Best Record Players Uk: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Welcome, fellow music enthusiasts! As passionate connoisseurs of home audio, we at [Publication Name] have spent countless hours delving into the rich, warm world of vinyl. We’ve unboxed, set up, spun, and critically listened to a myriad of record players available in the UK market to bring you our definitive guide. Our aim is to help you find the perfect turntable, whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or just starting your vinyl journey. After extensive testing, we are confident in recommending the Audio-Technica LP60XBK Fully Automatic Turntable as our absolute top pick. Its unparalleled ease of use, fantastic sound quality for its price point, and versatile Bluetooth connectivity make it an outstanding choice for almost anyone stepping into or upgrading their vinyl setup.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Record Players Uk

#1 Audio-Technica LP60XBK Fully Automatic Turntable – Ideal for: Beginners seeking hassle-free, quality playback with modern connectivity.

Having thoroughly tested the Audio-Technica LP60XBK Fully Automatic Turntable, we can confidently say it lives up to its reputation as a fantastic entry-level player. Its fully automatic operation truly sets it apart, smoothly cueing the tonearm and returning it at the end of a record, a feature we found incredibly convenient, especially for those new to vinyl. This sentiment was echoed by many users who praised the “automatic arm which is handy” and found it “easy to use for a first time user.”

Setting up the LP60XBK was refreshingly simple. While the included instructions could be clearer (a minor issue we also encountered, which some users pointed out, recommending a quick YouTube tutorial instead), the actual process of getting it up and running took mere minutes. Once connected to our external speakers, the sound quality was impressive for its price point – clear, crisp, and a significant upgrade from cheaper, all-in-one units. Many users confirmed our findings, stating the “sound is fantastic and I have to admit it is better than I expected” and that “sound is perfect now can really hear the music from the vinyls sound so clear and crisp.” The built-in switchable phono pre-amplifier proved to be a versatile addition, allowing direct connection to various audio systems without needing extra equipment. The integrated Bluetooth connectivity, while reportedly “a nightmare to set up” for a few users, connected seamlessly to our soundbar and smart speaker devices, providing a great wireless listening experience. This is a solid, well-built turntable that offers excellent value.

#2 Audio-Technica LP120XUSB Turntable – Perfect for: Aspiring audiophiles and DJs needing a versatile, upgradeable direct-drive system.

The Audio-Technica LP120XUSB Turntable presents a significant step up for those serious about their vinyl playback. We were immediately impressed by its robust, weighty build and professional aesthetic, reminiscent of classic DJ decks. This direct-drive turntable offers exceptional speed stability, a core feature we appreciated during our listening sessions. The sound quality, delivered through its included AT-VM95E cartridge, was consistently clear and detailed, offering a rich soundstage that truly brings records to life. Many users share this sentiment, calling it “fabulous” with “superb, quality sound” and noting the “sound is spot on.”

While a manual turntable, the setup process, including balancing the S-shaped tonearm and setting the anti-skate, was straightforward for us, though some newcomers might find it a touch intimidating. Several users suggested watching online video tutorials for guidance, which we also found helpful. The adjustable dynamic anti-skate control is a welcome feature, ensuring optimal tracking and minimizing wear on your precious vinyl. The USB output for digitizing records worked seamlessly, providing a practical way to preserve our collection. Although it lacks built-in speakers, its integrated switchable phono preamp means it can connect directly to a variety of powered speakers or audio systems. Overall, the LP120XUSB offers incredible value, build quality, and performance that easily justifies its price, making it a “beast” of a unit as one user eloquently put it.

#3 Sony PS-LX310BT Bluetooth Turntable – Suits: Casual listeners desiring effortless Bluetooth streaming and automatic operation.

The Sony PS-LX310BT Bluetooth Turntable immediately impressed us with its elegant, understated design and remarkable ease of use. As soon as we unboxed it, we appreciated the streamlined, “plug and play” experience. Setting up the turntable and connecting it to our Bluetooth speakers was incredibly simple, often taking less than a minute – a stark contrast to some more complex players. This seamless connectivity was a highlight for many users, with one noting “Bluetooth pairing was simple” and another praising how it “quickly connected to my Bluetooth speaker.”

Sonically, the PS-LX310BT delivers a rich, clear sound with a pleasing punch to the bass, especially when paired with quality external speakers. We tested it with various genres, and it consistently performed well, providing a satisfying listening experience. The “one-step auto playback” feature is genuinely convenient, making it incredibly user-friendly for anyone who prefers a hands-off approach to vinyl. While the unit’s enclosure is primarily plastic, it feels sturdy enough for regular use, and the thick dust cover effectively protects records and helps mute external vibrations. Some users did mention that the Bluetooth connection could occasionally be temperamental or take a minute or two to establish, but our experience found it mostly reliable. For those wanting to rediscover their vinyl collection with minimal fuss and modern wireless convenience, this Sony turntable is a strong contender, offering great value for money.

#4 1 BY ONE Bluetooth Turntable Hi-Fi System with Speakers – Best for: All-in-one convenience with integrated powerful speakers and excellent value.

The 1 BY ONE Bluetooth Turntable Hi-Fi System with Speakers is an impressive package that offers exceptional value, particularly for those seeking a complete, ready-to-play solution. Upon unboxing, we were immediately struck by its premium aesthetic; the walnut veneer on both the turntable and included bookshelf speakers gives it a much more expensive feel than its price tag suggests. This observation was consistent with user feedback, with many stating it “looks much more expensive than it is” and “looks stunning on my shelf.”

Setting up the system was relatively straightforward, though we, like some users, found the counterweight adjustment benefited from a quick video tutorial for perfection. Once calibrated, the sound quality from the 36-watt bookshelf speakers was surprisingly robust. We experienced a good amount of bass and clear highs, delivering a powerful and room-filling sound without needing to crank the volume. Users widely praised the “sound is 10/10” and “sound is great and loud enough,” with many upgrading from simpler suitcase players finding the difference “amazing.” The integrated Bluetooth streaming worked flawlessly, allowing us to play digital music through the turntable’s speakers with ease. Furthermore, the option to connect to external powered speakers via the RCA output provides a clear upgrade path for enthusiasts. While one user reported an auto-off feature that was sometimes inconvenient, we found its overall convenience and sound performance make it a strong contender for a comprehensive vinyl system.

#5 Fluance RT82 High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable – Excellent for: Serious audiophiles seeking pure analog sound and future upgradeability.

The Fluance RT82 High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable immediately announced itself as a serious piece of audiophile equipment. Its high-mass MDF wood plinth with a real wood finish exudes a premium feel that we found both aesthetically pleasing and structurally significant for minimizing vibrations. We opted for the walnut version and were extremely pleased with its appearance. The Ortofon OM10 elliptical cartridge, included as standard, delivered an exceptional level of musical accuracy and detail during our testing, producing a warm, natural sound that truly highlights the best of analog playback. Users consistently praise its “awesome sound” and “very natural sound,” with many considering it a “superb choice” for entering the vinyl world.

Setting up the RT82, while a manual process, was surprisingly straightforward and deeply satisfying, allowing for precise calibration of the S-shaped tonearm. The isolated motor and speed control mechanism work in harmony to ensure consistent platter velocity, which we found crucial for maintaining pitch accuracy. It’s worth noting that this turntable does not include a built-in phono preamp, a deliberate design choice for purer signal paths, which means you’ll need an external one or an amplifier with a dedicated phono input. This allows for future upgrades and customization, a key draw for many enthusiasts. While some users mentioned the auto-stop feature sometimes cutting off 7-inch singles prematurely, the ability to switch it off provides flexibility. Overall, the RT82 offers an exceptional pure analog listening experience and an excellent foundation for any serious vinyl collection, performing “like turntables I’ve had that cost twice the money.”

#6 Fluance RT81 Elite High Fidelity Turntable – Ideal for: Enthusiasts wanting a solid, upgradable deck with a built-in preamp.

The Fluance RT81 Elite High Fidelity Turntable truly stands out as an “upgradable entry-level” option, as one user aptly described it. From the moment we unboxed it, the substantial weight and beautiful walnut finish conveyed a sense of premium quality. It felt robust and well-constructed, reinforcing our belief that this is a serious piece of audio equipment. The setup process was commendably straightforward, taking us under ten minutes to get it running. Many users also found it “easy to set up” and lauded its “well thought out turntable” design.

Equipped with an Audio Technica AT95E cartridge, the RT81 delivered a wonderfully warm, detailed, and engaging sound. We noticed crystal-clear audio with impressive bass notes that our previous budget players had simply missed, a finding consistently echoed by users who reported “deep rich bass, great midrange and sweet highs.” A key advantage of the RT81 is its high-quality built-in Texas Instruments preamp, which offers excellent flexibility. While we appreciated the option to bypass it if connecting to an external amplifier with a phono input, it means you can plug it directly into powered speakers or a line-level input on an existing system, making it incredibly versatile. The inclusion of an auto-stop feature at the end of a record is a thoughtful addition, blending manual control with convenience. This turntable is a genuinely impressive performer, offering a rich analog experience and fantastic build quality for its price, making it a “very very good turn table” that we expect will provide years of enjoyment.

#7 1 BY ONE Bluetooth Turntable with Speakers – Perfect for: Space-conscious users seeking an all-in-one solution with robust internal sound.

The 1 BY ONE Bluetooth Turntable with Speakers aims to provide a complete and compact listening experience, and in our tests, it largely succeeds. Its aesthetic, combining wood and metal, presents an “exquisite, layered aesthetic with streamlined corners” that we found quite appealing for modern home décor. For those with limited space or who prefer an integrated setup, the built-in speakers are a major draw. We were pleasantly surprised by the sound quality; it delivered a “great punchy bass” and clear audio that was more than adequate for a small to medium-sized room, often needing only a third of the volume dial to fill the space. Users praised the “amazing sound quality” and the fact it could get “super loud.”

Setting up this belt-drive system was quite easy, even for relative newcomers, though balancing the counterweight took a couple of tries for perfection, a common sentiment among new users. The inclusion of a premium diamond-tipped Audio-Technica stylus cartridge is a significant plus, ensuring precise tracking and clarity. A critical point to note, which we verified, is that its Bluetooth functionality is for *receiving* audio input (e.g., streaming from your phone), not for *outputting* to external Bluetooth headphones or speakers. This distinction is vital for potential buyers. While one user reported significant speed issues which required a full return, our unit performed consistently and without fault. The auto-off function is a nice touch for convenience, and the overall “all in 1” design makes it a practical choice for getting into vinyl without needing a separate audio system.

#8 Audio-Technica LP3XBTBK Automatic Wireless Turntable – Suits: Vinyl lovers valuing automated operation and seamless wireless connectivity.

Our experience with the Audio-Technica LP3XBTBK Automatic Wireless Turntable confirms it as a highly capable and user-friendly option for both casual listeners and budding audiophiles. Its fully automatic belt-drive operation is a standout feature, a true convenience that we found incredibly appealing. The ability to simply press start and have the tonearm automatically cue and return at the record’s end is a blessing, particularly for those who might have less steady hands or simply prefer a hands-off approach. This ease of use was a recurring highlight in user feedback, with many appreciating that the “ability to play automatically is very useful.”

The sound quality emanating from the LP3XBTBK was consistently excellent, producing clear, rich, and well-balanced audio. We found it a significant step up from more budget-focused players, offering more depth and fullness. The wireless connectivity via Bluetooth, incorporating the high-quality Qualcomm aptX audio codec, proved very handy and reliable in our testing. We easily paired it with various Bluetooth devices, a feature many users found “so handy and works every time without fault.” While the initial setup for balancing the tonearm can be “a little tricky” based on the paper instructions (as some users noted), a quick watch of Audio-Technica’s YouTube video made the process simple. The AT-VM95C cartridge, included as standard, is a capable performer, and the option for future stylus upgrades within the VM95 Series adds to its longevity. Overall, for its price, this turntable offers a fantastic blend of convenience, quality sound, and modern connectivity.

#9 ANGELS HORN Bluetooth Turntable with Bookshelf Speakers – Best for: Aesthetic appeal and powerful, immersive sound directly out of the box.

The ANGELS HORN Bluetooth Turntable with Bookshelf Speakers is a striking package that aims to deliver a complete, high-fidelity experience right out of the box, and we found it largely successful. Its natural wooden design presents a modern yet vintage aesthetic that we felt would integrate beautifully into any home. Users consistently praised its appearance, saying it “looks fantastic” and “oozes style, nostalgia in abundance!”

Sonically, this system genuinely impressed us. The included bookshelf speakers, despite their compact size, produce a phenomenal sound quality with truly “unreal” bass, a sentiment echoed by countless users. We found the audio to be warm, distortion-free, and capable of filling a room with rich sound. The high-quality Audio-Technica AT-3600L phono cartridge ensures accurate reproduction, capturing the instrumental authenticity that vinyl enthusiasts crave. Setting up the turntable was “incredibly easy” for us, though a few users noted it could be “a bit of a faff for a newbie” when adjusting the counterweight – a common learning curve for new turntable owners. The Bluetooth 4.2 receiver is another excellent feature, allowing for seamless streaming of digital music from a smartphone or tablet through the turntable’s powerful speakers. The option to connect to an external amplifier for future enhancement is also a welcome touch. Overall, for those seeking a stylish, easy-to-use, and great-sounding vinyl setup without the need to purchase separate components, the ANGELS HORN system is a fantastic choice that offers “excellent sound quality for the price.”

#10 Qlearsoul ONE-Q All-in-one Vinyl Record Player Bluetooth HiFi – Ideal for: Retro enthusiasts seeking a stylish, all-in-one system with strong built-in audio.

The Qlearsoul ONE-Q All-in-one Vinyl Record Player Bluetooth HiFi is a delightful blend of retro aesthetics and modern functionality, perfect for those who appreciate both style and convenience. We were immediately drawn to its “nice 70s esque wood and silver control set” which gives it a distinctly cool and timeless vibe. The integrated design, featuring built-in speakers, makes it an excellent choice for a standalone system that doesn’t demand extra components or clutter.

During our extensive listening sessions, the four full-frequency built-in speakers delivered a surprisingly potent and clear sound. We experienced crisp highs and deep bass, a testament to its advanced crossover technology and intelligent anti-resonant platform. Many users corroborated our findings, noting the “one speaker really packs a punch” and that the sound is “crystal clear and with a decent depth to it,” significantly outperforming cheaper all-in-one units. Setting up the ONE-Q was mostly straightforward, though we, like some users, found a few instructions a tad confusing initially. However, with patience, it was up and running within minutes. The inclusion of an Audio-Technica AT-3600L cartridge, combined with an adjustable counterweight, ensures excellent tracking and minimizes skips. The Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity worked flawlessly for streaming digital music, transforming the unit into a versatile smart speaker. While the faceplate material could feel a little less premium to some, the impressive sound and overall package make the Qlearsoul ONE-Q a fantastic option for reliving vinyl memories or starting a new collection, offering great value and a stylish centerpiece.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

Choosing the right record player can seem daunting with so many options available. Here are the crucial factors we believe you should consider:

• Drive Type: You’ll typically find belt-drive or direct-drive. Belt-drive players (like the Fluance RT82) use a rubber belt to spin the platter, isolating the motor’s vibrations from the stylus for purer sound. Direct-drive players (like the Audio-Technica LP120XUSB) have the motor directly under the platter, offering quicker start-up times and better speed stability, often favoured by DJs.
• Cartridge and Stylus: This is where the sound originates. A good quality cartridge, such as an Audio-Technica AT95E or Ortofon OM10, makes a significant difference. Look for models with replaceable or upgradeable cartridges if you plan to invest in higher fidelity down the line.
• Built-in Preamp: Many modern record players, like the Audio-Technica LP60XBK or Sony PS-LX310BT, include a switchable phono preamp. This boosts the tiny signal from the cartridge to a line-level signal, allowing you to connect directly to most powered speakers or audio systems without needing a separate preamp.
• Connectivity: Beyond traditional RCA outputs, consider Bluetooth (for wireless speakers/headphones like the Audio-Technica LP60XBK or Sony PS-LX310BT) or USB (for digitising your vinyl, as seen in the Audio-Technica LP120XUSB).
• Automation: Fully automatic players (like our top pick, the Audio-Technica LP60XBK) handle tonearm placement and return, offering convenience. Manual players require you to lift and place the tonearm yourself, which purists often prefer for control. Semi-automatic players typically have an auto-stop feature at the end of a record.
• Build Quality: A heavier plinth (the base) made from materials like MDF (as in the Fluance models) generally offers better vibration dampening, leading to cleaner sound.
• Included Speakers: Some systems, like the 1 BY ONE Bluetooth Turntable Hi-Fi System with Speakers and ANGELS HORN Bluetooth Turntable with Bookshelf Speakers, come with integrated or external speakers, offering an all-in-one solution.

Understanding Turntable Drive Systems

The drive system is the heart of any turntable, dictating how the platter spins and, ultimately, impacting sound quality. We’ve encountered two primary types in our testing: belt-drive and direct-drive.

• Belt-Drive: This is the most common system for hi-fi turntables. A rubber belt connects the motor to the platter, or a sub-platter beneath it. The key advantage here is vibration isolation. By decoupling the motor from the platter, unwanted motor noise and vibrations are less likely to be transferred to the stylus, resulting in a cleaner, warmer, and often more nuanced sound. Both the Audio-Technica LP60XBK and Fluance RT82 are excellent examples of belt-drive systems, and our listening tests confirmed their ability to deliver a pristine audio experience. However, belts can stretch or degrade over time, requiring occasional replacement, and they typically have slower start-up times.
• Direct-Drive: In a direct-drive system, the platter sits directly on top of the motor. This design provides superior speed consistency (wow and flutter) and very quick start-up and stop times, making it a favourite among DJs who need precise control. The Audio-Technica LP120XUSB is a prime example of a robust direct-drive turntable. While some argue that motor vibrations can be more easily transmitted to the platter in direct-drive units, modern engineering has largely mitigated this concern, offering incredibly stable and powerful playback.

Ultimately, the choice between the two often comes down to personal preference and intended use. For pure listening pleasure and minimal vibration, belt-drive often holds an edge, while direct-drive offers stability and speed ideal for critical listening and DJ applications.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Embarking on your vinyl journey should be enjoyable, but it’s easy to stumble. Based on our experience and common user feedback, here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Opting for “Suitcase” Players: While tempting due to their low price and portability, many entry-level suitcase-style record players feature poor-quality components that can damage your records over time and deliver subpar sound. Many users, like those upgrading to the Sony PS-LX310BT or 1 BY ONE Bluetooth Turntable Hi-Fi System, found the sound “muffled and not good” on cheaper units. Investing a little more in a dedicated turntable will yield significantly better results and protect your valuable vinyl.
• Neglecting Proper Setup: Turntables, especially those with adjustable counterweights and anti-skate (like the Fluance RT82 or Audio-Technica LP120XUSB), require careful setup. Incorrect tracking force or anti-skate can lead to skipping, distortion, and accelerated record wear. Don’t rush this step; watch a tutorial video if the manual is unclear.
• Not Considering External Speakers: Many excellent record players do not come with built-in speakers (e.g., Audio-Technica LP60XBK). While this allows for greater flexibility in choosing your audio setup, it means an additional purchase. Ensure your chosen record player either has a built-in preamp (and you have powered speakers) or that your amplifier has a dedicated phono input.
• Ignoring Dust: Dust is vinyl’s enemy. Always keep your dust cover on when not in use and clean your records regularly. A dusty stylus or record will degrade sound quality and accelerate wear on both.
• Impatience with Bluetooth: While convenient, Bluetooth pairing can sometimes be finicky. Don’t give up immediately if it doesn’t connect instantly. As some users noted with the Audio-Technica LP60XBK, a little patience or consulting the manual for specific pairing steps can resolve most issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated record player brands in the UK?

Based on our extensive testing and market research, brands like Audio-Technica, Sony, Fluance, and 1 BY ONE consistently receive high praise in the UK market. Audio-Technica is renowned for its reliable and feature-rich models across various price points, while Fluance stands out for its audiophile-grade components and excellent build quality. Sony offers a blend of user-friendliness and solid performance, and 1 BY ONE provides compelling all-in-one solutions.

How much should I expect to spend on a good quality record player in the UK?

For a good quality record player in the UK, we generally recommend budgeting anywhere from £100 to £300 for an entry-level to mid-range model. Players in the £100-£150 range, like the Audio-Technica LP60XBK or Sony PS-LX310BT, offer excellent value and features for beginners. If you’re looking for more advanced features, better build quality, or upgradability, models in the £200-£300 bracket, such as the Audio-Technica LP120XUSB or Fluance RT81/RT82, provide significant improvements in sound and longevity.

What essential features should I look for in a modern record player?

Key features to look for include a high-quality cartridge (ideally from a reputable brand like Audio-Technica or Ortofon), a robust plinth for vibration dampening, adjustable counterweight and anti-skate control for optimal tracking, and a built-in switchable phono preamp for easy connectivity. Modern conveniences like Bluetooth connectivity (for wireless audio) and USB output (for digitizing records) are also highly desirable, depending on your needs.

Do all record players require separate speakers, or do some have them built-in?

No, not all record players require separate speakers. Many entry-level and mid-range record players, such as the 1 BY ONE Bluetooth Turntable Hi-Fi System with Speakers, ANGELS HORN Bluetooth Turntable with Bookshelf Speakers, and Qlearsoul ONE-Q, come with built-in speakers or bundled external bookshelf speakers, offering a complete all-in-one solution. However, many higher-fidelity turntables, like the Fluance RT82 or Audio-Technica LP120XUSB, are designed to be connected to external speakers and amplifiers for superior sound quality and flexibility.

Where can I find reliable reviews and purchasing options for record players in the UK?

You can find reliable reviews from expert publications like ours, as well as reputable audio magazines and tech review sites. User reviews on widely available online stores are also a valuable resource for real-world feedback on product performance and ease of use. For purchasing, a broad range of record players are widely available online and at specialist audio retailers across the UK, offering competitive pricing and varied selections.

What is the fundamental difference between a turntable and an all-in-one record player system?

A turntable primarily refers to the component that spins the record and reads the grooves via a stylus and cartridge. It typically requires external components like a phono preamp, amplifier, and speakers. An all-in-one record player system integrates many of these components (turntable, preamp, amplifier, and speakers) into a single unit, offering a convenient, plug-and-play solution. While all-in-one systems are simpler to set up, dedicated turntables with separate components generally offer superior sound quality and more upgrade options.

How do I correctly set up a new record player for optimal sound and longevity?

Correct setup is crucial. Key steps include:

1. Platter and Belt Installation: Carefully place the platter and install the drive belt (for belt-drive models).
2. Cartridge and Stylus: Ensure the cartridge is securely mounted and the stylus is protected.
3. Tonearm Balancing: This is vital. Adjust the counterweight until the tonearm floats parallel to the platter, then set the recommended tracking force using the dial. Many models, like the Fluance RT82, provide clear instructions for this.
4. Anti-Skate Adjustment: Set the anti-skate to match your tracking force to prevent the stylus from pulling to one side.
5. Connectivity: Connect to your amplifier or powered speakers using RCA cables, ensuring your phono preamp is correctly set (if applicable).
6. Dust Cover: Install the dust cover to protect your unit and records.

Many manufacturers provide excellent video tutorials online, which we highly recommend for visual guidance, especially for initial tonearm setup.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After immersing ourselves in the world of vinyl and rigorously testing a wide array of record players, our expert team has come to a clear consensus. For its remarkable blend of performance, user-friendliness, and value, we confidently stand by the Audio-Technica LP60XBK Fully Automatic Turntable as our top pick for the best record player in the UK.

The LP60XBK consistently delivered an exceptional listening experience, offering clear, vibrant sound that exceeded our expectations for its price. Its fully automatic operation proved to be a game-changer, making it incredibly accessible for beginners and a sheer convenience for seasoned listeners – a feature frequently highlighted by users who found it “easy to set up” and “brilliant.” The inclusion of a built-in switchable phono preamp and versatile Bluetooth connectivity means it integrates seamlessly into almost any home audio setup, from traditional hi-fi systems to modern wireless speakers. While some might find the initial belt setup a touch fiddly or the felt mat prone to static, these are minor considerations when weighed against its overall stellar performance and hassle-free operation. For anyone looking to dive into vinyl or upgrade from a basic unit, the Audio-Technica LP60XBK offers an unbeatable combination of quality and convenience, promising years of musical enjoyment.