Most such turntables have the following features:
- The Bluetooth connectivity for easy connection to speakers and wireless music listening.
- Two speeds (in most cases this refers to 33 1/3 and 45 RPM). Many $200 units don’t have the construction peculiarities for 78 RPM playing, but there are some exceptions to this rule.
- The USB out for easy connecting the vinyl turntable to a PC.
- A sleek design and sturdy assembly quality make the unit reliable and able to perform its direct functions for more than one year.
- The presence of auto start, auto stop, and return make the usage convenient.
- They can be powered by batteries.
- The FM/AM radio that doesn’t require difficult adjusting.
- A cassette tape player and a CD player.
- The inbuilt speakers, which are loud enough and don’t have to be replaced by external amplifiers.
If you have a desire to make sure that the vinyl players, which belong to the mentioned budget, have all the listed features and have saved all the sound peculiarities of classic units, check out the best turntables under $200 and choose the viable option.
Turntable Under $200 Reviews
Victrola VSC-550BT
The Victrola VSC-550BT in turquoise is a stylish and affordable option for those looking for top record players under 200 dollars. The turntable boasts three-speed belt-driven playback, allowing you to enjoy your vinyl collection at 33 1/3, 45, or 78 RPM. Its easy carry handle and compact suitcase design make it a portable option for music lovers on the go.
One of the standout features of this turntable is its built-in Bluetooth speakers, which allow you to stream music wirelessly from your phone, tablet, or computer. The input select knob makes it easy to switch between vinyl and Bluetooth modes, while the power/volume knob and auto-stop function provide added convenience.
The sound quality of the Victrola Bluetooth Suitcase Turntable is impressive for its price range, with clear and balanced sound across all genres of music. While serious audiophiles may prefer a higher-end option, this turntable is perfect for casual listeners or those just starting to build their vinyl collection.
Overall, the Victrola VSC-550BT is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable record player with built-in Bluetooth speakers. Its stylish design, easy portability, and impressive sound quality make it a great value for the price, especially for those in the market for the best Bluetooth turntable under 200 dollars.
Pros
- There is a small spot at the back of the needle arm which can be pressed to lift it up. This helps in the smooth maneuvering and gentle placement of the needle on the vinyl, without causing any scratches.
- Skipping does not occur during playback of records under normal circumstances.
Cons
- The built-in speakers have mediocre sound quality.
- The plastic center spindle holder for 45 RPM records is not very secure and tends to come up along with the record when you try to change it.
ByronStatics KTS-601BT
The ByronStatics KTS-601BT features 5.0 Bluetooth technology, allowing you to connect your smartphone or tablet and stream music wirelessly. Its portable suitcase design makes it easy to carry around, while the tone arm glides over the record and slowly drops it into place, ensuring gentle and precise playback.
This turntable boasts a simple interface that is easy to use, with compatibility for 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM records. It also comes equipped with front-facing speakers that deliver crisp and clear sound quality. For those who prefer to use external speakers, the turntable also includes RCA/AUX-In connections and Bluetooth connectivity.
One of the standout features of this best turntable with speakers under 200 dollars is its vibration-minimized design. The turntable features rubber feet that absorb vibrations and ensure that the music stays clear and uninterrupted, even when the turntable is placed on a less-than-perfect surface.
Overall, the ByronStatics KTS-601BT is an excellent choice for anyone looking for the best turntable under $200. Its combination of modern technology, portable design, and vibration-minimized playback make it a great value for the price. Whether you’re a casual listener or a serious audiophile, this turntable is sure to impress.
Pros
- If you’re new to the world of vinyl records, this is a great starter option to dip your toes in.
- The instructions provided were clear and comprehensive, making it easy to understand how to use the product.
- This product is highly portable, making it easy to carry around.
Cons
- Turning up the volume on the internal speakers resulted in scratchy sound and made the records sound coarse.
- Initially, the sound may be slightly scratchy, but it clears up after a minute or two and sounds great.
Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK
This potentially the best record player under $200 comes disassembled in separate parts within the box. This is actually a base with damping legs fixed from below, a drive motor in the rear left part of the case, and a simple straight tonearm already tuned for a specific head (unfortunately, it does not have a lock, so be careful when assembling). The assembly quality is good, as there are no creaks. All the controls work smoothly. The unit is not compact, measuring 19 x 17 x 7 inches, and comes with a transparent polycarbonate dust cover that performs its intended function well but is susceptible to scratches. It is essential for the turntable to be placed securely and not on the same surface with the speakers (the tonearm picks up even the smallest vibrations). By the way, the noise level of the AT-LP60X-BK is pleasantly low despite the lightweight design of the table. There are Start and Stop buttons on the front side and the controller for speed switching (33 1/3 and 45 RPM). The sound is characterized by smoothness, with a soft analog high-frequency interpretation of the treble and rich timbres in the middle register. The detail and dynamics of the sound are moderate.
Pros
- The built-in preamp produces good sound quality, eliminating the need to purchase and connect additional speakers.
- The controls are located on the outside, so there’s no need to lift the dust cover.
- When the tonearm is raised and lowered, it returns to the same place.
Cons
- The tonearm can occasionally skip forward on some records (without external interference).
- You have to precisely fit the cast aluminum platter and move the belt into its position beforehand.
- The four legs do not provide adequate stability, and the device can be easily moved and accidentally adjust settings with a slight push.
Video Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK
Victrola V50-200 – best vintage turntable under $200
The Victrola V50-200 has a retro look and the average size (15 x 13 x 7 inches) and can be considered the best usb turntable under 200 dollars. This belt-driven unit offers three speeds (33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM) and can be conveniently placed in a bedroom, thanks to its vibration-reducing construction that minimizes noise to an almost imperceptible level. Its front side contains the Volume and Tuning knobs, Play/Pause button, Stop, Skip, Memory buttons, and the blue screen, where the operating mode and all the features of the radio tuning are displayed. The 3.5mm AUX-in and headphone jack work seamlessly. There’s an inbuilt CD-player. In addition, the built-in speaker is powerful enough to fill a mid-sized room with sound, making it unnecessary to purchase additional amplifiers. The unit can be probably called the best vintage turntable under 200 dollars, but the tonearm is rather flimsy.
Pros
- The Mac/PC software and USB cable come with the turntable.
- It is possible to stream music wirelessly via Bluetooth from a distance of up to 33 feet.
- The player has a built-in USB Digital Encoding for direct recording of music to external media.
Cons
- The CD player sometimes fails to recognize the presence of a CD.
- The sound detail isn’t clear enough and bass is weak.
Video Victrola V50-200
Victrola VTA-600B-MAH
The unit has a retro case (8 x 9.6 x 13.2 inches) made of real wood that contributes to the creation of an appropriate atmosphere. It also has 3 speeds (33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM) and might be called the best record player under 200 dollars for old records owners. The playback is free from any noise or vibration. A Volume knob, AM/FM tuner, and buttons for input select, power, play/pause/forward/rewind are located on the front side. A cassette tape player is a pleasant bonus and such a feature works seamlessly. The remote controller can perform all the functions seamlessly, unlike other models where the controller can only adjust the volume. There’s a possibility to hook up an amplifier (via the RCA line outputs) in order to make the music louder, but such a solution can be made optionally, as the inbuilt speakers produce a loud sound. The unit might be perceived as the best turntable under 200 dollars but after playing the music CD (2 or 3 seconds of the first song) the record gets stuck sometimes and I have to restart the player and get the records.
Pros
- Despite having a small single wire antenna, the AM and FM functions work without any problems.
- The turntable comes with 3 extra needles, which can be used in a case of need.
Cons
- The unit stops working while FM playing and I have to reboot it.
- The bass lacks depth and there is no option to adjust it.
Video Victrola VTA-600B-MAH
Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK
The unit (19 x 17 x 7 inches) has a black matte case with Start and Stop buttons, selectors for record size choosing (7 or 12 inches), and speed. You should just press a Start button and the tonearm itself brings the cartridge needle to the beginning of the record and lowers it onto the track. The auto-stop feature gently returns the tonearm to the holder at the end of the playback. Also, the unit provides the ability to switch the disc rotation speed between 33 1/3 and 45 RPM. It can boast a built-in switchable phono preamp. With built-in Bluetooth 5.0 and support for the aptX conversion codec, this model allows for easy wireless streaming of music in the highest quality. It comes with the tonearm and head that improve stability and diminishes resonance. Noise and vibration have also been reduced by using an external AC adapter, which moves the converter outside the enclosure. The AT-LP60XBT-BK comes with RCA cable, single coil adapter, and detachable hinged dust cover. The specified model can be probably the best record player for under 200 dollars, as its resolution is extremely high, the dynamic capabilities are good, the tonal balance is even, but with some tendency to lighten the sound.
Pros
- It has an Integral Dual Magnet phono cartridge with a replaceable diamond stylus, which makes it easy to improve the unit.
- The turntable is equipped with a separate external power supply, which helps eliminate any noise interference on the sensitive audio signal.
Cons
- The safety feature is absent. Pressing the “Start” button without a record on the platter can destroy the stylus.
- There’s no anti-skate feature.
Video Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK
Sony PS-LX310BT
A special combination of a case’s rectangle and disk’s round contours give the device an aesthetic appeal and let it lace among the best turntables under $200. The turntable features an aluminum platter and tonearm, while the majority of the construction is made of plastic, resulting in a compact size of 14.5 x 17 x 4.3 inches. Despite its affordable price, the exterior boasts a premium look. The assembly takes no more than a few minutes (the unit comes disassembled). The Sony PS-LX310BT might probably belong to the best turntables for under 200 dollars, but there are 3 buttons on the front panel (Start, Stop, and Up/Down), which are pretty difficult to see (so I have to kneel down at an angle to get them). The headshell and cartridge are preinstalled. The only thing you need to do is set up the belt on the drive, the platter on the spindle, and add the disc mat and dust cover on top. The left front side of the unit features a round button for pairing with wireless Bluetooth headphones and speakers. The selectors for record size (7 or 12 inches) and speed (33 1/3 or 45 RPM) are located on the right side of the turntable. After hardwired connection, the tracks are played musically and excitingly. Wireless connection is more convenient, but it loses a little to the hardwired one in dynamics and detail.
Pros
- It is enough to press the Start button and the tonearm stands at the beginning of the record and starts playing. Upon the playback completes, it returns to the initial state.
- In less expensive models (under $100), the tonearm can be raised or lowered abruptly, but in this model, the operation is smooth.
- Its massive platter is dense and is made of an acoustically inert plastic that dampens parasitic vibrations and noise.
Cons
- The USB audio output is not provided here. Those people who wish to digitize their records, have to use an external audio interface.
- The preinstalled headshell and tonearm limit system upgrade options, so you can’t improve the turntable from a personal perspective.
Video Sony PS-LX310BT
House of Marley EM-JT000-SBA
This unit is one of the best turntables under 200 dollars for those people who prefer to use things made of eco-friendly materials. The turntable base (13.78 x 16.54 x 4.33 inches) is made of bamboo and formaldehyde-free MDF. Its platter is comprised of recycled silicone rubber. I appreciate the RCA connections on this unit, which make it easy to hook up to a standard receiver.The package includes a dust-resistant woven cover, also made from recycled cotton and hemp fiber. A headphone jack is located on the front of the case, the same as the Speed knob (the unit boasts the 33 1/3 and 45 RPM). The player is equipped with a built-in phono amplifier. The USB-to-PC mode allows you to convert your vinyl music to MP3 format. The noise and vibration are absent. Compared to more expensive players, the sound of this unit is relatively simple, particularly in the midrange, which may be attributed to the built-in phono amplifier.
Pros
- The built-in preamp can be turned off if necessary.
- Solid rubber feet guarantee the immovability of the unit.
Cons
- The tonearm doesn’t automatically return when playback is finished.
- There’s no Power button, the unit starts turning after the arm for the stylus is lifted and moved (it was not clear at first how to start the device).
Buyer’s Guide
What to expect buying a turntable under $200?
Consider that there is a significant difference between a record player priced at $200 and one that costs $100. The matter is that players for beginners (cheap ones) have lots of embedded elements without the possibility to upgrade them (for example, the inbuilt amplifier can’t be replaced). The turntables under 200 dollars allow you to switch the current amplifier off and connect the device to almost any other more powerful amp that usually makes the sound much better. Such players belong to the middle level (somewhere between units for beginners and professionals).
When choosing the best record players under 200 dollars, the user gets balanced tonearms, anti-skate, lift control, etc. All these features have a positive influence on the sound quality level (the music becomes more pure and realistic). The use of high-quality styluses can be beneficial in the long run, particularly when using thin needles that fit better into the track and cause less damage to the vinyl. The $200 turntables give you the possibility to improve the unit, so you have to know about the device construction peculiarities and other features that are present in devices of this price category.
Features
Surely, features should be at the top priorities on your list when choosing the units. It’s recommended to pay attention to the tonearm, base, stylus, platter, speed controls, and drive belts. The buttons or knob-speed switchers have to be placed at a convenient level for management. Some units might be amended by a deck with an automatic tonearm and the speed control properties in others can be controlled via the drive belt on the platter. A decent turntable also needs to have an inherent phono preamp.
Sound Quality
The turntable under 200 dollars has to sound warm, smooth, and deep. The cleanness of sound also greatly distinguishes the turntable form the standard digital sound devices. Bear in mind, some record players produce some noise together with the warm sound. It is possible to experience some noise coming from the deck, but this can be easily solved by connecting the turntable to a separate loudspeaker, effectively eliminating the noise.
Damping
Damping refers to a technique used for controlling vibrations, which can be either internal or external to the system. Construction configuration influences on such a feature, so draw your attention to the belt-driven turntables, which are well-known due to the much better dampening and higher fidelity, comparing with direct-driven units. The last ones are directly hooked up to the platter, which makes the vibration rather noticeable.
Record clamps are also used to improve the sound quality of turntables. They can be made in the form of massive hold-downs pressing the record with their weight, or various clamps (for example, screw) fixed to the spindle of the turntable. This clamping provides better damping due to its tight mechanical contact with the platter. A mat that is placed on the platter also isolates the record from vibrations that come from the turntable. Mats can be made of cork, rubber with high lead content, synthetics, and even leather. These materials have their own advantages and disadvantages, but all of them effectively absorb vibrations.
Hi everyone! I’m Thomas Moody, also known as Guitarzan.