Table of ContentsTable of ContentsU-Turn Orbit Special (Gen 2)Audio-Technica AT-LP70XPro-Ject Debut Carbon EvoFluance RT85NU-Turn Orbit TheoryRega Planar 3Audio-Technica AT-LP140XPVictrola Stream CarbonFrequently Asked QuestionsI don't know if you've noticed, but being the vinyl and turntable nerd that I am, I can't stop seeing and (to my wife's chagrin) pointing out every record player I see cropping up in seemingly every TV show or movie I've watched over the last little while. They're everywhere from Mr. Milchick rewarding Helly R. with a dance party from a Thorens-like deck in Severance to Agatha All Along trashing a perfectly good TEAC TN-280BT it's official: turntables are cool again, and you should get one.Whether you're rediscovering the satisfying ritual of putting on a record, are new to the world of vinyl, or you're already neck-deep in LPs, having a decent turntable or record player is essential. But there are so many to choose from that it can get confusing. Many come ready to go out of the box, with built-in phono preamps for easy connection to powered speakers or receivers and integrated amplifiers, and a range of features that make them easy to get the hang of. If you're curious and want to dip your toes in slowly, one of our favorite entry-level turntables is the Audio-Technica AT-LP70X, a budget-priced basic deck that looks great, too.But if you've already taken a few spins around the vinyl world and are looking to upgrade or get into something a little more advanced, like one with a better phono cartridge, external phono preamps, higher-quality tonearms, and anti-resonant components that can make for a beautifully clear and sonic experience, we've checked out a bunch and also put them on our list of the best turntables.The best turntable we can recommend right now is the U-Turn Audio Orbit Special (Gen 2), which has been given a nice little refresh and upgrade since it launched in 2012. Its top-notch Ortofon cartridge and solid acrylic platter help ensure dynamic and clear sound, while its updated speed select switch make it a breeze to use. We also still love the stalwart Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Evo, so check that out, too.But we've got several other turntables on our list to help you decide, and once you do, why not check out our roundup of the best turntable accessories, too. Let's go.U-Turn Orbit Special (Gen 2)Best turntable overallJump to detailsAudio-Technica AT-LP70XBest budget turntableJump to detailsPro-Ject Debut Carbon EvoThe best mid-range turntableJump to detailsFluance RT85NBest features-for-price turntableJump to detailsU-Turn Orbit TheoryBest turnable around $1,000Jump to detailsRega Planar 3Best audiophile turntableJump to detailsAudio-Technica AT-LP140XPBest turntable for DJsJump to detailsVictrola Stream CarbonBest for Sonos integrationJump to detailsRecommended VideosDerek Malcolm / Digital TrendsBest turntable overallU-Turn Orbit Special (Gen 2)U-Turn Orbit Special (Gen 2) ReviewProsExcellent soundDynamic Ortofon 2M Red cartridgeNew speed selection dialSolid acrylic platterOptional built-in preampSeven finishesConsNo auto stop featureSpecification:MotorBelt driveBuilt-in preampYes, optionalWi-FiNoCartridgeOrtofon 2M Red, upgradableThe original U-Turn Orbit Special was a really good turntable. I bought one in 2018, and it was one of my daily-use decks for years it had an Ortofon 2M Red cartridge, a solid acrylic platter, and no-nonsense, simple belt-driven operation. But in 2023, U-Turn gave its entire Orbit lineup an update, and when I got my hands on the Gen 2 Special for review, all my gripes had been obliterated, landing it at the top of my list of favorite turntables.The Gen 2 Orbit Special is still as reliable as ever, but the Woburn, Massachusetts company has made some key upgrades that make it a no-brainer for a mid-range turntable. Chief among them is a redesigned, quieter motor and a new tonearm that's now a single pice of molded magnesium that reduces resonance and vibration transfer when compared to the first gen's aluminum version. Additionally, the acrylic platter now has a machined groove around its edge to keep the belt in place (the old model used to fall off constantly), and there's now an automatic speed selection dial no more manual belt switching!Assembly and setup is still simple (takes about 10 minutes out of the box), and while I would have liked to see the numbered counterweight dial like on U-Turn's premium Orbit Theory make its way to the Special, adjusting it is still easy. However, I'd still recommend using a force scale gauge for simplicity.Once it's up and running, though, the U-Turn Orbit Special is a dream to use and punches above its weight when it comes to sound, which, thanks to the 2M Red, is crystal clear, balanced across the frequency range, and has depth and height favorable to all kinds of music. If you want to improve things even more, the Ortofon cartridge can be upgraded to the more premium 2M Blue, and you can get the turntable with or without a built-in phono preamp.The second-gen Special is available in black, white, red, blue, and green, as well as in real oak or walnut finishes for an extra $170, but damn they look sharp.U-Turn Orbit Special (Gen 2)Best turntable overallAudio-TechnicaBest budget turntableAudio-Technica AT-LP70XAudio-Technica AT-LP70X ReviewProsGreat-sounding turntableExcellent quality for the priceUpgradable, replaceable stylusFully automatic operationEasy to set up and useConsMade of plasticAluminum platterNonadjustable feetSpecification:MotorBelt driveBuilt-in preampYesWi-FiAvailableCartridgeAudio-Technica AT-VM95C, upgradable stylusOperationFully automaticMany a vinyl beginner has turned to Audio-Technica for their first turntables because the well-established company (they also make world-class headphones and microphones) produces reliable, easy to use, and affordable turntables for pretty much every level and budget.At one time, the AT-LP60X sat in this sport as my pick for the best budget turntable, and to be clear, I still recommend it as another fantastic beginner turntable at just $150. But last year, Audio-Technica introduced the AT-LP70X, a slight evolution of the LP60X, and even though it's slightly more expensive, it replaced my pick mainly for a few important reasons, but one main one.First, the LP70X keeps all the great bones of the LP60X easy automatic operation with push-button start and stop, built-in switchable phono preamp for multiple connection options no matter what your sound system is (powered speakers or full amp and speaker combos), and even a Bluetooth-capable model should you want it.But where the extra money is well worth it is with the AT-LP70X's newly designed AT-VM95C Integral Moving Magnet phono cartridge, which is not only a step-up in sound quality, soundstage, and dynamics from that of the LP60X, but A-T also created a whole new series of VM95 interchangeable styli that allow you to upgrade them as your vinyl-listening ear develops and you want more from your turntable.For $200, the AT-LP70X offers great value and excellent performance, and could now potentially be the only turntable you'll ever need, even if you graduate from beginner vinyl nerd status.Audio-Technica AT-LP70XBest budget turntableRelatedPro-JectThe best mid-range turntablePro-Ject Debut Carbon EvoProsWarm, defined soundhigh-quality components for the moneyNo more manual speed changeAvailable in nine finishesConsPhono preamp is extraSpecification:MotorBelt driveBuilt-in preampNoWi-FiNoCartridgeSumiko Rainier, upgradableIf you're just starting your turntable hunting you've likely already come across the Pro-Ject brand (heck, we mention two of them in our intro). The stalwart company is up there with Rega as a standout in the industry, its decorated Debut Carbon lineup has helped keep it there for more than a decade. Its latest version, the Debut Carbon Evo, doesn't falter either, proving that you don't need to spend a grand or more for high-end features.Pro-Ject's best-selling turntable model got a few key upgrades in this latest version that have put it over the top, including a redesigned motor with improved suspension, new height-adjustable sound-dampening aluminum feet, and a heavier 3.7-pound, steel platter with a thermoplastic dampening ring that Pro-Ject says reduces wow and flutter (tiny distortions that can be caused by vibrations and other factors). While I haven't thoroughly reviewed this model myself, I've spent some time with it and can vouch for at least some of the sound quality and usability features that have garnered the many positive reviews it's gotten over the years.The best upgrade, though, is the addition of a new three-speed selector switch that has been discretely mounted on the underside of the plinth. Previously, you'd have to remove the platter to physically move the rubber belt underneath to switch between 33 and 45 RMP records. The new switch is a godsend, and also offers 78 RPM as well.You also get the Evo's single-piece carbon fiber tonearm, which looks cool and contributes to the turntable's rich, balanced, and quiet sound, but not quite as much as its excellent, re-mounted Sumiko Rainier moving magnet (MM) cartridge, which is punchy, balanced, and full-bodied (like a good beer, I guess). Outside the U.S., the Evo comes with the also-great Ortofon 2M Red installed, but, if you're at the stage where you're experimenting with cartridges, you can easily swap them; it's not hard.The only obvious thing that the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Evo doesn't come with is a built-in phono preamp, so you will have to get one (unless you have one already). I really like the Schiit Mani 2 phono preamp, I have two of them and they sound great. You might think is a deal breaker, but I would argue that if you're looking to up your entry-level game with a Carbon Evo, a good external phono preamp will be better than most built-ins if you can stomach the extra few hundred dollars.The Debut Carbon Evo comes with a semi-balanced RCA cable and is available in nine colors and finishes.Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EvoThe best mid-range turntableDerek Malcolm/Digital TrendsBest features-for-price turntableFluance RT85NFluance RT85N Turntable ReviewProsFull sound that stays true to the sourceOutstanding Nagaoka MP-110 cartridgeSolid, anti-resonant build qualityFuss-free RPM speed control dialAutomatic stop featureConsNo built-in phono preampNo Bluetooth or USB connectivityGlossy finish prone to fingerprintsSpecification:MotorBelt driveBuilt-in preampYesWi-FiNoCartridgeNagaoka MP-110, upgradableThe midrange Fluance RT85N blew us away when I reviewed it last year for its more than reasonable $500 price, superb Nagaoka MP-110 cartridge, quality components, and rock-solid build, which, in my opinion, puts it neck-and-neck with the Pro-Ject Debut Evo as an even more affordable option that will do the job just as well.The star of the RT85N is Nagaoka MP-110, which on its own is a $150 cartridge, but its sound is well regarded as being balanced, and forgiving of a wide range of music styles (it really likes older vinyl, too), with excellent separation between the lows, mids, and high frequencies. In my review, I said of the MP-110 that "vocals sound natural across the board, while the highs stay sharp and clean with a marked reduction in sibilance when compared to cheaper cartridges." All that and, if you wanted to, you could easily switch out the MP-110 for another cartridge of your choosing, making the RT85N upgradeable and future-proof.Helping that Nagaoka cartridge do its thing is all the anti-resonance happening in the RT85N. The thing is a beast at 17.7 pounds, much of that accounted for in its solid MDF plinth. A 0.62-inch (16mm) thick, high-density clear acrylic platter also helps dampen vibrations, along with its aluminum S-shaped tonearm, and adjustable rubber isolation feet, making the RT85N "one of the quietest, most stable turntables Ive tested," my review says.There's no Bluetooth or USB connectivity here, and like the Debut Evo, the RT85N does not have a built-in preamp, but they tend to not sound great anyway, so if you're moving up from a budget or entry-level deck, you're probably better off exploring the word of phono preamps now anyway. The RT85N also has a handy auto-stop feature for those who like to putter around the house while listening to records it automatically stops at the end of the record, which also saves wear and tear on the stylus.Setting up the RTN85 is pretty easy, too. Everything you need is in the box, and the instructions are clear. Setup should only take you about 10 or 15 minutes, but in case you're expecting to plug it in and go, there is a higher level of precision required with turntables compared to cheaper decks it's not a bad thing for you to learn how to attach a headshell and balance a tonearm, and the sweet sounds you'll get will make it all worth it.Fluance RT85NBest features-for-price turntableDerek Malcolm/Digital TrendsBest turnable around $1,000U-Turn Orbit TheoryU-Turn Orbit Theory review: nothing theoretical about this stellar turntable ReviewProsOrtofon 2M Blue or Bronze cartridgeNew antiresonant tonearm designEasy to set upElectronic speed switch dialBuilt-in preamp optionFantastic sound for priceConsOnly two finish optionsNo auto stopSpecification:MotorBelt driveBuilt-in preampYes, optionalWi-FiNoCartridgeOrtofon 2M Blue or Bronze, upgradeableAs a long-time owner and fan of the original U-Turn Orbit Custom, when I finally got my hands on the Woburn, Massachusetts company's first foray into the premium turntable realm, I was pretty excited. I've always liked U-Turn's scrappy spirit and that it offers high-quality turntables that are a little different than the big players for a reasonable price. The Orbit Theory is easily U-Turn's best turntable yet, and a fantastic next step for vinyl enthusiasts ready to jump up out of the mid-range.The rethought Orbit Theory is a strikingly beautiful, hardwood-based turntable that comes in walnut and a new black Ebonized Oak finish. But it's not just easy on the eyes. Building off of the 10-year lineage of the Orbit brand, the upgrades are substantial, including a newly developed molded magnesium tonearm that combines the headshell, arm tube, and pivot housing in one to reduce resonance. The belt drive system is all-new as well. It's more powerful, has a new silicone belt that runs in a machined groove around the side of the platter, and it gets up to speed faster. Plus, I can confirm that it's virtually silent. And, my favorite part is that U-Turn has finally added a speed switch no more manual belt changing between 33 and 45 RMP. A set of three anti-resonant and height-adjustable feet are also new to the Theory, further solidifying its quiet properties.But where we start getting into the real premium territory with the Orbit Theory is with its choice of two excellent cartridges from world-class cartridge makers, Ortofon: the 2M Blue (which comes with the base-model Theory at $999) and the even better 2M Bronze that adds $180 to the price. Either way, you're laughing with how good these cartridges are they consistently produce big, brilliant, and stable sound that is forgiving for all kinds of music and you can't go wrong with either. If you do go for the Bronze, you add even more opportunity to upgrade further, as the Bronze's cartridge is compatible with two of Ortofon's best styluses, the Black ($575) and Black LVB ($800), pushing you into audiophile territory, should you like.In true U-Turn fashion, the Orbit Theory is customizable and ranges from $999 with the 2M Blue and without a built-in preamp to the top-of-the-line at $1,249 with the preamp and the 2M Bronze. Whichever way you configure it, the Orbit Theory is an excellent turntable, worthy of our Editor's Choice pick.U-Turn Orbit TheoryBest turnable around $1,000RegaBest audiophile turntableRega Planar 3ProsUncompromising qualityBest-in-class tonearmChoice of two high-quality cartridgesBright, full, detailed soundConsCan get expensiveOnly available in three colorsSpecification:MotorBelt driveBuilt-in preampNoWi-FiNoCartridgeElys 2 MM or Ortofon 2M Blue, or no cartridgeMany turntable nerds count the Rega Planar 3 as the pinnacle, their Holy Grail turntable; the one they'd get if they found a wad of cash in the couch cushions. And they wouldn't be wrong. The Rega name is often the first that comes to mind when you think of audiophile turntables and gear (the Planar 3, while excellent, is actually their mid-range), and the Planar 3 is arguably their most popular, for its reachable price and legendary quality.With 40 years under its belt, the Planar 3's lightweight, anti-resonant plinth was the mold for many modern turntables that have come after (including several on this list). It's, of course, come a long way since then, having undergone several iterations and upgrades, and it's this design expertise that few can compete with. The current Planar 3 features the latest version of their iconic RB330 tonearm that offers amazing balance, stability, and industry-leading anti-resonance. It's a belt-driven turntable, of course, with a new 24-volt low-vibration motor that's nearly silent and that drives the Planar 3's eye-catching glass platter.While there is no built-in preamp (turntables at this level rarely have them) and no speed selector switch, when coupled with the Rega Neo power supply, you can bypass the finicky manual belt switching and get precise 33 or 45 RMP speed control with a button push.The Planar 3 comes in a few different configurations, including on its own without a cartridge that runs around $1,125, with Rega's own outstanding Elys 2 MM cartridge ($1,395), and another with the also excellent Ortofon 2M Blue ($1,364). You can, of course, upgrade to a multitude of other cartridges out there, too. The turntable is as quiet as it gets, sounds gorgeous, and looks it too. Rega also does a good job at making the Planar 3 customizable with upgradeable parts, such as belts, platters, and more. The Rega Planar 3 is available in three glossy finishes: black, white, and red.Rega Planar 3Best audiophile turntableAudio-TechnicaBest turntable for DJsAudio-Technica AT-LP140XPProsRock-solid buildHeavy and stableAffordableInstant speed, pitch control ConsNo built-in preampSpecification:MotorDirect driveBuilt-in preampNoWi-FiNoCartridgeAT-XP3 DJ cartridge, upgradableAll the turntables on our list, so far, have been belt-drive turntables, which are best for most people because of their simple operation and the fact that they tend to be quieter because the motors that spin are usually off to the side and do not directly contact the platter.Direct drive turntables, however, are a different beast, as their motors usually sit directly under the platter and often drive them, er, directly. While there is much debate over which is better, DJs favor direct drive decks because they can get up to speed almost instantly, can spin records in both directions without damaging the motor, and often have tempo control sliders for mixing.One of, if not the best DJ turntables ever made, is arguably the Technics SL-1200, but they are hard to come by and even the new versions of them can get expensive. Enter Audio-Technica, whose SL-1200-inspired LP140XP direct-drive turntable is tailor-made for DJs, but at a way more manageable $500 price.Similar to Audio-Technica's massively popular AT-LP120, the LP140XP is a beast of a 22-pound turntable that is stable as hell with four sure-footed adjustable feet and a die-cast aluminum platter that is damped underneath with a dense, felt-like material for anti-resonance. Where the LP140XP differs from its LP120 cousin is that it does not come with a built-in phono preamp (most DJs will have some form of amplification anyway), and it trades out the standard workhorse AT-VM95E cartridge for the hotter, more DJ-friendly AT-XP3 cartridge instead. The headshell comes pre-mounted, so all you have to do is balance the tonearm with the included instructions and you'll be spinning in no time. A-T's solid anti-skate mechanism is here, too, to keep the stylus tracking in the groove properly.Speaking of spinning, the DJ controls include a pitch-control slider, pitch lock, forward/reverse buttons, and the classic pop-up platter strobe light. It doesn't have Bluetooth or USB connectivity (for that look to the LP120XBT-USB), but the AT-LP140XP will spin at 33, 45, and 78 RPM, and is an easy-to-use, straightforward DJ's dream.Audio-Technica AT-LP140XPBest turntable for DJsDerek Malcolm/Digital TrendsBest for Sonos integrationVictrola Stream CarbonVictrola Stream Carbon ReviewProsSound is excellentQuality Ortofon 2M Red cartridgeEasy wireless setupConnects to any Sonos in your houseBig, universal volume dialClean, modern lookConsExpensiveBasic appMotor is a bit noisySpecification:MotorBelt driveBuilt-in preampYesWi-FiYes, Works with Sonos certifiedCartridgeOrtofon 2M Red, upgradableSonos makes some of the finest network music streaming speakers and audio products out there. And whether you've already invested your hard-earned cash into one or two Sonos speakers or a whole-home Sonos setup, it makes sense that if you're going to start getting in to vinyl that you might want to utilize those speakers, if you can, instead of shelling out for a whole new sound system.There are several ways to integrate a turntable with a Sonos system, but Victrola is one of the first companies to come forth with a "Works with Sonos" certified turntable that can connect directly to any Sonos speaker or system without the use of another Sonos connectivity product like the Port, Amp, or one of Sonos' line-in speakers like the Era lineup. And it's dead simple for pretty much anyone.The Victrola Stream Carbon (there's also a slightly cheaper version, the Stream Onyx) is a modern-looking, solidly built turntable (it weighs a stable 13 pounds) with some high-end components, such as its Ortofon 2M Red cartridge, dense MDF plinth, cast aluminum platter, and anti-resonant carbon fiber tonearm. It has a built-in analog-to-digital converter that translates the analog signal from your records into a 24-bit/48kHz digital signal that sounds sweet when streamed out over your Sonos system.Setup is easy with the bare-bones, but functional Victrola Stream app, and once the turntable is connected, all the rest is done via the easy-to-use Sonos app. Simply choose the speakers or groups of speakers you want your record to play on. The Stream Carbon can also be played through a traditional analog setup, like a receiver and set of passive speakers.Victrola Stream CarbonBest for Sonos integrationHow we test turntables and record playersLike many things we review at Digital Trends, we test turntables and record players from differing points of view those with little experience with the tech and those familiar with it so we can relay the details in a way that's meaningful to both. From unboxing and setup to explaining all its features, we use each turntable we get just as you would, by using and evaluating everything it can do and how easy and fun/frustrating it is to do it. We do this all while playing a lot of records to examine the most important thing: how it sounds. We play a wide range of music to test out the lows, mids, highs, and everything in-between, while listening for clarity, distortion, soundstage, and any anomalies that might appear.Check out our full rundown on how we test turntables. What's the difference between a belt-drive and direct-drive turntable?A belt-driven turntable uses a thin rubber or silicone belt that is wrapped around the platter (either on the outside edge or underneath, for example) that is, in turn, wrapped around a spindle connected to a motor that is usually set off to the side of the platter. A direct-drive turntable's motor usually sits directly beneath the platter and the two are, er, directly connected. There are advantages and disadvantages to both.Belt-drive turntables tend to be preferred by audiophiles because, due to the offset and isolated nature of the motor and the use of the rubber belt, vibrations and resonance are kept to a minimum, therefore they are much quieter. Direct-drive turntables, on the other hand, are preferred by DJs because the platter's direct connection to the motor means they can get up to speed much quicker. Because there's no belt getting in the way, direct-drive decks can also be played backwards, stopped more easily, and are generally more forgiving of all the cueing and syncing uses of DJs. The trade-off is that the vibrations from the motor can be directly transferred to the cartridge and hence through the audio system. Are Bluetooth turntables any good?Yes, they can be. Without getting too into the weeds about hi-res audio and Bluetooth codecs, a turntable streaming music over Bluetooth to a Bluetooth speaker or set of headphones must do two things. First, it must convert the analog sound form the record's grooves into a digital signal and then it must compress that signal to a reasonable amount of information that can be sent wirelessly over Bluetooth.Often, this can strip music of some of its detail and resolution, and some vinyl purists think that this defeats the whole purpose of vinyl records, which typically have excellent audio fidelity. Will most people notice? No. Will most people care? Also no. As long as it sounds good to you, that's all that matters.There are, however, Bluetooth codecs, such as Qualcomm's aptX HD, that are allowing for much better sound quality over Bluetooth, making it a better experience and more convenient option. This also has its caveats, though. For this to work, both the turntable and the receiving Bluetooth speaker must support the aptX HD codec.Alternatively, a Wi-Fi or LAN network-based system, such as Sonos with a compatible turntable (see the Stream Carbon turntable above), can convert vinyl records at a much higher sound quality than Bluetooth and can stream much higher amounts of digital data for high-resolution sound. What is a phono preamp and do I need one? A phono preamp (also known as a phono stage) can be either an internal component in a turntable or an external unit that a turntable is connected to. Either way, it's job is to take the generally weak signal that comes from a turntable's stylus (needle) and cartridge and prepare it to be amplified by either a receiver, integrated amplifier, powered speaker, or other amplification device.Many modern turntables come with phono preamps built-in, generally giving users everything they need to get their records amplified and booming out a pair of speakers. However, some built-in phono preamps (especially those in budget turntables) aren't very good, and many higher-end turntables still do not even have preamps built-in. For these reasons, you may need to purchase an external phono preamp. And that's not necessarily a bad thing, as adding an external phono stage is a great way to improve the stability and sound quality of your turntable's signal, so you might want to consider it.And if you happen to have a receiver or amplifier that has a phono input, that will act as your preamp, so you don't need one if you like how it sounds. You can always opt to use a phono stage anyway and connect through the amp's AUX input, like many people do. Editors RecommendationsTopicsBest Products Derek MalcolmContributing Editor, A/VDerek Malcolm is a contributing editor and evergreen lead for the A/V and Home Theater section of Digital Trends. Derek joined the DT team in 2020, spending his days wrangling the movie and TV streaming guides before getting the chance to nurture his obsession with the latest audio/video gear. A former musician and practicing vinyl nerd, his passion for sound can be found in his writing, whether its a guide to the best speakersand turntables, or a review of a party speaker thatll blow your roof off.Derek studied journalism at Torontos Humber College, graduating in 1999. He started his career writing about music, movies, and TV, back when people still read things on paper, working at such magazines as TV Guide and celebrity mag Hello! Canada. Derek counts Matt Damon, Britney Spears, and Coldplay among his favorite interviews.From 2006 to 2018 Derek was the editor-in-chief of Canadian tech and entertainment magazine Connected, where he steered the publication through the invention of the iPhone and the rise of streaming to the demise of BlackBerry and the print industry.One of two Canucks on the Digital Trends A/V team, Derek is based in Toronto where he lives with his wife, daughter, two cats, and his prized vintage Marantz stereo receivers.When Derek isnt cussing at the labyrinthine setup menus of the latest projectors, he can be found at home listening to records or counting the days to ski season.You can find Derek on Threads and sharing his vinyl exploits on Instagram. More than a decade ago, my first ever turntable was the Audio-Technica AT-LP120, a beast of a direct-drive machine that starts and stops on a dime, is stable as all hell, and couldn't be easier to use. I still have it, and while I've added several other types and grades of turntables over the years, it's still in regular, er, rotation in my setup.As far as entry-to-mid-level turntables go, Audio-Technica is one of the best brands out there -- we feature several of them on our best turntables list. If you've been hemming and hawing over getting a new turntable to kick off your vinyl obsession, or maybe you're looking to upgrade your starter deck, now's your chance to get your hands on one of three of Audio Technica's most popular turntables for up to 29% off as part of Amazon Prime Day: the entry-level AT-LP60X, it's Bluetooth-enabled sibling the AT-LP60XBT, and the AT-LP120XUSB, a newer, USB-capable version of my trusty old tank that I mentioned above. AT-LP120XUSBRead more There's no need to spend several hundred dollars to replace your old screen -- take advantage of TV deals to access huge savings. Here's an offer that will get you amazing value: the 55-inch Toshiba C350 Series 4K TV for only $240 from Best Buy, following a $130 discount on its original price of $370. We're not sure how much time is remaining on this bargain though, so if you want to take advantage of it, you better hurry with your purchase!Why you should buy the 55-inch Toshiba C350 Series 4K TV The Toshiba C350 Series 4K TV isn't going to challenge the best TVs in terms of the technology it packs and the features it offers, but for a relatively affordable option, it's a solid choice. With 4K Ultra HD resolution, as well as support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, you'll enjoy watching your favorite shows and movies with bright colors, sharp details, and immersive sound. The Toshiba C350 Series 4K TV also looks very sleek with its bezel-less design, which will allow it to match the aesthetic of any room.Read more At the Information Systems Europe (ISE) 2025 audiovisual showcase in Barcelona today, home theater projector makers Optoma unveiled its latest stunner, the Optoma UHZ68LV, a 4K UHD laser projector that boasts a whopping 5,000 lumens of brightness, but comes with the equally-blinding price of 4,000 (approximately $4,982).The Optoma UHZ68LV 4K is a dual-laser, standard-throw projector, which means it needs a runway of between 1 and 10 metres, depending on the size of the image you want. Speaking of which, this is where things get serious, as the UHZ68LV laser projector can turn your living room or man cave space into an impressive home theater, with the ability to project as small as 30 inches all the way up to a massive 300 inches, which translates to roughly 12 feet tall by 22 feet wide, for those with a parking lot at their disposal for a makeshift drive-in. Read more