In this article, I have put together 10 great turntable and speaker bundles.
We start with budget combos and move towards midrange and audiophile.
The idea is to match the best turntables available today with great powered speakers into well-balanced packages that give lots of value for money.
I have included 5 systems that feature wireless Bluetooth connectivity and 5 systems that need a traditional signal cable to operate.
All setups use powered speakers and don’t need a separate amplifier. The amplifier is built into the speaker cabinets.
So, these bundles include everything you need to listen to the lovely sound of vinyl. No additional gear is needed.
If you rather want to put together your own combo, then you find my top recommended turntables in my 10 Best Turntables article and my top recommended powered speakers in my 10 Best Powered Speakers for Turntables article.
#1. Best Vinyl Setup Under $250
Turntable: Audio-Technica AT-LP60X
Speakers: Edifier R1280T
If you are looking for a genuinely good vinyl combo for as little money as possible, then nothing beats this setup in my opinion.
I bought this package to use as my budget reference vinyl setup and it has impressed me over and over again.
For the money, this combo sounds fantastic, looks stylish and appears to have very good build quality.
You can buy all-in-on record players much cheaper than this combo, but they will not be in this league when it comes to build quality or sound quality.
More expensive setups do sound better. That is a given. But nothing compares with this combo when it comes to pure value for money.
For a bit more money, you can buy a fully wireless Bluetooth version of this setup, which is my next recommendation on this list. But you can easily skip the Bluetooth feature if you don’t intend to use the setup to stream music wirelessly.
Turntable
The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X is a fully automatic turntable that place and returns the tonearm with only a push of a button. It is regarded the go-to turntable in the budget category and it continuously receives excellent reviews from Hi-Fi critics, fans, and owners.
You can read my full review of the AT-LP60X here.
Speakers
The Edifier R1280T is arguably the best powered speakers in the budget category. They look and feel much more expensive than they are. And the sound they produce is far better than what we can expect in this price range. They are loved by critics and owners, just as the AT-LP60X turntable.
Key features for this combo
Category: Budget
Connectivity: Wired only (not wireless)
Separate preamp needed: No (built-in)
Operation: Fully automatic
Speeds: 33, 45 RPM
USB output: No
Speaker amplifier: 42 Watts
Frequency range: 55Hz – 20kHz
Pros
- Very high value for money
- Quality components (no cheap junk)
- Easy to set up and use
Cons
- Won’t sound as clear and detailed as more expensive setups
- Distortion at high volume
Why buy
This is the perfect setup to buy if you are starting out with vinyl and want a real vinyl setup with much better build-quality and sound quality than cheap all-in-one record players.
Great as a beginner vinyl setup at every age and as a gift for kids and teenagers that want to spin vinyl in their room on a decent system.
Price
Click below to check price on Amazon.
Turntable: Audio-Technica AT-LP60X
Speakers: Edifier R1280T
Alternatives
Personally, I believe this combo gives so much value for money that I don’t think there exists an exact alternative that can match that package.
If you want to save a bit of money, you can however replace the Edifier R1280T with the smaller Edifier R980T.
If you want a turntable that has a more traditional layout/design, you can replace the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X with the Bluetooth capable Sony PS-LX310BT.
I have tested several all-in-one record players, but their performance is so much poorer that they are not actual alternatives to this package in my opinion.
#2. Best Vinyl Setup Under $300 (Full Wireless)
Turntable: Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT
Speakers: Edifier R1280DBs
If you add about $80 to the system we reviewed above, we can get the wireless versions of both the AT-LP60X turntable and Edifier R1280T speakers. With Bluetooth, you can skip the signal interconnect for a tidier setup with fewer cables.
Personally, I like to connect my systems with signal cables for better sound and less Bluetooth hassle, but wireless systems are popular and versatile.
Especially, adding Bluetooth wireless connectivity to the speakers is a nice feature because you have the extra option to stream music wirelessly from mobile phones or laptops if you get tired of spinning vinyl.
Turntable
The AT-LP60XBT is the wireless Bluetooth version of the fantastic AT-LP60X. It might be the most sold turntable is the world. It is ultra-popular and very appreciated.
Speakers
The Edifier R1280DBs is the wireless Bluetooth version of the Edifier R1280T. The exact same speakers, only with the added wireless connectivity.
Key features for this combo
Category: Budget
Connectivity: Wired and wireless
Separate preamp needed: No (built-in)
Operation: Fully automatic
Speeds: 33, 45 RPM
USB output: No
Speaker amplifier: 42 Watts
Frequency range: 55Hz – 20kHz
Pros
- Very high value for money
- Quality components (no cheap junk)
- Easy to set up and use
- Wireless Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
- Won’t sound as clear and detailed as more expensive setups
- Distortion at high volume
Why buy
If you want a great beginner vinyl setup that offers full wireless Bluetooth connectivity, this is the setup to get.
If you don’t need the wireless connectivity, you can save around $80 by selecting the same setup without Bluetooth.
Price
Click below to check price on Amazon.
Turntable: Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT
Speakers: Edifier R1280DBs
Alternatives
If you want a turntable that has a more traditional layout/design, you can replace the Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT with a Sony PS-LX310BT. Both these turntables have wireless Bluetooth output and sound great for their price.
I don’t think there is an alternative to the Bluetooth capable Edifier R1280DBs in its price range.
#3. Best Vinyl Setup Under $400 (Full Wireless)
Turntable: Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT
Speakers: Edifier R1850DB
If you are on a $400 budget, my honest advice is to get the Best Under $300 package I just recommended or to bump up the budget to around $500.
The reason is that $400 represents a bit of a vacuum when it comes to vinyl setups.
The powered speaker systems that are significantly better than the Edifier R1280 cost more or less three times more. And will require a $500 budget to be fitted in.
Furthermore, it does not make a lot of sense to upgrade from the AT-LP60X turntable before we have upgraded the speakers.
Anyway, if $400 is your budget and you want to spend more or less all of it, then I recommend pairing the Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT turntable with the Edifier R1850DB speakers.
The Edifier R1850DB is not a massive step up from the R1280DBs, so don’t expect a dramatic difference.
The R1850DB do however feature a 65% more powerful built-in amplifier. So slightly more volume, power and dynamics can be expected.
For features and connectivity, the Edifier R1280DBs and R1850DB are identical, except for Subwoofer output, which is only included on the R1850DB.
Turntable
The AT-LP60XBT is the wireless Bluetooth version of the fantastic AT-LP60X. It might be the most sold turntable is the world. It is ultra-popular and highly appreciated.
Speakers
The Edifier R1850DB is a budget power speaker from Edifier that sits slightly above their epic Edifier R1280DBs that I have included in the two first packages.
The R1280DBs and R1850DB are very similar is spec, design and sound. You can however expect a little more grunt from the Edifier R1850DB because of its more powerful amplifier and slightly bigger cabinet.
Key features for this combo
Category: Budget
Connectivity: Wired and wireless
Separate preamp needed: No (built-in)
Operation: Fully automatic
Speeds: 33, 45 RPM
USB output: No
Speaker amplifier: 70 Watts
Frequency range: 60Hz – 20kHz
Pros
- A good budget setup
- Easy to setup and use
- Wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- Subwoofer output
Cons
- You can get much better speakers if you put in $100 extra
Why buy
If you want a setup that is a little bit more powerful than our $300 combo and/or need a subwoofer output, then this is a great package to choose. But you might regret that you didn’t spend $100 more to get midrange speakers.
Price
Click below to check price on Amazon.
Turntable: Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT
Speakers: Edifier R1850DB
Alternatives
One decent alternative under $400 is to keep the Edifier R1280DBs speakers included in the two first packages above and upgrade the turntable from the AT-LP60X to a Sony PS-LX310BT.
I generally advice to put the biggest part of your budget at the speakers, but if you fancy the Sony PS-LX310BT over the AT-LP60X it is possible to fit it into a $400 system together with the Edifier R1280DBs speakers.
#4. Best Vinyl Setup Under $500 (Full Wireless)
Turntable: Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT
Speakers: Edifier S1000MKII
At $500 we just have the budget to replace the Edifier R1280 and R1850 speakers with the significantly higher up the range and physically bigger Edifier S1000MKII. They will give clearer sound, deeper bass and more grunt.
At a $500 budget, I still include Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT turntable. Which I think is the right thing to do. The AT-LP60 can handle this quality of speakers excellently and we generally want to upgrade the speakers before the turntable to get the overall best value.
Turntable
At a $500 budget for turntable and speakers, it is still ideal to choose the fantastic Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT turntable. It is a good fit for both budget powered speakers like the Edifier R1280 as well as midrange powered speakers like the Edifier S1000MKII that we use in this setup.
Speakers
Edifier categorize their Edifier S1000MKII as their top Hi-Fi and audiophile speaker. They sound amazing for their price, are well built, and come standard with features like Bluetooth and tone control. And they deliver deep bass all the way down to 48Hz (-4dB).
Key features for this combo
Category: Lower midrange
Connectivity: Wired and wireless
Separate preamp needed: No (built-in)
Operation: Fully automatic
Speeds: 33, 45 RPM
USB output: No
Speaker amplifier: 120 Watts
Frequency range: 48Hz – 20kHz
Pros
- Very good sound for the money
- Versatile speakers with many inputs
- Powerful speakers suitable for small and big rooms
- Option to skip Bluetooth functionality on the turntable to save money
- The speakers can handle a more expensive turntable if you want to upgrade later
Cons
- It is hard to find significant downsides with this setup
- The Edifier S1000MKII might need a better turntable to fully shine, but the AT-LP60 will do a very good job
Why buy
If you want a relatively affordable vinyl setup that includes speakers whit more grunt and power than the lowest budget options, this is a great setup.
Also, if you are on budget that doesn’t allow for a full midrange package, it is ideal to start with a budget turntable like the AT-LP60XBT and midrange speakers like the Edifier S1000MKII, and potentially upgrade the turntable later.
Speakers are the most important component in the setup when we need to prioritize.
Price
Click below to check price on Amazon.
Turntable: Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT
Speakers: Edifier S1000MKII
Alternatives
If you don’t need the wireless connectivity, then a great alternative setup in the $500 price range is to pair the non-Bluetooth Audio-Technica AT-LP60X with the non-Bluetooth version of the fantastic Audioengine A5+ powered speakers.
The Audioengine A5+ offers a very elegant design, sound fantastic, and have a fully analog amplifier that is great to enhance the analog vibes of spinning vinyl.
We will revisit the Audioengine A5+ when we come to more expensive setups below.
If you are on a $500 budget and don’t care about wireless connectivity, I would give this alternative setup serious consideration.
#5. Best Vinyl Setup Under $600 (Full Wireless)
Turntable: Sony PS-LX310BT
Speakers: Edifier S1000MKII
If you are on a $600 budget, then it finally starts to make sense to upgrade the Audio-Technica AT-LP60 turntable I have included in the setups so far with a turntable that sits a bit higher up the range.
At this budget, I highly recommend the Sony PS-LX310BT wireless turntable. It is a stylish looking turntable with a traditional design and layout. When the leading stereo magazine What Hi-Fi tested it, they were genuinely amazed by how musical and good it sounds for its price.
The Sony PS-LX310BT won’t run rings around the AT-LP60 when it comes to sound quality, but it is definitely a step up. It also has a more traditional layout and design than the AT-LP60 which is appealing to many vinyl spinners. Just like the AT-LP60, it is fully automatic.
My top recommendation for powered speakers to pair with the Sony PS-LX310BT at this budget is the Edifier S1000MKII. They make a near perfect pairing. With this setup, you get a lot of bang for the buck. Bluetooth is standard on the Edifier S1000MKII, which enables you to connect them to the Sony PS-LX310BT wirelessly.
Turntable
The Sony PS-LX310BT is a great sounding and great looking turntable that is perfect for combo in this price range. Loved by owners and critics. A great product from Sony. Fully wireless and fully automatic.
Speakers
Edifier categorize their Edifier S1000MKII as their top Hi-Fi and audiophile speaker. They sound amazing for their price, are well built, and come standard with features like Bluetooth and tone control. They deliver deep bass all the way down to 48Hz (-4dB).
Key features for this combo
Category: Lower midrange
Connectivity: Wired and wireless
Separate preamp needed: No (built-in)
Operation: Fully automatic
Speeds: 33, 45 RPM
USB output: No
Speaker amplifier: 120 Watts
Frequency range: 48Hz – 20kHz
Pros
- Great sound for the money
- The Sony PS-LX310BT is a very good match for the Edifier S1000MKII
- Turntable with authentic and elegant design
- Fully wireless
Cons
- None at this price point
Why buy
If you want a fully wireless and authentic looking setup that provides deep bass, clear sound and enough volume to fill larger rooms, this is a great setup.
For $600 it will give you all the performance you are looking for.
Price
Click below to check price on Amazon.
Turntable: Sony PS-LX310BT
Speakers: Edifier S1000MKII
Alternatives
Another great speaker to pair with the Sony PS-LX310BT is the Audioengine A5+, but that combo might come in at just over $600. Especially if you want the Bluetooth version of the Audioengine A5+ for a full wireless setup.
#6. Best Vinyl Setup under $800 (Full Wireless)
Turntable: Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB
Speakers: Klipsch R-51PM
At $800 we hit the price point where we can choose both the turntable and speakers from the midrange category. We don’t need to choose any of the components from the budget category. It is a good budget for a full-blooded midrange setup.
My top recommendation at this price point is to pair the legendary Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB turntable with the lively and musical Klipsch R-51PM speakers.
This setup offers a cool vintage look. Perfect if you are an aspiring DJ or have an old record collection and want to recreate the vibes from the 70s.
If you rather prefer an elegant and modern looking combo in the midrange category, you will find that in my next recommendation below.
The AT-LP120XBT-USB is also a great project turntable with many mods and upgrades to choose from for personation and improved sound. The Klipsch R-51PM speakers are very musical and lively which is a great match or the AT-LP120XBT-USB turntable.
Turntable
The AT-LP120XBT-USB is a legendary turntable that has stood the test of time. One of the most popular turntables sold today. It can be used as a turntable for music listening and for scratching. It has a robust direct drive motor and many of the features used by DJs.
You can choose the Bluetooth version for a full wireless system or the standard version without Bluetooth if you rather want to save that extra money.
Speakers
The Klipsch R-51PM is loud and lively powered speakers with features like Bluetooth as standard and a built-in phono preamp.
They are one of the very best powered speakers in this price range and have a fun and lively sound character that reminds of listening to live music.
Key features for this combo
Category: Midrange
Connectivity: Wired and wireless
Separate preamp needed: No (built-in)
Operation: Manually operated
Speeds: 33, 45 and 78 RPM
USB output: Yes
Speaker amplifier: 120 Watts
Frequency range: 61Hz – 21kHz
Pros
- Klipsch speakers are great value in the US (US made)
- Traditional vintage design
- Great setup for newbie DJ’s
- Loud and lively sound
- The AT-LP120XBT-USB is a fun project turntable with lots of possible upgrades
- USB output to rip records
Cons
- Hard to find real downsides with this setup. It is a very god combo.
- Not the best option if you want an elegant and modern design
Why buy
Great if you want great sounding setup with a vintage vibe and lively sound. Also great if you are starting out with scratching. The AT-LP120XBT-USB is also a very cool ´project turntable´ with lot of options for mods and upgrades if that is your thing.
Price
Click below to check price on Amazon.
Turntable: Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB
Speakers: Klipsch R-51PM
Alternatives
If you are looking for a setup with a more stylish and modern design, another great option in this price range is to pair the U-Turn Orbit Plus with preamp and the Audioengine A5 Plus. This setup might however stretch your budget just over $800 so I have selected that exact combo as my under $1000 recommendation below.
The Audioengine A5+ is also great speakers to pair with the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB at a $800 budget if you don’t fancy the Klipsch speakers. I use that very setup myself. If you want the Bluetooth version of the Audioengine A5+ it will cost you a bit more than the Klipsch R-51PM which comes with Bluetooth as standard.
#7. Best Vinyl Setup under $1000
Turntable: U-Turn Orbit Plus with Preamp
Speakers: Audioengine A5 Plus
My top recommendation at $1000 is to pair the stylish looking and good sounding U-Turn Orbit Plus with Preamp and the awesome Audioengine A5+.
We are now reaching a performance level where it does no longer make sense to connect the turntable and speakers wirelessly using Bluetooth. For high performing setups, a good old signal cable without any form of digital compression is the way to go.
You can still choose the Bluetooth version of the Audioengine A5+ speakers to stream digital music from your phone etc., but the U-Turn Orbit Plus doesn’t come with Bluetooth. Which is how we want it at this price point.
One of the cool things with this combo is that it combines a traditional analog design with focus on sound quality and modern look and esthetics.
The U-Turn turntable has a simple purist layout and the speakers feature a fully analog built-in amplifier that is something we rarely see in powered speakers at this price point.
This is the combo for the vinyl and analog enthusiasts that know what they want.
Turntable
Designed and manufactured in Massachusetts by authentic turntable enthusiasts, the U-Turn Orbit Plus has become a huge success since it was launched in 2012. It is well reviewed by Hi-Fi critics and owners. An authentic and good sounding turntable built for enthusiast.
Speakers
The Audioengine A5+ is a gem of a powered speaker system for vinyl enthusiasts. It is rated with deepest bass in its class, has a genuine fully analog amplifier built-in, looks awesome and sounds awesome. If you are putting together a vinyl setup in the $800 to $1200 price range, it should definitely be high on your list. Its only major drawback is that it doesn’t include a built-in preamp and therefore must be paired with a turntable that has one built-in or used with a standalone preamp.
Key features for this combo
Category: Midrange
Connectivity: Wired (Not wireless)
Separate preamp needed: No (built-in)
Operation: Manually operated
Speeds: 33, 45 RPM
USB output: No
Speaker amplifier: 100 Watts (Fully analog!)
Frequency range: 50Hz – 22kHz (+/- 1.5 db!)
Pros
- Traditional Purist turntable
- Speakers with fully analog amplifier built in
- Deep bass
- Great sound
- Great design
Cons
- Audioengine A5+ connectivity is not best in class
Why buy
Great for both new and seasoned vinyl enthusiasts that want a pure and simple design where the money is put at the components that matter the most for true analog reproduction of sound.
Not a lot of fancy features in this combo. Focus is on great sound and great design. Not flashy features.
Price
Click below to check price on Amazon.
Turntable: U-Turn Orbit Plus with Preamp
Speakers: Audioengine A5+
Alternatives
If you live in the US where the US made Klipsch speakers sell for very good value, then it starts to get tempting to fit in the truly Amazing Klipsch The Fives powered speakers in our combos when our budget reach $1000.
The new Klipsch the Fives are amazing speakers that fill the gap between great midrange speakers like the Audioengine A5+ much more expensive audiophile speakers like the KEF LSX and LS50W.
If you choose the standard version of the U-Turn Orbit Plus (the one without preamp) you might just be able to fit in the Klipsch The Fives. The Fives come with a good sounding built-in preamp and all the connectivity you can dream of in a powered speaker.
You might however have to increase the budget a fraction above $1000 or select a more affordable turntable like the AT-LP120X-USB without Bluetooth or the Sony PS-LX310BT to fit in the Klipsch The Fives speakers at $1000.
#8. Best Vinyl Setup under $1200
Turntable: Rega Planar 1
Speakers: Klipsch The Fives
If you have $1200 to spend on a vinyl setup, I would definitely go for Klipsch The Fives speakers. These are the new benchmark for powered speakers under $1000. Great sound, fantastic bass and very versatile with state-of-the-art technology and connectivity.
For turntable, my first choice would be the Rega Planar 1. I think it offers a level of elegance that no other turntable in this price range match. And it does not hurt that it is made by Rega, arguably the most respected turntable manufacturer in the world. They have won multiple awards for their products over the last 50 years.
Optionally, you can go for the original Project Debut Carbon DC. Even an Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB is a good option.
My top tip at this price point is however to get the Klipsch The Fives speaker. From there, many midrange and upper midrange turntables will do I good job.
Turntable
The Rega Planar 1 is a very good choice at this price point. It looks better, sounds better and feels more expensive than any other turntable at its price point.
Speakers
If you have a $1200 budget or more, then the Klipsch The Fives becomes a natural choice in my opinion. They have raised the bar for performance and connectivity in the sub $1000 powered speaker category.
Key features for this combo
Category: Audiophile (Aspiring)
Connectivity: Wired
Separate preamp needed: No (built-in)
Operation: Manually Operated
Speeds: 33, 45 RPM
USB output: No
Speaker amplifier: 160 Watts
Frequency range: 50Hz – 25kHz
Pros
- Elegant turntable that looks and feels expensive
- State-of-the-art powered speakers
- Deep solid bass
- Versatile (fantastic connectivity)
Cons
- The Rega Planar 1 might need a cartridge upgrade to get the absolute best from this setup
Why buy
If you want a vinyl setup that looks fantastic and offers a sound that were previously impossible at this price point, then this is the setup to get. This is a setup for the serious vinyl spinner.
Price
Click below to check price on Amazon.
Turntable: Rega Planar 1
Speakers: Klipsch The Fives
Alternatives
If you can stretch your budget slightly, it will be worth it to replace the Rega Planar 1 with the new Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO for even better sound out of the box. We will look at that very setup below.
#9. Best Vinyl Setup under $1500
Turntable: Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO
Speakers: Klipsch The Fives
If you can afford to spend $1500 on a vinyl setup, then we can pair two of the most exciting and well-reviewed products on the market.
The new Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO and the new Klipsch The Fives.
With the EVO, Pro-Ject have finally tweaked and upgraded their legendary Project Debut Carbon DC to sound even better. Pro-Ject aim to offer true audiophile turntables for reasonable money and the Project Debut Carbon EVO is arguably their most successful effort so far. This is a true audiophile turntable for upper midrange money in my opinion.
With the Fives, Klipsch has delivered an amazing powered speaker system that sound fantastic and has class-leading connectivity. The reception of these speakers has been remarkable, top ratings across the line. It even has a great sounding built-in phonostage that enables us to connect the purist Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO without the need for a separate preamp.
Turntable
The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO is as pure and focused as a turntable designed for great sound can be. In the US it even comes with a Sumiko Rainier MM phono cartridge which has a quality that is rarely found on turntables in this price range.
Speakers
Klipsch The Fives are very well-designed speakers that fills the gap between $300-$500 midrange powered speakers and $2000 audiophile powered speakers. It offers fantastic sound, great design, state-of-the-art connectivity and amazing bass response.
Key features for this combo
Category: Audiophile
Connectivity: Wired
Separate preamp needed: No (built-in)
Operation: Manually Operated
Speeds: 33, 45 RPM
USB output: No
Speaker amplifier: 160 Watts
Frequency range: 50Hz – 25kHz
Pros
- Amazing sound for a compact system
- State-of-the-art tech and connectivity
- Amazing value for money
- Highly versatile speakers
- Class leading bass and dynamics
Cons
- None if you have the money
Why buy
If you have a $1500 budget and want a top-of-the-range compact vinyl system with great sound and great connectivity that can be enjoyed for decades without upgrades, this is probably the setup get.
Price
Click below to check price on Amazon.
Turntable: Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO
Speakers: Klipsch The Fives
Alternatives
If you want a compact system that sounds better, you probably have to double the budget and get the KEF LS50 Wireless powered speakers. In other words, I don’t think anything can compare in this price range.
Rega Planar 2 is a good alternative to the Pro-Ject Debut EVO. It might offer an even more elegant design, but probably need a cartridge upgrade to sound better than the Pro-Ject Debut EVO stock with its Sumiko Rainier cartridge.
#10. Best Vinyl Setup under $2000
Turntable: Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO
Preamp: Pro-Ject Tube Box S2
Speakers: Klipsch The Fives
This final setup differentiates itself from the others by using a standalone tube phono preamp.
With this setup, we use the turntable and speakers from the amazing combo above and add in a standalone preamp based on tubes.
By adding a preamp that uses tubes for amplification between the turntable and speakers, we add a touch of that smoothness and richness to the sound that tubes are known for. And loved for.
This combination will unquestionably be fun, lively and engaging.
- The pure perfection of the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO.
- The smoothness and richness of the Pro-Ject Tube Box S2.
- The drama and liveliness of the Klipsch The Fives.
That is some combo!
If you fancy live music that hit you with life, power and dynamics, I think this combo will be especially pleasing for your ear.
With this setup, we need to disable the preamp that is built into the Klipsch speakers. That can be done with a switch on the back of the speakers.
Turntable
The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO is as pure and focused as a turntable designed for great sound can be. In the US it even comes with a Sumiko Rainier MM phono cartridge which has a quality that is rarely found on turntables in this price range.
Preamp
The Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 is a tube phono preamp that adds a touch of richness and smoothness to the sound compared to solid-state preamps. I use it in my reference vinyl setup and I love it.
Speakers
Klipsch The Fives are very well-designed speakers that fills the gap between $300-$500 midrange powered speakers and $2000 audiophile powered speakers. It offers fantastic sound, great design, state-of-the-art connectivity and amazing bass response.
Key features for this combo
Category: Audiophile
Connectivity: Wired
Separate preamp needed: Included in this setup
Operation: Manually Operated
Speeds: 33, 45 RPM
USB output: No
Speaker amplifier: 160 Watts
Frequency range: 50Hz – 25kHz
Pros
- The finest components available it their price range
- Great sound
- Great versability
- Sophisticated vinyl setup
Cons
- None, I think this is one of the most awesome compact vinyl setups you can put together.
Why buy
If you want a state-of-the-art vinyl setup that sounds great and has a bit of magic added by using a tube preamp, this is a great setup. As far as compact vinyl setups with powered speakers go, this is probably as good as it can get.
Price
Click below to check price on Amazon.
Turntable: Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO
Preamp: Pro-Ject Tube Box S2
Speakers: Klipsch The Fives
Alternatives
If you want an audiophile combo that is a bit more “correct sounding” but potentially less engaging than the recommendation above, one option is to swap the Klipsch The Fives speakers with KEF LSX.
KEF LSX are a bit more neutral and correct sounding than the Klipsches. Less fun, more correct.
To fit the KEF LSX speakers into a $2000 budget, you probably need to swap the Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 preamp with a more affordable solid-state preamp. Neither the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO or the KEF LSX come with a preamp built in, so an external preamp is necessary for that setup.
Personally, I think you will have more fun with the Tube Box S2 and Klipsch The Fives but that is just my opinion.
Conclusion
The main idea of this article is to pair the very best turntables with the best powered speakers into balanced combos at different price points from budget to audiophile.
There are obviously many great alternatives that didn’t make this list. I have put a lot of thought into building the absolute best combos and strongly believe these setups will give the best value for money at every price point that is covered above.
I hope this article was valuable for you and wish you all the best in choosing the right combination for you.
How to Build a Balanced Vinyl Setup?
It is not possible to make an expensive audiophile turntable reach its sonic potential with budget powered speakers.
The speakers are the most important component in a stereo system and easily become the Achilles heel in the setup.
With most turntables, we need equally priced or more expensive speakers to get the best sound from the system and the best value for our money overall.
So, when putting together a compact vinyl setup with powered speakers, we ideally want to spend at least 50% of our budget on the speakers. And often much more than 50%.
Here are some quantitative guidelines:
A $100 budget turntable suits powered speakers from $100 – $400.
A $300 midrange turntable suits powered speakers from $300 – $900.
A $600 midrange/audiophile turntable suits powered speakers from $600 and upwards.
These intervals are not absolutes, but they should give you an idea of how to prioritize your budget at different price points.
Related Questions
Does Bluetooth sound good?
Bluetooth sounds decent and will not be a limiting factor on affordable systems. On higher-end vinyl setups with a more detailed sound, the Bluetooth digital compression will become noticeable at some point. This is why budget turntables often come with Bluetooth connectivity whereas audiophile turntables rarely or never come with Bluetooth connectivity.
You can read more about the sound quality of Bluetooth turntables in my Do Bluetooth Turntables Sound Good article.
Do I need a separate phono preamp for my turntable?
All the systems above include a turntable and/or speakers that have a phono preamp (phonostage) built in. If that hadn’t been the case, then we would have to include a separate preamp that connects between the turntable and speakers.
We can still use a separate preamp if we want to. I do this in my final recommended combo above. In that case we must disable the build-in preamp(s), which can be done with a switch on the back of the turntables and speakers that have a preamp built in.