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Automatic turntables: a review of the best performing models
Automatic turntables represent a pleasant variation on the theme of listening to beloved vinyl. Real classics with a modern twist, suitable for both novices and experts, and available on the market in different variants.
Precious records, if kept well, can last for years and years. In this regard, in an article in our blog we talked precisely about the home maintenance of these media, with the special entitled: "How to clean vinyls at home: all the most effective methods."
Today we want to talk about the devices that can play vinyls, namely turntables. We have chosen models with at least one part of automatic operation, such as cartridge return.
Before we see what little gems we have extracted from our catalog, let's go through the differences between an automatic and a manual turntable.
Automatic or manual turntable? The differences
Understanding the difference between a fully automatic, semi-automatic and manual device is not a difficult task. In any case, here is a brief list illustrating the peculiarities of the various turntable models:
- Manual turntable: the most nostalgic model, the one associated with early vinyl record listening. Vintage turntables, some might say. For us, they are simply excellent devices, but they require a minimum of attention. For it is the listener who must activate himself to place the needle on the record, and put it back in place at the end of the performance. The danger of getting it wrong, in this case, can be just around the corner, especially if you are not very delicate. If you make a gross mistake, the record could scratch, resulting in sound deterioration;
- Automatic turntable: in these models of turntables, all you have to do is press the play button, and watch the arm rise and position itself perfectly at the beginning of the stand, whether in the case of 33 or 45 rpm. A cooler fruition perhaps than manual alternatives, but one that can preserve the integrity of the vinyl, especially if you are not very experienced;
- Semi-automatic turntables: these models take the best of the two alternatives just mentioned. Often sold at great value for money, they require manual positioning at the beginning of the run. Arriving at the end of the record, however, the arm provides automatic return to its seat.
And now, here is the selection of automatic turntables extracted from the catalog of our online shop.
Thorens TD 170, the classic that does not disappoint
When it comes to the best turntables around, the name Thorens always pops up. Because this brand is truly synonymous with vinyl listening of the highest quality.
The TD 170, in particular, is a fully automatic model, suitable for novices but with a sound that satisfies even the most demanding. The belt drive acts in tandem with a DC motor for quiet operation.
The straight arm is the TP18 model, which tackles any vinyl with confidence. The platter is 400 g all-aluminum, with no magnetic parts. There are three playback speeds to suit every possible media.
One of the best-known products in the Thorens turntable catalog, ideal for those who want to listen to vinyls seriously.
The Thorens TD 170 is available in the Hi-Fi Prestige catalog at a special price.
DENON DP-300F, a quality brand for a unique sound
Denon is another one of those brands that turntable lovers have come to appreciate over time. And this DP-300F is definitely one of the most coveted models.
Equipped with a switchable phono equalizer, it features a belt drive system and a MM cartridge. The start-stop system is fully automatic. Arm return is also automated. The RIAA preamplifier can be bypassed.
This model handles 33 and 45 rpm smoothly and features a solid aluminum frame with removable cover.
A turntable created with wisdom and care, ideal for first-time record listening.
The Denon DP-300F can be purchased now in our online shop.
Audio Technica AT-LP60 BT, the exceptional automatic
An especially good model for beginning a serious discussion of vinyl listening, theAT-LP 60 BT is one of Audio Technica's great success stories. A turntable with a very simple, fully automatic operation. Just press play, and wait for the cartridge to finish its journey on the stand.
Technically, the belt drive is accompanied by a MM AT VM Dual Magnet cartridge, with a die-cast aluminum anti-resonant platter. The phono preamplifier is built-in, while the analog output can be set to line or phono level.
Playback of 33- and 45-rpm vinyl can also be done via Bluetooth connection.
A direct-use turntable: Audio Technica AT-LP60 BT is available for purchase in our catalog.
TEAC TN180BTW, technique and emotion
The world of the turntable always holds surprises. Like this TEAC TN180BTW, which offers wireless music listening via Bluetooth connection.
An ideal model for those on a budget, it features phono, line and USB output. The drive is belt-driven, with three drive speeds and support for 33, 45 and 78 rpm vinyl.
The phono equalizer complements a built-in MM cartridge. The platter is made of die-cast aluminum. The arm must be manually rested on the record, while the return is automatic.
Equipped with an anti-skid mechanism, this turntable features an MDF body, a material that ensures resistance to vibration and resonance.
An entry level semi-automatic of interest: The TEAC TN180BTW is available now.
Lenco L-85, a very interesting semi-automatic
Orienting oneself among mid-range turntables is never easy. Lenco The L-85, however, can be a first point of reference.
This is a unit with a built-in stereo preamplifier, MM cartridge and playback speed suitable for 33 and 45 rpm. The arm lift is mechanical, as is the return mechanism. The drive is belt-driven.
There is no shortage of rather modern features, such as a vinyl-to-MP3 converter via USB port. The design is also nice, with various colors available and a dust cover that can be easily removed.
A good turntable that combines sound and aesthetics: the Lenco L-85 is on our online shop.
Choose your automatic turntable at Hi-Fi Prestige
Evaluating among various turntable options is perhaps one of the most enjoyable activities for an audiophile. Indeed, before putting one's precious vinyls on the platter, a period of reflection, questions and curiosity passes.
Even these small pleasures are part of one's enthusiast experience. And Hi-Fi Prestige is here to help you. In our catalog you will find a wide choice of turntables with direct drive or belt drive, with automatic or manual mechanism.
In short, for any need we are there: browse through our catalog to find your next turntable choosing from the best brands. And for more information, feel free to contact us anytime by email (info@hifiprestige.it) or by phone (+39 335 6672281).