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The best-selling vinyl point is not the sound. It is the physical experience: shiny and delicate records; the notes of the liner are written in large; the blankets you want to frame and hang on your wall; and, of course, the way the stylus spins on the jagged surface, magically reproducing the music of your favorite artists.
Maybe you’ve always been interested in creating a setup for listening to LPs and 45s, but you don’t know where to start. Maybe you are like Julian Chokkattu, associate editor of WIRED, who owned a record but no vinyl turntable to play on it. Maybe you already have a full stereo vinyl setup, but are looking for an upgrade. No problem. There are tons of affordable and great turntables to choose from, and most of them will easily connect to any sound system you already own. I’ve tested quite a few turntables, and these are my current favorites – from utility and budget classics to more luxurious options for those looking for audiophile-quality sound.
Don’t forget to check out our other audio guides, including the Best equipment for learning music and the Best podcasting equipment.
Update March 2021: We’ve added the McIntosh MTI100, our ultra high-end pick.
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