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Best All in One Stereo System With Turntable in 2022 – Reviews & Buyers Guide

Vinyl records are coming back in style and if you don’t have a record player, you could be missing out! If you want high quality sound and the ability to play music from vinyl records, you may want to look at it all in one stereo system with a turn table.

These stereo systems are designed to give you a ton of options for listening to music. From things like records to FM radio to even a cassette player or CD player. They are called all in one stereo systems because you get all of the options in one simple device.

In this guide, we’re going to break it down for you to the best stereo system that is an all in one design out there. We’ve searched and sorted through the options to find you the very best all in one stereo system with turntable around. We’ve also got some guides and tips to help you make the best selection for your needs!

What to Look for in an All in One Stereo System

What to Look for in an All in One Stereo System
Photo by Joe Vasquez on Unsplash

When you’re checking out the options, it might be helpful to have some intuitive insight as to the things that you should look for or at least take note of in order to find the very best solutions.

This is designed to give you food for thought about things that are important to review and consider before you buy. The goal is to find a stereo system that truly is good quality but also meets your needs.

Built in Speakers Vs. External Speakers

One thing you will want to consider right off the bat is whether you want external speakers or whether you would prefer built in speakers. This is going to be a matter of preference on best all in one stereo system with turntable but it might make a difference in your overall setup.

Spoiler alert. What you will find is that most turn table systems actually have built-in speakers. So if you want external speakers specifically, you may need to just be sure that your turn table stereo systems are going to allow you to connect external speakers through a headphone jack or another type of plug.

These systems will have stereo speakers in place most of the time but you might also just watch that detail to be sure unless you are already specifically planning to use external speakers instead of the provided stereo system built in speakers on the unit.

Keep in mind the sound quality isn’t always super amazing from stereo speakers like this although sometimes a stereo system does have really awesome sound.

What Kind of Playback Do You Need?

What Kind of Playback Do You Need?
Photo by Victrola Record Players on Unsplash

Next up, when you’re looking at the details, you need to know what the stereo system offers and what you specifically want for playback.

For example, are you just looking for a record player or do you want to be sure you can also listen to FM radio, a cassette player, and a CD player? Maybe you’re looking for even more options or perhaps just a couple of these options.

Not every all in one stereo system is going to offer the exact same functionality so be sure to find out what the capabilities are and assess whether these will be sufficient for you before you make a purchase.

Maybe you want to be able to connect your phone or a device, even. In that case, you’ve got to look for Bluetooth connectivity as well. The goal here is that music lovers can play their favorite music no matter what form that music is in, right?

Where Are You Looking to Use Your System?

Next up, as you consider your options, be sure to also consider the space and the setup. There is a lot to think about here.

For example, where are you placing it? Be sure you choose high quality turntables that will fit into the deemed space that you have for them. Some of these options can get pretty large, while others are small compact – just big enough for those vinyl record players.

Consider the space you’re going to set it up but also consider the room as well. How large is the room? Will the sound work well on the room size?

Maybe you want something that really fits into the aesthetics of the room or something that looks like it truly fits into the time period of record players and such. Fit your style, fit your room, and fit the overall aesthetic that you’re going for here. Makes sense, right?

The Best All in One Stereo Systems Available

Now that you’ve got some basic insight on choosing your stereo system, let’s get down to business. In this section of our guide, you will find all of our top picks for the best all in one stereo system with turntable. We made every effort to find a variety of choices to fit a variety of needs and budgets.

We hope that you can find something here that will work for your needs.

1. Best Overall: Victrola 8-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player & Multimedia

Best Overall
Victrola 8-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player
  • 8-in-1 Entertainment Center
  • Three Speed Belt-driven Turntable 
  • All the Controls You Need 
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First up, for our best overall pick, we went with a stereo system that really has it all. Victrola 8-in-1 has the style, the built in speakers, a record play, FM radio, cassette, and CD players, and connections to hook up just about anything you want.

This includes external speaker connectivity, RCA headphone jacks, USB port, Bluetooth wireless abilities, and even the ability to convert the vinyl records to MP3s. The radio tuner and the overall style really sets it off as it looks like an old time radio and turntable piece. It even comes in several different color options.

The manual setting of the radio tuner is incredibly authentic but you still get updated technology with USB inputs, radio capabilities, cassette tapes, CDs, and more! Playing vinyl records has never been more stylish in our opinion.

This is a highly-rated option across the board, sporting more than 11,000 ratings on Amazon and still scoring more than 4.5 stars. It has excellent sound quality, looks great, and works great.

Product Specs:

# of Functions:8
Dimensions:18.32 x 12.2 x 10 inches
Jacks/Connections:multiple
Power:35 watts
Editor’s Rating: 4.8

Key Features:

(On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest)

  • Speaker sound: 10
  • Playable options: 10
  • Speeds: 10
  • Overall Design: 10
Pros:
  • Three speeds to enjoy any type of sound
  • Playback options include 8 different choices
  • Wood finish give you vintage design for turntable setups
  • The best all in one system in our books
  • Sounds great and easy to setup
Cons:
  • There is no warranty for potential issues you could encounter
  • The sound quality varies depending on what you are listening to

Why We Like It:

This best all in one turntable option brings you a vintage look and pretty reliable sound quality, particularly for the vinyl enthusiast. You can sit back, play music, enjoy, and just know that you have plenty of options. The quality is there in vintage design, making this a clear winner.

2. Best Budget Pick: Victrola All-in-One Bluetooth Record Player

Best Budget Pick
Victrola All-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player
  • With Built-in Speakers
  • 3-Speed Turntable Mahogany
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • FM radio
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If you’re looking for the cheapest option and not so worried about having all of the extra bells and whistles, Victrola All-in-One Bluetooth Record Player could be a great choice. It’s certainly just about the cheapest option and you keep that vintage look alive. This best all in one is more limited on functionality with just a turntable and a radio option. However, it does also have Bluetooth connectivity so you can use it for quite a bit too.

You can get this in either mahogany or black. You can also choose to buy it with or without a case. It’s simple but also still pretty great. It does offer built in stereo speakers or you can connect to external speakers if you like.

You will find 3 rotational speeds as well so you can make your music sound the way you like it. It does also include RCA output and a headphone jack connection. This best all in one option is simple but effective and with the Bluetooth ability, you can do a lot of different things and play whatever music you want from the device.

This all in one turntable also comes with an acrylic dust cover so you don’t have to worry about it getting dusty on the turntable when you aren’t using it.

Product Specs:

# of Functions:3
Dimensions:10.79 x 5.14 x 12.74 inches
Jacks/Connections:RCA & Headphones
Power:not provided
Editor’s Rating: 4.6

Key Features:

(On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest)

  • Speaker sound: 8
  • Playable options: 8
  • Speeds: 10
  • Overall Design: 10
Pros:
  • Simple design with Bluetooth
  • Music quality is reliable
  • Includes an acrylic cover for dust
  • Available in black or mahogany
  • 3 rotational speeds
Cons:
  • The speakers on the device are not really great but it does connect to externals

Why We Like It:

We love that this is mostly a simple record player but it still has some great functionality too. While it’s an all in one stereo system that is slightly more limited, it’s a great price and you can connect to Bluetooth for more playing enjoyment.

3. Best Value: Electrohome Kingston y-in-1 Vintage All In One System

Best Value
Electrohome Kingston 7-in-1
  • Analog to Digital 
  • Warm Room-filling Vinyl Sound
  • Retro Inspired Hand-crafted Tuned Wood Cabinet
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This next choice from all in one stereo systems pretty much has it all. Electrohome is a really great value if you’re looking for something that still brings you that vintage look but also incorporates modern technology to give you a really great stereo system. In terms of a stereo system, it’s also a pretty great price for an all in one that delivers.

These stereo systems are certainly no Audio Technica but it plays pretty great just the same. It does have built in speakers or you can connect to externals. It doesn’t play cassettes but it does do plenty else for you.

The system comes in 3 different color choices. You can use it for your vinyl, as well as vinyl or CD to MP3. It does have a CD player, AM/FM radio, a USB port, auxiliary plugs, and record playbacks. That means you get a ton of different options to work with and it all has quality behind it.

This system has some really cool handmade details and it comes in 3 different color options as well. The adjustable counterweight also helps to balance out your sound so you can always just enjoy the quality of the music.

Product Specs:

# of Functions:7
Dimensions:13.5 x 17.3 x 12.25 inches
Jacks/Connections:multiple
Power:80 watts
Editor’s Rating: 4.5

Key Features:

(On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest)

  • Speaker sound: 9
  • Playable options: 10
  • Speeds: 10
  • Overall Design: 10
Pros:
  • Vintage style with modern sound performance
  • The built in speakers product high quality sound
  • Compatible with download cards and conversion
  • A great value for the money with 7-in-1
  • Available in awesome color choices
Cons:
  • Very manual play for your records, including the arm control

Why We Like It:

If you’re looking for the best all in one stereo systems that are a great value for the money, look no further. It’s a manual setup but you can do so much on it, including playing that large CD collection you have in the cabinet. The internal speakers sound great and the system is reliable overall.

4. Digitnow Record Player Turntable All in One Stereo System

DIGITNOW Bluetooth Record Player
  • Bluetooth Function
  • CD player and cassette tape Function
  • Remote control Included
  • Matching HiFi Speakers
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Next up is a setup that really brings the modern vibes to the table. This all in one stereo system looks awesome and it fits in with modern aesthetics. Digitnow is a standard black design with blue backlighting. The system features a turntable with a full stereo speaker set that you can place however you want. They are external and detached. It does have the ability to play cassette tapes as well.

This 7-in-1 system lets you listen to the stereo, plug in with auxiliary cables, use SD cards or USB, play CDs, or even convert to MP3. It comes with a remote control to make listening as easy as possible and the quality of the sound is amazing. The speakers even have a built in amplifier.

It’s modern but the design is also simple and easy to work with. Enjoy your record, your cassettes, your CDs, and just about anything else as well. The record player has a nice cover as well to protect it from dust.

This system sports excellent build quality, powerful speakers, and all of the digitized features that a music lover can enjoy while still enjoying the old school playback options.

Product Specs:

# of Functions:7
Dimensions:12.48 x 11.42 x 7.87 inches
Jacks/Connections:Aux input
Power:15 watts each speaker
Editor’s Rating: 4.3

Key Features:

(On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest)

  • Speaker sound: 9
  • Playable options: 10
  • Speeds: 9
  • Overall Design: 10
Pros:
  • Modern style with old school grace
  • USB ports and SD card functionality
  • Includes cassette players
  • Aux input for additional options
  • Powerful speakers that are detached
Cons:
  • Does not produce as great sound as you expect with the details because it’s low power

Why We Like It:

All in one stereo systems can be hit or miss. We like the modern style that this one brings to the table. With a cassette player, FM radio, and tons of other functions, it really can’t go wrong. While the sound could be better, it’s not bad and the design really stands out here.

5. Jensen All in One Stereo System

Jensen All in One Stereo System
  • CD playback
  • AM/FM Tuner 
  • Cassette playback
  • Stereo Turntable
  • Auxiliary Input 
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This next all in one stereo system is a premium model as far as these systems go. The speakers are included like built in speakers would be but they are actually external so that you can get better sound and design it just how you like it. Jensen is a more expensive system but it seems to be well-made.

This is another option that offers you modern style but still gives you the ability to enjoy all of the old school playback options. The all in one stereo system provides you with an FM radio, a record player, cassette player, CDs, aux input, and MP3. You can enjoy playback or bring in your own sounds as well.

Playing vinyl records is a breeze with the belt driven turntable for more accurate play as well as control. The adjustable pitch control also helps to provide quality sound. This is a modern design and it looks like a boom box. You get the remote, the belt driven power, and all of the capabilities that you need.

Program to whatever you like to listen to and you are set!

Product Specs:

# of Functions:6
Dimensions:14.65 x 20.98 x 11.22 inches
Jacks/Connections:Aux input
Power:35 watts
Editor’s Rating: 4.2

Key Features:

(On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest)

  • Speaker sound: 9
  • Playable options: 10
  • Speeds: 9
  • Overall Design: 9

Pros:

  • Belt driven technology for the record player
  • Speakers are external and customizable
  • The record player includes a cover for dust
  • All in one stereo systems includes FM radio, CD, cassettes, etc
  • Modern style with a boombox appeal

Cons:

  • This is rather large compared to some models
  • The volume does not get very loud

Why We Like It:

This particular option is a really great choice. The speakers are nice and the system is designed to give you all of the options you could possibly need. It does take some work to get your settings just right but the stereo speakers do sound nice when you do.

6. Boytone BT-28SPM Record Turntable System

Boytone BT-28SPM Record Turntable System
  • Record and Convert to MP3
  • Boytone All-in-One System
  • Natural Vintage Wood Looking Style
  • Quality Sapphire Stylus with Cartridge and Well Balanced Belt-Driven System
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Finally, we leave you with one final option and is a good one. This system sports a wood finish and outside speakers that you can move around and adjust to your needs or setup. Boytone looks like a vintage system but it works like it uses the best technology available right now for the system.

This has your cassette abilities, CD, record turntable, stereo, and Bluetooth capabilities. The recorded piece is belt driven so you get full control of quality sound. Apart from the basic functions, you can convert to MP3 and connect with things like USB, SD, or auxiliary as well.

The record player has a clear cover for dust. It’s connected and hinged so it’s easy to work with. The sound is really awesome here.

Product Specs:

# of Functions:8
Dimensions:11 x 8.5 x 12.5 inches
Jacks/Connections:Multiple
Power:40 watts
Editor’s Rating: 4.1

Key Features:

(On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest)

  • Speaker sound: 10
  • Playable options: 10
  • Speeds: 9
  • Overall Design: 10
Pros:
  • Bluetooth capabilities to give you more options
  • Sounds really great
  • One stereo system to rule them all
  • Vintage style and modern performance
  • Multiple functionalities
Cons:
  • Not a lot of power so it’s not super loud

Why We Like It:

We love the graceful quality paired with the vintage style. It looks great and it sounds pretty great too. Does it get much better than that? Plus, you get added Bluetooth connectivity.


Related Reviews: Best Floor Standing Speakers Under $300 Review

A Guide to Choosing An All in One Stereo System

A Guide to Choosing An All in One Stereo System
Photo by James Sutton on Unsplash

There you have it! You see all of our top choices and now it’s time to narrow it down to figure out what works for you. Now, check out this simple guide for figuring out what you want to keep in mind before you make a final decision.

Are You Experienced with a Turntable?

First things first. If your purpose is to get a good stereo system with turntable capability, you need to consider just how much you know about these things. Do you know anything about managing the arm or playing the record? What about speeds and settings?

Playing records can take some knowledge in order to avoid scratching the record or having a sound that just isn’t great. If you don’t know how to use a record turntable, you may want to consider spending just a little bit more to get a system that does all of the work for you.

Otherwise, if you get a manual system just be sure to do a little research and learn how to use it properly in order to incur the best results with your music.

Aesthetic Appeal

Sometimes the system you choose is really all about aesthetics. Obviously, you want something that sounds really nice but you also want something that really fits into the design elements of the room.

The good news is that you can find options that are wood and vintage or you can find far more modern styles. Brands like Audio Technica are known for their advanced, modern looks so it’s really just a matter of the style you’re after.

The one thing we do want to point out is that you shouldn’t sacrifice noise quality for looks so just be mindful of that!

Sophistication or Simple?

Ok, take note! You will find that some of these options get incredibly sophisticated. From things like Bluetooth wireless to cassettes and playback or even RCA output, SD slots, and more, there is a lot to know about.

The good news is, you can also keep it simple and go with something that just has the record player and some Bluetooth wireless. You can find one like this in our budget pick slot.

This is really going to be a matter of personal preference but it’s a detail we want to make sure you know is adjustable. You don’t have to get a 10-in-1 if you don’t need it. You can easily stick to something like a 3-in-1 if that is your preference!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes a Good Record Player?

Good is really a matter of opinion for most. However, there are some specific qualities that can make a difference. The motor drive is significant. The reason for that is it can lead to better sound as well as less vibration. We love belt driven options but this is not always easy to find in this type of system.

The tone arm can also make a difference. We prefer one that moves freely but some of the manual arms still produce good music in the end.

Can Record Players Play a CD?

Technically speaking, a record player cannot play a CD. If you put the CD onto the record spot and think it’s going to play, you will probably be greatly disappointed. With that being said, systems that are set up for multiple functions can play both records and CDs so those specific systems could play. However, it won’t be the actual record player but the CD portion of the system that does the work here.

Do I Have to Use Speakers with a Record Player?

The real answer is that it depends. Most systems have speakers built into them. Some of them even use external speakers options but it still comes with the set. If your player doesn’t come with some sort of stereo speakers then yes, you will need to add those. Otherwise, you can use whatever is included in the system.

These are not always amazing but it’s something and then you can choose to adapt or build from there.

Are All in One Record Players Good?

They certainly can be! Some are better than others of course. What you have to keep in mind is that an all in one system really probably was not designed for just records. When made, it’s designed to do a little bit of everything so it’s not focused on just playing records.

The good news is that they are still capable of playing records and they can do a lot more than that too so you’re not tied down to just playing records. Overall, they work well for a lot of different things but they are not specialized to just one use.

Conclusion

We hope that you find this guide to be a great resource for finding an all in one stereo system with a turntable. There are so many options out there and we’ve tried to bring you the absolute best choices here. You can find just about anything for your style or your budget right here!

The nice part is that you can pretty much choose whatever works for you. Don’t need cassettes or CDs? No problem! Want to be able to do it all? Still not a problem! Go with as little or as much as you need.

What all in one stereo system with turntable do you have your eye on?

Expert Tip

If the speakers don’t provide enough volume for you on your selection, try adding an amplifier or just setting up some extra high-quality speakers to pair with the system.

Did You Know?

Did you know that you don’t have to get a specialty record player to enjoy records? You can still play things like cassettes and CDs. These systems are built to do just that. The best part is that you can choose the system that has what you need most!

Amazon Recommends:

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Jensen JTA-575BK All-in-One Modern Home Record Player Stereo 3-Speed Turntable Music System Multimedia Center + CD/MP3, USB/SD Encoding AM/FM Cassette Player/Recorder + Remote Wooden Speakers (Black)
  • ► ✅ 3-Speed Stereo Belt Drive Turntable - 33/45/78 RPM Pitch...
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Jensen All-in-One Hi-Fi Stereo CD Player Turntable & Digital AM/FM Radio Tuner Tape Cassette Player Mega Bass Reflex Stereo Sound System
  • CD playback - Enjoy your favorite CDs or personally recorded CD-R and...
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5 Best Budget Speakers for Turntable in 2022 – Reviews & Buyers Guide

One of the Best Budget Speakers for Turntable in red color

When it comes to the best turntable speakers there are a lot of options. Which model is best for you depends on your needs and requirements. You’ll have to consider the matter of budget and depending on how much you’re willing to spend you can get a discount, mid-priced, or high-priced speaker.

Then, you need to consider build quality, materials used, design elements, and finally features within the speaker model. Some speakers are made to maximize audio quality and give off a high-powered sound, while others focus on factors like in built amps and preamps. Consider whether bluetooth connectivity is a primary concern for you.

Speaker size and power value also play a role. You’ll need storage space for your pair. If you plan on carrying it around you’re better off buying a light-weight option. To make this decision easier for you we’ve compiled this list of the best budget speakers for turntable use. As you make your way through this list think carefully about which pros and cons apply to you.

5 Best Budget Speakers for Turntable

1. AudioEngine A2+

Best Overall
Audioengine A2+ Plus
  • 60W of power
  • Compact and light - 6lbs
  • Flat frequency response for accurate sound
Editor's Rating:
5.0
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Perfect for home office and small setups

On the list of best budget speakers for turntable the AudioEngine A2+ is a top choice. You can get these active speakers for an affordable price of under $300, putting them in the medium priced category. With wireless connectivity options, and a built in digital to analog converter these are the best speakers for vinyl.

Additionally, these bookshelf speakers use quality materials like a silk dome tweeter, Kevlar woofers, shielded wooden cabinets, high performance amps and top-of-the-line connections and wires that work well with any device. The budget speakers come with a bluetooth option, RCA cables, a USB port, and one-eighth inch input port.

The A2+ speakers have two RCA ports so you can connect the output to a bluetooth transmitter and use a bluetooth soundbar with it if you want to. You can also choose between a red, black and white color option.

Pros

  • Easy to use because you just need to plug in the USB or connect with the bluetooth
  • The DAC device results in a loud and crisp stereo sound perfect for a home cinema or for DJing
  • The active speakers work great with vinyl and come with a build in amplifier
  • Flat frequency response (65Hz-22kHz ±2.0dB) speakers give off an equal and pure audio quality, so you get an enhanced and accurate sound with little external interference
  • Superior build quality combined with a compact form of 6” x 4” x 5.25” that weighs a total of 6.7 lbs making it easy to carry
  • Accessories include optical cables, a speaker stand and a control panel with independent volume control
  • The power value for each speaker is 30W so the two speakers add up to a 60W rating
  • Auto standby mode extends battery life

Cons

  • Only one input source works at a time so you will have to turn off bluetooth to use the usb connection
  • Lack the bass response of a subwoofer, however, you can attach an external device

Why We Like It

The design for the A2+ model is meant to serve as a middle ground between home audio and desktop speakers. So you get a compact budget speaker with bluetooth connectivity, incredible performance, high sound quality, bass punch, and flat frequency response.

Conclusion

Overall, customers give the Audioengine A2+ Stereo speakers a 4.5 out of 5 star rating. The active speakers come with a build in amplifier and all the necessary cables to get it to work. With both bluetooth connectivity as a USB port it’s easy to use. And the flat frequency response improves the crispness of sound so you get a high quality listening experience.


2. Kanto Yu4 Speakers

Kanto YU4 Powered Speakers
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Built in ampplifier
  • Two optical inputs, a 3.5mm AUX and a subwoofer outputs
Editor's Rating:
4.6
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High-quality bookshelf speakers with maximum features

These mid-sized bookshelf speakers work well with turntables of all sizes. They measure 5.5 inches by 7.5 inches by 8.7 inches and weigh 6.9 pounds. The Kanto Yu4 Speakers are among the best speakers for vinyl on the market with a price range from $400 to $500 depending on the accessories and stand you choose to purchase. Despite costing higher than other budget options this pair of speakers will last you a long time. The durability combined with the build quality and sound response make it a contender on the list of best budget speakers for turntable use.

Various design features help make these high-quality speakers user friendly. The single knob control panel is placed on the front as opposed to the back. With a built-in pre amp you can connect these speakers to the turntable of your choice. You have a subwoofer output if you want to add more bass. Both the bass and treble are adjustable.

The company left nothing out, going above and beyond to perfect these bluetooth speakers. You don’t even have to worry about the battery life because the speakers automatically shift to standby mode to conserve energy. Additionally, you can pick a color and finish of your choice to customize your stereo speakers. Apart from the sleek matte black and white speakers there is even a bamboo option.

Pros

  • Bluetooth connectivity allows you to stream music from any device
  • Phono preamp makes your speakers compatible and connectable with all turntables
  • Remote control option to manage bass and treble levels
  • Two optical inputs, a 3.5mm AUX and a subwoofer output all help improve the speaker connectivity
  • The Kanto YU4 bookshelf speakers give off high quality sound
  • The speaker comes with an amplifier so you don’t need to attach any external device
  • Automatic standby mode helps preserve speaker battery life
  • The speakers come with all the needed cables and you can also use remote control
  • Parts include four inch kevlar woofers, a one inch silk dome tweeter, a class D amplifier and a subwoofer

Cons

  • More expensive than other budget speakers

Why We Like It

The AptX bluetooth speakers come with an inbuilt pre amp so you can stream music directly from your phone. With a focus on connectivity these bookshelf speakers let you set the mood. Whether you want to throw on your favorite vinyl records or stream a playlist the choice is yours. The audio quality definitely leaves nothing to be desired.

Conclusion

Overall, customers give the Kanto Yu4 Bluetooth Speakers a 4.5 out of 5 star rating. These high powered speakers come with built-in phono preamp and aptX tech. Additionally, high-quality parts like the 4 inch Kevlar drivers and 1 inch silk dome tweeters result in crisp high notes and steady mid-range notes that would please any audiophile.


3. Edifier R1280DB Powered Speakers

Best Budget Pick
Edifier R1280DB
  • Built in amplifier
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Has both optical and coaxial inputs
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Best budget pair of speakers

At under $130 per pair of speakers the Edifier R1280DB is the reigning king when it comes to best budget buys. Despite the affordable price you get a range of features like RCA ports, bluetooth connectivity, optical inputs, remote and onboard controls.

The bass and treble adjustment options on the side of the speaker makes this a top choice if you want to listen to vinyl records. Since the speaker uses active monitors you don’t need to get an amplifier to boost the volume. Also, these bookshelf speakers connect to analog and digital devices which lets you access a wide range of devices and music catalog.

The speaker measures 5.75 inches by 9.5 inches by 7 inches so it is slightly larger than the previous options. With speaker size you want to think about storage and whether you’ll need to transport it a lot. If these aren’t concerns then the larger size doesn’t matter.  In terms of color options you can get this speaker in a black or wood brown design.

Pros

  • Bluetooth connectivity lets you stream music from any device
  • Control panels lets you adjust the volume, treble and bass frequencies
  • Multiple RCS input ports let you connect 2 devices simultaneously
  • Speakers for turntables with analogue or digital sources
  • Inputs work with optical and coaxial needs
  • Active speakers remove the need for external amps
  • Battery operated wireless remote to switch inputs or bluetooth devices
  • Comes with all the needed cables, including speaker cable, optical cable, RCA cable
  • Frequency response ranges from 55 Hz to 20kHz
  • Power output of 21W RMS per channel
  • Hardware includes 4 inch bass unit, 13 mm silk dome tweeter and removable grills
  • Components made using solid mdf sheets

Cons

  • No built-in phono preamp so you will have to get your own
  • Since these are budget speakers their build quality is lower than other more expensive options

Why We Like It

The audio performance, crisp sound, and connectivity options are unmatched for turntable speakers at this price point making the Edifier R1280DB the best budget vinyl speakers on the market. The pair comes with 2 port RCA input cables, bass and treble controls. Overall, you get an output of 21W RMS per channel which adds up to a 42W total.

Conclusion

The Edifier R1280DB comes with a 4.5 out of 5 rating making it one of the best budget bookshelf speakers. These bluetooth budget speakers come with quality features like multiple input ports and output channels, built in amplifiers, and bass controls as well as a two year warranty which will last you a long time.

Related Review: Polk Signature Series S15 Bookshelf Speaker Review


4. Airpulse A80 Speakers

Airpulse A80
  • Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
  • High power output - 100W RMS
  • App to customize speaker output
Editor's Rating:
4.2
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Powerful Bass Frequencies, Good Speakers for Vinyl

The Edifier A80 speakers are one of the best pairs for turntables, in terms of audio quality and sound clarity. These high powered speakers have a superior build quality and use the finest components, including transparent brand wiring, high-strength MDF sheets, horn-loaded ribbon tweeter, a 4.5 inch aluminum cone mid-woofer and an inbuilt digital amplifier with XMOS processor.

However, all these features, materials, and design qualities have a trickle down effect. The total cost of these money speakers adds up to around $600-$700. For many audiophiles the high price point is worth the audio quality. It all comes down to the type of speakers you’re looking for.

Pros

  • Power output of 100W RMS with audio that is loud, clear and powerful
  • Frequency response range from 52 Hz to 40kHz
  • Speakers measure 5.5 inches by 9.8 inches by 8.7 inches and weigh around 20.5 pounds.
  • Bluetooth 5.0 provides high resolution sound so you can stream music and get a clear and even result
  • Bass driver speakers with controls to alter the bass and treble levels
  • Foam pads provide acoustic insulation that prevents echo in the audio or external interference
  • Digital and analog setup speakers for turntables
  • Additional Sono units can further elevate the audio
  • Use the Sono app to customize the speaker sound according to your requirements
  • 3.5 mm input and RCA ports for easy attachment to a turntable
  • Multiple connectivity options include 2 RCA inputs, 1 optical input and 1 USB port, making these the best turntable speakers for vinyl
  • Materials include high-strength MDF sheets for the cabinet and foam lining for the interior soundproofing
  • Parts include a horn-loaded ribbon tweeter, a 4.5 inch aluminum cone mid-woofer and an inbuilt digital amplifier with XMOS processor

Cons

  • Expensive option that not everyone can afford

Why We Like It

The Edifier A80 high powered speakers come with an extensive list of features, high-quality audio, and expert build quality that make this speaker perfect for any turntables. Special features include acoustic insulation, built in amp, bass and treble remote controls, and an alumnium cone mid-woofer.

Conclusion

Customers give the Edifier A80 speakers and 4.5 out of 5 star rating, and for good reason. These are the best speakers on this list, in terms of audio and build quality, as well as, overall performance. However, while the features attract audiophiles, this quality comes at a high price point.

That said, the investment is definitely worth its while as you can use these speakers with any type of turntable or audio input. If you’re shopping in the $600 to $700 range there are no other speakers that can compete with this product in quality or design.


5. Sonos Five

Sonos Five
  • Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant
  • Can be adjusted for stereo or mono effect
  • 3 tweeters and 3 woofers for robust sound
Editor's Rating:
4.0
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Best Wifi Speakers for Vinyl

The Sonos Five high powered speakers are a mid-range option of around $500. These are the best speakers for vinyl but you can also use them for streaming and get quality audio. You can get a lot of range out of these speakers by either placing a single speaker horizontally in a stereo position or both vertically and at a distance for a mono effect and broad sound stage.

The speakers measure 8 inches by 14 inches by 6 inches and weigh around 14 pounds making them comparatively light-weight. The 3.5mm input port lets you connect the speakers to the turntable. And if you want to customize and edit the quality of the output sound you can use the Sono Trueplay app or the Apple AirPlay2 to fine tune the audio.

What makes this one of the best turntable options is the range you get thanks to the various pieces. With the 3 multi-dimensional tweeters you get a surround sound effect that you control. The 3 sealed woofers provide the bass frequencies.

Pros

  • 3 multi-directional tweeters and 3 sealed woofers so you get a quality surround sound experience
  • The Sonos Trueplay app lets you finetune the sound levels and adjust the bass
  • When attaching to the turntables you can place the speakers horizontally or vertically to get a stereo or mono effect
  • The Sonos Five comes with higher memory and faster processing power than previous models
  • Speaker is humidity resistant
  • Speaker updates are automatic and effortless
  • On-board touch panel lets you adjust the control settings although you can also use Alexa and Google Assistant for a more interactive experience
  • The speakers comes with a power plug and a set up guide that lets you know how to connect them to the turntable

Cons

  • Unsuitable for audiophiles who prefer to separate their vinyl and streaming music setups

Why We Like It

The Sonos Five takes surround sound to the next level with its 3 multi-directional tweeters and 3 sealed woofers, set in an echo reducing acoustic design. This speaker comes with the Sonos Trueplay app which lets you adjust and fine tune sound levels. Overall, this is one of the best turntable speakers for vinyl or for streaming because of the powerful and clear sound output.

Conclusion

The Sonos Five comes with a 4.5 out of 5 rating making it one of the best high powered speakers for vinyl. These record player speakers come with quality features like multiple input ports and output channels, treble and bass controls as well as a control panel that lets you customize sound.


Buyers’ Guide

When you’re purchasing a turntable setup there are certain things you need to know so you can make an informed decision. These include the various components, how they work with one another, and the options you have. After all, you can’t get quality products if you don’t know what to look for.

Best Budget Speakers for Turntable Buyers Guide
Image by Kanto YU4 Powered Speakers with Bluetooth and Phono Preamp, Gloss Black from Amazon

The overall setup for your sound system determines what devices you will need to purchase.

  1. Type of set up: Common turntable and amplifier

Requirements: turntable, cartridge, phono preamp, speakers, amplifier

  1. Type of set up: Simple turntable and active speakers

Requirements: turntable, cartridge, phono preamp, active speakers

  1. Type of set up: Turntable and desktop speakers

Requirements: turntable, cartridge, phono preamp, computer

  1. Type of set up: Classic stereo system

Requirements: turntable, cartridge, speakers, amplifier

1.  Phono Preamp

How it works

Your turntable puts out a Phono signal, however, audio equipment often can’t recognize it in this form. To solve this problem the device uses a phono preamp to convert the phono signal to a line level signal that the speakers can interpret.

What you need to know

Generally, most turntables will have a built-in preamp, but this is not always the case. So how do you tell? If the device comes with a USB port it will also have a preamp. Older models for stereos come with preamps so just look for the input slot with the tag marked ‘phono’. You can use a DJ mixer for the same purpose and if you are using an external preamp get RCA cables to connect and set up the entire system.

When you’re dealing with a turntable without a built in preamp remember that it will need grounding, otherwise you’ll notice outside noise that will interfere with the output quality. For this you will have to purchase a grounding cable so take that into account.

Additionally, preamps come in a range of qualities and a significant price range, starting at $50 and going all the way up till $500. So if you don’t find one that fits your budget initially keep looking because you don’t have to get an expensive option.

2.  Belt Drive vs. Direct Drive

How it works

In the belt drive system an independent motor runs the turntable platter using the rubber belt. On the other hand, the direct drive system drives the platter without mediation.

What you need to know

When it comes to the drive system the more suitable option depends on your needs. If you want to DJ then you should get a direct drive system and not the belt drive system. Overall, the belt drive system has a more clear and crisp sound. There is no outside noise or interference to disrupt the music and overall you’ll get a better listening experience.

The direct drive system is more durable, with superior build quality and sturdier hardware. Also, these turntables have stronger torque and take less time to start up. If you know what your eventual goal is you’ll find it easier to choose between the two drive types.

3.  Cartridge

How it works

The cartridge is the electro-mechanical component that produces an amplifiable signal in the record player. It is an essential part of the sound system and ensures fast frequency response, high sound quality, tracking speed of the needle across the record grooves, and the power output. If there is one part of the set up you should invest in it is the cartridge, because expensive options generally offer more impressive audio quality.

What you need to know

You can choose between a head shell mounted cartridge or one that plugs into your tonearm directly. The Ortofon 2M Red is a solid option for the first type while the Ortofon Concorde series falls into the second category. Keep in mind that these are quality options for home listening. DJing requires a special separate set of cartridges.

If you’re considering other options look into factors like cartridge weight and alignment. Generally, any device you buy will likely be MM or Moving Magnet. If an item is labelled MC or Moving Coil then it will be more expensive and have higher maintenance costs. These are advanced options not suitable for beginners.

4.  Tweeters

How it works

A tweeter also known as a treble speaker comes in a variety of forms such as dome and horn type. These speakers produce audio with high frequencies that are generally between 2kHz and 20 kHz, although some custom designs go as high as 100kHz.When you attach these to your turntable you get a superior listening experience.

Dome tweeter speakers use a circular diaphragm that comes in plastic, aluminium, or titanium. Aluminium dome tweeters give off crisp and strong high frequencies. Titanium tweeters do the same, with higher accuracy, but without the sharp edge.

Best Budget Speakers for Turntable Buyers Guide
Image by Edifier R1280DB Powered Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers from Amazon

What you need to know

Tweeters are a must have if you want your sound system to deliver a full range of sounds. They add crispness and clarity to the sound output from the speakers and are essential for a high quality listening experience. Because of their small size their output volume is low. To solve this you can attach a horn to your speakers and amplify the audio volume.

5.  Woofers

How it works

A woofer also known as a bass speaker produces sound with low frequencies that are generally between 50Hz and 1000Hz. Physically woofers are a lot bigger than tweeters, with an average diameter of more than 12 inches.

What you need to know

There are two common types of woofers in speakers, sealed enclosure and ported enclosed. The sealed enclosure woofer traps sound waves coming out of the back of the speakers. The result is crisp bass and clear audio with a low volume.

The ported enclosed woofers do not trap sound completely. The escaped audio has a 180 degree phase shift so when it travels to the front of the speakers the result is a muddier sound.

6.  Bass and Treble

What you need to know

The bass settings let you adjust the bass or low frequency sounds like bass drums and guitars. The treble settings let you fine tune the higher pitched sounds like snare drums and cymbals. You can change the settings depending on the type of music you are listening to.

7.  Turntable Mats

How it works

Keeping a specially designed turntable mat underneath your record player can help improve sound quality by reducing friction. This is a must buy for DJing but also a worthwhile buy for a home cinema. The mat will protect your records and dampen vibrations caused by the movement of the record against the platter.

What you need to know

Rubber mats are a solid dampening option and will improve the sound quality. But, if you get a felt mat you can hold the record in place as the platter beneath continues to spin. As audiophiles and listeners with expert ears will tell you, cork mats open up the range of sound frequencies, taking the listening experience to new heights.

8.  Additional Features

When you’re looking for the best budget speakers for turntables you’ll come across various brands promoting their products by highlighting specific features. Knowing these terms will let you tell the quality speakers apart from the mediocre turntable speakers.

A pair of RCA output cables channels the signals in your turntable. These should come with the device, as should a tonearm weight to direct the tracking force. This refers to the pressure on the needle. Turntables should offer high torque, especially ones designed for DJing.

Additional features of the Best Budget Speakers for Turntable
Image by Edifier R1280DB Powered Bluetooth from Amazon

If a turntable is listed as anti-skating that means a built in control keeps the needle in the records center groove. Another factor is the pitch control which lets you adjust the platter’s spinning speed.  Usually, you can play records at 33 RPM, 45 RPM, or 78 RPM.

It is an added benefit if a turntable comes with an acrylic platter as opposed to a standard one. Not only does it boost sound quality, but it also removes the need for a mat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are active and passive speakers?

Active speakers have built in amplifiers while passive speakers require an externally attached amplifier. Generally, passive speakers are only suited to home use whereas active speakers can fulfil a wide variety of roles including DJing. The brands and products listed above are all active, high powered speakers.

Do speakers stay on all the time?

The best turntable speakers are designed to automatically turn off when they aren’t playing music. This helps conserve energy and extend their battery life. However, you should look into the power consumption of your chosen speaker when idle before you decide to purchase.

Are bigger tweeters better?

It isn’t a case of better so much as a case of what you want. Bigger tweets are easier to install and pair with a midrange. Smaller tweeters produce more accurate high frequency sounds and have superior off axis response.

Conclusion

Overall, there are a number of speaker options to choose from depending on your individual preferences and needs. If you’re having trouble deciding which speakers are best for you start by isolating one factor. The price range is generally a good place to start as it will considerably narrow down your options.

Once that’s done decide which factors and qualities you are not willing to compromise on. If you’re a huge audiophile and cannot consider buying a speaker with subpar sound clarity or quality then focus on the amps, preamps, tweeters, woofers, and other sound enhancing design factors.

On the other hand, if you want to stream music you’ll want a bluetooth speaker and if your goal is playing vinyl then look for the best speakers for vinyl. No matter your preference, there’s something for everyone. So happy shopping!

Our Top Choice
Audioengine A2+ Plus
  • 60W of power
  • Compact and light - 6lbs
  • Flat frequency response for accurate sound
Editor's Rating:
5.0
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