A turntable is an old-school audio device that has been around since the invention of the phonograph. It works by using a rotating arm or needle to play back recordings of music on a vinyl disc. From inexpensive turntables to serious audiophile models, you may find yourself wondering if one can sound good for less than $100—or whether buying one is even worth it.
Table of Contents
Cheap vs Expensive Turntable:
1. The Basics:
The first thing to know about a turntable is that there are a variety of different models and types of turntables available. Some that you can buy for less than $100 will offer basic playback of standard records that have been pressed onto vinyl discs.
Others, however, feature advanced features such as motorized speed controls and transport controls as well as pre-sets for automatic play of records. In some models, you can even hook up an iPod or other digital music player wirelessly through its auxiliary input.
In general, more expensive models from brands such as Pro-Ject and Rega will sound the best on a variety of different types of records. If you want to know more about the difference between high-end and low-end turntables, some of these are some of the best values available.
2. The Sound Quality:
The next thing to consider is whether budget bluetooth turntables will sound as good as their more expensive counterparts. As you might expect, some of the most inexpensive models have fewer features compared to pricier ones, which will not only result in less performance but lower sound quality as well.
For instance, a highly regarded entry-level model from Rega costs just $150, yet it offers far better sound quality than models that cost significantly more. Likewise, the Pro-Ject Essential 2 costs around $100, but it offers better sound quality compared to other models in its price range.
It’s also important to know that different models sound significantly different. While some offer better performance at a lower price, others are among the best machines on the market when it comes to recording vinyl albums. One example is the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Partitio, which uses carbon fiber in its record section that retails for more than $1,000.
3. The Extras:
There are additional features that you can expect to find on pricier models. Models that cost less than $100 seldom offer the ability to plug more than two records into a turntable at once, and they usually do not come with a headphone jack or an aux input.
In some cases, however, there are models that cost more money that come with these features as standard. Likewise, you can usually expect to find an input for a phono cartridge included along with the outputs of all the necessary phonostages.
Buying a Good Quality Cheap Turntable:
As you can see, there are significant differences between turntables at different price points. But if you are looking for a dependable turntable that will play back quality albums on most types of vinyl discs, the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Partitio is certainly one to consider. At around $150, it offers great sound quality and the ability to play up to four records at once, making it a great option for those who own their own records or who want to hook up their digital music player wirelessly.
Upgrade your Turntable:
Whether you plan to buy a low-end turntable or a more costly one, it is always a good idea to upgrade it over time. Manufacturers change and improve their products year after year, which means that you will find yourself with one that has better features at the end of the ownership period.
If you are interested in getting the best bang for your buck, look for turntables that are available at major online retailers such as Amazon. You’ll find models from Rega, Pro-Ject and Stanton available in all price ranges, ensuring that there is something for every audiophile in your family.
Conclusion:
It’s important to know how much you can expect to spend on a new turntable, since it can help you decide whether they are worth the extra money. But if you are looking for a great, inexpensive model to replace your old one, there is no reason not to consider getting the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Partitio.
It offers all the features that you would expect in a good quality entry-level turntable while offering better sound quality that will make your musical collection sound better than ever.