In 1948, when Peter Goldmark has introduced the world’s first LP record, he couldn’t even imagine that in 70 years these vinyls could be played on a compact record player in literally any location of the world with no need of a bulky speaker system to enjoy the amazing sound.
The current market offers a huge variety of models, so we’ve made the task of choosing the best record player with speakers easier for you by reviewing around 30 options and choosing the top 6 ones, where the Victrola 50's Retro 3-Speed Bluetooth Turntable came up the best. Making the list we considered several important aspects, such as the speakers quality. It is the factor that influences the sound quality arguably the most. The drive type should also not be overlooked, because the direct-drive allows for scratching and general more constant playback speed, while the belt-drive gives you a better sound quality.
More features: color variation, built-in Bluetooth, USB connection, belt-driven, LED screen, CD player
There are vintage record players, and then there is the Victrola 50’s Retro Bluetooth Record Player. This is one of the best vintage record players with speakers that you can find right now. This unit does more than just play your records. It also will handle other music formats, ranging from CDs, to digital formats on your phone or other device connected via the 3.5mm plug. As a modern function, the unit also comes with Bluetooth connectivity.
The Victrola brand is one of the most popular and an iconic brand in the industry, as it has been making record players since as far back as 1906.
This model not only looks absolutely stunning, but it comes with several useful features. It is a three-speed option, which means that you can play old records without any worries. Another excellent feature of this model is its ability to digitize your collection quickly.
Performance-wise, this is an excellent option. It is quite easy to use and beginners will have an easy time handling the unit. If you are a new audiophile, you certainly would enjoy using this model.
As we pointed out earlier, this record player will allow you to listen to CD tracks and play songs from your smartphone. This versatility makes the product better than most other options in this category.
What we liked:
This unit is a highly versatile option that will not only play your vinyl records, but also handle playing CDs and music from your phone. It is the best record player with speakers and Bluetooth.
What could be better:
Many users have complained about the sound from the speakers. Although these sound great, they are low.
More features: CD player, built-in Bluetooth, AM/FM radio, adjustable pitch control
Weighing around 16 pounds, this is one of the heavier models on this list. Therefore, it might not be as portable as you’d like. However, the size and weight are on brand as this is a classic turntable option with one of the best designs that you will find.
The Crosley CR42D-PA Lancaster is made of high quality parts and features a wooden finish that looks great in whatever décor you set it in. Some people prefer their record players to look vintage and like art pieces. Well, if that is what you are going for, then this is a perfect option.
Away from the aesthetics, this is a highly versatile and functional model that comes with almost all features that you might desire in a modern record player. Among the features are a CD player, Bluetooth connectivity, radio, and even pitch control. Therefore, you have on your hands a record player that does much more than just play records.
It is designed with in-built speakers, which we found to be quite loud and gave an authentic sound. It is also a three-speed record player. As you play your music, this feature allows you to play the track faster or slower. As it can play from 33 RPM up to 78 RPM, you can play rest assured that your vinyl will not shatter. You can therefore play older and rarer records.
What we liked:
This model looks stunning and offers plenty of versatility. With a 1-year guarantee, you can rest assured that you are covered in case of technical issues or repairs. The speakers are loud and give you crisp audio performance.
What could be better:
The unit is somewhat bulky and heavy. Therefore, it isn’t as easy to move around as other options.
More features: 7-12 in record diameter, built-in Bluetooth, USB port, carrying handle, non-slip legs, lifetime technical support
The suitcase record player was one of the most popular styles of record players, and it is making a resurgence in recent times. The best of these models allow you to play vinyl records with ease. When buying a suitcase record player, it is important that it is durable and comes from a reputable maker. Well, the SKEVONO Vinyl Record Player satisfies all of these conditions and more. If you are looking for the best value for the money, then look no further than this model.
Weighing 7 pounds, it is one of the lightest models available right now. However, do not let that fool you into thinking that it isn’t a quality option. One the contrary, this is a high-grade model that comes with plenty of features often found in more expensive models.
The design is simple yet highly appealing. As a suitcase-styled product, it features a carrying handle, non –slip feet and a portable design that allows you to play wherever you like.
The SKEVONO comes with Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, and three speeds. The USB port lets you store the vinyl records in digital format, which makes your records safe. It also comes with the option of connecting it to external speakers to boost the in-built stereo speakers.
What we liked:
This is a value buy that comes with high quality in-built speakers and connectors. It is lightweight and well-constructed. With a USB port, you can quickly digitize your records.
What could be better:
Many users have remarked on the relatively short battery life.
More features: built-in Bluetooth, AM/FM stereo radio, USB connection, LCD screen, CD player
Up next is this excellent model from DIGITNOW. The DIGITNOW Bluetooth Record Player is one of the best of its kind on the market. One of the best things about this model is the sound performance. It offers one of the best sound performances that we have come across.
Aside from that, it stands out as one of the most connected record players. It is fitted with functions that allow you to connect it to any external Bluetooth audio device.
Design-wise, this might not be the most vintage-looking option with the LCD display and all that. If you are looking for a vintage design, you should look elsewhere. However, if you aren’t big on the design, you will enjoy the practical design of the unit. It weighs 8 pounds and has a nice, compact form factor. This makes it small enough to be set up on a cabinet or bedside table.
It is very easy to use as all the buttons are clearly labelled. In addition to the Bluetooth receiver, the product is fitted with 3.5mm stereo jack. This allows you to connect compatible devices. The unit also lets you convert your vinyl records to digital format.
As a belt-driven option, it plays up to three vinyl speeds. You can select the speed that you want. Whether you are an audiophile or casual listener, we believe you’ll enjoy using this product.
What we liked:
This is a compact record player with all the modern features you might desire. It plays three speeds, CDs, MP3s, and vinyl records. It can also convert your records to digital files.
What could be better:
Some users have remarked on the underwhelming speakers.
More features: automatic stop, solid wood construction, built-in Bluetooth, hinged dust cover, 7-12 in record diameter
Are you looking for the best cheap record player with speakers? Then the popsky Record Player is an excellent option.
This model is a popular option with several modern features. It comes in a compact form factor that elevates your listening experience. If you are looking for a record player to play for casual listening, then you certainly cannot go wrong with this model.
The speakers are not as excellent as some of the other options that we have considered so far, but it makes up for this by being super-compact and easy to set up. If you have minimalist décor or are looking to add a simple, yet elegant touch to your space, you might appreciate the understated design of the Popsky Record Player.
One of the best features that we love is the auto stop feature. This is a feature that you might not think much off at first, but over time, you’ll always be looking for your record players to have it. To enjoy the best performance, we recommend hooking it up to external speakers as the in-built speakers are not powerful.
Nevertheless, at this price, you will be glad with what you get.
What we liked:
This record player features Bluetooth connectivity and very handy automatic stop feature. It is a belt-driven model that can play your records and convert them to audio files.
What could be better:
Aside from the average speakers, this record player is not particularly suited to handling bass frequencies.
More features: built-in Bluetooth, USB connection, anti-vibration construction, 7-12 in record diameter
The SeeYing Vinyl Record Player Turntable is a lovely combination of vintage appeal and modern technology and features. Like the rest of the best vinyl players with speakers that we have considered so far, this model has three playing speeds and boasts of a belt-driven system. With this combination, you can enjoy your vinyl records as much as you like.
The construction is impressive and makes the unit one of the most durable options on the market. Aside from the compact and durable form, it is designed with anti-vibration construction. Thus, you will enjoy your music with very little interference from the vibrating parts.
It protects the record and improves durability as it comes with a useful dust cover. To prevent dust and other contaminants from accumulating on the appliance.
Other nice features include Bluetooth connectivity and USB connection. Hence, you can turn the record player into a Bluetooth player.
The product is quite easy to install and use, which makes it a nice choice for anyone who is just using a record player.
What we liked:
It is a record player that works excellently and doesn’t take up plenty of space. The sound quality is quite impressive for the size. It also offers you speed control.
What could be better:
The dust cover is not completely clear and might give it a boxy appearance instead of the vintage design you might want
In the review section above, we considered six of the best record players with built-in speakers. These are the best that you can buy right now, and since there are so many options on the market, providing this list has helped to narrow your choice. Now, in this section, we consider all that you need to know about handling these devices. We show you how to use the record player and the important features to consider before you make a buying decision. First, let us why record players are excellent purchases.
If you are an audiophile, you certainly realize that the way you enjoy or experience music relies on the system that you ate using. There are different formats of music, but the most popular is the digital format. They are easy to access and fit into the storage of your phone because of compression.
For many, the convenience that these offers are better than the reduced sound quality. However, true music lovers want the best sound from their music, and the record player might be the best thing to use. Here are some of the reasons why the record player is perfect for playing music.
It Gives Better Sound
Digital files usually undergo compression. This compression makes them smaller in size and easier to download and send. However, when you are listening to a record, you are listening to an undiluted form of music. The music from a record is uncompressed and sounds just like the artist recorded it.
Since there is no compression, you hear a pure sound, something that you rarely get with digital formats. Listening to a vinyl record is wonderful and it is like listening to the artist performing live.
In addition, vinyl records often have more impressive dynamics in the mastering process than the digital formats. The nostalgia that comes from listening to a vinyl record is stronger than if you heard the same song played through digital format.
Great Feeling
Another reason why record players are better for listening to music is that it gives you this warm feeling and a better appreciation for the song. We live in an era of speed and instant gratification, but sometimes, it pays to take some time off the pedal. A record player does that for you.
It can be therapeutic taking the time to set up a record player. You focus attention on it. Instead of hustling while listening to music, you can put the record on, sit down, and relax as you listen. After side A. And when that is done, you go to change to side B and enjoy the feeling of listening to it.
Another thing of note is that vinyl records and record players can erven serve as aesthetic fixtures of your home, giving it a vintage appearance.
Storing all your music online definitely doesn’t give you that feeling.
Vintage Music
Another reason why these record players with speakers are great is that it could be the sole means of listening to some vintage songs. While loads of music has been converted to the digital format, there are still countless others that only exist in vinyl form.
Economy
If you own vinyl records, probably from your childhood or your days in college, buying a record player means that you don’t have to buy the songs again in digital format or CD. You will find that there are several cheap record players with speakers on the market.
So, as you can see, there are so many advantages to getting your own record player.
Now that you’ve got your record player, how do you use it and use it well? At first glance, it seems that anyone can use the record player. However, not everyone knows how to properly use them. It is important that you know how to use them so that you don’t end up damaging the record. In this section, we will consider how to use a record player correctly.
Setting up the record player is easy, as long as you know the basic components. Regardless of the model, record players come with some essential components found in all types. Knowing the components will help you know how to use it.
The first component is the platter. All record players have this. It is what holds the records and spins them for you at a determined speed. This part is made of different materials, but most feature an aluminium material.
Another basic component is the arm. The arm comprises of the needle and the cartridge. The needle comes with a diamond tip and is what runs on the record to create vibrations. The vibrations are passed to the cartridge which transforms them into an electrical signal. The signal is sent to the amp which then sends to the speakers for sound output.
So, how do you play the record? Let’s see.
Playing a record is pretty straightforward. You start by putting the record on the turntable – whether on the A side or the B side. Some record players come in a vertical design, so ensure that the record does not fall.
After placing the record on the platter, raise the cue lever to raise the arm. Move the arm to the outer boundary of the record.
Next, switch on the record player, and ensure that it is at the correct speed.
When all these are set, lower the arm by lowering the cue lever. As the needle contacts the record, you should start hearing your music playing.
In summary, follow these steps:
By following these steps, you will successfully play your record and avoid any form of damage to it.
As with almost every other device on the market, record players come in a wide range of prices. Some are pretty costly while others are less expensive. In many cases, the cost is determined by the vintage value of the record player, and not by the ability or features – except it is a modern record player.
Out of the models that we reviewed, the SKEVONO Vinyl Record Player gives the best value for the price.
Since there are several models of record players with speakers on the market, it might be somewhat stressful finding the right model that would meet your needs. In this section, we will consider the important features that will help you choose the right record player.
Like it or not, it is important that the record player you choose not only looks beautiful, but that it fits in with the décor of your space. Many of the best and our favourite models are available in retro designs that catch the eye of anyone that comes across them. Crosley CR42D-PA Lancaster comes with one of the most decorative designs. Others, like Popsky Record Player have an understated yet elegant design.
The portable record players with speakers that we review come in a variety of designs and colors. Therefore, choose that which will fit the décor of your space.
This is arguably the most important thing to consider before you buy a record player. The main reason you bought the unit is to listen to the high-quality music. Well, the quality that you get is a reflection of several factors, including the choice of the needle, the components of the speaker, and the acoustic properties of the materials used in the speaker construction. In most cases, the stronger the power of the speaker, the bigger it is.
The type of speaker also affects the quality. There are two major types of speakers – in-built speakers and external speakers.
A record player that is fitted with speakers is often more affordable than buying a separate set of speakers. These self-contained record players might come with a preamp that allows you to connect it to external components. They also have AUX and some might even have CD players and Smart connectivity. Examples of this type of record player are the Crosley CR42D-PA Lancaster and Victrola 50’s Retro Bluetooth Record Player.
Consider the needle, materials of build, and the components of the speaker to choose the best one for you.
This is the part of the record player that comprises of the needle. The quality of this tonearm will greatly affect the accuracy and consistency of the records’ rotation. Our top pick, the Victrola 50’s Retro Bluetooth Record Player, has an excellent tonearm.
This is what the vinyl record sits on. The heavier the platter, the better as this will reduce the vibration.
The speed should be changed in relation to the type of record you are playing. Record players can play 33 & 45 RPM vinyls, and some are able to play 78 RPM. Most of the options will play records after 1959 very well, but if you will be playing records older than that, you will need a record player with up to 78 RPM speeds. All the options we have considered come with this ability.
This is also referred to as the needle. It is an upgradable part that is responsible for the quality of sound reproduction. Popsky Record Player has a pretty dope stylus.
The guarantee or warranty is an important factor to consider as it will come in handy at times when there is a technical issue with the unit. The DIGITNOW Bluetooth Record Player Turntable with Stereo Speaker offers 1-year guarantee.
This might either be a belt drive or a direct drive. Many people prefer the belt drive because it offers better platter isolation. The result is reduced noise transmission. The downside is that the belt will need relatively frequent replacement. Victrola 50’s Retro Bluetooth Record Player is belt-driven.
The direct drive has the platter directly connected to the motor. The advantage is better playback. However, it offers this at the expense of increased vibrations.
This are the features that aren’t necessary, nut come in useful. For instance, some units come with spare parts like needles. Others are designed with a dust cover to protect the player, while others come with a cleaning set.
So there you have it – the best record player with speakers, Our top choice is the Victrola 50’s Retro Bluetooth Record Player. It comes with three speeds, is affordable, and offers the best combination of features.
The runner-up is the equally excellent Crosley CR42D-PA Lancaster. It will fit into your décor, has pretty loud speakers, and has one of the best audio performances.
SKEVONO Vinyl Record Player is a value buy that comes with high quality in-built speakers and connectors. It is lightweight and well-constructed. With a USB port, you can quickly digitize your records.