Best Automatic Record Player Reviews

You want to join the world of vinyl, but you don’t have the necessary experience and are not ready to invest too much in this hobby. Then you’ve come to the right place. My best automatic turntables review will help you choose the right model for you.

These turntables are a great fit for newcomers or anyone who enjoys a more effortless approach to music. They provide an easy-to-use interface while maintaining pretty high sound fidelity. In this article, I’ve carefully selected only the finest models to suit a range of budgets. Interested? Then, let’s get started!

Our pick

Denon DP-300F

Best automatic turntable

The DP-300F is a belt-driven, fully automatic turntable that will help you descend into your cherished collection of vinyl with a sturdy base, adjustable balance, and anti-skating controls. Read the full review.

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Automatic turntables comparison table

What is an automatic turntable?

As I mentioned above, an automatic vinyl player is designed for ease and convenience. Unlike manual turntables, where you manually place and lift the needle, automatic models handle these tasks for you. At the press of a button, the tonearm precisely moves to the record’s beginning and returns when the side is finished. This functionality makes it an ideal choice for those who seek a hassle-free operation.

Pros of automatic record players

• Ease of use: the most significant advantage of automatic record players is their user-friendly nature.
• Reduced record wear: automatic systems are designed to precisely track the grooves of the record, reducing the risk of scratches or damage caused by human error. A turntable with an auto-stop feature prevents the stylus from continuously spinning at the end of a record, further protecting both the stylus and the vinyl.
• Consistent playback quality: with pre-set tracking forces and anti-skate settings, automatic turntables maintain a consistent playback quality. This reduces the need for constant adjustments.
• Convenience for multi-tasking: these players are perfect for those who like to listen to music while engaged in other activities. The automatic functions allow users to enjoy their records without constantly monitoring and adjusting the player.
• Safety: automatic turntables offer a safer alternative for households with children or pets. The automated movement of the tonearm minimizes the chances of accidental needle drops or mishandling.

Cons of automatic record players

• Complexity and durability: turntables with auto return often have more intricate internal mechanisms than manual ones. This complexity can sometimes lead to durability concerns, as more moving parts mean more potential points of failure.
• Limited customization: audiophiles who enjoy tweaking and customizing their setup may find automatic turntables restrictive. While convenient, the pre-set adjustments for tracking force and anti-skate offer less flexibility for those who prefer a hands-on approach.
• Higher cost: generally, automatic turntables are more expensive than manual ones due to their advanced mechanisms.
• Potential for mechanism noise: in some models, the mechanical components of the automatic system can add unwanted noise or interference, potentially affecting the audio quality.

Best automatic turntable 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. Yet, it doesn’t fall short of delivering a quality performance that anyone can appreciate.

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 turntable 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.

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.

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.