Getting Started: Breaking Down the Best Record Players for Beginners

Buying a record player starts a journey into the world of vinyl, but it’s far from the “end game” stage, where the journey can, and will, take you. The sound of your favorite producers or artists comes across way more authentically, richer, and with a warmth that digital formats can't compete with (even a quick dig around the internet will show you just how much platforms like Spotify degrade the audio you’re hearing). 

But with so many options out there, choosing the right record player can feel overwhelming.

Unlike a CD player or a digital sound system, a record player requires some pre-planning and forethought. This hands-on experience is part of the charm, but as a beginner, it’s best to avoid models that demand advanced expertise. Once you get a feel for the basics, you can get into more complex systems. But for now, let’s consider an affordable, user-friendly record player to start as we unpack everything you need to know about entry-level record players.

Record Players vs. Turntables

The first distinction to understand is between a record player and a turntable. 

Though often used interchangeably, these are different devices. A turntable is simply the rotating platter where you place the record, but it doesn't operate independently to play music. Components like amplifiers, speakers, and RCA cables are required to produce sound. 

Essentially, a standalone turntable won’t work independently, whereas a record player is an all-in-one device.

A record player includes a turntable, a pick-up arm, a cartridge, an amplifier, and built-in speakers. It’s designed to be more user-friendly and is an ideal choice for beginners because it eliminates the need for additional setup. To start enjoying your music, you must plug the record player into a power outlet. 

Eventually, you’ll need to change the needle (or stylus) on the tonearm, which the owner’s manual can help. If you run into any trouble, companies like Victrola provide support to make maintenance straightforward.

Qualities to Look for in a Beginner Record Player

When shopping for a beginner-friendly record player, the most important features are record safety, durability, and sound quality. Record safety is crucial—the player should handle records gently to prevent scratches or damage. The tonearm and stylus need to be well-calibrated to ensure your records remain in good condition. Durability is also essential; a good record player should have a solid plinth and reliable components that can withstand regular use. Finally, sound quality is at the heart of the vinyl experience. Entry-level players should come equipped with decent speakers or have connectivity options to enhance the listening experience.

Budget

Fortunately, vinyl is experiencing a renaissance, which means many high-quality, budget-friendly options are available today. Before making a purchase, it’s wise to think about how much you’re willing to spend. A little extra investment can go a long way in improving your listening experience.

Manual vs. Automatic Record Players

Another key consideration is choosing a manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic record player. With manual record players, you’re responsible for placing the tonearm on the record and returning it when it finishes. This hands-on approach can be rewarding for those who enjoy the ritual of playing vinyl. On the other hand, semi-automatic record players are mostly manual but include an automatic return feature—meaning the tonearm automatically returns to its resting position once the record ends.

Automatic record players are the way to go for those who prefer minimal effort. These models handle everything for you—at the push of a button, the tonearm moves into place, and when the record finishes, it returns on its own. This makes fully automatic players the most convenient option for beginners. Regardless of which type you choose, remember that all record players require some maintenance, such as replacing the needle when necessary.

Recommended Beginner-Friendly Record Players

If you’re just starting out, here are a few beginner-friendly record players that strike a balance between quality, ease of use, and affordability:

The Victrola Stream Carbon Turntable is an excellent choice for those looking for simplicity paired with modern features although it comes with an admittedly heftier price tag compared to something more approachable like the Automatic. Designed to work seamlessly with Sonos systems, this turntable features a carbon fiber tonearm and an Ortofon 2M Red cartridge, delivering fantastic sound quality with minimal setup. It’s perfect for those who want a no-fuss option that integrates with existing home setups.

The Victrola Hi-Res Carbon Turntable is a great option for those wanting more versatility and something that sits between approachable price points and premium features. It includes aptX Adaptive Bluetooth, allowing wired and wireless listening, and features a high-resolution audio option for detailed playback. The gold-plated RCA output ensures a solid connection for those who prefer wired listening. This turntable is perfect for anyone looking to dive deeper into vinyl, providing the tools needed for an enhanced experience.

Another fantastic option is the Victrola Stream Onyx Turntable. Also verified for seamless integration with Sonos, this turntable features an aluminum tonearm for smooth and consistent playback. Its sleek, modern design looks great in any setting while offering excellent sound quality. This model is ideal for those who want something aesthetically striking that sounds just as good.

Modern Features for Contemporary Listeners

Victrola has effectively blended vintage charm with modern tech in our record players. Key features include Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to stream your records wirelessly up to 33 feet away, and USB recording capabilities, which let you digitize your vinyl collection for both PC and Mac. 

These modern features make Victrola record players ideal for those who want to enjoy the warmth of vinyl with the conveniences of today’s tech.

The Victrola Hi-Res Carbon Turntable especially stands out with its advanced Bluetooth features. Imagine streaming your vinyl to a speaker in another room without missing a beat. It's perfect for those who love flexibility without sacrificing quality.

Beyond these advanced features, Victrola models retain classic functionalities that appeal to purists, such as multiple-speed turntables, AM/FM radio, CD players, cassette options, headphone jacks, and even record storage. From its beginnings in 1906, Victrola has pushed the boundaries of what record players can be, blending nostalgia with functionality for over a century.

Size and Style Considerations

Record players come in many styles and sizes, allowing you to choose one that fits your space and aesthetic preferences. For those tight on space, a suitcase model might be ideal—these compact players are portable yet fully functional, often with built-in speakers. 

Victrola offers retro-inspired wooden designs for those seeking a more classic appearance. These models replicate vintage players' aesthetics while incorporating modern technology's convenience, providing the best of both worlds.

The Victrola Wooden Stand with Record Holder is a perfect accessory for those who love an organized record player and vinyl collection space. With real wood construction, it complements Victrola's classic wooden record players beautifully, adding an elegant touch to any room.

Material

The choice of material also affects the style and durability of your record player. Wooden record players exude a classic charm and often provide a more robust build. Plastic models, by contrast, tend to have a sleek, modern look and are typically more lightweight. 

Ultimately, your choice should reflect your taste and how the record player fits into your space.

Getting Started: Building Your Vinyl Collection

Once you've chosen your record player, the next step is to start building your vinyl collection. This is where the real fun begins—selecting records that reflect your personal taste and create an eclectic mix of your favorite genres and artists.

• Start with Classics: Kick off your collection with timeless records that showcase the format’s unique warmth. For instance, Natasha Bedingfield's Unwritten - Orange Cream Colored Vinyl is a great pop record to add, bringing hits like "Unwritten" and "These Words" into your living room with an analog sound that does them justice.
• Explore Limited Editions: Colored vinyl and limited editions can add a personal flair to your collection. Records like AC/DC: Power Up - Transparent Yellow Vinyl offer not only a dynamic listening experience but also a piece of collectible art. 

Building a collection is as much about owning albums as curating an experience. Take the time to explore your local record stores, see what catches your eye, and remember that limited edition colored vinyl can be both a great collector’s item and a beautiful piece of art for your listening space.

This Is Just the Beginning

Buying your first record player starts an exciting new chapter in your music appreciation. For beginners, it's all about finding user-friendly options without sacrificing quality—Victrola's automatic record players that we mentioned above strike balance this perfectly, combining a timeless look with modern functionality. Your first record player doesn't need to be top-of-the-line, but like your first car, it holds a special place because it marks the beginning of your journey.

Welcome to the club and the world of vinyl!