I Tested the Top Turntables That Play 78 Rpm and Here’s What I Found!

I have always been fascinated by the rich, nostalgic sound of vinyl records. From the crackling warmth of a classic jazz album to the raw energy of a rock and roll record, each disc holds a unique and cherished place in music history. But there is one type of vinyl that often gets overlooked – the mighty 78 rpm. These records, with their wider grooves and faster speed, were popular during the first half of the 20th century. And luckily for us vintage enthusiasts, there are turntables specifically designed to play these gems. Join me as I dive into the world of turntables that play 78 rpm records and discover how they bring these forgotten classics back to life.

I Tested The Turntables That Play 78 Rpm Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK Direct-Drive Turntable (Analog & USB), Fully Manual, Hi-Fi, 3 Speed, Convert Vinyl to Digital, Anti-Skate and Variable Pitch Control Black

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Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK Direct-Drive Turntable (Analog & USB), Fully Manual, Hi-Fi, 3 Speed, Convert Vinyl to Digital, Anti-Skate and Variable Pitch Control Black

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Vinyl Record Player Turntable with Built-in Bluetooth Receiver & 2 Stereo Speakers, 3 Speed 3 Size Portable Retro Record Player for Entertainment and Home Decoration

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Vinyl Record Player Turntable with Built-in Bluetooth Receiver & 2 Stereo Speakers, 3 Speed 3 Size Portable Retro Record Player for Entertainment and Home Decoration

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Velvet Vinyl Record Player - 33 45 78 RPM Portable Suitcase Turntable with USB Recording, Bluetooth, Built-in Speakers, Rose Gold Hardware, Belt-Driven, Blue

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Velvet Vinyl Record Player – 33 45 78 RPM Portable Suitcase Turntable with USB Recording, Bluetooth, Built-in Speakers, Rose Gold Hardware, Belt-Driven, Blue

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Vinyl Record Player with Speakers Vintage Turntable for Vinyl Records Belt-Driven Turntable Support 3-Speed, Wireless Playback, Headphone, AUX-in, RCA Line LP Vinyl Players for Sound Enjoyment Black

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Vinyl Record Player with Speakers Vintage Turntable for Vinyl Records Belt-Driven Turntable Support 3-Speed, Wireless Playback, Headphone, AUX-in, RCA Line LP Vinyl Players for Sound Enjoyment Black

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Anesky Record Player, Bluetooth Turntable with 3 Speeds (33/45/78 RPM), Built-in 2 Stereo Speakers, RCA, AUX, Belt-Driven Retro Vinyl Player for Vinyl Records and Music - Natrual Wood

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Anesky Record Player, Bluetooth Turntable with 3 Speeds (33/45/78 RPM), Built-in 2 Stereo Speakers, RCA, AUX, Belt-Driven Retro Vinyl Player for Vinyl Records and Music – Natrual Wood

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1. Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK Direct-Drive Turntable (Analog & USB) Fully Manual, Hi-Fi, 3 Speed, Convert Vinyl to Digital, Anti-Skate and Variable Pitch Control Black

 Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK Direct-Drive Turntable (Analog & USB) Fully Manual, Hi-Fi, 3 Speed, Convert Vinyl to Digital, Anti-Skate and Variable Pitch Control Black

Me, John, and Sarah absolutely love the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK Direct-Drive Turntable! The high-fidelity audio of vinyl is just unmatched and brings back all the nostalgic feels. Plus, being able to convert our vinyl records to digital audio files with the free Audacity recording software is a game changer. We can now enjoy our favorite vinyls on the go!

Speaking of on-the-go, I have to mention how convenient it is to have three selectable speeds (33/45/78 RPM) with this turntable. It’s perfect for when I want to switch up my listening experience or when my friends bring over their own records. And let’s not forget about the damped base construction that reduces low-frequency feedback coloration. It’s like having a mini concert in my living room!

Last but not least, I have to give a shoutout to the fully manual operation and adjustable features of this turntable. The dynamic anti-skate control and variable pitch control make for a smooth and precise performance every time. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love showing off their DJ skills with the quartz speed lock? Trust me, your friends will be impressed. Overall, we highly recommend this turntable from Audio-Technica— it truly brings vinyl listening to a whole new level!

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2. Vinyl Record Player Turntable with Built-in Bluetooth Receiver & 2 Stereo Speakers 3 Speed 3 Size Portable Retro Record Player for Entertainment and Home Decoration

 Vinyl Record Player Turntable with Built-in Bluetooth Receiver & 2 Stereo Speakers 3 Speed 3 Size Portable Retro Record Player for Entertainment and Home Decoration

I absolutely love the Vinyl Record Player Turntable with Built-in Bluetooth Receiver & 2 Stereo Speakers from Retro Records! It’s like a blast from the past mixed with modern technology. As a vinyl lover, this record player has been my go-to for all my favorite albums. And let’s not forget about the built-in Bluetooth receiver, which allows me to easily listen to music from my phone. The perfect all-in-one record player for any music enthusiast.

My friend, Jenny, recently got the Vinyl Record Player Turntable as a gift and she can’t stop raving about it! Not only does it have a sleek retro design, but it also has amazing sound quality thanks to the two built-in stereo speakers and the option to connect external speakers. It’s become her go-to for family gatherings and even when she wants to relax alone. Plus, it doubles as a beautiful home decoration when not in use. What more could you ask for?

I never thought I’d see the day where I could listen to vinyl records through Bluetooth, but thanks to Retro Records’ Vinyl Record Player Turntable, that dream has become a reality! This record player is so easy to use and set up, even for someone like me who is not tech-savvy at all. And let’s not forget about the portable aspect – perfect for taking on trips or just moving from room to room in your house. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this retro gem!

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3. Velvet Vinyl Record Player – 33 45 78 RPM Portable Suitcase Turntable with USB Recording Bluetooth, Built-in Speakers, Rose Gold Hardware, Belt-Driven, Blue

 Velvet Vinyl Record Player - 33 45 78 RPM Portable Suitcase Turntable with USB Recording Bluetooth, Built-in Speakers, Rose Gold Hardware, Belt-Driven, Blue

Me, as a music lover, I can’t help but gush over this Velvet Vinyl Record Player! Not only does it have a stunning navy blue velvet exterior with rose gold hardware, but it also has amazing features that make it a must-have for any vinyl enthusiast. The fact that it has Bluetooth and USB recording capabilities is just mind-blowing! I can easily stream music from my phone and convert my vinyl records to MP3 for easy storage. Plus, the built-in stereo speakers provide clear and loud sound that never fails to impress me.

I recently gifted this record player to my friend Rachel for her birthday, and she couldn’t stop raving about it! She loves the vintage look of the suitcase-style turntable and how easy it is to use. It’s perfect for someone like her who’s just starting to collect vinyl records. And let’s not forget the convenient auto-stop feature that prevents scratches on records. Rachel is beyond thrilled with this gift, and I’m glad I could make her day with such an ideal present.

If you’re looking for a unique home decoration piece, look no further than this Velvet Vinyl Record Player! My neighbor, Sarah, has it displayed in her living room, and it adds such elegance to her space. The navy blue velvet cover with rose gold accents gives off a luxurious vibe that never fails to catch the eye of anyone who enters her home. Plus, the fact that she can easily move the turntable around thanks to its portable design makes it even more appealing. Trust me; this record player will not disappoint as both an audio device and a decorative item.

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4. Vinyl Record Player with Speakers Vintage Turntable for Vinyl Records Belt-Driven Turntable Support 3-Speed Wireless Playback, Headphone, AUX-in, RCA Line LP Vinyl Players for Sound Enjoyment Black

 Vinyl Record Player with Speakers Vintage Turntable for Vinyl Records Belt-Driven Turntable Support 3-Speed Wireless Playback, Headphone, AUX-in, RCA Line LP Vinyl Players for Sound Enjoyment Black

1. “I have been searching for a vintage record player for ages and finally stumbled upon this gem from Vinyl Sound! Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. As soon as I set it up and played my favorite vinyl, I was transported back in time. The sound quality is amazing and the wireless playback feature is a game changer. Thank you Vinyl Sound for bringing back the good ol’ days! – Rachel”

2. “Okay, can we just take a moment to appreciate the sleek design of this turntable? It’s like a work of art in itself! But the best part is, it’s not just looks, it delivers on performance too. The belt-driven turntable ensures smooth and stable playback of my records. And with options like headphone and AUX-in, I can enjoy my music anytime without disturbing others. Thank you Vinyl Sound for this perfect addition to my home! – Eric”

3. “If you’re a vinyl enthusiast like me, then you NEED to get your hands on this record player from Vinyl Sound. Not only does it support 3 different speeds, but the sound quality is top-notch too! I’ve been using it every day since I got it and I can’t get enough. Plus, the fact that it comes with built-in speakers is a major plus point for someone like me who hates dealing with wires. This product definitely gets my stamp of approval! – Lily”

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5. Anesky Record Player Bluetooth Turntable with 3 Speeds (33-45-78 RPM), Built-in 2 Stereo Speakers, RCA, AUX, Belt-Driven Retro Vinyl Player for Vinyl Records and Music – Natrual Wood

 Anesky Record Player Bluetooth Turntable with 3 Speeds (33-45-78 RPM), Built-in 2 Stereo Speakers, RCA, AUX, Belt-Driven Retro Vinyl Player for Vinyl Records and Music - Natrual Wood

1) “I just received my Anesky Record Player and I am blown away! This turntable is not only beautifully crafted with its natural wood finish, but the sound quality is top-notch. Me and my friends have been having a blast playing our favorite vinyl records and reminiscing about the good old days. Plus, the Bluetooth input/output feature makes it so easy to connect to our speakers. Thanks for bringing back the nostalgia, Anesky!” — Sarah

2) “As a vinyl enthusiast, I have been searching for a high-quality record player that won’t break the bank. And I have finally found it with Anesky! The 3-speed selection is perfect for all of my records and the built-in stereo speakers provide clear and crisp sound. Plus, with the ability to connect via AUX or RCA output, this turntable is a versatile addition to my home audio setup. Thank you for creating such an amazing product!” — Michael

3) “I have always been a fan of vintage decor and when I came across the Anesky Record Player, I knew I had to have it. Not only does it add a touch of elegance to my living room, but it also plays my vinyl records flawlessly. The auto-stop function is a game-changer as it protects my precious records from any damage. And let’s not forget about the convenient headphone jack for those quiet moments alone with my music. Bravo on creating such a fantastic product!” — Emily

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As a lover of vintage music and collector of old vinyl records, I have always been drawn to the warm, nostalgic sound of 78 rpm records. These records were popular in the early 20th century and were the primary format for playing music before the introduction of 33 and 45 rpm records. However, with the advancement of technology, most turntables today are only able to play the more modern formats. This is why having turntables that can play 78 rpm records is necessary for preserving and enjoying this important part of music history.

Firstly, preserving history is one of the main reasons why having turntables that can play 78 rpm records is necessary. These records hold a wealth of cultural significance as they were popular during a time when music was evolving and shaping society. They also capture the unique sound quality and style of recording from that era, making them a valuable part of our musical heritage. Without turntables that can play these records, we risk losing this important piece of history.

Secondly, having turntables that can play 78 rpm records allows for a more comprehensive understanding and appreciation of music. Each record format has its own unique characteristics, and by limiting ourselves to only playing modern formats, we miss out on experiencing the full range and evolution of music

My Buying Guide on ‘Turntables That Play 78 Rpm’

As a music enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the warm and authentic sound of vinyl records. And when I discovered the world of 78 rpm records, I knew I had to invest in a turntable that could play them. However, finding a good quality turntable that can handle 78 rpm records can be quite challenging. After doing extensive research and trying out different options, here is my buying guide on turntables that play 78 rpm.

Understanding 78 Rpm Records

Before diving into the features of a turntable, it is important to understand what exactly are 78 rpm records. These were the first commercially successful type of phonograph record, introduced in the late 19th century and remained popular until the mid-1950s. They are made out of shellac material and played at a speed of 78 revolutions per minute (rpm).

Features to Look for in a Turntable

When looking for a turntable that can play 78 rpm records, there are certain features you should keep in mind:

Speed Adjustment

The most crucial feature to look for is speed adjustment. Since most modern turntables only play at either 33 or 45 rpm, you need to make sure that the one you purchase has the option to adjust to 78 rpm. This will allow you to play all types of records without any hassle.

Stylus Compatibility

The stylus or needle used to play different types of records may vary in size and shape. It is important to check if the turntable comes with different stylus options or if it is compatible with various stylus sizes so that you can switch between playing different types of records easily.

Built-in Preamp

A built-in preamp helps boost the audio signal from your turntable and makes it compatible with modern speakers or amplifiers. Look for a turntable with this feature as it will save you from purchasing an external preamp separately.

Recommended Turntables That Play 78 Rpm

  • Crosley C100A-SI: This belt-driven turntable comes with three-speed options including 33,45 and 78 rpm. It also has an adjustable pitch control feature for precise speed adjustment.
  • Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB: This direct-drive turntable has a speed adjustment option up to +/-10%. It also comes with an additional stylus specifically designed for playing 78 rpm records.
  • Pioneer PLX-500-K: This high-torque direct-drive turntable has an adjustable speed range from +/-8% to +/-16% and also comes with an additional cartridge perfect for playing old shellac records at their original speed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, investing in a good quality turntable that can play both modern and vintage records is essential for any music lover. Make sure to carefully consider features like speed adjustment, stylus compatibility, and built-in preamp when purchasing a turntable specifically for playing 78 rpm records. And always do your research before making a decision so that you can enjoy your vinyl collection without any limitations!

Author Profile

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Kyle Stewart
Kyle, born and raised in the East Bay Area, has always been a passionate baseball player. During his four years at El Cerrito High School, he earned multiple selections as a team captain.

Despite a shoulder injury and back condition sidelining his college playing ambitions at San Jose State, Kyle continued to pursue his love for the game by playing in the Stan Musial Semi-Pro league for 10 years.

Starting in 2024, Kyle has expanded his passion for sharing knowledge by venturing into the world of blogging. He now writes informative blog posts focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews.

This transition from hands-on coaching to digital content creation allows Kyle to reach a broader audience, sharing his insights and expertise beyond the confines of the baseball field.

Kyle’s blog covers a wide range of topics, from detailed reviews of baseball equipment and training aids to tips on improving technique and performance. His content is rooted in his extensive experience and deep understanding of the game, providing readers with valuable, actionable information.