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10 Best Turntable Under 200

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.

Buying Guide for the Best Turntable Under 200

Shopping for a turntable can be exciting, especially if you're looking to enjoy vinyl records at home. When choosing the best turntable for you, it's important to understand the key specifications and features that will determine your listening experience. You'll want to consider how you'll use the turntable, the space where you'll keep it, and what kinds of records you plan to play. Knowing how to interpret these specs will help you make a smart choice that matches your needs and preferences.
Drive TypeDrive type refers to how the platter (the part that spins the record) is powered. The two main types are belt-drive and direct-drive. Belt-drive turntables use an elastic belt to spin the platter, often resulting in less motor noise, making them a favorite for home listeners who want high sound quality. Direct-drive turntables have the motor attached directly to the platter, making them more durable and popular among DJs who need fast start and stop times. If you're mainly listening to music at home, a belt-drive can be a quieter and more satisfying choice, while direct-drive might be better if you plan to scratch or mix records.
Built-in PreampA built-in preamp boosts the weak signal from your record so that it can be played through speakers or an amplifier without special equipment. If a turntable has a built-in preamp, you can connect it directly to most speakers or audio systems. Without one, you’ll need an external phono preamp, which is an extra piece to buy and set up. For simplicity and ease of use, especially if you’re new to vinyl or don’t already have audio equipment, a built-in preamp is very useful. Choose a model with this feature if you want easy plug-and-play connectivity.
Speeds SupportedTurntables can spin records at different speeds, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). The most common are 33 1/3 RPM for standard albums and 45 RPM for singles. Some older records use 78 RPM, but these are less common today. Make sure the turntable you pick plays the types of records you own. For most collectors, having 33 and 45 RPM is enough. If you have older 78 RPM records, look for a model that supports all three speeds.
Cartridge and Stylus QualityThe cartridge and stylus (needle) are the parts that actually touch the record and 'read' the music. Their quality greatly affects sound quality and how gentle they are on your vinyl. Some turntables come with basic cartridges that work well for beginners, while others have higher quality or even replaceable options. If you're just getting started, a pre-installed cartridge is convenient. If you want the option to upgrade your sound later, pick a turntable with a replaceable cartridge and stylus.
Automatic vs. Manual OperationTurntables can be fully automatic, semi-automatic, or manual. Fully automatic means the tonearm moves onto and off the record with the press of a button, making operation easy and safe for beginners. Manual turntables require you to place and remove the tonearm yourself, giving you more control but requiring more attention. Semi-automatic falls in between. If you value simplicity or are new to vinyl, automatic operation is convenient. If you prefer a hands-on experience or want to get involved in every aspect of playing your music, manual operation can be more rewarding.
Connectivity (Bluetooth/USB/Line Out)Some turntables offer modern connection options like Bluetooth for wireless speakers, USB for digitizing records, or standard line out for connecting to other audio gear. If you plan to use the turntable with wireless speakers, or if you want to make digital copies of your records, look for these features. If you're focusing on traditional listening, standard line out is all you need.