Which is better new or used turntables?
Quick Answer
For most people, buying a new turntable like the Sony PSLX310BT (£277.51) is the better choice. You get a warranty, known condition, and modern features without the gamble of used gear condition or hidden problems.
Why This Decision Matters
Choosing between a new or used turntable isn't just about price – it's about avoiding months of frustration. Used turntables can hide expensive problems like worn belt drives, damaged cartridges, or motor issues that won't show up until you're deep into your vinyl journey.
The truth most dealers won't tell you: turntables are mechanical devices with many moving parts. Unlike solid-state electronics, they wear out in ways that aren't always obvious. A used deck might play records, but play them poorly enough to damage your collection over time.
If you're just starting out, our budget-friendly record players offer better value than gambling on used gear from unknown sources.
The Case for New
Warranty protection is the biggest advantage. When your £200 used turntable develops motor problems six months in, you're looking at repair costs that often exceed the deck's value. New turntables come with manufacturer support and parts availability.
Known condition eliminates guesswork. You know the stylus is fresh, the belt isn't stretched, and the cartridge alignment is factory-correct. With used decks, these are expensive question marks.
Modern features like Bluetooth connectivity and USB conversion have improved dramatically. Today's Bluetooth turntables offer convenience that vintage decks can't match without expensive modifications.
Setup simplicity matters more than enthusiasts admit. New turntables come pre-calibrated and ready to play. Used vintage decks often need cartridge alignment, anti-skate adjustment, and VTA tweaking – tasks that require experience and tools most beginners don't have.
When Used Makes Sense
Used turntables make sense in specific situations, but they're not the bargain they appear to be. High-end vintage decks from the 1970s-80s can offer superior build quality, but only if you know what to look for and have a budget for restoration.
The problem: most used turntables for sale aren't high-end vintage gems – they're consumer-grade decks from the CD era that were mediocre when new and are worse now. You'll often find better performance and reliability from a new entry-level deck than a used mid-range one from 20 years ago.
If you do go used, budget 30-50% of the purchase price for immediate maintenance: new belt, cartridge service, cleaning, and calibration. This quickly erodes the cost advantage.
Our Recommended New Options
Sony PSLX310BT – £277.51
Best for: First-time buyers who want reliability and modern features
Sony's reputation for build quality shines here. This fully automatic turntable handles the fiddly bits for you – it lowers the needle, plays the record, and returns the arm when finished. The Bluetooth connectivity works well for casual listening, though serious listeners should stick to the wired outputs.
The honest take: It's not going to win audiophile awards, but it'll play your records correctly for years without drama. The auto-return feature prevents stylus damage from forgotten records – something that saves money long-term.
Pairs well with: Hama Vinyl Record Cleaning Kit to keep your records and stylus in good condition
View Product →Teac 280 Bluetooth – £300.46
Best for: Buyers who want better build quality and plan to upgrade components later
Teac brings decades of audio experience to this deck. The heavier plinth reduces vibration better than cheaper alternatives, and the tonearm geometry is properly executed. It strikes a good balance between user-friendliness and audiophile potential.
The honest take: The extra £23 over the Sony gets you noticeably better build quality and room to grow. If you think you might catch the vinyl bug seriously, this is worth the stretch.
Pairs well with: Social Hike Turntable Stand for proper isolation and record storage
View Product →Denver Electronics VPL 120 – £50.96
Best for: Tight budgets where anything is better than nothing
This is entry-level gear, plain and simple. The USB conversion feature works for digitizing old records, but don't expect audiophile performance. It's functional rather than excellent – think of it as training wheels for vinyl.
The honest take: At this price, you're getting what you pay for. It'll play records without destroying them, which puts it ahead of many vintage portable decks, but the sound quality reflects the budget construction.
Pairs well with: Hama Record Cleaning Kit because proper record care matters more with budget players
View Product →The bottom line: unless you're an experienced buyer with knowledge of specific models and restoration costs, new turntables offer better value and peace of mind. The small premium over used gear buys you warranty protection, known condition, and the confidence that your setup will work properly from day one.
Looking at our selection of best record players, you'll find options that deliver better performance and reliability than most used decks at similar prices, without the gamble.