What are the alternative to Crosley?
Quick Answer
For most people seeking a Crosley alternative, the Sony PSLX310BT (£277.51) is the best choice because it offers proper belt-drive mechanics, adjustable tracking force, and wireless connectivity without the build quality compromises that plague Crosley players.
Why Look Beyond Crosley?
Let's be honest about Crosley: they're cheap, colourful, and everywhere. But there's a reason vinyl enthusiasts wince when they see one. The tracking force is often too heavy, the tonearm lacks adjustability, and the build quality can damage your records over time. If you're serious about vinyl - or even casually interested in better sound - there are alternatives that won't break the bank but will treat your records properly.
The good news? You don't need to spend a fortune to get something significantly better. Our collection of premium record players includes several options that offer genuine improvements over Crosley's offerings without requiring a second mortgage.
The Best Alternatives
Sony PSLX310BT – £277.51
Best for: Anyone wanting proper turntable engineering with modern convenience
This is what a turntable should be: belt-driven for reduced vibration, adjustable tracking force to protect your records, and built-in phono preamp so you can connect to any speaker system. The Bluetooth functionality actually works well here because Sony designed it properly, unlike the afterthought implementations in cheaper players.
The honest take: Yes, it costs more than a Crosley, but this is proper Hi-Fi equipment from a company that knows audio. The build quality is leagues ahead, and your records will thank you for the upgrade.
Pairs well with: Hama Record Cleaning Kit for maintaining your collection properly
View Product →Teac 280BT – £300.46
Best for: Those who want premium build quality with wireless convenience
Teac brings decades of audio engineering to this model. The anti-skate adjustment, quality cartridge, and solid plinth construction put it in a different league from budget players. The Bluetooth implementation is clean and doesn't interfere with the analogue signal path.
The honest take: This is where you start getting into "proper" turntable territory. The extra £23 over the Sony gets you noticeably better build quality and more precise adjustments.
Pairs well with: Social Hike Turntable Stand for proper isolation and storage
View Product →Budget-Friendly Options
If the Sony and Teac are still too pricey, there are affordable record players that at least won't destroy your vinyl collection. These aren't audiophile equipment, but they're honest budget options that do the basics right.
Trevi TT 1022 BT – £79.07
Best for: Casual listeners who want Bluetooth connectivity without Crosley's reputation
This includes built-in speakers (which you'll want to bypass for better sound), USB digitization, and Bluetooth. The tracking force isn't adjustable, but it's set more reasonably than most Crosley models. The built-in speakers are predictably mediocre, but the line outputs let you connect proper speakers.
The honest take: It's still a budget player with budget limitations, but Trevi has been making audio equipment longer than Crosley has existed. The build feels more solid, and it's less likely to damage your records.
Pairs well with: Hama Record Cleaning Kit to keep your records in good condition
View Product →Essential Accessories
Whatever turntable you choose, proper care is essential. Unlike Crosley's "set it and forget it" approach, better turntables benefit from regular maintenance. Check out our comprehensive record cleaning guide for detailed maintenance tips.
Hama Record Cleaning Kit – £20.20
Best for: Anyone serious about maintaining their vinyl collection
A proper cleaning kit becomes essential once you move beyond disposable turntables. The antistatic brush removes dust and debris that can cause tracking issues, while the cleaning solution handles deeper cleaning when needed.
The honest take: This is basic maintenance gear, not audiophile snake oil. Every vinyl collection needs regular cleaning, and this kit does the job without breaking the bank.
Pairs well with: Sony PSLX310BT for a complete upgrade from Crosley
View Product →The reality is that moving beyond Crosley doesn't require a massive budget increase - just a commitment to treating vinyl properly. Whether you choose our Bluetooth-enabled turntables for convenience or focus purely on sound quality, your records and your ears will appreciate the upgrade.