Technics is the name most vinyl lovers know, and the SL-1200 is the reason. Every Technics turntable we stock is direct drive. That means steady speed, a quick start and a build made to last. Start with the Technics SL-1500C if you want a complete hi-fi turntable with a built-in phono stage. The Technics SL-40CBT adds Bluetooth for playing through wireless speakers. If you're ready for the flagship, the Technics SL-1200G and SL-1300G Grand Class models are made for serious home listening.

Rega, Denon and Yamaha
Rega's Planar range is handmade in the UK and built around a simple idea: fewer parts, better sound. The Rega Planar 1 Plus has a built-in phono stage, so it suits first-time buyers. The Rega Planar 3 is one of the most recommended turntables at its price. Denon's fully automatic models, like the Denon DP-29FA, lift and return the tonearm for you. Yamaha's MusicCast Vinyl 500 streams your records to other rooms in the house.

Automatic vs manual turntables
An automatic turntable lowers the needle onto the record and lifts it at the end of the side. It's ideal if you want convenience or have kids using the system. On a manual turntable you place the needle yourself. Many listeners prefer manual models because the simpler mechanism can sound cleaner and leaves more room to upgrade later.

Belt drive vs direct drive
Belt drive turntables, like the Rega Planar range, use a rubber belt to turn the platter, which helps keep motor noise away from the stylus. Direct drive turntables, like the Technics range, put the platter on the motor itself. They get up to speed quickly and hold it precisely. Both sound excellent, so the choice comes down to the brand and features you prefer.

Upgrade your cartridge with Ortofon
The cartridge is the part that reads the record, and a better one is one of the most noticeable upgrades you can make. The Ortofon 2MR range is made to suit Rega turntables, so it's a natural next step for Rega owners. The Ortofon 2MR Blue is a popular choice, with more detail and better separation than most stock cartridges. Browse the full range in cartridges and accessories.

Do you need a phono stage?
Some turntables have a phono stage built in and some don't. If yours doesn't and your amplifier has no phono input, you'll need one to bring the signal up to line level. Our stereo amplifiers range includes models with phono inputs built in, and the right bookshelf speakers will complete the system. New to vinyl? Read A Beginner's Guide to Buying Your First Turntable, or browse our product picks in Vintage Meets Modern.

FAQs

What is the best turntable for beginners?
The Rega Planar 1 Plus and Technics SL-40CBT are both easy to set up and have a built-in phono stage, so you can plug straight into most amplifiers or powered speakers.

Is a turntable the same as a record player?
Mostly, yes. "Record player" usually means an all-in-one unit with built-in speakers. A turntable connects to a separate amplifier and speakers for better sound.