Research-scored · 3.5/10 · Not recommended. Its ceramic cartridge and fixed tonearm are hard on records; safer picks inside.
James Calloway
Research-scored · 7.9/10 · The safe all-in-one. Built-in speakers with a magnetic cartridge and adjustable counterweight.
Research-scored · 7.4/10 · The easiest Sony deck. Fully automatic with aptX Adaptive Bluetooth, but priced above its rivals.
Research-scored · 8.0/10 · The warmer RT85. Same deck with a Nagaoka MP-110, and the New York Times' 2026 top pick.
Hands-on · 8.0/10 · Best automatic for a home stereo. Fully automatic with a built-in preamp and a removable headshell.
Hands-on · 8.1/10 · Best first record player. Fully automatic, built-in preamp, and safe for records, with nothing else to buy.
Hands-on · 8.9/10 · Best audiophile value. Carbon fiber tonearm and the strongest upgrade path in its class.
Hands-on · 8.0/10 · Best cartridge included. An Ortofon 2M Blue, acrylic platter, and auto-stop on a solid plinth.
Hands-on · 7.8/10 · The easiest Sony deck to live with. Fully automatic with aptX Bluetooth, a built-in preamp, and USB ripping.
Hands-on · 8.2/10 · Best build at its price. Hand assembled in the USA with a magnesium tonearm and acrylic platter.
Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB Review 2026: The Most Complete Turntable Under $400
Hands-on · 8.5/10 · Best for most people. Direct drive, built-in preamp, USB, and 78 RPM, with an upgradeable VM95E cartridge.
