Best turntables under $300: Top 10 Reviewed

How I tested these record players

To come up with recommendations for the best turntable under $300, I used a setup similar to this bracket of turntables, paired with a set of records with specific qualities to see how well the different turntables perform.

Equipment used for testing:

• Pre-amplifier: Pro-Ject Tube Box DS2
• Amplifier: Denon WX-3300
• Speaker wire: GearIT Pro Series 18 AWG Gauge
• Passive Speakers: Dali Zensor 5 and Dali E-12F subwoofer

Any built-in preamps with any of the recommended turntables were tested AND bypassed whenever possible to judge their performance as well.

Records used for testing the best turntable under $300

These records have particular qualities for testing turntables that will reveal audio reproduction quality at different frequencies. From vocal reproduction, quieter passages with brass instruments, etc.

I made this selection to be able to hear where components shine or may let you down:

• The Dave Brubeck Quartet – Time Out (Jazz)
• Pearl Jam – MTV Unplugged (Live performances)
• João Gilberto and Stan Getz – Getz/Gilberto (Latin-tinted instrumental + vocal)
• Bonobo – Fragments (EDM)
• Foo Fighters – In Your Honor (Rock/pop)
• The Beatles – The Beatles (Older music with fairly flat mastering).

Best Turntable under $300 – Top pick!

Let’s start with my top recommendation (which I’ve also included in my guide of best turntables overall)

Other Best Turntables under $300

Who should buy a turntable in this price range?

$300 Is a reasonable price to spend on a turntable and will net you a relatively high-quality product. This is a good price to pay for people with more than a passing interest in vinyl but who are still hesitant to splash out on a full audiophile turntable.

If you have $300 to spend on a turntable but are still unsure of you’re level of commitment to vinyl, I’d suggest looking for a decent ‘base’ turntable with high upgradeability. You want a low “wow and flutter” (consistent platter rotation speed0, a quality tonearm, and good calibration controls.

You can find some good cheaper turntables, but not all have upgradable parts, and some are stuck with limited components.

Because there are so many important parts in a vinyl setup, it’s essential to distribute your budget across the gear.

Rather than going all-in on a turntable, you should consider the cost of a preamp, amplifier, and speakers. If you don’t plan on upgrading much, do still plan and budget for a decent pairing with those components.

Some turntables come with preamps built-in, although these are often low quality and not necessarily worth the additional cost in the turntable’s price tag. You can opt for a model without a preamp and add on your own external one later (even if it’s a basic one to start with) or get an amplifier with a phono input (which means it has a built-in preamp).

This way, you get the biggest bang for your buck and don’t spend it on something you do not need or that will limit future upgrades.

What to expect in turntables under $300

• Improved sound quality – In this price range, you should expect a turntable to provide accurate sound reproduction, with a noticeably better sound than an entry-level turntable (or record player with built-in speakers). Models in this price range should have a higher-quality sound and often use a better cartridge than an entry-level turntable.
• Relatively high build quality – for $300, you should expect a well-made turntable. Most parts should feel high quality, although these still have a lot of distance between $1000+ models. You’ll still get a high-quality piece for $300 though.Be careful of some models made from cheaper plastics. While these are usually found at lower prices, they can be flimsy and have a high level of sound interference.
• Connectivity: All turntables in this list offer a decent range of connections, enabling you to connect them to multiple types of sound systems. All the models on this list have a standard phono output connected with RCA cables. You will also see a few with a built-in phono preamp, so you can plug them directly into line-level gear.Many turntables in this price range have Bluetooth capability, which makes it easy to connect to Bluetooth speakers or headphones. Some also have a USB output which lets you plug them into a computer to record audio.
• Features: There are several essential features that you’ll see implemented nearly across the board. Other turntables also feature extra features, which improve their convenience and functionality.
  • RPM Speeds – All the turntables here feature 33 ⅓ and 45 RPM; some have 78 (a type of record that’s been out of production for decades now).
  • Calibration – At this price, you should expect a decent amount of calibration controls. Most will feature a counterweight on their tonearm and an anti-skate system. This lets you get a better balance and improve tracking stability. Some models even have pitch-controlling sliders.
  • Hinged Dust Cover – Not all have them, but it’s definitely advantageous, and most in this range come fitted with one.

• Upgradeable Cartridge: Turntables in this price range should have a removable cartridge. This allows the needle to be upgraded, improving the sound quality.Often the stock cartridge is of decent quality, but an upgrade can make a real difference.

Features to consider choosing the best turntable under $300

You’ll find a wide range of turntables at this price. These are some elements to consider.

Platter and Plinth (body) material

The materials used in the platter and plinth can have a large effect on the durability and sound of a turntable. Thicker, stronger materials tend to reduce vibrations, resulting in lower noise interference. For $300, you’ll see many decks using aluminum platters with a solid wood plinth. This is one of the most common design styles in this range.

Tonearm Design

Tonearms are a central component in turntables, and any issues here will be noticeable audibly. Tonearms are usually made from either metal or plastic. Metal tonearms are a better choice, as they are more sturdy and interference-resistant.

Phono Cartridge

The type of cartridge used has a huge effect on the sound and is a large determining factor in the overall sound quality. Many budget turntables use mediocre cartridges, but fortunately, many can be upgraded. We’ve included information about the cartridge selection of each turntable so you can get a rough idea of its quality.

Motor Drive Quality

The motor used in a turntable can have a large effect on its sound. Better quality turntables have a lower wow/flutter rating and less noise interference. Going for a model with a more stable motor ensures you have an accurate and consistent listening experience.

Phono Preamp

These increase the turntable’s output to line level, meaning they can work with a broader array of speaker setups. Many of these turntables include switchable built-in preamps, meaning they can work with either type of setup.

Resources

• Fluance RT82
• Audio-Technica AT-LPW30TK
• Music Hall MMF-1.3
• Pro-Ject Elemental
• Sony PS-LX310BT
• Audio-Technica AT-LP3
• Crosley C200
• Fluance RT80 Classic
• Audio-Technica AT-LP60
• Crosley C6