Best Places to Buy Record Players Online and Offline
Trying to determine where to buy a record player isn’t always easy. But it doesn’t have to be a burden, either.
Here are the top locations where you can easily purchase a turntable:
- Best Buy
- Walmart
- Amazon
- Crutchfield
- Audio Advisor
- Turntable Lab
- Music Direct
- Urban Outfitters
Best Places to Buy a Record Player
1. Big Box Stores and Sites
Best Buy: Best Buy offers entry level and intermediate level turntables (from the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X to the Marantz TT-15S1). Best Buy even sells open box record players for less than the retail price.
You have between 15 and 60 days to return any item (depending on your membership status).
Walmart: Walmart sells lots of record players with built in speakers for under $100. Walmart even sells jukeboxes that play vinyl records too.
On top of that, you can receive your new record player very fast thanks to Walmart’s three day shipping option.
Amazon: The e-commerce giant stands as a hub for virtually all consumer products. Amazon’s extensive turntable selection, coupled with a robust 30-day return policy, positions it as a reliable online destination.
2. Crutchfield
Founded by Bill Crutchfield in 1974, this online retailer boasts an extensive inventory, including top brands like Music Hall, Onkyo, and Pro-Ject.
The 60-day return policy reflects their commitment to customer satisfaction.
3. Audio Advisor
Founded by Wayne Schuurman in 1981, Audio Advisor serves as a great supermarket for audiophiles.
Featuring renowned brands like Rega and Pro-Ject, the 60-day return policy and free shipping on orders over $49 enhance the overall shopping experience.
4. Music Direct
Established in 1989, Music Direct specializes in high-quality audio components. Under the “analog” category, they showcase brands like Rega, Pro-Ject, and Clearaudio.
With free shipping on orders over $49 and a 60-day money-back guarantee, Music Direct emphasizes customer satisfaction.
5. Turntable Lab
This New York-based store, catering to a young and hip crowd, is a haven for DJ-style turntable buyers.
Offering well-priced bundles and a diverse range of turntables, Turntable Lab provides a unique shopping experience with a 30-day return policy.
6. Urban Outfitters
A trendy spot for young shoppers, Urban Outfitters sells inexpensive record players like the Crosley Cruiser.
The turntables at Urban Outfitters often come in bright colors and have built in speakers. Urban Outfitters offers a 30-day return policy.
How to Pick the Best Record Player
1. Establish a Budget
While the market caters to high-budget enthusiasts, it’s crucial to note that impressive entry-level turntables like the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X, priced at $150, deliver remarkable quality for the money. Assess your needs and budget accordingly.
2. Strategic Investment for Enhanced Sound
For those seeking a richer audio experience, consider expanding your budget to the $300-$600 range. This range often unlocks a spectrum of turntables that provide fuller and more detailed sound, like the Project Debut Carbon EVO.
3. Define Your Purpose and Preferences
Before making a purchase, pinpoint your specific needs.
Do you aim to convert vinyl to digital?
Are you in need of a turntable with a built-in preamp?
Additionally, factor in aesthetic preferences, considering the design and compatibility with your existing setup.
4. Tinkering or Ready-to-Use?
Understanding your comfort level with turntable assembly and adjustments is crucial. Some models are ready to use out of the box, while others, especially sophisticated ones, require careful assembly and adjustments to the tonearm.
5. Manual or Automatic Operation?
The fundamental choice between manual and automatic operation determines whether you want to actively lower the stylus onto the record and control the process, or prefer the hands-off convenience of automatic turntables.
Navigating the Vinyl Renaissance
While this list serves as an initial guide, it’s essential to recognize that various reputable retailers exist beyond these recommendations.
The resurgence of vinyl has injected vitality into the industry, leading manufacturers to produce turntables at an unprecedented rate.
As you explore the multitude of options available, revel in the fact that making a bad choice is virtually impossible. So sit back and enjoy the fun of listening to your favorite albums playing on your brand new record player!
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