Vinyl records are back, finally! You might have known it already, that’s why you are here looking for some best options for your turntable, right?
Various brands offer different turntable choices, from the one suitable for audiophiles to the one that is best for the budget since turntables vary in terms of features and functions.
Thus, it can be confusing to know which one to buy. But don’t worry, we will walk you through the list of top 10 record players priced under 1000. Check out our article!
Too Long; Didn't Read - Our Top 5 Picks are:
10 Best Turntables Under 1000
Audio Technica AT-LP
Various Audio Technica turntables are available, but the three most reliable models are AT-LP60BK, AT-LP7, and AT-LP120 USB.
Audio Technica AT-LP60BK is an automatic turntable integrated with a 2M cartridge and a built-in phono amplifier, so there is no need to check out other external amps.
AT-LP60BK is, therefore, best for newbies thanks to its automatic usage and excellent performance.
On the other hand, AT-LP7 is a fully manual one. AT-LP7 includes a non-resonant platter as well as a speed sensor that helps in the reproduction of sound by providing steadiness in the rotation.
Written in its name, the Audio Technica AT-LP120 USB features a USB connection. Just by connecting the USB with your computer, it is now easier than ever to save your records in such a modern format.
On top of that, the curved design of the tonearm makes it effortless to set up and adjust, thereby ensuring a seamless listening experience.
No matter what type of it, Audio Technica made a name for itself for the audio quality and, thus, is highly recommended.
- Automatic operation, built-in phono amp (AT-LP60BK)
- Non-resonant platter, speed sensor (AT-LP7)
- The USB connection to the computer (AT-LP120 USB)
- Smart tonearm design (AT-LP120 USB)
Music Hall MMF 5.3
Considered as a high-end product in this category, Music Hall MMF 5.3 never fails to amaze its users with developed techniques and quality audio.
An Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge is pre-mounted and available right when you purchase this device. Those who are experts in this turntable field will treasure the amount of money they might have lost if it’s not for this pre-installed cartridge.
The MMF 5.3 is also another easy-to-set-up turntable. Coming with a platter, a tonearm, and a cartridge, MMF 5.3 needs only a few minutes to get it all done.
All the components are considerately separated from the wiring and motor. This device is then covered with a dust cover and a gloss finish. Considering all of that, this is a great turntable under 1000 with satisfying performance.
- Pre-mounted and pre-installed
- Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge
- Dual-plinth
- Clever design
- High gloss surface
- Dust cover
Fluance RT 80
Though having one of the best designs in the market, Fluance RT 80 is not only about the look. Its user-friendly function is what draws most beginners’ attention.
You can get it all set up right when you get it out of the box. It’s that easy!
Fluance features a high-quality and long-lasting stylus, which is a plus for those who appreciate the consistency of a turntable. You can also control the level of pushing the stylus will push down on your record.
Besides, this RT 80 also includes an interesting function, which is auto-stop. Yes, there is no need to manually stop when the last track ends as the turntable stops itself.
All things considered, Fluance RT 80 is best for newbies, and it won’t leave a hole in your pocket.
- Easy to use
- High-quality stylus
- Control the weight the stylus puts on the record
- Auto-stop function
- May have vibration
Pro-ject Debut Carbon Esprit SB
In case you don’t know, SB is short for speed box. It is a system that does not require manual operation to switch the speed, which means that you can automatically change from 33RPM to 45RPM or 78RPM.
Produced by one of the most well-known manufacturers, Pro-Ject Esprit SB comes with a well-made acrylic platter. The platter is resonance-free; it reduces vibration to the minimum so that the sound quality is enhanced.
Also, its 8.6-inch-tonearm and Ortofon 2M cartridge are best at reproducing sound. People have always praised Esprit SB for its ability to offer listeners powerful yet creamy and smooth music.
Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Esprit SB is one of, if not, the best turntable in this under 1000 category.
- Electrical switching speed using speed box
- Ability to play 78RPM records
- Anti-resonance acrylic platter
- Ortofon 2M cartridge and quality carbon tonearm
Pro-ject Debut Carbon DC
Another product from Pro-ject, this turntable is the entry model, which is most suitable for newbies. Simplistic and minimal is what best describes Debut Carbon DC.
The two best features of it are the motor and the tonearm. The advanced motor is not in direct contact with the turntable, which ensures that there is little or no vibration during the music playing process.
Meanwhile, the tonearm is made from carbon fiber. Due to its low weight, when the tonearm is in its right position, you will experience a seamless motion.
Pro-ject Debut Carbon DC is, in general, a well-built turntable. If you are a beginner and willing to dive deeper into the audiophiles’ world, this is the best choice.
- Simplistic design
- Advanced motor to reduce vibration
- Carbon tonearm and Ortofon 2M cartridge
- Manual yet easy operation
- Cannot play 78RPM vinyl
Thorens TD190-2
Thorens is always notorious for the vintage approach towards its products, and this turntable is of no exception. A heavy plinth and heavy platter help complete the solid and classic look of it.
Controlled by a belt-drive system, featuring an electronic DC motor, Thorens TD190-2 has all the components to be a turntable with smooth performance.
On top of that, it is a fully automatic one, but don’t underestimate its power. TD190-2 is considered the most robust turntable Thorens has ever introduced.
Overall, this turntable has a vintage touch but is all modern inside, which is most suitable for DJs who prefer the look of the 80s. It’s the contrary that makes people love it.
- Vintage look
- Heavy plinth, heavy platter
- Belt-drive system
- Electronic DC motor with TD 170-1 chassis
- Fully automatic
Teac TN 550
Teac has always been a well-established manufacturer, and that’s why its product Teac TN 550 deserves a spot on this list.
They produce excellent sound quality regardless of music genres. Teac TN 550 competes with other competitors mainly in the field of music performance.
The clear acrylic platter, the marble plinth, and the tonearm that comes with S shape, all of them not only complete the luxurious look of the turntable but also help provide the unique, crisp audio that is nowhere else to be found.
The fancy design with aluminum speed adaptor is also a bonus to the aesthetic feel of this whole turntable. Overall, it is a true competitor in the market of turntables under 1000.
- Clear acrylic platter
- S-shaped tonearm
- Unique and crisp audio
- Aluminum speed adaptor
- Stunning design
Pioneer PLX 1000
Most of the turntables listed in this article are of the minimalistic concept. Pioneer, on the other hand, is somehow a lot more sophisticated in terms of design.
You can use this player easily without any instructions. With lots of customizable listening options thanks to the superior tempo control, you can now set the speed as you wish.
Another interesting thing about Pioneer PLX 1000 is that this turntable has neither the built-in preamplifier, the stylus, nor the cartridge. Wonder why it is interesting?
You can find the best pieces of every part, upgrade and customize it however you want. Pioneer PLX may be a little bit expensive, but believe us, it’s worth it!
- Easy usage
- Exceptional tempo control
- Direct drive motor
- No built-in phono preamp, stylus, and cartridge
Rega Planar 2
Rega Planar 2 is well-known for its excellent build quality. This turntable provides clear audio. Hence, it is an ideal choice for audiophiles.
A 10mm glass platter and aluminum tonearm are equipped in such a rigid body. Its glossy acrylic laminated plinth helps maintain sturdiness and prevent resonance as it ensures that no vibrations are passed.
Rega Planar 2 also features a carbon 2M cartridge that offers exceptional sound reproduction. Besides, this model contains a 24-volt motor that automatically cools down.
However, Rega Planar 2 does not have its built-in preamp and can only play 33 or 45RPM records. But overall, this model is worth considering with a budget of under $1000.
- Glass platter, aluminum tonearm
- Slick body
- Glossy acrylic laminated plinth for sturdiness maintenance
- No built-in preamp
- Does not support 78RPM records
Rega RP3
Rega RP3 is arguably the best turntable under 1000 in this list.
With this budget, you can expect everything from this turntable from the build quality to the top-notch audio. It is the turntable’s heavy plinth that helps absorb vibration and the light plinth core that provides rigidity.
These result in a remarkable improvement of sound quality that Rega RP3 produces.
If there is something to complain about this, it must be about the design. In the budget of under 1000, you will expect more than just a simple, plain design of it.
- Heavy plinth
- Light plinth core
- Excellent audio quality
- RB303 tonearm
- Simple design
If you are new to the Hi-Fi turntable journey or want to gift a friend to lure him/her to this hobby, try these cheap but still bring good sound experience turntables.
Final Words
For you to easily choose from a wide range of turntables in the market, we have provided a list of our top 10 best turntables under 1000.
Spend a little time to consider what feature you are looking for, or what style you love, and then match it with our list.
We hope you can get the right investment. Leave your comments, suggestions, or questions if you have any questions. Thanks so much for reading!
*Table's last update on 2023-03-26. Information is from the Amazon Product Advertising API. They're accurate as of the date and time indicated and are subject to change.
