Best Automatic Record Player Reviews

Denon DP-300F – best overall

The Denon DP-300F harkens back to the classic vinyl era with its traditional design, yet it stands out in today’s market. Its solid construction speaks to a time when durability was as important as performance.

During my time with this table, I appreciated the versatility of its standard mount headshell and MM Cartridge, paired with the reliable DC servo motor. This setup allowed me to smoothly switch between 33 1/3 and 45 RPM records, easily covering a wide spectrum of my vinyl collection.

My favorite feature of the DP-300F is its heavier base construction, thoughtfully engineered to decrease vibrations. This careful design choice pays off in the listening experience – the sound is lush and detailed, with highs that sparkle and lows that resonate deeply. I also found the built-in phono equalizer a nice touch, giving the audio a noticeable boost. Moreover, setting up this turntable was a breeze, making it welcoming for newcomers.

Comparing the Denon DP-300F with the sleek Pro-Ject Automat A1 and the high-end Dual CS 429 really puts things into perspective. The Automat A1 has a modern flair, and the CS 429 is a hit as a low-end audiophile model, but the DP-300F brings it back to what matters most: a straightforward, classic vinyl experience. Even though the DP-300F and Automat A1 are similarly priced, I found the DP-300F more user-friendly. It skips the intricate adjustments needed for the Automat A1 and avoids the hefty price tag of the CS 429.

When we discuss the sound of a vinyl turntable, it is important to realize that two components affect the sound – the built-in cartridge and the phono preamplifier. The Denon DP-300F sounds great out of the box. NOTE: for its price. The sound is warm, spacious, and quite detailed. Low frequencies are not too pronounced, but for most musical compositions, they are enough; the highs are not ringing. But the main thing here is that the turntable has a good set-up (solid case, reliable tonearm), and if you replace the cartridge with a more high-class one from Ortofon and connect an external phono stage – the picture becomes clearer, crisper, more vivacious, I would say.

Dual CS 429 – premium pick

I immediately noticed its robust build when I handled the Dual CS 429 for the first time. With its solid aluminum construction and ball-bearing-supported tonearm, the turntable leans towards a higher-end market. It’s a unit that feels built to last, an important aspect for any serious vinyl enthusiast.

The vibration absorption of the CS 429 is particularly noteworthy. Its solid MDF plinth, equipped with an internal vibration absorber, effectively shields the playback from external disturbances. This feature significantly improves the purity of the audio output. Similarly, the die-cast aluminum platter, anchored by a heavy rubber mat, ensures steady record play, a must-have for consistent sound quality.

In my experience, the automatic features of the CS 429 were both a convenience and a boon to record longevity. The tonearm’s automated movements, precise and gentle, take away the hassle of manual handling without risking damage to the vinyl. The sound quality, boosted by the Ortofon 2M Red cartridge, was excellent. The CS 429 delivers a balanced and dynamic audio experience, though I noticed occasional fuzziness in the higher frequencies, which could be due to cartridge alignment or external factors. However, since this turntable still cannot be categorized as a high-end automatic turntable, such nuances do not affect my overall admiration within the confines of this review.

For beginners, the CS 429 might seem a bit daunting. Its advanced setup and sophisticated features are definitely geared more toward audiophiles or those with a good understanding of turntable mechanics. This is the reason why this beauty doesn’t top my list.

Pro-Ject Automat A1 – also great

Stepping into the realm of the Pro-Ject Automat A1, I was immediately struck by its harmonious blend of aesthetic appeal and functional prowess. This belt-driven turntable feels like a crafted piece of art, with its ultra-light 8.3″ aluminum tonearm and carbon fiber headshell lending a sleek, modern touch. The inclusion of a built-in switchable Moving Magnet (MM) phono stage and gold-plated RCA output connectors speaks volumes about its commitment to high-quality sound.

The damped metal platter and resonance-damped wooden chassis are masterstrokes in reducing vibration-induced distortions, ensuring a pure and stable audio output. Playing through various genres, from the intricate layers of jazz to the energetic beats of pop, the sound clarity remained consistently high, thanks to the pre-adjusted OM10 cartridge. This cartridge, while not at the top of its class, delivers remarkable depth and detail in its audio output.

However, the player is not without its minor drawbacks. The placement of the controls next to the tonearm, rather than at the front, requires a bit of getting used to and might feel less intuitive for some users. Also, while the OM10 cartridge is quite capable, audiophiles with a keen ear might consider upgrading it for a more refined sonic experience.

Audio-Technica AT-LP60X – budget

When I first laid hands on the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X, its straightforward, no-frills approach to vinyl playback was immediately apparent. This fully automatic belt-drive record player handles 33 1/3 and 45 RPM records effortlessly, making it a good companion for almost any vinyl collection.

The AT-LP60X’s practical design shines through in its anti-resonance, die-cast aluminum platter, effectively dampening unwanted vibrations. This feature contributes to a stable and clear sound output, something I found particularly noticeable in quieter, more nuanced tracks. The re-engineered tonearm and headshell are also noteworthy, offering improved tracking and reduced resonance – subtle yet significant enhancements to the overall audio experience. The clever positioning of the AC adapter outside the chassis to minimize signal noise further reflects the thoughtfulness behind its design.

Sound-wise, while it may not rival the depth and range of higher-end models, it delivers a consistently smooth and enjoyable performance, especially impressive given its budget-friendly price.

The downsides? While sturdy, the AT-LP60X’s predominantly plastic build doesn’t evoke the same sense of quality as heavier, more robust turntables. Also, its focus on simplicity and automation means there’s limited room for tinkering or upgrades – something to consider for those who enjoy customizing their audio setup.