Our picks at a glance
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Comparison table
| Feature | Best overallAudio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB | Best for hi-fiPro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO | Best lookingRega Planar 1 | Best budgetAudio-Technica AT-LP60X |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verdict | Buy | Buy | Buy | Consider |
| Typical price | £259–£319 | £509–£639 | £299–£349 | £89–£159 |
| Best for | Best all-rounder | Audiophile starter | Hi-fi beginners | First turntable on a budget |
| Key feature | Direct-drive deck with a built-in preamp and USB | Carbon fibre tonearm and quality cartridge | British-made deck with a superb arm and cartridge | Fully automatic and very simple |
| Drive | Direct drive | Belt drive | Belt | Belt drive |
| Preamp | Built-in, switchable | None | — | Built-in |
| Speeds | 33, 45, 78 RPM | — | 33 and 45 rpm | — |
| Tonearm | — | Carbon fibre | — | — |
| Cartridge | — | — | Rega Carbon | — |
| Operation | — | — | — | Fully automatic |
| Where to buy | Check Price Paid link | Check Price Paid link | Check Price Paid link | Check Price Paid link |
Audio-Technica · Turntables
Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB
Built-in preamp, USB and upgrade room.
- Buy it if
- You want a solid, upgradeable turntable that plugs into powered speakers or a stereo and can digitize records.
- Skip it if
- You want a set-and-forget automatic turntable.
Pros
- Direct drive with stable speed
- Switchable built-in preamp
- USB output to rip vinyl
- Adjustable tonearm for cartridge upgrades
Cons
- Manual operation
- DJ styling isn't for everyone
Key specifications
- Drive
- Direct drive
- Preamp
- Built-in, switchable
- Speeds
- 33, 45, 78 RPM
Pro-Ject · Turntables
Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO
Carbon tonearm and refined sound.
- Buy it if
- You want a step up in sound and build and already have a phono preamp or amplifier with a phono input.
- Skip it if
- You need a built-in preamp or Bluetooth.
Pros
- Carbon fibre tonearm
- Heavy, damped platter
- Excellent upgrade path
- Several finishes
Cons
- No built-in preamp
- Manual speed change on some versions
Key specifications
- Drive
- Belt drive
- Tonearm
- Carbon fibre
- Preamp
- None
Rega · Turntables
Rega Planar 1
Wood plinth and premium cartridge.
- Buy it if
- You want a simple, beautifully made turntable that sounds great through a separate amp or phono stage.
- Skip it if
- You want a built-in phono preamp or Bluetooth.
Pros
- Excellent tonearm
- Fitted Rega Carbon cartridge
- Made in Britain
Cons
- Needs a phono stage
- Manual speed change
Key specifications
- Speeds
- 33 and 45 rpm
- Drive
- Belt
- Cartridge
- Rega Carbon
Audio-Technica · Turntables
Audio-Technica AT-LP60X
Simple, automatic and cheap.
- Buy it if
- You want the simplest, cheapest real turntable to get started with vinyl.
- Skip it if
- You plan to upgrade the cartridge later; the AT-LP120XUSB has a far better upgrade path.
Pros
- Fully automatic
- Built-in preamp
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Limited upgrade options
- Light plinth picks up vibration
Key specifications
- Drive
- Belt drive
- Operation
- Fully automatic
- Preamp
- Built-in
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Who this guide is for
Turntables chosen for sound, build quality, built-in preamps and upgrade path. We focus on what each pick does best, what it typically costs in the UK and who should skip it.
How we chose
We compared manufacturer specifications, documentation, warranty terms and typical UK prices, then gave each product a clear Buy, Consider or Skip verdict. Our verdicts are based on this research, not on lab testing.
What to look for
- A built-in phono preamp lets you plug into powered speakers; without one, you need a separate preamp or a phono input.
- Look for an adjustable counterweight and replaceable cartridge if you want to upgrade later.
- Belt drive tends to be quieter; direct drive starts fast and holds speed well.
- Avoid all-in-one suitcase players if you care about record wear.
Buying tips for UK shoppers
Turntables are discounted around Black Friday and Record Store Day in April. Budget for speakers or a preamp, and register the turntable for its warranty; Audio-Technica and Rega support UK owners directly.
Related comparisons and guides
Frequently asked questions
What is the best turntable for beginners?
The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X is the simplest start, but the AT-LP120XUSB is worth the extra money if you think you'll stick with vinyl.
Do suitcase record players damage records?
Many use basic cartridges with heavy tracking force, which can wear grooves faster over time. A proper entry turntable is gentler.
Do I need a preamp for my turntable?
Yes, unless the turntable or your amplifier has one built in. Many entry turntables include a switchable preamp.