Jacqueline
Deputy Writer from Forbes.com, at ForbesMeet Jacqueline, the deputy writer and editor extraordinaire hailing from Boston. With a decade of experience under her belt at Forbes.com, where she most recently served as editor, Jacqueline is no stranger to the world of lifestyle publications. Her expertise spans a wide range of topics, from product reviews to how-to guides, and she approaches each assignment with a keen eye for detail and a dedication to excellence. When she's not crafting compelling content, Jacqueline...
Jacqueline
Deputy Writer from Forbes.com, at ForbesMeet Jacqueline, the deputy writer and editor extraordinaire hailing from Boston. With a decade of experience under her belt at Forbes.com, where she most recently served as editor, Jacqueline is no stranger to the world of lifestyle publications. Her expertise spans a wide range of topics, from product reviews to how-to guides, and she approaches each assignment with a keen eye for detail and a dedication to excellence. When she's not crafting compelling content, Jacqueline...
Sonos bring you a commendable home sound system that has high definition sound quality. If you want to access the music and audio library, it has compatibility with virtually every app and platform.
Are you looking for the best turntable for Sonos sound system? Then you’re in the right place.
This Sonos turntable review brings you precise details and a guide to help you get the best option. Whether you’re a beginner or someone with impeccable taste for vinyl, you can now turn your music into modern digital performance quality with this review. So without further ado, let’s begin:
The Best Sonos Turntable Reviews of 2023
Pro-Ject T1 Turntable
Pro-ject T1 is a brilliantly crafted turntable that oozes premium quality at a highly affordable rate. This hi-fi record player is available in satin white, walnut, and high gloss finish to meet your décor requirement. Additionally, you have a glass platter that strokes up its appeal.
It has a straightforward approach and focuses on the arm’s quality, low vibration emission, or resonation to prevent any sound disruption. Hence, you receive the best sound quality for your Sonos speakers. It is a plug and plays device to start streaming high-quality sound immediately.
Buyer’s Feedback:
Audio-Technica Direct-Drive Turntable
If you’re looking to have more control over the sound quality output, this might be what is needed. This turntable has pitch control, a stroboscopic platter, and a speed indicator. There are three-speed settings available, and the platter is non-resonance aluminum built for durability and quality.
It is available in wired and wireless design and comes with a wide range of connectivity options. The turntable is excellent for high stability and turns your vinyl record’s output into premium-grade digital audio. Hence, it is a perfect companion for your Sonos sound system.
Verdict: This one is great for beginners who want better control and stability over the hi-fi audio production. Average in price and remarkable in quality.
Buyer’s Feedback:
It’s great that I’m finally comfortable using a turntable knowing it won’t mess up any of my more “mint” records. Listening to vinyl on a Crosley entertainment center/record player is very different from listening to vinyl on an Audio-Technica record player! My friends in the music industry and musician community all recommended this model to me, and I am glad I did. It is also really nice that I don’t have to dive too deep into purchasing more equipment right now (the turntable comes with a phono preamp), so all that is really necessary is the turntable and some speakers. Excellent sound at an affordable price! I highly recommend it!
Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC Turntable
Pro-ject debut has been one of the best-selling turntables across the globe. It has undergone consistent development and improvements to bring you the best audio quality. The new DC motor and efficient power supply manage to deliver performance.
Its new suspension system and elastomer material are usually found in high-end turntables. The revolutionary carbon fiber tonearm remains the ace in the hole for remarkable audio performance. Furthermore, it is available in more color options than a standard tonearm. Apart from conventional colors, it is available in yellow, red, green, purple, silver, and much more.
Verdict: If you seek hi-fi audio quality with premium components, this could be a great choice. Consistent development and upgradable components make it an excellent investment if you want to gradually make this the best record player for Sonos.
Buyer’s Feedback:
The instructions aren’t great, so I resorted to a video on YouTube and that clarified a couple of setup issues. My excitement was squelched and I followed the instructions to the letter, but they weren’t very clear… Once I had assembled her, hooked her up to the ProJect amp I also purchased here and into the receiver, I was ready to go. The first album on the platter was Physical Graffiti by Led Zeppelin, so I started the motor and listened to Custard Pie’s analog guitar opening. After playing several classics from Black Sabbath to the Doors, I was in vinyl heaven after playing them for the first time in 25 years. It was love at first sound… so much warmer and richer than anything I’ve heard in 25 years! I felt as if I had discovered the music I have listened to for decades all over again. It’s a great entry level player and I rate it 4.75 stars. I agree with the nitpicks several reviewers here have made, like the cheap felt mat. As for the Blue cartridge, I’m sure it sounds better than the stock Red, but for now, I’m happy with the stock head. You can upgrade in the future, but don’t let that deter you from this player. This is a great mid-level player for $400 that will allow you to listen to music again the way it was meant to be heard!
Audio-Technica Fully Automatic Wireless Turntable
If you’re not much for the ‘authentic’ appearance, this could be a great choice. Here you have the convenience of the latest technological advancements in turntables. This turntable from Audio-Technica comes with an uninterrupted BlueTooth connectivity. So you don’t need cords anymore, which is fantastic for your Sonos.
It doesn’t produce any distortion and has an entirely automatic function. Therefore, it is one of the best picks for your Sonos sound system, especially with its aptX codec and high fidelity sound output. There are two-speed settings, minimized vibrations, and increased clarity with AC/DC conversion.
Verdict: If you want a clear choice without confusing features and considerations, you can select this turntable. It is an excellent choice for anyone who’s new to vinyl records or occasionally listens to them.
Buyer’s Feedback:
The transmitter is strong. I didn’t test it under stress, but it works from one room to another. Connectivity never drops out, and even if my speaker isn’t in use, it stays connected. It was so easy to pair that I didn’t have to worry about it every time I wanted to listen. I was able to pair the device in only a few seconds. It worked immediately.
Audio-Technica Fully Automatic Stereo Turntable
You can think of this one as an improved version of the previous turntable on the list. It has improved tonearm design and application. The cartridge has seen Audio-Technica’s signature dual magnet phono cartridge. It comes with two speeds and provides hi-fi sound output.
The redesigned tonearm and headshell drastically reduce resonance and improves tracking. Overall, it is a well-balanced choice as the best turntable for the Sonos system. It is fully automatic, easy to use, and feasible for anyone looking for a standard vinyl record player.
Verdict: This one’s a highly affordable choice for people who are new to turntables and don’t want to invest extensively. It is excellent to start your vinyl experience.
Buyer’s Feedback:
At this price, it’s hard to expect audiophile quality sound, although high fidelity is certainly present. Only a link to the Web site is included with the unit, not a printed manual. There is an included “Quick-Start Guide”, which consists mainly of diagrams and would not have been sufficient without downloading the manual and reading the setup section. After doing that, setting up the system was pretty straightforward. In the event that you don’t push the buttons in front gently enough, the entire unit will fall backwards. As far as I can tell, the speeds are accurate; I have not verified their precision.
Crosley Sterling Portable Turntable
Here you have a turntable that has a retro appeal that sets perfectly as a timeless record player. It comes with a dial-type analog for pitch settings, and a wooden stand certainly makes it stand out. Despite its old-time appearance, it has all the modern additions, including Bluetooth, to work with your Sonos system.
However, to make it affordable, the performance has taken a little dive. Therefore, with a wooden design, it has more of a glued-on appearance. The leather and other finishes might not be impeccable to give a handcrafted appeal. Despite these drawbacks, it has steady sound production and delivery.
Verdict: If you want to set a vintage vibe with your vinyl record player, this is a good choice. Apart from that, it has a standard performance.
Buyer’s Feedback:
The pitch works great so if it’s spinning fast or slow, it can be adjusted. Tone arms and needles are criticized for damaging records because of their weight. When I put a magnet on my tone arm, it significantly lowered the pressure on the record. My magnet was round and unobtrusive (aesthetically) on my record player. Spin those records and enjoy them!
Pro-Ject Essential III
Here you have another commendable edition from Pro-ject. This sleek turntable is very lightweight and comes with 8/6 inches aluminum tonearm with sapphire bearings. The DC-powered motor significantly reduces vibration. It has complete connectivity options, especially Bluetooth, and available in aesthetically appealing colors.
The overall performance is well-balanced for a hi-fi audio output. It looks great with your home’s décor and delivers precise sound without any distortion. If you genuinely want to experience the quality of your Sonos system, this is a great choice.
Verdict: If you’re an audiophile who wants the best record player for Sonos that unleashes the true sound quality, this works very well as an entry-level turntable.
Buyer’s Feedback:
I have zero buyer’s remorse for this turntable. The only nitpick I have of it is that the felt mat that it comes with should be replaced with a better mat. I understood why they did it, which was for cost savings purposes, which doesn’t bother me at all. I replaced the felt mat with the Electrohome Turntable Platter Mat (bought that on Amazon as well) and that did wonders for the sound. The turntable didn’t sound bad with the felt mat, but upon replacing the felt mat, the sound became brighter and more defined. Comparing the two mats, the sound was flatter with the felt mat. There are a gazillion different mat options out there and that is something you should factor in when purchasing this turntable.
Pro-Ject Debut Record Master
This is yet another brilliant ‘debut’ version from Pro-ject that looks aesthetically pleasing and delivers excellent sound quality. If you wanted a wooden finish and a more compact design than the previous Debut model, this is a great choice and falls under the same price category.
It is easy to set up and has a minimalist design. Therefore, even a beginner can use this player. Most of its performance is automatic, and you don’t have to worry about anything. Quality is the primary focus of this turntable. Hence, you have a lack of adjustments, locks, and other similar features.
Verdict: If you want a hi-fi Debut model with a simple appearance, this is the best turntable for Sonos.
Buyer’s Feedback:
Sony Belt-Drive Automatic Turntable
Sony brings you a modern turntable with hi-fi sound and a minimalist design for straightforward operations and connectivity. You have a one-step start to enjoy your vinyl records anywhere, anytime. It comes with two-speed settings and has built-in switchable photo output with three gain settings.
You have a high-grade performance from Sony, so you certainly have the best turntable for Sonos with this choice. It has both wired and wireless connections. The aluminum die-cast platter and straight aluminum pipe tonearm give low resonation and vibration with rich sound quality.
Verdict: If you want Sony’s performance quality to pair up with your Sonos sound system, this is the best budget-friendly turntable for Sonos.
Buyer’s Feedback:
Following the steps yields perfect results, and the instructions are clearly worded with pictures. Setting up is extremely straightforward. As a result of the automatic system, it is easy to start and stop, and minimal intervention is required when it comes to placing needles, etc. It is only necessary to touch the control arm if you need a specific track, otherwise, listening from start to finish can be done by simply pressing a button. You can get a great system for about $500 that’s still less than half the cost of some upper-mid level tables that don’t sound that much better. It works great with matching Sony sound gear.
Audio-Technica Fully Manual Turntable
Audio-Technica has done it again, but this time you have a manual turntable. IT comes with preamp, tonearm life, and speed dial with opulence in aesthetics. You have complete protection and features of a full-fledged turntable with entry-level pricing.
Audio-Technica brings you its signature carbon fiber additions that are prevalent in high-end units. It is a durable choice with crisp and high definition sound quality, which works great for your Sonos home sound system, especially with Sonos Play 5. It is very precise in its functions and settings.
Verdict: If you want the best record player for Sonos that is into a medium-range investment with excellent availability of features, this is a fantastic choice.
Buyer’s Feedback:
Best Turntable For Sonos of 2023 – Buyer Guide
Are you still perplexed and seek some guidance to find the best turntables for Sonos? Then this quick guide could help you consider the most vital factors in choosing the best record player for Sonos:
- Connectivity Option: The first most crucial consideration you have to make is the connectivity option. If the turntable doesn’t support connectivity for your Sonos, it will be useless. So take a good look at the connectivity.
- Hi-Fi Sound: High Fidelity Audio is vital if you truly want to enjoy music with Sonos quality. Anything without hi-fi sound would be less than pleasant.
- Affordability: If you’re unsure about the need for a vinyl record player, you should look for entry-level turntables.
- Adjustments: Speed settings, pitch adjustments, and counterweight for your tonearm could be some vital additions to the features that would help you with the playback.
- Automatic: If you don’t understand how turntables work and want optimized performance without much effort, automatic playback would be a better choice for you. It eliminates the need to have adjustments.
- Warranty: If you’re investing in a recorder, it should have at least a year-long warranty or guarantee due to its cost.
The tonearm is responsible for connecting the player of your turntable to the vinyl record. It transmits the information from the recorder. Thus, it needs to be stable and fit well on the recorder. Too much weight or pressure can potentially damage or wear out your vinyl record. If the tonearm is too light, it will reduce the sound output and quality. Ergo, having a counterweight or other adjustments for tonearm could be a valuable addition. A phono cartridge is an indispensable component in your turntables. It transfers the voltage from your record to the player and converts it to music. There are two types of cartridges available in turntables, magnetic and coil. Magnetic is very common and highly affordable that delivers a balanced performance. However, if you want impeccable sound quality, you might want a moving magnetic phono available in high-end turntables. Higher playback speed means better quality of music but lesser playback time and lesser details. Lower playback speed tends to produce lower sound quality. However, if you have an individual taste for music speed, then a speed setting for turntables might be an essential requirement for you. There are two options to connect Sonos to your turntable. You can use the standard RCA method that would require an amplifier. However, if your turntable has a built-in amp (or Sonos), you might not require an amplifier. Similarly, if your Sonos system has Bluetooth and your turntable also supports it, you can use it to connect without any hassle.Best Sonos Record Player – FAQs
Q: Is Tonearm an Important Piece?
Q: What Is Magnetic Cartridge For Turntables?
Q: Does Playback Speed Matter In Turntables?
Q: How to Connect Turntables To Sonos Sound System?
Conclusion
These Sonos turntable reviews aim to deliver information, especially if you’re new to turntables. Even if you’re an occasional listener or a vinyl recorder audiophile, this list has a versatile choice. Most of these are easy to afford and entry-level to help you get the taste of a turntable before you invest in a premium selection.
Affordability, quality, features, hi-fi sound output and overall value were prominent factors that determined this list.
Hopefully, the common questions and buyer’s guide help you better decide on the best turntable for the Sonos system.