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  4. 10 Best Turntables in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Sound Engineer
  • 10 Best Turntables in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Sound Engineer 1
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10 Best Turntables in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Sound Engineer

If you want to enjoy classic tunes or high-quality audio, then you need a turntable or a record player. Audio-Technica, LoopTone, and Rega are just some of the manufacturers you’ll find in the market that produces quality turntables. Nowadays, some turntables can be connected to your PC or smartphone via USB or Bluetooth to record and edit music.

For the uninitiated, you can use this article as a guide where we will be explaining how you can choose the best turntables to buy in the Philippines—reviewed by sound engineer Jojo Ariola. We will also provide you with a ranked list of quality turntables, so be sure to check that out as well.
Last updated 07/14/2023
Jojo Ariola
Expert
Sound Engineer
Jojo Ariola

Jojo Ariola has been working as a front-of-house live sound engineer for almost 20 years. He also has trained several students regarding the field. He has worked with famous local bands, and he has also worked as a DJ in bars and clubs around the metro. He is the audio engineer for music videos of artists like Miguel Escueta and Leanne & Naara. Lastly, he is also a vendor of sound and lights system rentals.

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Editorial Team
Guide
mybest
Editorial Team

Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.

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The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.

Table of Contents

How to Choose a Turntable - Buying Guide

Here are some key points to consider:


  1. Consider the rotation method for smooth and stable operation.
  2. Inspect the cartridge, needle, and tonearm for ease of use.
  3. Check out your preferred equalizer and amplifier.
  4. Get a turntable with a USB port for recording audio output and a size perfect for your space.

For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.

1

Consider the Rotation Method for Smooth and Stable Operation

There are two main types of belt rotation methods for turntables. Let’s check out their characteristics so you can select which type is suitable for your preferences.

Belt Drives Significantly Minimize Uneven Rotations

Belt Drives Significantly Minimize Uneven Rotations
Belt drive turntables use a mechanism that transmits rotations from the motor shaft to the record-playing area through a rubber belt. This rotation method grants stable rotation without being affected by nearby sounds or vibrations. Also, belt drive types dominate the market more than their direct drive counterparts.

Turntables that use the belt drive rotation method tend to have a cheaper price tag than direct drive types. However, the rubber belt deteriorates over time, even when it’s not in use. As such, owners of this type of turntable need to replace the belt after some time to continue enjoying their favorite tracks.

Direct Drives Provide Smoother Rotations and Stops

Direct Drives Provide Smoother Rotations and Stops

Direct drive models have their turntables directly connected to the motor. This design makes smoother starts, stops, and rotations. Furthermore, it removes the hassle of replacing an old rubber belt. One disadvantage of using direct-drive turntables is the possibility of choking called cogging, especially when playing records at low speed.

Some high-end models have already minimized the cogging problem with better mechanisms, but the issue may be more apparent to cheaper units. If you choose a low-priced model, always check for consumer reviews for the frequency of cogging to avoid regrets after the purchase.

2

Inspect the Cartridge and Tonearm for Ease of Use

Turntables need a cartridge, record needle, tonearm, and, of course, a record to play music. There are some models that don’t have record needles included in their packaging, so make sure to check before you buy.

Get the Cartridge Type That's Convenient for You

Get the Cartridge Type That's Convenient for You
There are two types of cartridges for turntables found on the market, which as follows: Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC). Generally speaking, MC types tend to be more delicate and can play higher-quality sound than MM cartridges.

MM allows manual replacement of needles, and beginners will benefit from using these cartridges, as their prices tend to be cheap. On the other hand, MC types don’t allow manual needle replacements because owners need to send the broken part back to the manufacturer. Also, MC cartridges have higher price tags, so they are for advanced users who are already accustomed to turntables.

Determine Which Tonearm Works for You

Determine Which Tonearm Works for You
A tonearm supports the cartridge and the record needle. It’s the element meant for keeping the balance so the cartridge can accurately trace sound grooves on the record, thereby applying constant needle pressure to the record needle. Like cartridges, there are two classifications of tonearms -- the integrated and the universal type.

Integrated tonearms have both the cartridge and the arm connected in one piece, whereas universal models allow for the removal of both elements. If you make sure that you can freely change cartridges, then choose a universal tonearm. Take note that sound quality will change depending on the quality of the cartridge.


However, if you need some elaborate fine-tuning like changing the needle pressure, expect to shell out some cash for an expensive tonearm. If you don’t have any plans for customizing your unit, then an integrated tonearm would suffice to maintain within your budget.
3

Check Out Your Preferred Equalizer and Amplifier

Audio signals traced by the needle from the sound grooves of the record will come out as original and “unflavored” sounds. The phono equalizer is responsible for this role. It also has two types: built-in and non-built-in types. Let’s check out the differences between these two types to help you choose the right amplifier for your turntable.

Choose the Type of Phono Equalizer Depending on Your Budget

Choose the Type of Phono Equalizer Depending on Your Budget
Built-in phono equalizers are already installed inside the body of the turntable. As such, users are no longer required to treat this element as a separate entity. Built-in types are a great choice for beginners as it keeps the price of the entire equipment reasonable.

On the other hand, non-built-in phono equalizers are considered an investment because they are to be bought separately. Nevertheless, these phono equalizers are ideal for advanced users looking to fine-tune the turntable to their desired audio performance instead of buying a brand new device.

Consider Using an Amplifier for High Quality Sound

Consider Using an Amplifier for High Quality Sound
Another indispensable part of enjoying high-fidelity sound with a turntable is the amplifier. Even though it is an essential piece, this is not always a necessity for everyone. You can start by consulting your current audio equipment if you do need an amplifier.

 

Keep in mind that if you have a component or a sound system with a terminal connection like an auxiliary-in slot, then you can easily connect an amplifier to your turntable with the phono equalizer. Take note that not all amplifiers have a phono terminal.

If you don’t have an amplifier, a non-built-in, or a built-in phono equalizer, then you may want to purchase either of these devices to enhance your overall listening experience.

4

Get a Turntable With a USB Port for Recording Audio Output and a Size Perfect for Your Space

Get a Turntable With a USB Port for Recording Audio Output and a Size Perfect for Your Space

A USB port on a turntable is an excellent feature, where it allows you to record the audio output from the turntable into a PC or a smartphone. All you need is an excellent USB cable to make a seamless connection. In doing so, you can take advantage of recording the best audio quality from your turntable to be shared with your friends or for your own listening pleasure on the go.


You should also consider the available space or area in your house to ensure that the turntable will fit. They're not just an investment in terms of money, but they also take up a bit of room on your shelf or desktop.

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10 Best Turntables to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

LoopTone

Classic Belt-Driven TurntableLT-LPA007

LoopTone Classic Belt-Driven Turntable 1

₱3,355.58

Low Mid

A Budget-Friendly Record Player for Beginners

2

Rega

Planar 3

Rega Planar 3 1

₱59,500

High

An Award-Winning Player With Superior Sound Quality

3

Audio-Technica

Fully Automatic TurntableAT-LP60X-USB

Audio-Technica Fully Automatic Turntable 1

₱12,999

Mid

Keep Your Records Damage-Free With This Turntable

4

Rega

Planar 1 Turntable

Rega Planar 1 Turntable 1

₱19,800

Mid

A Solid Record Player From an Industry Leader

5

LoopTone

3-Speed Vinyl Record Player

LoopTone  3-Speed Vinyl Record Player 1

₱8,999

Low Mid

A Versatile and Multi-Purpose Record Player

6

Marantz

Turntable with Built-in Phono PreampTT5005

Marantz Turntable with Built-in Phono Preamp 1

₱15,990

Mid

An Easy-To-Setup Beginner-Level Record Player

7

Victrola

50's Retro Record Player & Multimedia Center

Victrola 50's Retro Record Player & Multimedia Center 1

₱14,739

Mid

More Than Just a Record Player

8

Audio-Technica

Fully Manual Belt-Driven TurntableAT-LPW40WN

Audio-Technica Fully Manual Belt-Driven Turntable 1

₱24,999

High Mid

A Low-Key Turntable With an Excellent Sound Quality

9

Pioneer

DJ TurntablePLX-500

Pioneer DJ Turntable 1

₱23,990

High Mid

An Affordable Turntable for Aspiring DJs

10

GSE

Vintage Suitcase Portable Turntable

GSE Vintage Suitcase Portable Turntable 1

₱2,560

Low

A Vintage-Looking Turntable With Bluetooth Capability

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

LoopToneClassic Belt-Driven TurntableLT-LPA007

Classic Belt-Driven Turntable 1
Source:lazada.com.ph
Reference price
₱3,355.58
Low Mid
Reference price
₱3,355.58
Low Mid

A Budget-Friendly Record Player for Beginners

Looptone's Classic Belt-driven turntable is a treat for budget consumers. It features a 3-speed function selection at 33, 45, and 78 rotations-per-minute speeds. It has a simple and straightforward design and is made out of wood and PVC materials with a durable plastic dust cover. It also automatically pauses whenever a record has reached its end.


This turntable has built-in 3-watt speakers, but you can choose to connect it to an external amplifier via an RCA line-out jack and enjoy it on your surround sound system. The turntable doesn't have a USB port, which may deter some users, but if you aren't too particular, you will definitely enjoy this piece of equipment—nothing fancy here, just straight record-playing stuff.

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No.2

RegaPlanar 3

Planar 3 1
Source:rega.co.uk
Reference price
₱59,500
High
Reference price
₱59,500
High

An Award-Winning Player With Superior Sound Quality

The Rega Planar 3 has been a consistent crowd favorite throughout the years of its existence. It has been upgraded several times, and each upgrade is a definite improvement, earning multiple awards in the industry. 


The new Planar 3 performs just as well as the old versions, delivering superior and clean sound and impeccable resolution of details, even at the lowest levels of sound. The design is simple, and the laminated plinth build is fortified with double bracing technology to keep it stable and capable of delivering undistorted sound. 


In addition to that, the tonearm is designed with the most recent 3D CAD and CAM technology, making for an absolutely smooth movement. If you're looking for superior performance and luxurious sound, you can't go wrong with this one.      

No.3

Audio-TechnicaFully Automatic TurntableAT-LP60X-USB

Fully Automatic Turntable 1
Source:shopee.ph
Fully Automatic Turntable 2
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱12,999
Mid

Keep Your Records Damage-Free With This Turntable

This turntable from Audio-Technica is an upgrade of the old LP-60 turntable. It's a great entry-level choice because it offers a lot of excellent features and reliable performance without breaking the bank. One of its biggest advantages, especially for newbies to the turntable scene, is its automatic operation—all you need to do is push a button, and the tonearm slides into place.


Just like the LP-60, this one plays 33 and 45 RPM records and comes with a built-in equalizer. But the most noticeable upgrade is the redesigned tonearm, which has a counterbalancing feature that prevents too much downforce that might damage your records. 


To top it off, it also has a much sleeker look than the old model, and the body is made of high-quality plastic and aluminum. These materials are both quite low-resonance and thus able to prevent unwanted vibrations from distorting the sound quality. This product is definitely a steal for its quality at an affordable price!

No.4

RegaPlanar 1 Turntable

Reference price
₱19,800
Mid
Reference price
₱19,800
Mid

A Solid Record Player From an Industry Leader

Since 1973, the British company Rega has been manufacturing various hi-fi products such as amplifiers, phono stages, cartridges, and other sound system accessories. Their multi-awarded Planar 1 is a plug-and-play turntable that delivers incredible performance at a premium price. It is easy to set up, taking only about 30 seconds out of the box.


It features a brand new hand-assembled RB110 tonearm with a MM cartridge. The belt drive uses the EBLT belt for greater accuracy and better speed performance, which runs in a 24V low-noise synchronous motor. Although this product was launched five years ago, many audiophiles still favor the Rega Planar 1 for its smooth and solid analog sound.

No.5

LoopTone 3-Speed Vinyl Record Player

 3-Speed Vinyl Record Player 1
Source:lazada.com.ph
Reference price
₱8,999
Low Mid
Reference price
₱8,999
Low Mid

A Versatile and Multi-Purpose Record Player

Get the turntable that has it all for you. Looptone's Multifunctional Record Player will take on any of your audio formats and play it for you. It has various functions such as a record player, cassette player, CD player, USB slot, SD card reader, and FM/AM radio. This awesome device is belt-driven and can support three RPM speeds for record playing. 


You can also connect your iPod, MP3 player, or other digital audio players through the Auxillary In slot. There are also two 3-watt stereo speakers on both sides, so there's no need to connect it to an external amplifier, although you still have the option to do so via the RCA line out. 


Using advanced Bluetooth technology, this vintage-looking model is anything but outdated. You can connect it with your phone, tablet, or laptop instantly, so you can control it remotely. At such an affordable price, this unit will definitely give you premium value for your money!

No.6

MarantzTurntable with Built-in Phono PreampTT5005

Turntable with Built-in Phono Preamp 1
Source:marantz.com
Reference price
₱15,990
Mid
Reference price
₱15,990
Mid

An Easy-To-Setup Beginner-Level Record Player

Setting up a turntable can sometimes go on for hours, but not with the Marantz TT5005 Turntable. Out of the box, it is a high-quality brand that is compact and very easy to set up. The built-in phono preamp will work on any hi-fi system that has an RCA Auxillary input. Manually selecting the speed is done by pressing a button instead of moving the belt on its pulley.


In terms of sound quality, the belt drive system produces a well-damped sound with low distortion. The platter is made out of aluminum to prevent mechanical interference, thus improving the sound and rotation. If you want to reminisce and bring your old records back to life, the Marantz TT5005 is a wise choice.

No.7

Victrola50's Retro Record Player & Multimedia Center

50's Retro Record Player & Multimedia Center 1
Source:victrola.com
Reference price
₱14,739
Mid
Reference price
₱14,739
Mid

More Than Just a Record Player

As one of the pioneers in the industry, Victrola introduced the American public to modern music listening with their innovative turntable. With a blast-from-the-past concept, today's Victrola 50's Retro Record Player may have a vintage look, but it can absolutely do so much more. 


Design-wise, it has the basic turntable design with a 3-speed setting, but it goes the extra mile in terms of versatility. You can easily connect your modern home equipment to the record player with an auxiliary cable, USB cable, or Bluetooth. It also plays your CD music and lets you listen to the AM/FM radio if you prefer that.


Aside from that, you can also convert your old vinyl into a digital format via a computer app. Streaming your digital music wirelessly up to 33 feet away is also possible, thanks to its Bluetooth capability. And with its easy setup, you can get it going within minutes, even without a separate sound system

No.8

Audio-TechnicaFully Manual Belt-Driven TurntableAT-LPW40WN

Reference price
₱24,999
High Mid
Reference price
₱24,999
High Mid

A Low-Key Turntable With an Excellent Sound Quality

If you're looking for a fully manual turntable and that nostalgic feeling of lowering down the tonearm, the Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN can give you that. This player has two-speed settings and features a speed sensor to maintain accurate speed rotation. 


With this device, you can choose however you want to hear the sound with the selector for the built-in phono preamp or an RCA output for amplifiers. The turntable rests on an anti-resonance plinth with simulated walnut wood veneer to limit low-frequency acoustic feedback. 


For a manual-setting turntable, this might be a pricier option, but you'll be paying for the best quality of material and sound output that you can get. Audio-Technica has been one of the leading designers for phono cartridges over the last 50 years, so you can be assured that you'll be getting the best in the market.

No.9

PioneerDJ TurntablePLX-500

DJ Turntable 1
Source:shopee.ph
DJ Turntable 2
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱23,990
High Mid
Reference price
₱23,990
High Mid

An Affordable Turntable for Aspiring DJs

When Pioneer came out with the PLX-1000 turntable a few years ago, it quickly became a cult favorite. However, the price was too steep for beginners and hobbyists, so they came up with the PLX-500, the little brother who performs nicely enough at a more budget-friendly price. This made it one of the best choices in the market for new DJs. 


Performance-wise, this model is reliable and can withstand the intense maneuvers involved in DJ-ing. But it's not just for that, though. It appeals to any music lover, too, who would appreciate its other useful features, one of them being the S-shaped tonearm with a built-in anti-skating system, a feature you won't find in many turntables.


While the sound quality might not be as impressive as that of high-end units, it does stand on its own well enough even against mid-range turntables because of its great rhythmic ability. This product is a great choice for vinyl enthusiasts who also want to explore DJ-ing.

No.10

GSEVintage Suitcase Portable Turntable

Vintage Suitcase Portable Turntable 1
Source:lazada.com.ph
Vintage Suitcase Portable Turntable 2
Source:lazada.com.ph
Vintage Suitcase Portable Turntable 3
Source:lazada.com.ph
Vintage Suitcase Portable Turntable 4
Source:lazada.com.ph
Vintage Suitcase Portable Turntable 5
Source:lazada.com.ph
Reference price
₱2,560
Low
Reference price
₱2,560
Low

A Vintage-Looking Turntable With Bluetooth Capability

If you're looking for a decent turntable with more features apart from the basics, you will enjoy the GSE Vintage portable turntable. When we say portable, it means that the item is enclosed in a hard retro-style  briefcase that you can carry anywhere. The turntable uses wood and plastic material where it is bound in fine leatherette material.


You will have two built-in speakers, so you don't need an external sound system, but the device can be plugged into an amplifier if you're up to bigger sounds. It also has a 3-speed rotation function and can accommodate various vinyl sizes. Best of all, you can connect your Bluetooth device to this turntable and play your favorite tunes via a wireless speaker.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.

Can You Use CDs on a Turntable?

Unless your player is a hybrid CD/record player, you can't use CDs on a turntable. A record player needs analogously stored audio in vinyl for the stylus to be able to track it. On the other hand, CDs store data in pits and lands on the surface.

Do You Have to Buy Speakers for a Turntable?

Some records come with built-in speakers, but others don't and would need a separate purchase. While this might seem more costly, it is more beneficial because there would be less vibrations to affect the needle of the record player. The result would be a more precise reading of the record and better sound quality

More Products for Audiophiles

Fully immerse yourself in high-fidelity audio with some of the best listening gadgets in the market today. Check out the links below to know more about the latest earphone trends and see our recommended list for your listening pleasure.

Re-editor: R. Umlas

How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations

Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.

Top 5 Turntables

No. 1: LoopToneClassic Belt-Driven TurntableLT-LPA007

No. 2: RegaPlanar 3

No. 3: Audio-TechnicaFully Automatic TurntableAT-LP60X-USB

No. 4: RegaPlanar 1 Turntable

No. 5: LoopTone 3-Speed Vinyl Record Player

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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