It would not be an exaggeration to assume that everyone loves music. While some people like to listen to their music on online music streaming platforms, a lot of quality-focused listeners prefer the offline method. Some hardcore fans also collect a collection of vinyl records from their favourite artists or bands as a souvenir of their work. But, these vinyl records are of no use if you are not able to play them on a similarly high-end turntable. If you are also looking for such a turntable in the market, make sure you understand the following aspects first.
- Material: Since you are planning to shell out a significant sum for a high-end turntable, you would obviously want a premium build quality as well as finish on your turntable. Therefore, you must check the material used for the construction of the turntable before you buy your unit. This will also give you an idea about the reliability of the turntable apart from its design aspect.
- Connectivity Options: Once you buy a high end turntable, you will have to connect it to a set of external speakers or reference monitors in order to listen to your favourite music. Unlike older turntables that used to feature a dedicated onboard speaker, the current generation of high-end turntables offer an analog output that you need to connect to an external output device.
- Rotation Speed: If you notice carefully, you will find a lot of high-end turntables offer varying speeds since the records are designed to be played at different speeds. Before you buy your high-end turntable, you should make sure that it offers the rotational speed that is suitable for your vinyl music collection. If the speed of the record and the record player is mismatched, you will notice either a higher pitch or lower pitch output than what is intended by the artist.
Today, we are going to take a look at some of the best high end turntables available in the market right now. Since high end turntables are quite expensive, you should make sure that you take your time and do a thorough research before making a decision. Luckily, we have already done the hard work for you while gathering this list. If you need any additional help while choosing one option, you can refer to our “Buying Guide” for the best high end turntables which is also available right here.
Best High End Turntables List
| Features | Material | Connectivity Options | Rotation Speeds | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK High End Turntable | Plastic | Wired | 33/45/78 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| 1 BY ONE High End Turntable | Engineered Wood | Wireless | 33⅓ or 45 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| Sony PS-LX310BT High End Turntable | Vinyl | Wireless, Bluetooth | 33⅓ RPM and 45 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| Fluance RT81 High End Turntable | Engineered Wood, Wood | Wired | 33⅓ RPM and 45 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| Audio-Technica AT-LP3BK High End Turntable | --- | Wired | 33⅓ and 45 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| Crosley C62B-WA High End Turntable | Engineered Wood, Plastic | Bluetooth | Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 | Check On Amazon |
| Pro-Ject High End Turntable | Alloy Steel | Wired | 33 & 45 RPM (78 capable) | Check On Amazon |
| Denon High End Turntable | Vinyl | Wired | 33⅓ or 45 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| ANGELS HORN High End Turntable | Wood, Plastic | Wireless, Wired | 33⅓ and 45 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| Pioneer DJ PLX High End Turntable | --- | Wired | 33⅓ to 45 RPM | Check On Amazon |
Best High End Turntables Reviews
1. Audio-Technica AT-LP120X High End Turntable
Audio Technica is quite a familiar name for those who know audiophile grade peripherals such as open back headphones and AMP DACs. They also have a high quality turntable that offers similarly premium sound output.
In the 1st place, we are placing the most popular choice in the market right now for a high end turntable. The Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK is a direct-drive analog turntable that offers fully manual control along with 3 speed options for versatile applications. You can also convert vinyl records to digital to digital directly from this turntable for digital storage.
You can experience true high fidelity audio output with the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK along with the onboard controls for quicker access. As for the rotation speeds, this turntable offers 33, 45 and 78 RPM rotation which is great for a direct-drive turntable. The fully manual operation on the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK also includes anti-shake control, variable pitch control, balanced S shaped tonearm, and a lockable rest.
Best Features:
- Made up of plastic
- Offers wired connectivity
- Offers 33/45/78 RPM rotation speed
- Fully manual operation
- Can convert vinyl records to digital
Pros:
- Audiophile quality turntable
- Onboard controls for quick control
- Dynamic anti-skate control
Cons:
- A bit too expensive for a plastic turntable
2. 1 BY ONE Bluetooth High End Turntable
Since we are discussing popular options for a high end turntable, let us introduce the following option from 1 BY ONE. 1 BY ONE is a brand dedicated to music and high quality audio devices.
In 2nd place, we have the 1 BY ONE Bluetooth Turntable System. This is also a HiFi turntable system that comes with 36 watts bookshelf speakers included in the package. Thus, you won’t be needing a separate HiFi audio system to use this turntable. The turntable itself is a patented design from 1 BY ONE, thus you will get an exclusive turntable with stunning looks and functionality.
The 1 BY ONE Bluetooth Turntable HiFi System contains a magnetic cartridge that makes the turntable even easier to use. As for the rotation, you will be getting 33⅓ and 45 RPM speed options on this turntable. The platter itself is made up of solid iron so that it offers perfect stability and rotation. You also get adjustable counterweight force on the 1 BY ONE Bluetooth Turntable System which is crucial for the tonearm.
Best Features:
- Made up of Engineering wood
- Offers wireless connectivity
- Offers 33⅓ or 45 RPM rotation speed
- ADjustable counterweight force
- Built-in preamplifier and switchable phono line
Pros:
- Turntable ships with 35 watts bookshelf speakers
- Wireless audio streaming available
- Great set for the price
Cons:
- Not a great choice if you already have high quality speakers
3. Sony PS-LX310BT Belt Drive High End Turntable
Sony is also a well-known brand around the globe when it comes to electronic devices. They also have a lot of great options when it comes to audio devices, just like the turntable mentioned here.
Despite Sony being quite a premium brand for electronic gadgets, the Sony PS-LX310BT is rather an affordable option for a turntable. It is a very simple and intuitive turntable that is suitable for beginner users as well. This turntable offers one-step auto start and stop and it is also very compact in size. You will get 33⅓ and 45 RPM rotation options on the Sony PS-LX310BT which is good enough for standard applications.
When it comes to audio output, the Sony PS-LX310BT certainly does not disappoint. This turntable offers great audio output thanks to the built-in switchable phono output with a preamp and 3 gain settings. You can also create a digital backup of your old vinyl records directly from this turntable. On top of that, you will have the advantage of wireless connection which is perfect for casual usage.
Best Features:
- Made up of vinyl
- Offers wireless connectivity
- Offers 33⅓ RPM and 45 RPM rotation speed
- Built-in switchable phono output
- Built-in preamp with 3 gain settings
Pros:
- Comparatively affordable option in the market
- Supports USB ripping feature
- Simple and intuitive design
Cons:
- Not the best choice for audiophile users
4. Fluance RT81 Elite Vinyl High End Turntable
Fluance is also bringing a budget-friendly option for a high end turntable on our list today. If you don’t already know, Fluance has been offering high end audio devices for about 2 decades now.
The Fluance RT81 Elite is yet another high fidelity turntable you will find on our list today. Even though this turntable is made by Fluance, you will get an Audio Technica AT95E cartridge installed on the unit, assuring the quality of the device. This is a belt drive turntable with a built-in preamp and an adjustable counterweight. This turntable also features a basic yet attractive design so that it goes well even in your living room.
As for the audio quality, the Fluance RT81 Elite offers a pure analog listening experience. The cartridge on this turntable features a diamond elliptical-tipped stylus that precisely tracks the record grooves for a high definition output. Also, the tonearm on the Fluance RT81 Elite is an S-type tonearm made up of aluminum so that there is little to no vibration disturbance in the playback. More importantly, the built-in Texas Instruments preamp is one of the highlights of the Fluance RT81 Elite.
Best Features:
- Made up of Engineering wood
- Offers wired connectivity
- Offers 33⅓ RPM and 45 RPM rotation speed
- Built-in Texas Instruments preamp
- Elliptical tipped stylus
Pros:
- Features the Audio Technica AT95E Cartridge
- Offers a pure analog listening experience
- S-type aluminum tonearm
Cons:
- A bit expensive considering the design aspect
5. Audio-Technica AT-LP3BK High End Turntable
Audio Technica has managed to land yet another high end turntable on our list today. But, unlike our previous choice from Audio Technica. The following option is a bit more affordable and suitable for beginners.
The Audio-Technica AT-LP3BK is one of the cheaper options designed by Audio Technica that offers fully automatic and smooth experience thanks to the belt-drive mechanism. Even though it is an affordable choice, you will still get a fully analog listening experience. First of all, the Audio-Technica AT-LP3BK features a balanced straight tonearm with a ½ inch universal headshell for wide compatibility. It also offers adjustable speed rotation of 33⅓ and 45 RPM.
For the automated movement, the stylus includes a hydraulic damped lift control so that the movement is linear and precise. The Audio-Technica AT-LP3BK also features anti-vibration elements that eliminates the possibility of low frequency feedback. On top of that, the aluminum die cast platter also features a 4 mm damping mat for an even better output. As for the controls, you will find simple play/pause buttons and the vinyl record size selector switch on the turntable.
Best Features:
- Features simple control options
- Offers wired connectivity
- Offers 33⅓ and 45 RPM rotation speed
- Balanced straight tone arm
- Offers fully automatic operation
Pros:
- Great option from Audio Technica for beginners
- Automated controls are pretty good
- Features a ½ inch universal mount
Cons:
- S-shaped tonearm is better in some cases
6. Crosley C62B-WA Belt-Drive High End Turntable
Now that you are popular with popular choices in the market let us talk about some of the lesser-known bands such as Crosley. It is also offering a complete set instead of just a turntable for a complete experience.
Crosley C62B-WA is also a budget-focused belt-drive turntable that you will surely like. This turntable offers many great features that are seen on premium options such as wireless connectivity, built-in amplifiers, anti-skate control and much more. What makes this a great deal is the inclusion of 2 external speakers with 10 watts power capacity each. For the rotation speed, you will have the option to use the Crosley C62B-WA at 33⅓ and 45 RPM.
Coming to the performance of the Crosley C62B-WA, you will get desirable output from the turntable thanks to the low vibration motor and aluminum tonearm. The tonearm also has an adjustable counterweight and a pre-amounted magnetic cartridge for precise control over the record. To further improve the audio quality, you will also find a built-in amplifier and a switchable preamp.
Best Features:
- Made up of Engineering wood
- Offers wireless connectivity
- Offers 33⅓ and 45 RPM rotation speed
- Come with a built-in amplifier and switchable preamp
- Heavy steel platter
Pros:
- Offers premium quality audio output
- Ships with 2 external 10 watts speakers
- Audio-grade MDF plinth
Cons:
- Speaker quality could have been better
7. Pro-Ject Audiophile High End Turntable
Moving on to the premium range of high end turntables, we have the following option from Pro-Ject Audio Systems. You will find many exciting features on the following turntable that are missing from standard options.
The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO is one of the most premium options we have selected for our list today. This is a great option for audiophiles as well as professionals as the audio quality available with this turntable is simply mesmerizing. Thanks to the carbon fiber tonearm and a special motor with electronic speed selection option, you will find the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO compatible with all of your vinyl records.
The tonearm itself on the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO is 8.6 inches in size and has an integrated headshell for precise performarmance. The speed selection feature allows you to adjust the rotation speed for 33 or 45 RPM with maximum capacity up to 78 RPM. The tonearm also has dedicated low-friction sapphire bearings so that there is absolutely no external impact on the audio playback.
Best Features:
- Made up of Alloy Steel
- Offers wired connectivity
- Offers 33 & 45 RPM rotation speed with 78 RPM capability
- 6 inches carbon fiber tonearm
- Electronic speed selection option
Pros:
- Many premium qualities that are suitable for this budget
- Low-friction sapphire bearings
- Heavy steel platter weighing around 1.7 Kg
Cons:
- Design could have been a bit more attractive
8. Denon Fully Automatic High End Turntable
Denon is also bringing a great choice for a premium high end turntable. The following option from Denon can be a great choice if you are a focused audiophile.
The Denon DP-300F is a great choice for both experienced as well as beginner turntable users since it offers fully automatic operation along with analog audio listening experience. The Denon DP-300F also has a built-in phono equalizer with a uniquely designed tonearm for better output. One of the best features of the Denon DP-300F is the hologram vibration analysis that prevents interruptions to the playback caused by external vibrations.
Despite all of these features, the Denon DP-300F is quite a compact option compared to the high end turntables we have seen so far. This allows the unit to be portable while offering a heavy base needed to decrease the vibrations. The Denon DP-300F also offers the automatic startup feature that allows starting of playback with a single touch. Since the motion of the tonearm is automated, you won’t notice any scratches or damage on your vinyl records even after months of usage.
Best Features:
- Made up of Vinyl
- Offers wired connectivity
- Offers 33⅓ or 45 RPM rotation speed
- Offers a fully automated experience.
- Built-in phono equalizer
Pros:
- Offers great features for this price range
- Operates on a DC servo motor with adjustable speed
- COmes with automatic startup feature
Cons:
- Overall design could have been better
9. ANGELS HORN High Fidelity High End Turntable
If you haven’t found the perfect option under your budget yet, don’t worry. The following option from Angels Horn is the cheapest high end turntable you can find in the market right now.
The Angels Horn Vinyl Player is the most affordable option we could find for our list of the best high end turntables. Still, this unit will offer you wireless compatibility and adjustable speed option for 33⅓ and 45 RPM rotational speed. On top of that, the Angels Horn Vinyl Player also features a built-in phono preamp so that the output quality of the vinyl player is suitable for your HiFi speaker system.
The Angels Horn Vinyl Player comes with a precisely manufactured iron platter that offers a uniform weight distribution for perfect rotation. As for the looks, there is barely any comparison to the Angels Horn Vinyl Player as it has a bold wooden design. This turntable is also pretty easy to set up and use, making it an ideal choice for beginners. Also, the turntable base of the Angels Horn Vinyl Player is equipped with a spring and belt-driven system so that the shock absorption quality of the base is pretty strong.
Best Features:
- Made up of wood and plastic
- Offers wireless connectivity
- Offers 33⅓ and 45 RPM rotation speed
- Heavy iron platter
- Built-in phono preamp
Pros:
- Most affordable high end turntable
- Offers many great feature for the price
- Offers adjustable rotation speed
Cons:
- Not the best option for audiophiles.
10. Pioneer DJ PLX High End Turntable
You may already know the brand Pioneer as it is the first brand of choice for almost all professional musicians and DJs. The following high end turntable from Pioneer is essentially the best option for professional applications.
Rounding up our selection of the best high end turntables, we have the Pioneer DJ PLX-1000. This is one arguably the most premium choice you will find in the market right now since it is designed by Pioneer. But, the features of the Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 are equally astounding. For starters, it offers a high torque direct-drive system so that the analog output from the system comes with extremely low noise and with a high-level of stability.
There are 3 tempo ranges available with the Pioneer DJ PLX-1000, making it suitable for professional quality audio playback. On the other hand, the heavy-mass of the die-cast chassis of the turntable eliminates the possibility of resonance and vibrations. With the temp adjustment option, you can change the track speed by +/-8% or even by +/-16%. The Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 also has interchangeable power and audio cables that can be easily replaced.
Best Features:
- High torque direct-drive system
- Offers wired connectivity
- Offers 33⅓ – 45 RPM rotation speed
- 3 tempo ranges
- Die-cast chassis
Pros:
- Adjustable temp range allows +/-8% or +/-16% speed adjustment
- Interchangeable power and audio cables
- Best option for professionals
Cons:
- Most expensive high end turntable
Buying Guide For The Best High End Turntables
If you are thinking digital music players offer premium quality output, you might be in for a surprise. To get the best quality music output, you will have to invest in vinyl records of the music or album that you want to listen to. Apart from that, you will also need a high quality turntable that can play the vinyl record for you.
On our list, you will find the best options available in the market right now for a high end turntable. So, if you already own a collection of vinyl records and a HiFi audio system, you should definitely invest in a high end turntable to get a fulfilling experience. But to get the best option, you should know a few key aspects of the device that we are going to discuss in our buying guide for the best high end turntable given right here. By following this guide, you can easily pick up the ideal option under your budget for a high end turntable.
1. Build Quality
The build quality is a very important factor for a high end turntable, especially if you are planning to pick up a premium option. Since turntables are quite intricate in design, even the slightest of damage can permanently degrade the output quality of the turntable. But, it can be avoided if the turntable is built with durable materials.
Based on the budget range, you will find a variety of options in the market when it comes to turntables such as plastic, engineering wood, or even metal. In comparison, the units that are made up of metal will offer you a much stronger build quality whereas the one made from wood or vinyl will offer a stunning design. Thus, you should make your decision based on your priorities. If you are sure that your turntable will be installed at a safe and secured location, you can go with a lower quality material and pay attention to the design and other technical details.
2. Rotation Speed
Since all musical artists are alike, their playstyle and music is also different. Therefore, you will find some songs extremely low-paced whereas some are highly energetic and offer even more than 150 BPM play speed. Thus, you should make sure that your high end turntable can compensate with the playing speed of the record by offering the correct rotational speed. The rotational speed of a high end turntable is basically the speed at which the vinyl record will rotate once it is inside the turntable.
Most turntables offer adjustable rotational speed so that you can change it according to the record you are playing. In order to get the best output, the rotational speed of the turntable should be identical to that of the record. Otherwise, you will notice either a higher pitch and faster output, or a slower and lower pitch output from the turntable. If your turntable offers multiple rotational speeds, it can be used as a versatile vinyl player for multiple genres of music.
3. Design and Looks
Once you switch to a vinyl record player from standard digital music players, you will be making a quality of life upgrade that also includes the overall design and looks of the unit apart from its specifications. Since high end turntables will also be a part of the decor of your living room or your bedroom, you should pay attention to the design of the unit and make sure it goes well with other aspects of your room.
A lot of turntables are also designed based on a specific genre of music such as Rock, Pop, Hip Hop, etc. Thus, you can get a high end turntable based on your choice of music which will be an ideal choice in your case. Apart from that, you should also check if the turntable you are buying offers the necessary accessories along with the unit or not. If not, you will have to spend even more after buying an expensive high end turntable in order to use it.
4. Connectivity Options
Lastly, we will talk about yet another important feature of the high-end turntable which is the available connectivity options. If you are not able to connect the turntable with your HiFi audio system, then you will either have to buy additional accessories such as converters, or replace either of the systems. But, you will be glad to know that unlike old gen turntables, the new gen options also offer wireless connectivity features such as Bluetooth so that you can connect these turntables to any output system.
But, you should always prefer wired connection over wireless since there is no quality loss and you can get the best music listening experience. The wireless option might come in handy if you want to test out a record, or a HiFi system temporarily. But, it is not the best option for actually listening to your favorite music.
As for the wired connectivity options, you should check what type of ports are available on the turntable and whether the unit comes with connecting cables or not. If all necessary cables are included in the package, you will be able to use the high end turntable right after unboxing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: There are basically 2 popular types of turntables in the market that are direct-drive and belt-drive. Out of which, you would want to get your hands on a belt-drive turntable. While drive-drive turntables are quite cheaper in comparison, they do fall short against belt-drive options when it comes to output quality and vibrations.
As the motor is installed a bit farther from the record in the belt-drive turntable, the vibrations are minimized a lot. But, the starting speed of the belt-drive turntable is a bit slower.
Ans: The manual or automatic feature of the turntable refers to the motion of the tonearm and the stylus. In automatic options, the tonearm is automatically placed on the record, whereas you will have to manually place the tonearm in manual options.
The same goes when the record is over. In both options, there is no difference when it comes to the output quality. But, the automatic options are certainly a bit more attractive and also, easy to use if you are buying a turntable for the first time.
Ans: So far, you must have wondered what is the major difference between the standard, budget-friendly turntables and high end turntables. Well, a high end turntable is designed for audiophile listeners as it optimizes the sound quality and the overall sound character of the vinyl record.
In high end turntables, there is little to no variation when it comes to the spinning speed and a heavy persistence against disruptions caused by external vibrations. Thus, these turntables are the first choice for those who passionately collect vinyl records of their favorite artists.
Conclusion
Finding the best audio equipment is quite a difficult task, especially for those who take the output quality and overall premium features of the audio player seriously. Since there are a variety of options available even for audiophile grade audio equipment such as a high end turntable, you will find it a bit difficult to peruse all of the options. But, you can check out our list of the best high end turntables and get your hands on one of the best options present right here. As we have included a brief review along with a dedicated buying guide for turntables, you will find it quite easy to pick up the best option as per your needs. Or, you can simply go with one of our personal favorite choices from this list today.
- Even though high end turntables are quite expensive, there are a few options such as ANGELS HORN High Fidelity High End Turntable that won’t set you back a fortune. This is a Bluetooth supported high-end turntable that offers high quality sound output along with a beautiful design. Also, this is a belt-drive turntable that offers 2-speed variations for versatile output.
- If you are looking for a highly versatile player, you should look into the Audio-Technica AT-LP120X High End Turntable. This high-end turntable will offer you 3 rotations speeds that are 33, 45, and 78 RPM which should cover almost all types of records. In terms of design, Audio-Technica has gone with a simple design for this unit, yet it offers an articulated tonearm along with onboard controls for quick actions.
- Lastly, we will suggest going with the Pioneer DJ PLX High End Turntable as it is the top-of-the-line option for a high-end turntable. This is a high torque direct-drive analog turntable with extremely low-noise rating and a highly stable design. You will get 3 tempo ranges that will offer you a high playback quality suitable for its premium price range. It also supports interchangeable power and audio cables so you can easily find replacements in case one of your cables is damaged.
