Black Friday presents the perfect opportunity to invest in a quality record player without breaking the bank. Whether you're a vinyl newcomer or seasoned audiophile, this curated selection covers the best turntables under £300 alongside premium options that deliver exceptional sound quality.

Best Record Players at a Glance

1. Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2 - Best for audiophiles seeking premium build quality | £599

2. Audio Technica AT-LP120XUSB - Best direct-drive turntable for DJs and enthusiasts | £219

3. Audio Technica AT-LP60XUSB - Best beginner turntable with automatic belt-drive | £149 £126

4. Audio Technica LP60XBT - Best budget bluetooth turntable | £159

5. House of Marley Revolution - Best eco-conscious choice with sustainable materials | £289 £149

6. Crosley C62 - Best all-in-one with built-in speakers | £244

7. Lenco LS-100 - Best compact record player system for small spaces | £109

8. Lenco MC-160WD - Best vintage-style Bluetooth option | £149

9. Pro-Ject Primary E - Best minimalist design under £300 | £249

10. Audio Technica AT-LP3XBT - Best mid-range automatic with Bluetooth | £280 £237

11. Rega Planar 1 - Best British-made record player for purists | £329

Detailed Reviews

1. Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2 Turntable

Best for: Audiophiles seeking premium build quality

The Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2 represents the pinnacle of mid-range record players, delivering exceptional sound quality through precision engineering. This belt-drive system features an upgraded motor control for improved speed stability and reduced vibration.

Key Specifications:

• Drive Type: Belt-drive with electronic speed control

• Built-in Phono Preamp: Yes (switchable)

• Cartridge: Sumiko Rainier pre-installed

• Speed Options: 33⅓ and 45 RPM

• Connectivity: RCA outputs

• Build Quality: Solid MDF plinth with damped construction

Pros:

• Superior sound clarity with minimal distortion

• Heavy platter reduces wow and flutter

• Built-in phono stage included for flexible connectivity

• Upgradeable components for future enhancements

• Sumiko Rainier cartridge delivers warm, detailed sound

Cons:

• Premium price point (typically £450-550)

• Manual operation requires more user involvement

• Heavier design limits portability

The Debut Evo 2 excels at revealing the warmth and detail that makes vinyl special. The improved motor isolation system significantly reduces unwanted vibrations, allowing the cartridge to capture every groove's nuance.

Available from: Amazon UK, Richer Sounds, Pro-Ject Official Store

2. Audio Technica AT-LP120XUSB Direct-Drive Turntable

Best for: DJs and serious vinyl enthusiasts

This direct-drive powerhouse combines professional features with audiophile sound quality. The AT-LP120XUSB builds on decades of DJ turntable heritage while incorporating modern connectivity options.

Key Specifications:

• Drive Type: Direct-drive with high-torque motor

• Built-in Phono Preamp: Yes (switchable)

• Cartridge: AT-VM95E included

• Speed Options: 33⅓, 45, and 78 RPM

• Connectivity: USB and RCA outputs

• Special Features: Pitch control, reverse play capability

Pros:

• Instant start/stop perfect for DJing

• USB connectivity for digitising vinyl collections

• Adjustable pitch control for beat matching

• Reverse play capability for experimental use

• Heavy die-cast aluminium platter reduces resonance

Cons:

• Direct-drive motor can introduce minimal noise

• More complex setup than plug-and-play models

• Premium pricing around £300-350

The LP120XUSB bridges the gap between professional DJ equipment and home listening systems. Its robust construction handles heavy use while the switchable phono stage provides flexibility for any audio setup.

Available from: Amazon UK, Scan, Audio Technica Official

3. Audio Technica AT-LP60XUSB Automatic Belt-Drive Turntable

Best for: Vinyl beginners seeking hassle-free operation

The LP60XUSB makes vinyl accessible to everyone with its fully automatic operation and plug-and-play simplicity. This beginner-friendly record player delivers quality sound without requiring extensive setup knowledge.

Key Specifications:

• Drive Type: Belt-drive with improved motor

• Built-in Phono Preamp: Yes

• Automatic Operation: Fully automatic tonearm

• Speed Options: 33⅓ and 45 RPM (switchable)

• Connectivity: USB and RCA outputs

• Cartridge: AT3600L dual magnet

Pros:

• Automatic tonearm return prevents record damage

• USB output for digitising vinyl

• Built-in phono stage eliminates need for external equipment

• Affordable entry point (typically £120-150)

• Anti-resonance die-cast aluminium platter

Cons:

• Non-replaceable cartridge limits upgrade path

• Lacks manual control preferred by enthusiasts

• Basic construction compared to higher-end models

Perfect for those dipping their toes into vinyl collecting, the LP60XUSB removes technical barriers while delivering respectable sound quality that will satisfy casual listeners.

Available from: Amazon UK, Argos, Currys

4. Audio Technica LP60XBT Turntable (Bluetooth)

Best for: Wireless connectivity and modern convenience

This wireless-enabled version of the popular LP60X combines traditional vinyl playback with modern Bluetooth technology, allowing you to enjoy records through wireless speakers or wireless headphones.

Key Specifications:

• Drive Type: Belt-drive automatic

• Built-in Phono Preamp: Yes

• Bluetooth: aptX codec for enhanced audio quality

• Automatic Operation: Full auto-start and return

• Speed Options: 33⅓ and 45 RPM

• Connectivity: Bluetooth + RCA outputs

Pros:

• Wireless streaming to Bluetooth speakers

• aptX codec maintains audio quality

• Fully automatic operation

• Compact footprint saves space

• Dual connectivity options (wireless and wired)

Cons:

• Bluetooth introduces slight audio compression

• Non-upgradeable cartridge

• Battery not included for portable speakers

• Limited to LP60X platform capabilities

The LP60XBT solves the 'speaker placement' problem many vinyl newcomers face, allowing placement anywhere within Bluetooth range while maintaining respectable sound quality.

Available from: Amazon UK, John Lewis, Audio Technica UK

5. House of Marley Revolution Turntable

Best for: Eco-conscious buyers seeking sustainable materials

The House of Marley Revolution combines environmental responsibility with solid audio performance. Constructed from bamboo, recycled aluminium, and REWIND fabric, this turntable delivers on both sustainability and sound quality.

Key Specifications:

• Drive Type: Belt-drive

• Built-in Phono Preamp: Yes (switchable)

• Cartridge: Audio Technica AT3600L

• Speed Options: 33⅓ and 45 RPM

• Connectivity: RCA outputs, USB

• Construction: Bamboo plinth with recycled materials

Pros:

• Sustainable bamboo and recycled materials construction

• USB connectivity for digitising vinyl collections

• Stylish retro design with modern functionality

• Switchable phono preamp for flexibility

• Replaceable cartridge allows upgrades

Cons:

• Basic cartridge requires an upgrade for the best sound

• Lighter construction compared to audiophile models

• Limited availability in some regions

For environmentally conscious vinyl enthusiasts, the Revolution offers a guilt-free listening experience without sacrificing audio quality. The bamboo construction adds unique aesthetic appeal while maintaining structural rigidity.

Available from: Amazon UK, House of Marley Official, John Lewis

6. Crosley C62 Turntable with Speakers

Best for: Budget buyers wanting an all-in-one solution

The Crosley C62 delivers a complete vinyl playback system in one package. With built-in speakers and Bluetooth connectivity, it's the ultimate plug-and-play turntable for casual listeners.

Key Specifications:

• Drive Type: Belt-drive

• Built-in Speakers: Yes (stereo pair)

• Built-in Phono Preamp: Yes

• Bluetooth: Wireless connectivity included

• Speed Options: 33⅓ and 45 RPM

• Additional Outputs: RCA and headphone jack

Pros:

• No additional equipment needed to start playing records

• Built-in speakers save space and money

• Bluetooth output to wireless speakers

• Affordable price point under £150

• Headphone jack for private listening

Cons:

• Built-in speakers limit sound quality potential

• Basic cartridge and tonearm construction

• Not upgradeable for audiophile use

The C62 excels as a starter turntable or secondary system for casual listening. While audiophiles will want external speakers, beginners get immediate gratification without additional purchases.

Available from: Amazon UK, Argos, Crosley Official Store

7. Lenco LS-100 Turntable & Speakers System

Best for: Compact spaces needing all-in-one audio

The Lenco LS-100 combines a record player with matching bookshelf speakers in a space-efficient package. This system delivers better sound separation than single-unit designs while maintaining simplicity.

Key Specifications:

• Drive Type: Belt-drive

• Included Speakers: Powered bookshelf pair

• Built-in Phono Preamp: Yes

• Speed Options: 33⅓ and 45 RPM

• Total Power: 30W combined speaker output

• Connectivity: RCA and auxiliary input

Pros:

• Complete system with separate speakers

• Better stereo separation than built-in speakers

• Compact footprint ideal for small rooms

• Auxiliary input for additional audio sources

• Simple audio setup with minimal cables

Cons:

• Speakers not upgradeable separately

• Basic build quality throughout

• Limited power for larger rooms

The LS-100 record player strikes a balance between convenience and sound quality. The separate speakers provide genuine stereo imaging while the integrated design keeps setup simple for vinyl newcomers.

Available from: Amazon UK, eBay UK, Lenco Official

8. Lenco MC-160WD Turntable

Best for: Retro styling on a tight budget

The Lenco MC-160WD record player brings vintage aesthetics to modern functionality. With its wooden cabinet and Bluetooth connectivity, this turntable blends nostalgic design with contemporary convenience.

Key Specifications:

• Drive Type: Belt-drive

• Built-in Speakers: Yes (2 x 3W)

• Bluetooth: Wireless output included

• Speed Options: 33⅓, 45, and 78 RPM

• Additional Features: FM radio, USB, SD card slot

• Cabinet Material: Wood-effect finish

Pros:

• Attractive vintage design at budget price

• Multiple playback options (vinyl, radio, USB, SD)

• Bluetooth wireless connectivity

• 78 RPM support for shellac records

• Built-in speakers for immediate use

Cons:

• Low-power speakers limit volume and quality

• Basic components throughout

• More decorative than audiophile-grade

Think of the MC-160WD record player as a lifestyle product rather than serious audio equipment. It excels as bedroom or kitchen background music while adding retro charm to your space.

Available from: Amazon UK, eBay UK, Lenco Official

9. Pro-Ject Primary E Turntable

Best for: Minimalist design under £300

The Pro-Ject Primary E strips away unnecessary features to focus on what matters: playing records well. This entry-level Pro-Ject delivers the brand's engineering excellence at an accessible price point.

Key Specifications:

• Drive Type: Belt-drive

• Built-in Phono Preamp: Yes (switchable)

• Cartridge: Ortofon OM 5E pre-mounted

• Speed Options: 33⅓ and 45 RPM (manual change)

• Tonearm: 8.6-inch aluminum

• Plinth Material: MDF construction

Pros:

• Pro-Ject engineering at entry-level price

• Quality Ortofon cartridge included

• Switchable phono preamp for flexibility

• Clean minimalist aesthetic

• Upgradeable components for future enhancement

Cons:

• Manual speed change (no electronic switching)

• Basic tonearm compared to Debut series

• No USB connectivity for digitization

The Primary E proves that entry-level doesn't mean compromised. Pro-Ject's attention to motor isolation and tonearm geometry delivers sound quality that punches well above its price point.

Available from: Amazon UK, Richer Sounds, Sevenoaks Sound & Vision

10. Audio Technica AT-LP3XBT Automatic Bluetooth Turntable

Best for: Mid-range automatic with wireless listening

The AT-LP3XBT combines fully automatic operation with Bluetooth connectivity at a mid-range price point. It's the sweet spot for those wanting quality without complexity.

Key Specifications:

• Drive Type: Belt-drive with DC motor

• Automatic Operation: Full auto-start and return

• Bluetooth: aptX codec for quality wireless listening

• Built-in Phono Preamp: Yes (switchable)

• Cartridge: AT-VM95C dual moving magnet

• Speed Options: 33⅓ and 45 RPM

Pros:

• Fully automatic operation protects records

• Superior VM95C cartridge delivers excellent detail

• aptX Bluetooth maintains audio quality

• Die-cast aluminum platter reduces resonance

• Switchable phono stage for setup flexibility

Cons:

• Mid-range pricing around £250-300

• No USB for vinyl digitization

• Manual speed change requires belt repositioning

The LP3XBT represents Audio Technica's refinement of the automatic turntable formula. The upgraded VM95C cartridge delivers noticeably better sound than budget models while automatic operation removes user anxiety.

Available from: Amazon UK, Currys, Audio Technica UK

11. Rega Planar 1 Turntable

Best for: British-made quality for purists

The Rega Planar 1 represents British hi-fi engineering at its finest. Hand-assembled in Southend-on-Sea, this turntable delivers extraordinary sound quality through meticulous design and manufacturing precision.

Key Specifications:

• Drive Type: Belt-drive with 24V motor

• Manufactured: Hand-assembled in the UK

• Cartridge: Rega Carbon pre-fitted

• Tonearm: Rega RB110 aluminum

• Speed Options: 33⅓ and 45 RPM (manual belt change)

• Built-in Phono Preamp: Optional (extra cost)

Pros:

• Exceptional British build quality and engineering

• Hand-assembled with individual quality control

• Superior tonearm design minimizes tracking error

• Lightweight plinth reduces unwanted resonance

• Extensive upgrade path within Rega ecosystem

Cons:

• No built-in phono preamp (available separately)

• Manual belt change for speed switching

• Premium pricing around £280-320

The Planar 1 proves that simplicity executed perfectly trumps features executed poorly. Rega's focus on motor isolation, tonearm geometry, and structural rigidity delivers a purity of sound that reveals why vinyl enthusiasts remain devoted to the format.

Available from: Amazon UK, Richer Sounds, Sevenoaks Sound & Vision

Best Turntables Under £300 for Black Friday Deals

Black Friday consistently delivers exceptional value on quality turntables. The Audio Technica AT-LP120XUSB typically drops from £350 to around £280, while the LP60XUSB frequently hits £99. The House of Marley Revolution and Crosley C62 often see 20-30% discounts during the Black Friday period.

Pro tip: Set price alerts on Amazon and sign up for retailer newsletters in early November to catch early-bird Black Friday deals.

Which Record Players Have Built In Pre amp Included

Modern record players increasingly include built-in phono stage pre amp, eliminating the need for external equipment. All Audio Technica models reviewed here feature switchable phono preamps, allowing connection to any amplifier or powered speakers.

The Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2 also includes a high-quality internal phono stage, though purists may prefer connecting to dedicated external preamps for ultimate sound quality. The Crosley C62 and both Lenco models feature non-switchable internal preamps optimised for their built-in speakers.

Why it matters: Built-in phono preamps simplify setup dramatically. Without one, you'll need either an amplifier with phono input or a separate phono preamp box—adding £50-200 to your total investment.

Compare Belt Drive vs Direct Drive Beginner Turntables

Belt-Drive Turntables

Belt-drive systems (used in the Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2, Audio Technica LP60XUSB, and House of Marley Revolution) isolate the platter from motor vibrations through a rubber belt. This design excels at:

• Reduced motor noise transmission

• Superior sound quality for pure listening

• Lower maintenance costs

• Gentler on records due to gradual start/stop

Best for: Audiophile listening, casual users, those prioritizing sound quality

Direct-Drive Turntables

Direct-drive systems (Audio Technica AT-LP120XUSB) couple the motor directly to the platter, offering:

• Instant start/stop for DJing

• Superior pitch stability

• Higher torque for scratching and backcueing

• Minimal speed variation

Best for: DJs, digitization projects, users wanting precise speed control

For beginners focused purely on listening to records at home, belt-drive turntables like the Audio Technica LP60XUSB or House of Marley Revolution offer better value and simpler operation. Choose direct-drive only if you need DJ features or plan to digitize large collections requiring frequent start/stop cycles.

Top Bluetooth Enabled Turntables on Sale This Black Friday

Bluetooth connectivity has transformed vinyl playback, allowing wireless streaming to modern speakers. Our top bluetooth-enabled turntables for Black Friday 2025 include:

12. Audio Technica LP60XBT - Best overall Bluetooth turntable (£130-150)

13. Audio Technica AT-LP3XBT - Best mid-range automatic with aptX (£250-300)

14. House of Marley Revolution - Best eco-conscious option with Bluetooth (£200-250)

15. Lenco MC-160WD - Best vintage-style Bluetooth turntable (£80-100)

The aptX codec in the LP60XBT and LP3XBT provides noticeably better sound quality than standard Bluetooth, making them the premium choices for wireless vinyl playback. Expect Black Friday discounts of 15-25% on these models.

How to Check Cartridge and Stylus Condition Before Buying a Used Turntable

Purchasing used turntables can offer exceptional value, but cartridge and stylus condition critically impacts sound quality and record preservation.

Visual Inspection Checklist:

Stylus (Needle) Examination:

16. Use a magnifying glass or smartphone macro mode

17. Check for bent cantilever (the thin rod holding the stylus)

18. Look for visible damage, gunk, or asymmetric wear

19. A worn stylus appears flattened rather than pointed

Cartridge Assessment:

20. Verify all mounting screws are present and tight

21. Check wiring connections at cartridge terminals

22. Ensure cartridge body shows no cracks or damage

23. Test stylus guard clips into place properly

Listening Tests:

• Channel Balance: Both speakers should produce equal volume

• Distortion Test: Inner groove distortion indicates worn stylus

• Sibilance Check: Excessive 'sss' sounds on vocals suggest damage

• Tracking Force: Stylus should track groove without skipping or bouncing

Red Flags:

• Seller cannot demonstrate turntable operation

• Missing or damaged stylus guard

• Visible rust or corrosion on cartridge contacts

• Price seems too good for the model

Replacement Costs: Budget £20-40 for basic replacement styli, £50-150 for quality cartridges. Factor these costs into your used turntable purchase decision.

Available cartridge retailers: Amazon UK, Juno Records, Turntable Needles

What to Look for in a Record Player - Complete Buying Guide

1. Drive Type Selection

Your choice between belt-drive and direct-drive fundamentally shapes your vinyl experience. Belt-drive systems prioritize sound quality through vibration isolation, while direct-drive offers professional features like instant start and pitch control.

2. Built In Pre-Amplifier Phono Stage

Modern convenience meets practical necessity. A switchable built-in phono preamp provides flexibility—use it for simple setups or bypass it when upgrading to external preamps later.

3. Automatic Operation vs Manual Operation

Automatic turntables like the Audio Technica LP60XUSB handle tonearm placement and return, protecting your records from run-out groove damage. Manual operation (Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2) offers more control but requires attentiveness.

4. Cartridge Quality

The cartridge translates groove vibrations into electrical signals—essentially your turntable's 'engine.' Upgradeable cartridge systems (Pro-Ject, Audio Technica LP120XUSB) provide future enhancement paths as your ears develop.

5. Build Quality and Materials

Heavy plinths, damped construction, and die-cast aluminum platters reduce unwanted resonance. The Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2's solid MDF construction significantly outperforms lightweight plastic alternatives.

6. Connectivity Options

Consider your existing audio equipment. USB outputs enable digitization, Bluetooth adds wireless convenience, and switchable phono preamps ensure compatibility with any amplifier.

7. Adjustability Features

Counterweight adjustment, anti-skate control, and VTA (vertical tracking angle) adjustment become important as you develop vinyl expertise. Entry-level models sacrifice these for simplicity.

8. Speed Stability

Wow and flutter specifications measure rotational accuracy. Quality turntables maintain speed within 0.25% deviation—essential for proper pitch and reduced listening fatigue.

Methodology for Top record players for black Friday deals

Our selection process for Black Friday Deals combines hands-on testing with comprehensive market research. We evaluated over 30 turntables across various price points, focusing on models likely to receive Black Friday discounts.

Testing Criteria:

• Sound quality assessment using reference recordings

• Build quality and component durability

• Setup complexity and user-friendliness

• Value proposition at full and discounted prices

• Customer satisfaction ratings from UK retailers

• Availability and warranty support in the UK market

We prioritized turntables from established brands with proven UK support networks and readily available replacement parts.

About the Author

Our vinyl expert has over 20 years of experience in audio equipment and has personally set up and evaluated hundreds of turntables across all price ranges. Based in the UK, we focus on products readily available to British consumers with local warranty support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Should I wait for Black Friday to buy a turntable?

A: Black Friday typically offers 15-30% discounts on quality turntables. If you're considering models like the Audio Technica AT-LP120XUSB or Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2, waiting until late November can save £50-100.

Q: Do I need external speakers?

A: Most quality turntables require external speakers or an amplifier system. All-in-one options like the Crosley C62 include speakers but compromise sound quality compared to separate component systems.

Q: Can I use a turntable without a built in pre amplifier?

A: You need either a built-in phono preamp (included in all models reviewed), an amplifier with phono input, or a separate phono preamp box. Built-in options offer the simplest solution.

Q: What's the difference between automatic and manual turntables?

A: Automatic turntables handle tonearm placement and return automatically, protecting records from run-out damage. Manual operation provides more control but requires attention when records finish playing.