You may be thinking, “Vinyl record? I don’t have anything that will play THAT!”
This is where Andrew Oattes comes in. He is the founder of Apex Audio Group, a UK consulting firm that secures visibility and distribution for brands in the luxury audio industry. With 25+ years of experience, Andrew has personally assembled here for us a list of fine record players across multiple price points. From compact and economical to the highest end in luxury systems, he makes acquiring your “Seeking Billie” experience easy. Tap a photo for details.
From Andrew:
By way of recommendations, most of these are turntables that need to be connected to a system. The Victrola is a neat and low-cost but classically cool retro system solution, and both Audio-Technica and Project selections are Bluetooth connectable. The rest are pure turntables and classic examples of precision engineering.
To add some context, there are a vast number of brands and turntable models available with unique points of design, engineering, and manufacturing processes. Many originate in North America with notable brands such as VPI and McIntosh, the UK with the famous Linn Products LP12 Sondek and other brilliant manufacturers such as Rega and Vertere. There are many other venerable brands from around the world, originating from Germany, Japan and beyond. In our list, even the highest cost turntable is a fraction of the cost of the most expensive available on the market. For example, Clearaudio have a new statement deck which lists around £165k, with some brands costing vastly more – up to £500k.
Whilst this list is a small snapshot, I would urge any reader to get out to their local dealer and go get a listen to Changamiré’s wonderful album on a selection of turntables. I have no doubt that the realisation will be that personal preference on looks and sound quality are incredibly important, along with functionality. Budget will play a role in the decision process, but I personally feel that once you get a proper demo with a great store you’ll realise what your investment gets you, and more often than not, you’ll be spending slightly more than you had budgeted for, but in-return, you’ll reap tremendous reward in ongoing sonic and emotional bliss.
Happy listening and enjoy the Art of the Slowdown!
SUB $100
Victrola — Re-Spin Sustainable Bluetooth Suitcase Record Player
SUB $150
Audio-Technica — AT-LP60XUSB (Analog & USB)
SUB $300
Pro-Ject E1 (Plug & Play)
SUB $800
Rega Planar 3
SUB $1,500
Technics SL-1500C
MOST LUXURIOUS (￡20k)
Clearaudio Reference Jubilee
BEST STATEMENT (From￡65k)
Döhmann
