Small Record Players
If you’re a vinyl enthusiast with a hankering for portability and convenience, Small Record Players are your perfect companions. These compact wonders allow you to play your vinyl records on-the-go, bringing your music collection wherever life takes you. In our carefully curated roundup, we’ve scoured the market to bring you the best small record players that balance performance with portability. So sit back, relax, and let our guide help you find the perfect little turntable to suit your needs and lifestyle.
In this article, we’ll be discussing the characteristics to look for in a portable record player, sharing our top picks, and providing tips on proper vinyl handling and care. Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or new to the world of vinyl, our comprehensive guide to Small Record Players will provide you with the knowledge and insights you need to make an informed decision on your next vinyl companion.
The Top 6 Best Small Record Players
- Modern Vinyl Record Player Stand with Bluetooth — Experience the perfect blend of retro design and modern features with the Victrola Liberty Bluetooth Record Player Stand, a 3-speed turntable that lets you stream your music wirelessly or play vinyl with ease, all in a stylish Espresso finish.
- Victrola 3-Speed Portable Suitcase Record Player with Bluetooth | USA — Victrola’s 3-speed, belt-driven turntable record player offers portability, wireless Bluetooth connectivity, and built-in speakers for an immersive, on-the-go listening experience.
- Audio Technica Fully Automatic Vinyl Record Turntable — The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-GM Fully Automatic 2-Speed Belt-Drive Turntable provides a nostalgic vinyl listening experience with its automatic features, stereo sound, and high-quality components, making it an attractive addition to any home audio setup.
- Victrola Retro 3-Speed Record Player — The Victrola 3-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player, boasting built-in speakers, delivers high-quality vinyl sound plus the convenience of Bluetooth connectivity, USB recording, and an adaptable, compact design.
- Teeny-Tiny Turntable with 3 Mini LPS — Teeny-Tiny Turntable: A compact, stylish, and portable mini record player with 3 mini LPs for 90 seconds of nostalgic music in classic rock, jazz, and soul/funk genres, perfect for bringing the vinyl experience anywhere, anytime.
- Crosley Floral Turntable with Bluetooth and Built-in Speakers — The Crosley Voyager Floral Turntable is a stylish and portable 3-speed record player with built-in Bluetooth, full-range stereo speakers, and RCA outputs, perfect for bringing analog music to the masses in any space.
Reviews
Modern Vinyl Record Player Stand with Bluetooth
First of all, let me tell you about my experience with this Victrola Liberty Bluetooth Record Player. The moment I set my eyes on it, I was thrilled. Its retro design, available in on-trend colors, instantly captured my fascination. The built-in features like the CD player, FM radio, and USB player made it a versatile piece of entertainment. Plus, the ability to record from vinyl directly to USB without using a computer was intriguing.
The unit stands tall with four long legs and four short rubber feet. This unique design not only adds to its charm but also provides two different decorative options. The dimensions are just right — measuring 17.10 x 15.70 x 11-in and weighing 14.68 lbs. It’s easy to move around and fits perfectly into any space.
While the sound quality is commendable, filling the room with a rich, full tone, the construction could use some improvement. The turntable feels a bit flimsy, especially the auto-stop button that sometimes fails to work. Also, there’s a little wobbling when a record is on, but not enough to cause any skipping.
In terms of usability, setting up this record player is a breeze. Even someone who’s new to vinyl could get it up and running in no time. The included instructions are concise and clear.
However, I did encounter a few issues with the build. First, it seems like there hasn’t been much care about handling during shipping. The packaging was good, but it’s not enough to prevent some minor damages. Second, I wish the legs could be secured better to ensure they don’t pop out from under the record player.
Overall, despite its drawbacks, I believe the Victrola Liberty Bluetooth Record Player does offer a blend of vintage charm and modern convenience. It performs well, especially for its price point, and it’s a nice addition to any room’s décor. If you’re looking for a stylish and functional record player that won’t break the bank, I’d recommend giving this one a try.
Victrola 3-Speed Portable Suitcase Record Player with Bluetooth | USA
I recently decided to take a nostalgic trip down memory lane and rekindle my love for vinyl records, so I picked up the Victrola Turntable (Record Player) | VSC-550BT-USA. This little retro-styled device has quickly become my go-to companion for all my vinyl listening sessions.
The first thing that struck me about this turntable was its portability. The built-in handle made it easy to carry around, whether I wanted to take it to a friend’s house or even on a picnic. The compact size also means that it doesn’t take up much space on my desk or bookshelf.
One of the features I appreciated the most was the three-speed turntable, which allowed me to play all my favorite vinyl records, from old classics to modern indie hits. The sound quality was surprisingly good, especially when I connected the turntable to my external speakers via the RCA jacks.
The built-in Bluetooth connectivity was another fantastic addition. It allowed me to stream music from my phone directly to the turntable, eliminating the need for messy cords. The wireless connection worked seamlessly, making it incredibly convenient to switch between different media sources.
However, there were a couple of downsides to this turntable. First, the built-in speakers, while functional, weren’t exactly top-notch in terms of sound quality. Second, I noticed that the turntable felt a little flimsy and not the sturdiest.
Overall, the Victrola Turntable (Record Player) | VSC-550BT-USA is a great choice for anyone looking to dive back into the world of vinyl or to enjoy a more authentic listening experience. Despite its minor flaws, it’s still a charming and convenient device that has brought joy and nostalgia into my daily life.
Audio Technica Fully Automatic Vinyl Record Turntable
Discover the joy of vinyl with the Audio Technica AT-LP60X-GM automatic turntable. I’ve been using this product for a while now and it’s been a game-changer. The fully automatic belt-drive operation with two speeds, 33–1/3 and 45 RPM, ensures smooth playback of your favorite vinyl records.
One of the standout features of this turntable is its anti-resonance, die-cast aluminum platter. This not only adds to the aesthetics but also significantly reduces vibrations and noise during playback, enhancing the overall listening experience. The redesigned tonearm base and headshell have also made a noticeable difference in improved tracking and reduced resonance.
The integral Dual Magnet phono cartridge with a replaceable diamond stylus (ATN3600L) provides rich audio quality, promising hours of listening pleasure. The AC adapter manages AC/DC conversion outside of the chassis, effectively reducing noise in the signal chain.
What I particularly love about this turntable is its portability and compact design. It’s easy to move around and fits seamlessly into any room setting. However, the hinged detachable dust cover could be a bit sturdier to better protect my vinyl records.
In terms of performance, this turntable performs exceptionally well, especially given its attractive price point. While it may not impress the audiophiles, it’s a perfect introductory turntable for vinyl enthusiasts or anyone looking to explore the world of vinyl.
So, if you’re in search of a reliable, easy-to-use turntable that won’t break the bank, I highly recommend the Audio Technica AT-LP60X-GM automatic turntable. You won’t be disappointed!
Victrola Retro 3-Speed Record Player
I recently got my hands on the Victrola 3-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player with Built-in Speakers, and it’s been quite a nostalgic journey for me. This record player is a perfect blend of old-school charm and modern convenience. The three-speed turntable (33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM) plays all my favorite vinyls, transporting me back to the days when music was a tangible experience.
One feature that really stands out is the ability to record your favorite music directly to a USB, no computer needed. It’s like having a personalized mixtape from the past. Plus, its Bluetooth compatibility lets me stream music wirelessly from my smart device, making it versatile for both old and new tunes.
However, there are some downsides too. The build quality feels a bit flimsy, and the tone arm can be quite slow to lower, which might annoy some users. Additionally, the sound quality isn’t top-notch compared to higher-end models, but considering the price point, it’s quite reasonable.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly record player with a touch of vintage charm, the Victrola 3-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player might be worth considering. But if you demand impeccable sound and robust build quality, you might want to explore other options.
Teeny-Tiny Turntable with 3 Mini LPS
Imagine unwinding after a long day at work, placing your favorite mini record on the cute little turntable, and hitting play. The sound of classic rock, jazz, or soul/funk fills your room as you reminisce about the good old vinyl days. The Teeny-Tiny Turntable is perfect for music lovers who want to bring a touch of nostalgia to their homes or offices.
I have been playing with this cute little thing for a while now, and it’s made me smile countless times. The miniature size is convenient — you can carry it around with ease wherever you go. It includes three different tracks with a mini record player that has a liftable lid and movable arm. Each record comes with a corresponding sleeve, so you can enjoy different genres of music.
One feature that stands out is the printable stickers that let you decorate the records and sleeves, giving your vinyl collection a personalized touch. Additionally, the 32-page miniature book adds an extra layer of charm to the overall experience.
However, there are a few minor drawbacks. Some users reported issues with the product’s performance and build quality. For example, one user mentioned that the needle isn’t real, and the record doesn’t move, making it basically a music box that looks like a turntable. Another downside is the price — some felt it was a bit expensive for what it offers.
In conclusion, the Teeny-Tiny Turntable is perfect for those who love music and want to add a nostalgic touch to their homes. Its portability and unique design make it a standout in the world of vinyl records. While there are some minor drawbacks, overall, it’s a lovely product to own or give as a gift.
Crosley Floral Turntable with Bluetooth and Built-in Speakers
I recently got my hands on the Crosley Voyager Floral Turntable, and let me tell you, it’s a charming little device that instantly adds a touch of retro charm to any space. The build quality is impressive, with a sturdy design that can handle a fair amount of travel. One of my favorite features has to be the built-in Bluetooth receiver, which means I can stream my digital tunes wirelessly through the turntable’s stereo speakers.
The sound quality is surprisingly good for a small device, and I’ve had no issues playing 33 1/3, 45, or 78 RPM records. The only downside would be the lack of power in the built-in speakers, but that’s easily remedied by connecting it to my existing sound system via the RCA outputs.
As for portability, this little turntable definitely delivers. Its lightweight design and compact size make it easy to take anywhere, whether that’s a picnic in the park or a cozy evening at home. And when it comes to ease of use, the adjustable pitch control knob and simple setup make it a breeze for even the most inexperienced vinyl enthusiasts.
However, one potential drawback is the size of the device, which may be too small for some people’s taste. Additionally, the on-off button being located at the back can be a little inconvenient, especially if you’re trying to switch it on and off frequently.
Overall, the Crosley Voyager Floral Turntable is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to bring a touch of vintage charm to their music setup. It’s easy to use, looks great, and offers good sound quality for its size. While it may not be perfect for everyone, it’s definitely worth considering if you’re in the market for a stylish and functional turntable.
Buyer’s Guide
Important Features
When considering purchasing a small record player, there are several features to keep in mind:
- High-quality stylus and cartridge for optimal audio performance
- Adjustable tracking force and anti-skating control for preventing record damage
- Belt-drive or direct-drive mechanisms for smooth and consistent playback
- Compatibility with various vinyl sizes (7", 10", and 12")
Considerations
Before making your final decision, take note of the following:
- Available space in your home
- Portability if you plan to use the record player at different locations
- Aesthetics and design preferences
- Price range that suits your budget
General Advice
To ensure you get the most from your small record player, consider these tips:
- Properly clean your vinyl records before playing them to maintain their longevity and prevent skipping or distortion
- Store your records vertically in album covers to prevent warping
- Regularly inspect and maintain the stylus, platter, and other components for optimal performance
- Be mindful of volume levels to prevent excessive wear on your records
FAQ
What is a small record player?
A small record player is a compact, portable device designed to play vinyl records. These players typically have a built-in speaker and can be powered by an internal battery or external power source. They are popular for their vintage look and the unique sound experience they provide when playing vinyl records.
How do small record players work?
Small record players use a stylus (needle) to read the grooves on a vinyl record. The stylus vibrates in response to these grooves, converting them into an electric signal. The electrical signal is then amplified and converted back into sound waves by the internal speaker or connected external speakers.
Are small record players good for beginners?
Yes, small record players are great for beginners who want to explore vinyl record collecting and enjoy the unique sound experience. Their compact size and easy-to-use features make them an ideal starting point for individuals new to the world of vinyl.
What factors should I consider when choosing a small record player?
Some key factors to consider when choosing a small record player include the following: * Size and portability
- Sound quality
- Connectivity options (e. g. , Bluetooth, USB, auxiliary input)
- Durability and build quality
- Price range
How can I maintain and take care of my small record player?
To keep your small record player in optimal condition, follow these maintenance tips: * Store your vinyl records properly to prevent damage.
- Regularly clean the stylus with a stylus cleaning brush.
- Keep the record player’s exterior clean and free of dust.
- Ensure that the tonearm is properly aligned to prevent premature stylus wear.
- Store the record player in a safe place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
Can I connect my small record player to external speakers?
Yes, many small record players come with an auxiliary output or RCA connectors that allow you to connect the device to external speakers for improved sound quality. Consult your record player’s user manual for specific connection instructions and compatibility.
Do small record players require a specific type of vinyl record?
Most small record players are designed to play standard 12-inch vinyl records (33 RPM), 7-inch vinyl records (45 RPM), and sometimes even 10-inch vinyl records (78 RPM). Always check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure compatibility with your preferred vinyl record format.
