The Best Digital Turntables for Beginners: How to Get Started

If you are new to  the world of vinyl but you like the idea of combining the best of the analogue world with the digital  one, then a digital turntable is the way to go. These turntables not only preserve the  analogue warmth of the sound but also come with additional features like USB output, Bluetooth connectivity, and recording  capability. In this guide, we will outline some of the best digital turntables for beginners to help  you start your journey into the world of vinyl.

First, let’s look at some of the important features to consider when  buying a digital turntable:

Ease of Use:It is always important to consider the ease  of use for beginners.

USB or Bluetooth Connectivity:If you want to save your tunes onto  your computer or play music wirelessly then these features are a must.

Automatic Operation: The  fully automatic or semi-automatic turntables reduce the chances of damaging the records to a large extent.

Built-in Preamp: A preamp enables you to connect your turntable to speakers without the  need of any other equipment.

Wi-Fi and Multi-Device Streaming: Some of the  higher-end models come with Wi-Fi and the ability to connect to other digital speakers and headphones wirelessly.

1. Audio-Technica  AT-LP60XBT

Best for: For: Budget-friendly Bluetooth connectivity

 The AT-LP60XBT is an entry-level, fully automatic turntable with Bluetooth enabled,  which is perfect for individuals who are looking for an easy configuration. It also has a built-in  preamp, so you can plug it into speakers.

2. Sony  PS-LX310BT

Best for: For: Simple wireless streaming

The PS-LX310BT from  Sony is a stylish designed Bluetooth enabled turntable with a phono preamp and one step auto  play. This turntable is ideal for beginners in need of a simple design with some contemporary controls.

3. Victrola Stream Carbon

Best for: For: Sonos compatibility

 This turntable is ideal for the user who already has a Sonos system as it is designed  to work seamlessly with it for high quality wireless audio. It has a aluminium tonearm and a high  quality Ortofon 2M Red cartridge, which makes it a good buy for the future.

 4. Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB

Best for:  For: Storing your vinyl collection digitally

For the individual looking to save their records, the  AT-LP120XUSB is recommendable. It has USB connection, direct drive for improved speed  control, and a high quality preamp for enhanced sound output.

5. Fluance  RT81 Elite High Fidelity

Best for: For: The feel of an analogue signal with  the features of a digital unit

The Fluance RT81 is an entry-level belt-drive  turntable with built-in preamp and an AT-cartridge. It may not have the Bluetooth or the  USB, but it sounds incredible for those who care about sound quality.

How the A2D2 Stream Enhances Wireless Playback

Although not a turntable, the A2D2  Stream is a great device that can enhance the capability of any analogue turntable through wireless audio streaming.  It comes with a wired connection to an analogue source but offers straightforward wireless streaming to digital speakers and supports  Bluetooth for headphones. Unlike other USB or Bluetooth options, which require physical pairing or cables to digitise  records, the A2D2 Stream offers a real-time wireless solution for transferring analog sound.  

There is a digital  turntable perfect for you regardless of whether you are interested in Bluetooth streaming, USB recording, or better  sound quality. The Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT and Sony  PS-LX310BT are ideal for beginners while the Fluance RT81 is a good option for those who want the  best sound without many options. 

If you want to enhance the wireless functionality of your setup, then the  A2D2 Stream can be used as a companion device to transform any analogue turntable. No  matter what turntable you purchase, you will be able to start playing your vinyl records with today’s  technology.

Explore more in our related blogs: 

Turntables and Needles: Everything You Need to Know for the Best Sound Experience

The Ultimate Guide to Pairing Turntables and Speakers to Achieve the Ideal Audio Quality

A Beginners Guide to Turntables: All the Information You Need

Cassettes vs. Vinyl: Which of the Two Is More Retro?

How Vinyl Records Are Made: A Behind-the-Scenes Q & A

How to Repair a Broken Cassette Tape: A Do-It-Yourself Guide

Essential Accessories For Vinyl Records

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Turntable Stand

Vintage Turntable Stand: The Best of Both Worlds: Beauty and Utility

Vinyl LP Storage:The Basics You Should Know Before Building Your Collection

Where Can I Buy Vinyl That Sounds Great on a Hi-Fi System?