Vinyl records have been making a comeback in recent years, and for many people, nothing beats the warmth and richness of the sound they produce. If you’re looking to start or add to your record collection, you’ll need a good record player. While there are many options out there, one of the key features to look for is a built-in pre-amp. In this article, we’ll explore the best record players with built-in pre-amps that you can buy in 2023.
What is a pre-amp?
Before we dive into our recommendations, it’s important to understand what a pre-amp is and why it’s important. A pre-amp, short for pre-amplifier, is a device that boosts the signal from a turntable so that it’s strong enough to be processed by an amplifier or receiver. Some turntables have a built-in pre-amp, while others require an external one to be connected.
Benefits of a built-in pre-amp
Having a record player with a built-in pre-amp can make setup and use much easier. You won’t need to worry about buying and connecting an external pre-amp, which can save you time and money. Additionally, built-in pre-amps often have adjustable settings, which can allow you to customize the sound to your liking.
Our top turntables with pre-amp picks
Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK is a high-quality turntable with a built-in pre-amp. It has a sleek black design and features a direct-drive motor, which provides consistent and reliable playback. The pre-amp can be switched on or off, and there are multiple speed settings for 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM records. The turntable also comes with a USB output for digitizing your records.
Fluance RT81 Elite High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable
The Fluance RT81 Elite is a beautiful and well-built turntable that also includes a built-in pre-amp. It features a solid wood plinth, a high-torque motor, and a diamond elliptical stylus for excellent sound quality. The pre-amp can be bypassed if you prefer to use an external one, and there are adjustable anti-skate and counterweight settings to help you fine-tune your setup.
Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC Turntable
The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC is a highly-regarded turntable that comes with a built-in pre-amp. It has a sleek and minimalist design, with a carbon-fiber tonearm and Ortofon 2M Red cartridge for excellent sound quality. The pre-amp can be bypassed if you prefer to use an external one, and there are adjustable speed and anti-skate settings to help you get the perfect sound.
Denon DP-300F Fully Automatic Analog Turntable
The Denon DP-300F is a fully automatic turntable that comes with a built-in pre-amp. It has a sleek and modern design, with a weighted tonearm and an automatic start/stop feature. The pre-amp can be switched on or off, and there are adjustable speed and anti-skate settings. The turntable also includes a built-in phono equalizer, which can help improve the sound quality of older records.
Sony PS-LX310BT Belt Drive Turntable
The Sony PS-LX310BT is a modern and versatile turntable that includes a built-in pre-amp. It has a belt-drive motor and can connect to Bluetooth-enabled speakers, allowing for easy wireless playback. The pre-amp can be switched on or off, and there are adjustable speed settings for 33-1/3 and 45 RPM records.
Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK Fully Automatic Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable
The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK is a reliable and affordable turntable that comes with a built-in pre-amp. It has a fully automatic operation and a belt-drive motor for smooth and consistent playback. The pre-amp can be switched on or off, and there are adjustable speed settings for 33-1/3 and 45 RPM records.
Pioneer PL-30-K Audiophile Stereo Turntable
The Pioneer PL-30-K is a high-end turntable that includes a built-in pre-amp. It has a sleek black design and features a direct-drive motor for accurate and precise playback. The pre-amp can be bypassed if you prefer to use an external one, and there are adjustable speed and anti-skate settings to help you fine-tune your setup.
Rega Planar 1 Plus Turntable
The Rega Planar 1 Plus is a premium turntable that includes a built-in pre-amp. It has a minimalist design, with a lightweight tonearm and an RB110 cartridge for exceptional sound quality. The pre-amp can be bypassed if you prefer to use an external one, and there are adjustable speed and anti-skate settings to help you achieve the perfect sound.
Read our review of the Rega Planar 3 turntable
Audio-Technica AT-LP5x Fully Manual Direct-Drive Turntable
The Audio-Technica AT-LP5x is a high-quality turntable that includes a built-in pre-amp. It has a fully manual operation and a direct-drive motor for smooth and accurate playback. The pre-amp can be switched on or off, and there are adjustable speed and anti-skate settings to help you fine-tune your setup.
Conclusion
Investing in a record player with a built-in pre-amp can save you time and money, and it can also help you achieve a customized and high-quality sound. Our top picks for the best record players with built-in pre-amps in 2023 include the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK, Fluance RT81 Elite, Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC, Denon DP-300F, U-Turn Audio Orbit Plus, Sony PS-LX310BT, Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK, Pioneer PL-30-K, Rega Planar 1 Plus, and Audio-Technica AT-LP5x.
FAQs
What is the difference between a built-in pre-amp and an external pre-amp? A built-in pre-amp is integrated into the turntable, while an external pre-amp is a separate device that needs to be connected. Built-in pre-amps can save you time and money, while external pre-amps can provide more flexibility and customization options.
Do I need a pre-amp for my record player?
It depends on your setup. Some amplifiers and receivers have a built-in phono stage, which means you may not need a separate pre-amp. However, if your amplifier or receiver doesn’t have a phono stage, you’ll likely need a pre-amp to boost the signal from your turntable.
Can I bypass the built-in pre-amp on my turntable?
Many turntables with built-in pre-amps allow you to bypass them and use an external pre-amp instead. This can be useful if you want more control over your sound, or if you have a particularly high-end pre-amp that you want to use
Can I connect a turntable with a built-in pre-amp to Bluetooth speakers?
Yes, many turntables with built-in pre-amps have Bluetooth connectivity options, allowing you to easily connect to Bluetooth speakers or other devices.
What should I look for when choosing a record player with a built-in pre-amp?
Some factors to consider include the quality of the pre-amp, the type of motor (direct-drive or belt-drive), the tonearm and cartridge, and any additional features or connectivity options.
A record player with a built-in pre-amp can be a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy high-quality vinyl playback. Our list of the best record players with built-in pre-amps for 2023 includes a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences, from the affordable and reliable Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK to the premium and customizable Rega Planar 1 Plus. With the right record player and pre-amp combination, you can enjoy your favorite records in all their warm and vibrant glory.
