Vinyl records have made a comeback in recent years, and with it, the demand for turntables has skyrocketed.
But with so many brands and models to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect one for your system.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the top turntable brands on the market.
From their country of origin to their notable models, we’ll break down each brand and explain why they belong in the top 11 best turntable brands.
So whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or just starting out, read on to discover which brand might be the best fit for you.
What Is The Best Turntable Brand
When it comes to turntables, there are many brands to choose from, each with their own unique features and qualities. But which one is the best?
The answer to that question ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs. However, there are some brands that consistently rank high in terms of quality, performance, and reliability.
One such brand is Audio-Technica. Known for their great reputation in the industry, Audio-Technica’s LP60X turntable is a perennial best seller and a great entry-level option. It has a built-in preamp and Bluetooth capability, making it easy to connect to wireless speakers. Plus, it’s fully automatic, making it a great choice for beginners.
Another top brand is Pro-Ject. Based in Austria, Pro-Ject has been producing high-quality turntables for over 25 years. Their turntables are known for their precision engineering and attention to detail. The Debut Carbon DC is one of their most popular models, featuring a carbon fiber tonearm and Ortofon 2M Red cartridge.
Rega Research is another top brand in the turntable world. Based in the UK, Rega has been producing award-winning turntables since the 1970s. Their turntables are known for their minimalist design and exceptional sound quality. The Planar 3 is one of their most popular models, featuring a RB330 tonearm and Elys 2 cartridge.
Other notable brands include Technics, Thorens, Clearaudio, VPI Industries, and Marantz. Each of these brands offers unique features and qualities that make them stand out in the market.
Ultimately, the best turntable brand for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Consider factors such as budget, features, and design when making your decision.
Introduction: The Resurgence Of Vinyl Records
In the age of digital music streaming, it may come as a surprise that vinyl records have made a comeback in recent years. In fact, vinyl sales have been steadily increasing since 2006, with 2020 seeing a 29% increase in sales compared to the previous year.
So why the resurgence? For many, it’s the physical experience of owning and playing a vinyl record. The large artwork and liner notes provide a tactile and visual experience that digital music cannot replicate. Additionally, many audiophiles argue that vinyl records offer a warmer, richer sound than digital music.
This renewed interest in vinyl records has led to an increase in demand for turntables. As a result, many brands have entered the market, offering a wide range of options for consumers to choose from. With so many choices available, it can be overwhelming to determine which turntable brand is the best for you.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the top turntable brands on the market and their most popular models. We’ll also provide tips on what to consider when choosing a turntable, so you can make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences.
What To Consider When Choosing A Turntable
When choosing a turntable, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best possible option for your needs. Here are some things to keep in mind:
1. Space: Consider the amount of space you have available for the turntable, speakers, and other components. This will help you determine the size and type of turntable that will work best for your setup.
2. Room setup: Think about your room setup when deciding how many speakers you want and where they will go. This will help you ensure that the sound is evenly distributed throughout the room.
3. Portability: If you have a smaller home or enjoy listening to your vinyl collection in multiple rooms, consider a portable option with built-in speakers.
4. Reviews: Before making a final decision, read reviews and learn about your options to ensure that you are making an informed choice.
5. Price: If you are new to the world of turntables, consider exploring introductory or thrifted options before investing in a higher-priced model. This will allow you to get a feel for what works best for you and your setup before making a larger investment.
6. Specs: Look for important specs such as signal-to-noise ratio, playback speeds, and wow and flutter to ensure that the turntable performs well relative to other models.
By considering these factors when choosing a turntable, you can ensure that you find an option that meets your needs and provides high-quality sound for your vinyl collection.
Top 11 Turntable Brands
If you’re in the market for a turntable, here are 11 of the top brands to consider:
1. Audio-Technica
2. Pro-Ject
3. Rega Research
4. Technics
5. Thorens
6. Clearaudio
7. VPI Industries
8. Marantz
9. Fluance
10. U-Turn Audio
11. Denon
Each of these brands offers a range of turntables with different features and price points, so it’s important to do your research and find the one that best fits your needs and budget. Whether you’re a beginner or an audiophile, there’s a turntable out there that can deliver the sound quality and performance you’re looking for.
The Best Turntable Brands: A Breakdown
When it comes to choosing the best turntable brand, there are several factors to consider. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top brands and what they have to offer:
1. Audio-Technica – Known for their great reputation in the industry, Audio-Technica’s LP60X turntable is a perennial best seller and a great entry-level option. It has a built-in preamp and Bluetooth capability, making it easy to connect to wireless speakers. Plus, it’s fully automatic, making it a great choice for beginners.
2. Pro-Ject – Based in Austria, Pro-Ject has been producing high-quality turntables for over 25 years. Their turntables are known for their precision engineering and attention to detail. The Debut Carbon DC is one of their most popular models, featuring a carbon fiber tonearm and Ortofon 2M Red cartridge.
3. Rega Research – Based in the UK, Rega has been producing award-winning turntables since the 1970s. Their turntables are known for their minimalist design and exceptional sound quality. The Planar 3 is one of their most popular models, featuring a RB330 tonearm and Elys 2 cartridge.
4. Technics – Technics is a brand that has been around since the 1960s and is known for producing high-end audio equipment. Their SL-1200 series turntables are some of the most iconic in the industry, known for their durability and precision.
5. Thorens – Thorens is a Swiss brand that has been producing turntables since 1883. They are known for their attention to detail and precision engineering. The TD 1600 is one of their most popular models, featuring a suspended sub-chassis design and TP92 tonearm.
6. Clearaudio – Clearaudio is a German brand that has been producing high-end turntables since the 1970s. Their turntables are known for their exceptional sound quality and innovative design features. The Concept Wood is one of their most popular models, featuring a wood plinth and Satisfy Carbon Fiber tonearm.
7. VPI Industries – VPI Industries is an American brand that has been producing high-end turntables since the 1970s. Their turntables are known for their exceptional build quality and attention to detail. The Prime Signature is one of their most popular models, featuring a JMW 3D tonearm and Classic Signature Feet.
8. Marantz – Marantz is a brand that has been around since the 1950s and is known for producing high-quality audio equipment. Vintage Marantz turntables are some of the most iconic in the industry, with the Tt 1000 being one of the most sought-after models.
Each of these brands offers unique features and qualities that make them stand out in the market. Ultimately, the best turntable brand for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Consider factors such as budget, features, and design when making your decision.
American Turntable Brands
When it comes to American turntable brands, there are a few that stand out in terms of quality and performance. One such brand is VPI Industries, based in New Jersey. VPI turntables are known for their exceptional build quality and attention to detail. The Prime Signature is one of their most popular models, featuring a 3D-printed tonearm and a custom-designed isolation base.
Another top American brand is Marantz, known for their high-end audio equipment. Their TT-15S1 turntable is a great example of their commitment to quality, featuring a solid acrylic platter and a Clearaudio Virtuoso Wood cartridge.
Clearaudio is another American brand that produces high-quality turntables. Based in Virginia, Clearaudio is known for their precision engineering and innovative designs. The Concept turntable is one of their most popular models, featuring a magnetic bearing tonearm and a Concept MM cartridge.
Other notable American turntable brands include McIntosh, Music Hall, and U-Turn Audio. Each of these brands offers unique features and qualities that make them stand out in the market.
When choosing an American turntable brand, consider factors such as build quality, performance, and design. Ultimately, the best brand for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs.
European Turntable Brands
For those looking for a turntable brand based in Europe, Pro-Ject and Rega Research are two great options. Pro-Ject is known for their precision engineering and attention to detail, while Rega Research is known for their minimalist design and exceptional sound quality.
Pro-Ject, based in Austria, has been producing high-quality turntables for over 25 years. Their turntables are designed with a focus on simplicity and performance, resulting in products that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional. The Debut Carbon DC is one of their most popular models, featuring a carbon fiber tonearm and Ortofon 2M Red cartridge.
Rega Research, based in the UK, has been producing award-winning turntables since the 1970s. Their turntables are known for their minimalist design and exceptional sound quality. The Planar 3 is one of their most popular models, featuring a RB330 tonearm and Elys 2 cartridge. Rega turntables are also known for their upgradeability, allowing users to easily swap out components for better performance.
Other notable European turntable brands include Thorens from Switzerland and Clearaudio from Germany. Thorens is known for their classic designs and high-quality components, while Clearaudio is known for their innovative technology and attention to detail.
Ultimately, the best European turntable brand for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Consider factors such as budget, features, and design when making your decision.
