The record player itself is awesome. I love that it has Bluetooth output so i can connect to a Bluetooth speaker. I'm currently using a JBL flip 5 (I think) speaker and love the way it sounds.
I did a lot of research from lowest price (vintage victrola but very worried about records getting scratched) to up to $500, but i just started getting into vinyl records (wanted to stick lower than $500). I grew up with a dad and grandparents who loved their vinyl and this brought up some amazing, loving memories. It also reminds me of my childhood when i used to listen to cd after cd in my boombox. Theres something really nice about just playing a record by an artist and listening to all of their songs. I was missing that over the last several years where I just streamed music and only heard the more popular songs. Its nice having the physical record and cover to display too.
This record player brought me back and has all of the things I was personally looking for. I think it's great for any level you're at and awesome if you're just getting into it or getting back into it.
I wanted Bluetooth, manual and auto play options, anti skate and just a reliable record player that would work well without damaging records. This one covers all of that within a reasonable price.
My daughter has a suitcase record player which I'm not a fan of how the music sounds from the built in speakers. She loves it though (I did get her some accessories to keep her records safe like an acrylic slipmat which helps with balance and sound too)
I'm not an audiophile and I don't know all the musical terms. I do know I like music that sounds good and thankfully my Bluetooth speaker has a good sound, that I personally like. I listen to music constantly and love it. It would drive me crazy if it didn't sound good or right.
I did look into lower priced record players that didn't have Bluetooth but I'd have to purchase speakers that hook up which would defeat the purpose of a lower price. It would have cost more to get a cheaper record player and speakers.
Now if you don't have a Bluetooth speaker, this could add up. I do still think it's worth it, in my opinion. If you're not looking for Bluetooth, I think their non Bluetooth version of this player would be a great option.
I really love this record player and am very happy I went with this one. Audio Technica seems like a great company that makes quality products and looks like they make replacement parts easily accessible if needed.
Now to build up my collection and work on a nice set up for the record player and records!
Update:still love but there is no power button. You will have to unplug it if you don't want it on while no record is playing. I don't mind this since it's plugged into an outlet that's easily accessible. There is a switch on the back to switch the setting to a speaker hook up so you could switch to that if you need the Bluetooth off
*played back the video on my phone and it does sound slightly different, there is no static or odd noises that play out of it. It's clear and sounds great in person*