If in doubt, remember this: the techiest turntable is almost never the one that sounds the best. While it’s nice to have lots of options at your fingertips, don’t splash out on tech you'll never use, as you could save yourself a bit of cash. It's also important to put some thought into whether you’ll actually use those kinds of features. Sony and Audio-Technica, meanwhile, are particularly good at pairing true hi-fi audio quality with modern features such as Bluetooth and USB recording. While our pick for best record player overall is made by Rega, don't forget about Austrian brand Pro-Ject which also boasts an accomplished range, while Technics and Clearaudio dominate the high-end record player sector. While no audio firm has a completely perfect record in this area, sticking to the established and well respected brands is a great place to start. It might sound obvious but sound quality is the biggest priority by far.

So, you've decided to pull the trigger and purchase a shiny new record player, but what are the key elements to consider before laying down your hard-earned cash? Why you can trust Louder Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. The best record player around right now, bar none. If you want to hear your vinyl as intended – and why else would you be embarking on this analogue adventure? – this is how you should do it. You can also buy the Rega Planar 3 with added Elys 2 moving magnet cartridge, which will add a handful of cash to the purchase, but the extra outlay is worth it if you're looking for top-drawer performance and crystal clear audio. Everything you throw at it will sound just as it should – packed with detail, punch, rhythm and impeccable tonality.

This Rega turntable is an unbelievably clean and clear performer that doesn’t impart its own character on your records. Under the skin, almost every part had been revised since the last iteration – the P3-24 of 2007. Yet, amazingly, if we were to put it and this current version side-by-side, I think most people would be hard-pressed to spot any differences beyond the smarter plinth and updated tonearm. The original Planar 3 is now more than 40 years old.

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