You want something fun.
You want something simple.
You want to play records—without pouring over a manual or spending a grand.
Yes?
You’re not asking for audiophile perfection. You just want to throw on a record and enjoy the moment.
Totally fair.
But here’s the problem: most record players with built-in speakers sound better in theory than in practice. Cheap parts, thin sound, and limited connections can make them more frustrating than fun. We’ve tested them—and yeah, there’s a lot that doesn’t live up to the promise.
So we did the digging. Spun some records. Ditched the worst. And landed on the few players that actually deliver. These are the best portable record players we’d recommend to any friend starting their vinyl journey—or just looking for something low-stakes and good.
Want to skip straight to our top 3 picks? Click here.
We took a bullet (and a few warped records) so you could skip to the winners.
Table of Contents
In this guide, we’ll cover the best record player with speakers on the market.
- What is an Record Player With Speakers?
- Why Record Players With Speakers are so Popular
- What to Look for in a Record Player With Built In Speakers
- Our Picks for the Best Record Player With Speakers
- Are Record Players With Built In Speakers Bad for Vinyl?
- Conclusion: Are All-in-One Record Players Worth It?
Affiliate Disclosure: We’re a small team of vinyl enthusiasts—if you get value from our insights, using our affiliate links (including Amazon Associates) helps us earn a commission and keep the lights on at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Recordbuilds.com! (but no pressure, we’re just glad you’re reading)
What Is an Record Player With Speakers
A record player with speakers is exactly what it sounds like—a turntable with built-in speakers and (often) extra features like Bluetooth, radio, or even a CD deck. It’s designed to keep things simple: plug it in, drop a record, and press play.
Think of it as the Swiss Army knife of vinyl players: one compact system that promises to handle all your audio needs. It’s not just a turntable—it’s an all-in-one entertainment hub.
That convenience is what makes them so popular. But here’s the catch: the more features you cram into one unit, the more corners tend to get cut. Many of these systems trade sound quality for simplicity—and your records might pay the price.
What Makes It Different from Traditional Turntables?
Regular turntables are built to spin records—and nothing else. You’ll need separate speakers, an amp, and maybe a preamp to complete the setup. That extra effort usually means better sound and more protection for your records.
This type of setup is modular. Every piece has its own job, and that separation helps you dial in better performance. (see diagrams below.) For anyone looking to grow into the hobby, this kind of component-based system is where the magic happens.


But not everyone wants to build a whole system from scratch.
Record players with built-in speakers are the opposite approach. They compress everything—turntable, amp, preamp, and speakers—into a single box. No messy cables. No matching components. Just one device you plug into the wall and press play.
That’s the real appeal: simplicity. These units are built for people who want to enjoy vinyl without diving into the details. But as with most things, convenience comes with trade-offs. Sound quality is usually lower, parts are harder to upgrade, and build quality varies wildly.
So while these record players with speakers make it easy to get started, they’re not all created equal. Some offer decent sound and thoughtful design. Others? They’re barely a step up from toys.
Why Record Players With Speakers are so Popular
They get a bad rap—but record players with built-in speakers are popular for a reason. For the right person, they’re kind of perfect.
1. They’re effortless
No matching components. No extra gear. No tangled cables. Just drop the needle and enjoy. These players are built for plug-and-play simplicity.
2. They’re affordable
Most models cost under $200. That makes them a solid option for anyone curious about vinyl but not ready to invest in a full setup. It’s a low-stakes way to try the hobby.
3. They look cool
Let’s be honest: part of the appeal is the aesthetic. Retro suitcase designs. Bright colors. Faux leather. These things double as decor—and they know it.
4. They do more than spin records
Many models include Bluetooth, FM radio, even CD or cassette players. They’re not just vinyl setups—they’re mini entertainment hubs.
Bottom line: These players aren’t designed for audiophile perfection—and that’s fine. They’re about convenience, flexibility, and fun. Whether you’re in a dorm, living room, or backyard, they keep vinyl simple and accessible.
What to Look for in a Record Player With Built In Speakers
Not all record players with speakers are created equal. Some sound decent. Others feel like a toy. Here’s how to spot the difference.
Build Quality: Avoid the Plastic Nightmares
If there’s one place where budget players love to cut corners, it’s build quality. And it shows. Here’s how to sidestep the plastic disasters and find a system that won’t feel like a cheap toy.
Materials:
Look for wood or MDF cabinets. They help reduce vibration and improve sound. Skip the flimsy plastic builds.
Platter:
Heavier is better. Aluminum platters spin more evenly and reduce pitch wobbles (aka wow and flutter). Lightweight plastic ones? Not so much.
Tonearm + Needle:
Cheap players use plastic tonearms and ceramic cartridges. They’ll play your records—but they won’t sound great or protect your vinyl. A better pick: a player with a moving magnet (MM) cartridge.
Sound Quality: Built-In Speakers Aren’t Created Equal
All-in-one systems lean hard into the convenience of built-in speakers, but let’s be real—they’re usually more “meh” than mind-blowing. Here’s what to look for:
Speaker Placement:
Front-facing speakers are clearer and project better than top-facing ones.
Power Output:
Anything under 5W per channel will sound weak or distort at higher volume.
Connectivity:
Make sure it has RCA outputs. That way, you can upgrade to better speakers later. Bluetooth is a nice bonus, but RCA is a must.’
Cartridge + Needle: The Real MVPs
If you’re serious about keeping your vinyl collection in good shape, the cartridge and needle are where you want to pay attention. Most all-in-one players use ceramic cartridges—and while they’re not the devil, they’re definitely not angels either.
Ceramic Cartridges – The Downside:
- Flat, lifeless sound
- High tracking force = faster record wear
- No upgrade path
MM Cartridges – The Better Choice:
- Richer sound
- Gentler on records
- Easily upgradeable
Drive System: Belt Drive Still Wins
Belt drives are the go-to for turntables, even in the all-in-one world, but there’s a big gap between “basic belt drive” and “actually well-engineered belt drive.”
Cheap Belt Drives:
Flimsy rubber belts and weak motors = pitch issues and wobble.
Quality Belt Drives:
Systems like the Fluance RT82 use stronger motors and solid aluminum platters. Result: smoother playback.
Extras: Do You Need All the Bells and Whistles?
It’s easy to get dazzled by features like Bluetooth, radio, and USB ports, but let’s cut to the chase—are you actually going to use them?
- Bluetooth: Great for streaming music from your phone or pairing with wireless speakers.
- Radio and CD Players: A nice touch if you’re feeling nostalgic for FM radio or want to dust off your old CD collection, but they’re not essential unless you’ll actually use them.
- USB Ports: Handy if you’re planning to digitize your vinyl collection, but don’t let it be the deciding factor.
In Short: Focus on the Essentials
Record players with built in speakers are a mixed bag, but if you prioritize build quality, decent sound, and upgrade potential, you’ll find a few gems hidden in the rough. Avoid getting distracted by flashy extras—focus on what will actually make your records sound great. After all, isn’t that the whole point?
Our Picks for the Best Record Player With Speakers
Tired of reading top 10 lists that all sound the same?
Me too. That’s exactly why we built this one.
Below you’ll find the actual best record players with built-in speakers—no fluff, no buzzwords. Each pick includes a quick (but legit) breakdown that lets you know the most important features to help you make your decision.
As always, no paid placements, just real research. Enjoy.
| Feature | Victrola Eastwood | Angels Horn H019 | Andover SpinDuo | Andover-One E |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $150 on Amazon | $240 on Amazon |
$648 on Amazon $648 at Andover |
$1,499 on Amazon $1,499 at Andover |
| Perfect For | Starter for simple, stress-free vinyl listening. |
Style-savvy beginners who want real features |
Lush, punchy, space saving sound |
Premium sound & all-in-one design |
| Cartridge | AT-3600LA | AT-3600L | AT3600 | Ortofon OM5E |
| RCA Outputs | Yes | Yes, built-in preamp | Yes, built-in preamp | Yes, with subwoofer & external support |
| Bluetooth | Dual Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Two-way Bluetooth | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, aptX Low Latency |
Victrola Eastwood

Image source: Victrola
- Perfect For: First-timers who want a setup that’s simple, stylish, and actually kind to their records.
The Victrola Eastwood proves you don’t need a huge budget to get a solid record player with speakers. It’s got what most cheap setups don’t: a legit Audio-Technica cartridge, which comes with real respect for your records.
You can stream to it or from it with dual Bluetooth, plug in headphones, or upgrade your sound later with RCA outs. It’s simple, clean, and ready to go right out of the box.
Key Features:
- Audio-Technica AT-3600LA Cartridge: A solid moving magnetic cartridge that won’t chew up your vinyl.
- Bluetooth (both ways): Stream music to or from your phone with ease.
- Built-in Headphone Jack: Perfect for late-night listening without waking up your neighbors.
- RCA Output: Connect it to external speakers when you’re ready to upgrade your sound.
- Removable Dust Cover: Keeps your turntable looking fresh and your records clean.
The Eastwood is a stylish starter turntable that doesn’t cut too many corners. It’s ideal for beginners or casual listeners who want the convenience of an all-in-one system with a touch of retro flair.
Angels Horn H019

Image source: Angels Horn
- Perfect For: Vinyl fans who want something sleek and modern—without giving up on real audio performance.
The Angels Horn H019 blends sharp looks with real turntable features. You get an adjustable counterweight (rare at this price), an upgradeable cartridge, and Bluetooth 5.0 for streaming. The built-in speakers sound solid for casual use, but when you’re ready for more, plug in external speakers via the RCA output. It’s a setup that looks great now—and can grow with you later.
Key Features:
- Adjustable Counterweight: Protects your vinyl and boosts sound quality.
- Bluetooth 5.0: Stream music from your phone or tablet.
- RCA Output + Built-In Preamp: Add powered speakers anytime.
- Minimalist Design: Modern, clean, and shelf-friendly.
The H019 is a rare find: a record player with speakers that looks premium, sounds clean, and doesn’t box you in.
Andover SpinDuo System
- Perfect For: Listeners who want a stylish, space-saving setup that actually sounds great.
The SpinDuo System pairs the SpinDeck 2 turntable with the SpinBase 2 speaker for a true plug-and-play vinyl setup. No receiver, no clutter—just rich sound in a stylish package. And while it’s not technically an all-in-one, it functions like one—with better results. IsoGroove® technology eliminates vibration feedback (no isolation pads needed), making this system leagues ahead of typical all-in-one players.
Key Features:
- AT3600 Magnetic Cartridge for gentle tracking and solid sound
- Machined Aluminum Platter with damped rubber mat
- Built-In Switchable Preamp — connect to any input
- IsoGroove® Tech — eliminates feedback, no extra isolation gear needed
- 270° Speaker Soundstage — fills your room from a compact 13”x18” footprint
- Bluetooth In/Out + Optical + Line Inputs
- Remote Control to manage volume and EQ
- Expandable — easily pair with a subwoofer or upgrade to the SpinTrio
If you want a compact setup that looks, sounds, and feels like the real thing, the SpinDuo nails it. It’s simple, stylish, and delivers true vinyl performance—without the usual compromises.
Andover-One E All-In-One Record Player

Image source: Andover
- Perfect For: Vinyl fans with a taste for the finer things—think premium sound, sleek design, and convenience all in one.
The Andover-One E is the heavyweight champion of all-in-one record players. With a quad-speaker system that fills even large rooms with rich, detailed sound, and an Ortofon OM5E cartridge that makes your records sing, this system is all about blending style with performance. The turntable is isolated from the speakers to eliminate annoying feedback, and the modular design lets you expand the setup with external speakers or a subwoofer for even bigger sound.
Key Features:
- Integrated Quad-Speaker System: Big, bold, and detailed sound right out of the box—no external speakers required (but totally an option).
- Ortofon OM5E Cartridge: A high-quality, audiophile-grade cartridge that tracks your records beautifully.
- Premium Build Quality: From the sleek design to the vibration-isolated turntable, this is a setup built to impress.
- Modular Expansion Options: Add a subwoofer or external speakers when you want to take your sound to the next level.
- Versatile Connectivity: Bluetooth, RCA, USB, and digital inputs make it a hub for all your audio needs.
If you want an all-in-one system that doesn’t feel like a compromise, the Andover-One E is it. It’s pricey, but it delivers where it counts: incredible sound, timeless design, and the kind of flexibility that lets it grow with your needs.
Are Record Players With Built In Speakers Bad for Vinyl?
Here’s the million-dollar question: Are these convenient setups secretly sabotaging your precious record collection?
The short answer? Tread lightly
Not all record players with built-in speakers are created equal. Some are surprisingly vinyl-friendly (you just met a few of them). Others… not so much.
There are two main record killers when it comes to these systems:
1. Tracking force (how much pressure the needle puts on your records)
2. Speaker interference (vibration from the speakers that shakes what’s supposed to stay still)
Solving Tracking Force
If your record player has a moving magnet (MM) cartridge, you’re off to a good start. That’s the part that holds the needle—and MM cartridges are much gentler on your records than the cheaper ceramic kind.
Add a counterbalanced tonearm—the little knob at the end that lets you dial in the pressure—and you’re nearly in the clear. These features are standard on most real turntables, but super rare in all-in-one units.
Solving Speaker Interference
The hardest problem to fix? The built-in speakers.
Picture this: a tiny needle is gliding through the delicate grooves of your record. Now imagine your speakers—built into the same unit—rumbling just inches away. That shaking is bringing the whole house down. This results in muddy sound at best, and actual groove damage at worst.
This is why external speakers via RCA output are usually the safer bet. But if you’re sticking with an all-in-one system, look for serious vibration control.
It’s not easy to find a player that sidesteps all these flaws—but a few do.
Verdict
If you’re eyeing ultra-budget picks like the Crosley Cruiser, use them sparingly-think bargain bin finds, not your first pressing of Abbey Road.
But if you go with something like the Victrola Eastwood, Angels Horn, or Andover Spinabse2/One E, your vinyl will be in much better hands—and ears.
Ok. Feeling Overwhelmed?
Yeah, we get it.
All this talk of tracking force, cartridge types, and feedback might make it seem like playing vinyl is a minefield.
But here’s the good news:
If you stick with one of the four players we mentioned above, you’re probably in the clear. (No promises—we don’t build these things) But we didn’t throw together a top-10 list with filler picks. There are hundreds of these players. We picked four.
There are a few other all-in-one models we like and would actually recommend, depending on where you’re starting from. We put together a full guide that breaks down the safest suitcase players, smart upgrade paths, and the tweaks that actually make a difference.
Still, the only way to guarantee long-term sound quality and record safety?
Build a “real” vinyl setup.
Yes, that can feel like its own maze of options—but that’s exactly what we’re here to simplify. We’ve spent the hours, done the digging, and argued over the best gear-so you don’t have to.
Here is the definitive guide to vinyl setups for people looking to get their listening room set up right. The first time.
Conclusion: Are All-in-One Record Players Worth It?
Here’s the bottom line: Record players with built-in speakers can be a great choice if you care more about simplicity than studio-grade sound. They’re perfect for casual listeners, beginners, or anyone who wants a clean, compact way to enjoy vinyl without building a full setup.
Ready to go all-in on premium sound and design? Nothing tops the Andover-One E.
Want your turntable to sound bigger without external speakers? SpinBase 2 makes it easy.
Want something affordable and beginner-friendly? Start with the Victrola Eastwood.
Care about looks and upgrade paths? The Angels Horn H019 is your move.
In vinyl for the long haul? Meet us at the builds.
However you start, just start. But if your setup lives in the suitcase or all-in-one world, we’ve got you — here’s the best guide to get you started on the right track: full guide.


