The Vintage Yamaha Turntable For 2024

Harlan Ellison By, Harlan Ellison
Updated
Yamaha TT-S303 Hi-Fi Vinyl Belt Drive Turntable – Piano Black
Image credit: Amazon.com

It’s no secret that vinyl has been on a steady decline since the digital revolution began. It’s not just your grandparents or other old-schoolers who are getting rid of their records and CDs to make way for the new, more convenient modern formats. It’s happening to everyone, which is why you will find so many people selling vintage stereos and turntables on sites.

In this article, we will be talking about some of the best vintage Yamaha turntable models you can buy today. When it comes to picking the right model, there are several factors that should be taken into account by any potential buyer. If you are planning on buying a vintage stereo as part of your home décor, consider looking at other types of audio equipment such as speakers instead. After all, any decent audio system with good-sounding speakers can sound great even if it is old and outdated.

In the end, we concluded that our Yamaha TT-S303 Hi-Fi Vinyl Belt Drive Turntable – Piano Black was the most highly recommended. Other options presented here are certainly worthy of your attention, and in order to assist you in making an informed choice, we have compiled a helpful shopping guide.

 

Our Top Picks

  • A rigid cabinet with large internal loss suppresses unnecessary vibration
  • Built-in phono preamp for line or phono output
  • Static balanced straight tone arm creates accurate stylus pressure for accurate tracking and sound reproduction
  • Yamaha Piano Black finish that shows off your style and your records.Signal To Noise Ratio:67 dB or higher (A-weighted, 20 kHz, LPF)
  • Belt-driven high inertia platter with DC motor to achieve Stable rotation
  • Adjustable counterweight force, essential for any serious classic Turntable, Tonearm counterweight coupled with the advanced anti-skating system produces smooth stylus movement and tunes out skipping and distortion
  • Vinyl Recording Via PC, Connect this turntable to your computer via usb and encode vinyl audio into MP3s for digitalized storage and playback on your computer, smartphone or tablet
  • Great connectivity, Built-in switchable phono line and pre-amplifier allow connection to the set of included speakers or to your own externally-powered speakers via the dual RCA output cables
  • Solid iron platter, precision-manufactured iron platter produces uniform inertial mass for perfect stability and rotation, Brings high-fidelity playback to the next level, Please watch the 3-minute Quick Installation video for easy installation
  • Wireless streaming, play music from all your favorite devices like iPhones, Android smartphones, tablets, PCs and usb-mp3 players through the turntable’s speakers with Bluetooth function
TOP Choice #3 Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK
Our Score:
9.6
Audio-Technica
  • Included Components Turntable Detachable RCA output cable (3 5 mm male to dual RCA male) 45 RPM adapter Removable hinged dust cover
  • Power Source Type DC. Motor: DC servo-controlled
  • Connects wirelessly to speakers and other devices equipped with Bluetooth wireless technology or to wired audio systems and powered speakers via included dual RCA output cable
  • Anti-resonance die-cast aluminum platter
  • High-fidelity audio with Bluetooth wireless technology
  • Compatible with aptX codec
  • Output Wattage 3 00
  • Fully automatic operation with two speeds 33-1/3 and 45 RPM
  • Experience the high fidelity audio of vinyl
  • Ac adapter handles AC/DC conversion outside of the chassis, reducing noise in the signal chain
  • Fully automatic belt drive turntable operation with 2 speeds: 33 1/3, 45 RPM
  • Anti resonance, die cast aluminum platter
  • Redesigned tone arm base and head shell for improved tracking and reduced resonance
  • Built-in phono preamp gives you flexibility to connect any audio system, adding streaming service playback to your legacy Hi-Fi system
  • Create a stereo system with MusicCast wireless speakers. Place the turntable and speakers wherever you want!
  • Expand to a multi-room audio setup by syncing with MusicCast wireless speakers in other rooms
  • Yamaha Hi-Fi quality built for accuracy and sonic purity. Perfect for the audiophile or beginner vinyl collector
  • Stream music services with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2 or Spotify Connect
  • THREE SPEED BELT-DRIVEN TURNTABLE – This 3-speed (33 1/3, 45, 78 rpm) record player features UPGRADED PREMIUM SOUND QUALITY with minimum vibrations. It is perfect for your living room, bedroom or office and a great choice for vinyl lovers
  • NO STEREO SYSTEM OR EXTRA EQUIPMENT REQUIRED. Get it up and running in minutes. Retro looks combined with the convenience of modern technology make this record player a great value - ideal for beginners & vintage enthusiasts alike
  • 8-in-1 ENTERTAINMENT CENTER – With vintage looks & modern features, this turntable not only plays your Vinyls, but also has a CD & cassette player, FM radio, Bluetooth, and Aux & headphone jack for audio streaming from your smartphone
  • EXPANDED CONNECTION OPTIONS – Extend the sound by connecting external speakers or an amplifier via the RCA Line outputs. For personal listening, plug your headphones into the headphone jack
  • ALL THE CONTROLS YOU NEED – Features a volume knob, FM tuner and easy click buttons for input select, power, play/pause/forward/rewind, eject, program, shuffle, repeat, and a full function remote control
  • HIGH QUALITY DESIGN & FINISHING – Victrola's 115-year commitment to craftsmanship is evident in the stylish retro real wood case, strong hinges, high quality fabric grilles, gentle lifting mechanism and well-balanced sound
  • ♬WIRELEE BLUETOOTH TURNTABLE: Built-in Bluetooth receiver and full range stereo speakers,which makes you wirelessly stream the modern digital music of your own device with Bluetooth launcher. (Warm Tips: The turntable can only receive Bluetooth signals from other Bluetooth devices, it can not send out Bluetooth signals.)
  • ♬STEREO TURNTABLE WITH PREAMP: You can also connect some auxiliary devices to the LINE IN port with a 3.5mm-3.5mm audio cable(not included) to listen to the digital music at this turntable's stereo speakers
  • ♬3-SPEED PHONOGRAPH RECORD PLAYER: Compatible with all sizes of vinyl records,which are included 33⅓, 45 or 78 RPM records.Every player is hand-tuned by our audio expert to ensure the best possible performance
  • ♬ENJOY YOUR VINYL TIME ANYWHERE: RCA audio output helps you connect to the bigger external amplifier or other surround sound speakers.Headphone jack allows for private listening( An audio cable needed)
  • ♬WOODEN FINISH VINTAGE STYLE LP PLAYER: Classic and compact record player with beautiful natural wood appearance. A high quality record player would be your perfect gift choice for your friends and family
  • 【Vintage & Fashion Combination】Made of vintage wooden,combined with modern fashion technology, allows you enjoying retro-style music by vinyl records or digital music with wireless tech.Removable dust cover keeps your record player clean and new
  • 【Respond】24 hours one-on-one respond, any questions about our LP player,please feel free to contact us
  • 【 3 Speed &3 Sizes Record】Support 3 listening speeds (33-1/3, 45 and 78 RPM) and 3 sizes of record (7'', 10'' and 12''), enjoy your relaxing time with this LP turntable record player
  • 【Turntable & Belt-driven Shock Absorption】Turntable base equipped with spring and belt-driven design greatly absorb the shock, provide you a quality and smooth music
  • 【Bluetooth Input & USB Connect & RCA line-out】Built in stereo speakers,with Bluetooth wireless technology,elegantly listen to your music in your phone.Use USB function to directly play music. For better or louder sound, connect external speaker via RCA cable
  • 【Wireless Connectivity】Built-in Bluetooth 5.0, you can enjoy your vinyl collection with all the convenience of wireless technology. Connect via Bluetooth technology to listen to your favorite records on your wireless speakers, soundbar or headphones. Remove the troubles caused by the audio cable, and upgrade the grade from the visual and auditory sense.
  • 【Built-In Phono Preamp And RCA Output】Built in switchable phono output / line out phono preamp can perform and appreciate the music life brought to you by the record player on any your own externally-powered speakers via the dual rca output cables. Your turntable includes both Phono and Line outputs that allow playing with or without a Phono equalizer.
  • 【 User-Friendly Vinyl Player】Built from wood and metal materials with a unique sense of layering, The streamlined corner design is truly atmospheric and stylish. Simple setup and operation, designed with one button that supports power switch and speed adjustment, satisfy basic demand of turntable on the basis of simplified operation. We are committed to serving our customers with reliable products and empathetic service. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.
  • 【Stable Aluminum Platter】Our turntable features a belt drive mechanism with an aluminum die-cast platter which reduces vibration for increased clarity and hi-fi sound. Robust yet lightweight, the platter stays stable as it rotates for clearer playback of your music.
  • 【2-Speed Belt Drive Turntable】Play your 33⅓,45RPM vinyl collection, 45 RPM adaptor included.The rotation speed can be selected according to the speed of the vinyl record, so that the turntable can perfectly interpret the vinyl record to your High-quality music life.
  • ALL THE CONTROLS YOU NEED – Features a volume and FM tuner knob, input select (function) button and a complete set of buttons for the CD player. The screen comes on in blue LED light, buttons have a nice feel to them, and the whole look is trendy 50s
  • NO STEREO SYSTEM OR EXTRA EQUIPMENT REQUIRED. Get it up and running in minutes. Retro looks combined with the convenience of modern technology make this record player a great value - ideal for beginners & vintage enthusiasts alike
  • THREE SPEED BELT-DRIVEN TURNTABLE – This 3-speed (33 1/3, 45, 78 rpm) record player features UPGRADED PREMIUM SOUND QUALITY with minimum vibrations. It is perfect for your living room, bedroom or office and a great choice for vinyl lovers
  • Output wattage: 19 watts
  • MORE THAN A RECORD PLAYER – With 50s retro looks & modern features, this turntable plays & records your Vinyls to MP3 (Mac/PC software & USB cable included). It has a CD player, AM/FM radio, Bluetooth, Aux & headphone jack, plus stereo speakers
  • Power source type: Corded Electric
  • HIGH QUALITY DESIGN & FINISHING – Victrola's 115-year commitment to craftsmanship is evident in the stylish retro case, strong built quality, gentle lifting mechanism and well-balanced sound
  • Connectivity technology: Aux/Bluetooth/USB
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a vintage yamaha turntable?

A valuable product is determined by many factors (included below). The process of researching the vintage yamaha turntable is pretty significant because of these features related to the products. However, rest assured that we are here to support your challenges.

Having a closer look at the following factors would benefit you a lot. These are the most important things among various ones you need to consider:

Anti-skate Force

The anti-skate force must be adjusted in conjunction with the tracking force via the dial located near the tonearm. This ensures that the needle does not move sideways.

Styluses And Cartridges

A turntable's most crucial parts are its stylus and cartridge. The stylus and cartridge pick up the information from the record, convert it to electronic signals and send them to the speakers.
The stylus, or "needle", is what sits inside the grooves of the record. It is crucial to choose the right shape for the stylus. An elliptical stylus will pick up more information than one that has a conical surface because it touches more records. Audiophiles also believe that conical styluses work better with old records because they take up more space after the groove has been expanded through repeated plays.
The stylus is held in the cartridge, which converts its movements into electric signals. The most popular cartridge types are moving magnet (MM), and moving coil (MC). Most turntables will use MM cartridges because they areer and more convenient to change needles. However, MC cartridges can be lighter and pick up more groove changes than MM cartridges. They are also more costly.

Pre-amps

Pre-amps convert the turntable's "phono" signal into a stronger signal called "line", so that it is compatible with speakers, headphones and other audio equipment. You can either use an amplifier that has a separate phono line or buy a standalone pre-amp if the turntable does not have one.
Some turntables come with switchable preamps that can be switched on and off depending on the plugging device.

Tracking Force

The track force refers to the downward pressure that the cartridge exerts on the record through the stylus. A suggested tracking force will be included with your turntable.
Adjusting the track force can be delicate, but this is worth it to improve sound quality. You also have a lower chance of damaging your records by too much downward force.
Adjusting the counterweight at the back of your tonearm can change the tracking force. First, balance the tonearm horizontally. Next, twist the counterweight to get the right downforce (as indicated in the instruction).

USB Turntables

You can record your albums to USB turntables. They may not be able to connect to regular audio systems because they only have the USB connector. The USB turntables can be smaller and lighter than regular ones, but they are also more compact, portable, ander. Many can be charged via USB.
Although "portable" USB turntables may come with speakers built in, they do not provide good sound quality.

Record Speeds

These numbers are the revolutions per minute (rpm) of the record. Although most records are 33s in length, there are still 45s and some 78s available (the former are smaller). While most turntables can play both 33rpm or 45rpm, you will need to have an adapter in order to hear the slower version. You'll have to look for an adapter or player that can play 78s.

Drives

Two types of drive are available for turntables: direct and belt.
Models with direct drive motors are mounted beneath the platter. In a belt drive, the motor is attached to one end by a rubber belt. The turntable can be spun at higher speeds and is compacted by direct drives. Belt models, on the other hand, isolate any extra noise from the motor.

Fully Automatic

Playing vinyl has the biggest drawback of having to reach at each end and turn it over. A fully automatic turntable uses a machine on the tonearm to put the needle on the record and play it. Then, at the end of the track, it lifts the record up to return it to its cradle.
The extra electric signals along the tonearm and the mechanical movement are what audio purists believe affect the sound. Full-auto, however, is the best option if you don't want to have to stand up for half an hour every time.

FAQs

How Many Times Can You Listen To A Vinyl Record?

The vinyl record is a great resource for work. The record can be listened to over 100 times with no loss of sound quality.

Is It Bad To Leave A Record On The Turntable?

It is. It is a habit that even certified audiophiles sometimes forget to put their records in their jackets, but it's important to always do this.
Your record will be more likely to get damaged or dirty if it is not kept out in the open. You're guilty of this habit, but at the very least you should not forget to close the dust cover.

Do All Turntables Have RCA Outputs?

Most do. This is a common feature in turntables and record players. For more details on your turntable, we recommend consulting the manual.

Which Is Better? Belt-Driven Turntables Or Direct Drive Turntables?

Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. A belt-driven turntable is one that rotates the platters using an elastic belt. The belt absorbs any vibrations which can impact sound quality.
They can get worn and inconsistent in speed, however.
On the other side, direct drive turntables have the platter being rotated by the motor. Because they are directly driven by the motor, they have a more constant speed and don't wear down like a belt.
Problem is that the motor can create unwanted vibrations which can disrupt your tracks' sounds.

What Makes One Turntable Sound Better Than Another?

You need to take into account many factors. The quality of both the stylus and cartridge is important. Some turntables simply have more features, which allow for better accuracy and less vibration.

Do I Need A Preamp For My Turntable?

Both yes and no. A preamp is necessary for every turntable to convert its sounds into something your record player can hear, as well as other audio devices.
Because most turntables have their preamp built in, it's not necessary. If this is the case then you don't need a separate preamp.
However, we understand that not everyone wants to improve their sound and decide to purchase a preamp separately. For more information, if you are one of these people, please see our next question.

How To Make The Turntable Louder?

If the phonostage isn't connected correctly or not properly, your turntable might play slowly. A properly sized, wired and connected phonostage is the best way to unlock your turntable's potential.

Can You Connect A Turntable Directly To Speakers?

It all depends on whether the connectors in your device can accommodate your speakers. Most of them will. It shouldn't be a problem connecting your turntable and its speakers.

What’s An Automatic Turntable?

A turntable that is automatic uses a combination of automatic features and a tonearm to lift itself from its resting place and position itself above your record for playback. After the track has finished, the device will automatically lift from its resting place and go back to the original position.
This is a preferred method by some users as it reduces the amount of effort required to stop and play your turntable. However, this does not mean you can't manually lift the tonearm. It's still possible.

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About Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison is a writer and audio equipment enthusiast. He's particularly interested in home theater HiFi audio, and he has been the editor of The Audio Insights since its inception. Harlan is known for his sharp wit and scathing critiques, but he also has a great love of music and audio gear. When he's not writing or editing, Harlan can be found listening to music or watching movies with his wife.