-resistant. It won’t bounce on the table when you pass by.

Further, this TT really knows how to keep things simple – it starts to play the moment you get the tonearm in place. Definitely a no-brainer for anyone who loves their tunes without the fuss.

The RT81 comes equipped with a stock AT95E cartridge on a smooth aluminum S-type tonearm. It delivers a warm sound, though there’s almost no bass and the highs are sharp. Disappointing, but on the other hand, this price region is not for critical listeners.

I also found it a bit awkward that you have to flip the turntable over to adjust the RPM since the controls are tucked away underneath. This can be pretty cumbersome. But my least favorite thing about this deck is its auto-stop feature, which sometimes ends playback earlier than you’d want – pretty annoying, huh?