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8 Best Fully Automatic Turntable
From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
Buying Guide for the Best Fully Automatic Turntable
Choosing a fully-automatic turntable is a great way to get into vinyl playback with ease and convenience. Fully-automatic models take care of the tricky bits for you – they move the tonearm to the start of the record, pick it up at the end, and even stop the platter automatically. When selecting your turntable, your main goal should be finding one that matches your listening habits, your audio setup, and the features you value. Consider where and how often you’ll use it, what kind of records you play, and how much control or simplicity you prefer. Focus on the most meaningful specifications for your needs to ensure your experience is enjoyable and the device is a good match for your system.Drive TypeThe drive type refers to how the turntable platter is rotated, primarily belt-drive or direct-drive. Belt-drive turntables use a rubber belt to spin the platter. These are often favored for home listening due to less motor noise reaching the stylus, which can mean quieter playback. Direct-drive models connect the motor directly to the platter, offering steady speed and quick start, which some people prefer, especially DJs. If you want the purest sound possible for casual or focused listening, a belt-drive is often best. If you need durability, precise playback speed, or plan to manipulate records a lot, a direct-drive could be the right call.
Cartridge and Stylus TypeThe cartridge and stylus are the parts that physically touch and read your records. Most fully-automatic turntables come with a cartridge and stylus pre-installed, either moving magnet (MM) or moving coil (MC). MM is more common and easier to replace, while MC can sometimes offer higher sound quality but is costlier and trickier to replace. If you're new to vinyl or want hassle-free maintenance, an MM cartridge is usually the best pick. Also, check if the cartridge and stylus can be easily swapped, which is useful if you want to upgrade in the future.
Built-In Phono PreampA phono preamp is an electronic component that boosts your turntable’s tiny signal to a level that speakers or amplifiers can use. Some turntables have this built in, while others require a separate unit. If you are connecting to powered speakers, soundbars, or newer receivers, having a built-in preamp means a simpler setup with fewer boxes and cords. If you already have a receiver with a phono input, or if you want to eventually upgrade to a high-end preamp, you may prefer a model without this feature.
Speeds SupportedTurntables spin records at different speeds, typically 33 1/3 RPM and 45 RPM, with some also supporting 78 RPM for old records. Make sure the turntable you pick plays the records you own or plan to buy. If you mainly listen to standard albums and singles, 33 and 45 are all you need. If you inherit or collect older 78 RPM records, look for models that include this option.
Build Quality and IsolationBuild quality impacts both the durability and the sound performance of your turntable. A heavier or sturdier body helps minimize outside vibrations that can interfere with playback, so look for a turntable that feels solid and has some heft. Good isolation feet further dampen vibrations. If you’re going to place your turntable in a room with lots of movement or near speakers, build quality and vibration isolation become more important. For light or occasional use in a quiet space, this may be less critical.
Auto Return and Shut-Off FeaturesFully-automatic turntables are designed to handle the tonearm movement for you, returning it to its resting spot and stopping the platter at the end of an album. This not only protects your stylus and records but also provides peace of mind if you tend to forget about the record playing. If you want a set-it-and-forget-it experience, these features are a must. However, some people prefer the tactile experience of manual operation—choose based on which experience fits your habits best.