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Listen to Those Old Records with These 6 Affordable Record Players

Two Victrola and one Byron Statics record player.
Victrola/Byron Statics

Vinyl records have made a major comeback over the last few years. If you’ve snagged a few at a yard sale, from your grandparents’ attic, or just want to start your own collection, you’re going to need a turntable!

So, where should you start? We’ve put together this guide with some of the best record players out there. These selections strike a balance between affordability and reliability. The list also includes several iconic brands, so check them out, and see which one would work best for you!

Victrola Portable Suitcase Record Player

Light blue record player in a suitcase design, with a record on the table
Victrola

Looking for a player with a colorful retro vibe? This portable option from the classic Victrola brand is affordable and perfect for anyone who wants to personalize their record player. Stylized with a retro look and a modern, compact design, it comes in literally dozens of colors and patterns.

There are multiple listening options in this modern-meets-vintage design, including the ability to stream music through Bluetooth speakers or connect old-fashioned physical speakers. It also has raised feet to prevent vibration issues.

Byron Statics Vinyl Record Player

Black record player sitting on a wood table in a cafe
Byron Statics

In today’s world, convenience and portability are major assets for any entertainment device. Just because you’re going retro with your music media doesn’t mean you have to miss out on modern conveniences, like wireless playback. This Byron Statics record player comes in a handy, stylish suitcase, so you can transport it between rooms or homes.

This model offers both wireless and wired options, so you can play music through traditional speakers or a wireless device. It also includes auto- and manual-stop options, making it easier to use, whether you’re familiar with turntables or not.

Jensen Three-Speed Turntable

Small black record player with open lid
Jensen

Some modern record players allow you to convert vinyl records to digital formats. Jensen’s three-speed turntable has a particularly robust conversion package. Not only does it come with a USB port and cable, but it also includes audio software to help you convert, edit, and save your files.

For the most part, this is a standard, three-speed player with a 45-record adapter, but its conversion package makes it a great choice for anyone looking to preserve vintage records digitally.

Lauson Woodsound Record Player

Wood-based record player, open with a clear lid
Lauson Woodsound

This Lauson Woodsound Turntable packs a lot of sound at an affordable price. It comes with 5-watt dynamic stereo speakers, plus options to connect external speakers or play music through a wireless device.

Aesthetically, the wood base (available in two different grains) gives the device an old-fashioned look. It also comes with a transparent dust cover to protect the turntable when it’s not in use.

WOCKODER Record Player

A record on the WOCKODER Turntable.
WOCKODER

With an easy-to-use design at a good price point, the WOCKODER Turntable is one of the best options for newbies just venturing into the world of vinyl. With its stylish vintage design and straightforward, standard features, this model is easy for everyone to operate—even a vinyl novice.

This standard, three-speed turntable also has auxiliary options so you can play the sound through different speakers and devices. There are some other small touches, too like springs in the base for shock absorption and a plastic dust cover for protection.

Victrola 8-in-1 Record Player

Wood record player with an open lid sitting on a cabinet
Victrola

Victrola’s larger-scale, 8-in-1 device has more options than you might expect from something that advertises itself primarily as a record player. It looks like a gorgeous antique, but it’s a full-fledged entertainment center! It plays CDs, cassettes, and FM radio. It also has options for auxiliary devices and Bluetooth streaming.

Its design is a direct nod to the hulking, wooden early-to-mid-century entertainment consoles that packed everything in one large unit, speakers and all! Its look and structure make it a delightful throwback.

Amanda Prahl Amanda Prahl
Amanda Prahl is a freelance contributor to LifeSavvy. She has an MFA in dramatic writing, a BA in literature, and is a former faculty associate focusing on writing craft and history. Her articles have appeared on HowlRound, Slate, Bustle, BroadwayWorld, and ThoughtCo, among others. Read Full Bio »
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