AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Turntables for Professional 2026
The top pick is Thorens TD 1601 TP 160 walnut ($4,464). Reloop RP-7000 MkII Professional Upper Torque Direct Drive DJ… gives you the most for the money at $646. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 36 models across 14 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 8, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
-
- Size12"
- Weight11 kg
The Thorens TD 1601 TP 160 walnut is a beautifully crafted, high-performance turntable built on a solid foundation of Thorens’ legacy. It’s perfect for serious vinyl listeners who value a classic aesthetic and refined sound quality, offering excellent detail retrieval and a warm, inviting character. This is a turntable you’ll want to keep around for a long time.
Pros
- Walnut plinth provides exceptional resonance damping and visual appeal.
- Sub-chassis isolation system minimizes external vibrations effectively.
- Internal strap drive ensures consistent speed and minimizes wow/flutter.
Cons
- Premium-priced, positioning it out of reach for budget-conscious buyers.
- Manual operation may require a learning curve for some users.
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,464 now$4,464€3,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight3.2 kg
If you play records with a moving magnet or moving coil cartridge, this phono preamp gives you plenty of say over how it is set up. You can choose from six capacitance values for MM and six impedances for MC, so you can match it to your cartridge. Its XLR and RCA outputs let you connect it in more than one way, and two stereo inputs can be switched from the front panel.
Pros
- Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA stereo inputs and outputs
- Suitable for both MM and MC cartridges
- Six selectable capacitance values for MM and six impedances for MC
Cons
- Mono and GND Lift switches are the only extra front panel controls
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,237 now$3,237€2,899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight3.2 kg
You get this preamp if you own a turntable with a moving magnetic or moving coil cartridge and want a proper stage between it and your system. It handles both cartridge types, and its switchable gain lets you match the level to your cartridge. It suits a serious record player setup more than a casual one, since it is a separate box that needs shelf space and a mains connection.
Pros
- Accepts both moving magnetic (MM) and moving coil (MC) pickup systems
- RIAA equalization built according to Doug Self
- Switchable gain: Normal, -10 dB, +4 dB helps match different cartridges
Cons
- Weighs 3.2 kg and measures 278 x 57 x 330 mm, so it takes up space on a crowded deck
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,120 now$2,120€1,899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight9.6 kg
This pair of turntables feels incredibly solid thanks to its heavy aluminium platters. The adjustable torque lets you prevent skipping on loud tracks, and the included Ortofon pickup sounds great for dancing. However, you still need to buy the stylus separately, which adds up in cost. This setup is perfect for a serious club DJ who wants reliability without fiddling.
Pros
- Die-cast aluminium housing adds solid, professional weight.
- Adjustable start and brake torque controls slip resistance.
- Wide pitch adjustment range handles fast tempos easily.
Cons
- Stylus is missing and must be bought separately.
- Price is high for a bundle that lacks the needle.
29AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,511 now$2,511€2,249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight9.6 kg
This set brings two heavy-duty direct drive turntables perfect for DJs who need solid stability. The aluminium platters and adjustable torque settings handle heavy records without slipping. While you get a great cartridge and pitch control, remember you must buy the stylus separately. It is a premium-priced choice for anyone needing reliable, consistent playback.
Pros
- Die-cast aluminium housing keeps platter stable and steady.
- Adjustable starting and braking torque controls slipperiness.
- Wide pitch adjustment range allows for major speed tweaks.
Cons
- Stylus is not included in this bundle purchase.
- Heavy 9.6 kg weight makes single transport difficult.
26AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,388 now$2,388€2,139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight11.9 kg
This heavy-duty turntable moves fast and stays quiet thanks to its thick platter and special insulators. It feels solid under your hands with its silver arm, making it great for serious DJs who want reliability. It suits anyone needing a simple, powerful player without extra digital features.
Pros
- Heavy die-cast aluminium platter reduces motor feedback.
- New high-performance insulators keep noise very low.
- Polished silver tonearm offers a secure fit.
Cons
- Tracking force range is limited to just 0 to 4 grams.
- No Bluetooth or USB digital output options available.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Oct 22Oct 22$1,674 now$1,674€1,499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight11.8 kg
This set brings solid direct drive power and a smooth aluminum platter for serious scratching. The hydraulic tonearm lift adds real weight to the arm without needing extra gear. It's great for DJs who need quick starts and precise speed control, though you'll still need your own phono stage.
Pros
- Direct drive motor ensures no belt slip for instant start
- Hydraulic tonearm lift prevents arm drop during heavy use
- Adjustable stop times let you control playback pauses
Cons
- No specific cartridge model is listed in the bundle
- USB port supports only up to four turntables total
26AudioFu
Index↑ 4.1%since Aug 17$1,673 · Aug 17$1,741 now$1,741€1,559 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight11.7 kg
These turntables are built for tight control in a club setting. The direct drive motor starts instantly without lag, and the high torque keeps records stable. However, you must buy a separate cartridge since it isn't included. They are heavy to move but perfect for loud rooms.
Pros
- Direct drive motor ensures instant, zero-latency start-up for tight control.
- High-torque design keeps heavy vinyl from slipping on fast spins.
- Satin S-shaped tonearm minimizes friction and resonances during playback.
Cons
- Cartridge and stylus are not included in this bundle purchase.
- Heavy 11.7 kg weight makes transport and setup physically demanding.
26AudioFu
Index↑ 4.4%since Aug 17$1,517 · Aug 17$1,584 now$1,584€1,419 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Reloop RP-7000 MkII Professional Upper Torque Direct Drive DJ…
RP 7000 MK2 silver · Reloop
16 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Weight11.7 kg
If you DJ and want a turntable you can start quickly and control precisely, this one is worth a look. It has direct drive, a quartz lock, a start brake, reverse and a battle position, which are the features DJs use most. Just remember the cartridge and stylus are not included, so plan to buy those too.
Pros
- Direct drive with high torque for quick, stable starts
- S-shaped tonearm with a satin, low-resonance material
- Height-adjustable tonearm base for easy setup
Cons
- Cartridge and stylus are not included, so you need to buy them separately
- At 11.7 kg, it is heavy to carry between gigs
-
- Weight9.6 kg
If you are a DJ or a serious vinyl player, this turntable gives you plenty of control. The direct drive, adjustable starting and braking torque, and pitch range let you handle records the way you want. Just remember you need to buy a stylus, and plan for a heavy, large machine on your table.
Pros
- Die-cast aluminium housing gives the turntable a sturdy base
- Direct drive with adjustable starting and braking torque for precise control
- Pitch adjustment range of ±8%/±16% and a reverse play function
Cons
- Stylus is not included, so you must buy one separately
- At 9.6 kg and 453 x 169 x 353 mm, it is a large, heavy unit to move around
66AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,114 now$1,114€998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 36 turntables
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Reloop RP8000 Mk2 Advanced Hybrid Torque Turntable with Digital…RP 8000 MK2 · Reloop67↑ 4.9%$725€649$725€649Check ↗
- 12
Thorens TD 403 DD matt oakThorens · 3 finishes52Stable$1,450€1,299$1,450€1,299Check ↗
- 13
Thorens TD 402 DD blackThorens51↓ 1.3%$847€759$847€759Check ↗
- 14
Thorens TD 204 walnutThorens52↓ 2.7%$758€679$758€679Check ↗
- 15
Reloop RP 7Reloop · 4 finishes59↓ 4.7%$563€504$563€504Check ↗
- 16
Technics SL-1200MK7 TurntableSL-1200MK7 Case Bundle · Technics40↓ 1.4%$1,223€1,095$1,223€1,095Check ↗
- 17
Reloop RP 5000 MK4Reloop · 4 finishes57Stable$490€439$490€439Check ↗
- 18
Pro-Ject Juke Box E1 HiFi Set redPro-Ject · 3 finishes32Stable$892€799$892€799Check ↗
- 19
Korg handytraxx tubeKorg39Stable$725€649$725€649Check ↗
- 20
Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP-BK Direct-Drive TurntableAT-LP140XP Black · Audio-Technica · 2 finishes51↑ 7.8%$524€469$524€469Check ↗
- 21
Thorens TD 101 A blackThorens51Stable$444€398$444€398Check ↗
- 22
Reloop RP 2000 MK4 SilverReloop · 2 finishes51Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 23
Sonifex Redbox RB-PA2Sonifex37↓ 0.7%$602€539$602€539Check ↗
- 24
Pro-Ject Phono Box S2 Phono PreampPhono-Box E · Pro-Ject · 2 finishes92Stable$73€65$73€65Check ↗
- 25
Korg handytraxx playKorg41↓ 2.9%$410€367$410€367Check ↗
- 26
Pro-Ject RecordMaster II walnutPro-Ject · 4 finishes63Stable$333€298$333€298Check ↗
- 27
Pro-Ject Primary E Phono whitePro-Ject · 3 finishes60Stable$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 28
Pro-Ject Optical Box E Phono BlackPro-Ject57Stable$122€109$122€109Check ↗
- 29
ART Precision Phono PreampART54Stable$108€97$108€97Check ↗
- 30
Pro-Ject Phono-Box E BT 5Pro-Ject54↑ 7.2%$150€134$150€134Check ↗
- 31
ART DJ Pre IIART40↓ 2.7%$82€73$82€73Check ↗
- 32
Dual DTJ 301-1 USBDual38Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 33
Stokyo Record Runner cherry redStokyo · 2 finishes37Stable$106€95$106€95Check ↗
- 34
Millenium PHP 2Millenium34↑ 4.7%$22€20$22€20Check ↗
- 35
IMG Stageline SPR-6IMG Stageline31↑ 11.5%$32€29$32€29Check ↗
- 36
Behringer Microphono PP400 Phono PreampPP400 · Behringer24Stable$16€14$16€14Check ↗
Turntables by the numbers
Measured across all 61 models we track, not a sample.
Median $608 — half of all turntables here cost less.
median of 47 models · 0.55 kg–11.7 kg
median of 16 models · 7"–12"
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 61 turntables from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What should I look for when buying turntables?
Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.
How much should I spend on turntables?
Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.
Are expensive turntables worth the investment?
Higher-priced turntables typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.
What are the best brands for turntables?
Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.
Should I buy turntables online or in-store?
Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.





