What are the alternatives to suitcase turntables?
Quick Answer
For most people looking to upgrade from a suitcase turntable, the Teac 180 Bluetooth (£181.01) offers proper turntable design with modern convenience, while the Denver Electronics VPL-120 (£50.94) provides basic functionality at a budget price.
Why Upgrade From a Suitcase Turntable?
Suitcase turntables seem convenient, but they're actually vinyl record destroyers in disguise. The cheap ceramic cartridges track too heavily, wearing grooves faster than they should. The built-in speakers create vibration that feeds back into the stylus, causing skips and muddy sound.
A proper alternative to a suitcase turntable needs three things: lighter tracking force (under 3 grams), isolated motor and platter, and separate speakers. You don't need to spend hundreds – even budget turntables under £100 can protect your records better than any suitcase player.
The jump in sound quality is immediate. Your records will sound clearer, bassier, and more detailed. More importantly, they'll last decades longer when played on a proper turntable.
Best Alternatives
Record Player Teac 180 Bluetooth - Black Turntable – £181.01
Best for: Those wanting proper turntable performance with wireless convenience
This Teac hits the sweet spot for suitcase upgraders. It's a real turntable with proper isolation and a magnetic cartridge, but includes Bluetooth for streaming to wireless speakers. The build quality is solid – this isn't some plastic toy disguised as hi-fi equipment.
The honest take: At £181, it's not cheap, but it's proper kit. The Bluetooth works well without compromising the wired output. Only downside is you'll need separate speakers, but that's actually a good thing.
Pairs well with: Hama Vinyl Record Cleaning Kit to keep your records pristine
View Product →Record Player Sony PSLX310BT Black – £277.51
Best for: Those wanting a name brand with full automation
Sony knows turntables – they've been making them for decades. This fully automatic model means no manual cueing or lifting, perfect for those intimidated by traditional turntables. The Bluetooth capability lets you stream to modern wireless speakers without sacrificing wired output quality.
The honest take: At nearly £280, you're paying for the Sony name and convenience features. The sound quality is good but not exceptional for the price. The automation is genuinely useful for nervous beginners.
Pairs well with: Hama Vinyl Record Cleaning Kit to maintain your investment properly
View Product →Setting Up Properly
Unlike suitcase players, proper turntables need thought in placement. Put yours on a solid, level surface away from speakers. Those built-in feet aren't just for show – they isolate the turntable from vibrations that cause skipping.
You'll need an amplifier with a phono input, or a separate phono preamp. Many modern turntables include a built-in preamp (check for a phono/line switch), but dedicated units usually sound better. If you're exploring the best record players available, proper amplification is half the equation.
Balance the tonearm according to the manual. Most cartridges track between 1.5-2.5 grams – far lighter than the 5+ grams that suitcase players inflict on your records. This lighter tracking preserves your vinyl and sounds dramatically better.
Essential Accessories
Hama Vinyl Record Cleaning Kit - Professional Antistatic Brush with 100ml Cleaning Solution – £20.20
Best for: Anyone serious about protecting their vinyl investment
Once you upgrade from a suitcase player, you'll want to keep your records pristine. This Hama kit includes everything needed: antistatic brush for daily cleaning and fluid for deeper cleaning. The antistatic properties prevent dust attraction – crucial for lighter-tracking turntables.
The honest take: At £20, it's essential kit rather than optional. The brush quality is professional-grade, and the cleaning fluid actually works without damaging records. Much better than DIY solutions that can leave residue.
Pairs well with: Teac 180 Bluetooth for a complete upgrade from suitcase players
View Product →A proper stand isn't just furniture – it's isolation. Our turntable stands collection includes options that reduce vibration and provide storage for your growing record collection. Remember, once you hear the difference a proper turntable makes, you'll want more vinyl.
The jump from suitcase to proper turntable is like switching from a transistor radio to proper speakers. Your records deserve better, and your ears will thank you. Browse our full selection of vinyl cleaning kits to keep everything sounding its best.