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Exploring Possible Choices: Present-Worthy, Music-Complementing Amplified Speakers Suitable for Turntables

Shopping guide for individuals searching for Bluetooth speakers or powered speakers compatible with turntables, aimed at enhancing vinyl record sound quality while conserving space.

Recommended List for Pairing Speakers with Turntables
Recommended List for Pairing Speakers with Turntables

Exploring Possible Choices: Present-Worthy, Music-Complementing Amplified Speakers Suitable for Turntables

Another festive edition of Record Roundup, just in time for the holiday season. If you're shopping for a record enthusiast who already owns a turntable but lacks a suitable stereo system to connect it to, I've got some suggestions. The aim here is to provide an economical and compact audio setup that delivers impressive sound quality. Preferably, that means true stereo sound, but I've included several single-speaker options for those with limited space. Think portable speakers and powered bookshelf speakers, so no standalone amplifier is required. I've also highlighted four options specifically designed for vinyl lovers, with built-in PHONO preamps for easy turntable connection.

These speakers come from various esteemed audio brands. They range in price and style, with none exceeding $600. Over the past few years, I have reviewed and recommended each of them.

Section One: No Preamp Required

Recommended List of Powerful PSB-Branded Speakers

Connect almost any turntable with a MM cartridge (common in consumer models) directly.

PSB Alpha AM5

Recommended Amplified Speaker System: SpinBase MAX

PSB, the well-known Canadian speaker manufacturer, presents a noteworthy option in the Alpha AM5 powered bookshelf speakers. During testing, I was taken aback by the low-frequency performance of their 5.25-inch cone woofers, the expansive soundstage, and overall warmth. These speakers are perfect for vinyl playback. Bluetooth streaming is supported, and the Alpha AM5's DSP provides digital enhancements like WideSound and Enhanced Dialog Clarity to customize the sound. Priced at $599 per pair, they are available in matte finish black or white with metal magnetic grills.

Andover Audio SpinBase MAX

Suggested Speaker Gifts from Andover Audio

Andover Audio's $499 SpinBase MAX is a smart solution to space challenges. Using its proprietary IsoGroove technology, the company built a speaker cabinet that functions as a base for your turntable, minimizing vibrations and distortion during record playback. With a footprint only slightly larger than the turntable itself, this simple slab houses a 270-degree speaker array that pumps out 60W of immersive, room-filling sound. The SpinBase MAX also supports Bluetooth streaming.

Andover Audio SpeakEasy 4

Recommended List of Enhanced Loudspeakers: Klipsch Three Plus

For those favoring true stereo sound, Andover Audio recently launched the $399 SpeakEasy 4 powered bookshelf speakers. Offering a versatile range of digital and analog inputs and outputs, including a switchable PHONO preamp, the SpeakEasy 4s deliver 150W of bi-amplified power (50W + 25W per channel) to their 4-inch long excursion woofers and 3/4-inch silk dome tweeters. This results in the stereo sound a record collection deserves.

You can read my SpeakEasy 4 review here.

Recommended Audio Systems: Amplified Speakers from Fluance Ai61

Klipsch Three Plus

I am a fan of the mid-century modern aesthetic the $399 Klipsch Three Plus premium Bluetooth speaker exudes, featuring a real walnut veneer finish, wraparound cloth grill cover, and a machined metal volume knob. Offering Bluetooth streaming, this speaker also gives you retro connectivity with a built-in switchable PHONO preamp. Inside its elegant cabinet hides a 5.25-inch high excursion woofer and a pair of 2.25-inch full-range drivers, pumping out 120W of amplification. Although you don't get true stereo sound, it will be an obvious audio upgrade from connecting a turntable to most portable speakers.

Recommended list of high-fidelity speakers: U-Turn Ethos

Section Two: Requires a Turntable with a Built-in Preamp

The audio system features an AUX or Line-In input, so a turntable needs either its own built-in preamp (most consumer models have this) or a standalone PHONO preamp between the speaker and the turntable. Be aware that when connecting a turntable to a speaker's AUX input, you may need to acquire a 2 x male RCA to 3.5mm cable.

Assessing the Marshal Stanmore III: In-depth Analysis

Fluance Ai61

Although Canada's Fluance is known for making excellent turntables, their Ai41 speakers are commendable. But the upgrade to Ai61s, particularly in their Lucky Bamboo finish, is well worth the extra $50. Packing a punch with 6.5-inch woofers and 120W of power, they perform well. They also support a range of connectivity options, including Bluetooth. The Fluence Ai61 powered bookshelf speakers (reviewed here) offer impressive value at $299.99, but you'll need a turntable with an integrated preamp.

Ultimate Ears-oriented present recommendations for high-quality audio systems

U-Turn Audio Ethos

U-Turn Audio, another turntable manufacturer, offers the option of pairing their devices with powered bookshelf speakers. The $449 U-Turn Audio Ethos speakers boast a fully analog signal path, a flat frequency response, and RCA inputs. However, to connect these speakers to a turntable, you'll need a turntable with its own preamp or an additional standalone PHONO preamplifier. In a nod to our digital age, these Ethos speakers also provide Bluetooth connectivity. A chic walnut veneer finish is available for an extra $100, and speaker grills cost an additional $30.

The $379.99 Marshall Stanmore III is the perfect Bluetooth speaker for individuals who want to emulate the feel of connecting to a vintage guitar amplifier while using their turntable. The stylish retro aesthetic includes a power toggle switch situated on top and rotary knobs for bass, treble, and volume adjustments. A turntable with a preamp is required, but there's an RCA line input available in the back for connecting a turntable (it also supports Bluetooth connectivity). The Class D amplifier boasts a power output of 50W to the 5-inch woofer and 15W each to the pair of outward-facing tweeters.

Ultimate Ears HYPERBOOM

The final speaker I'd like to discuss might not be the first pick for turntable fans. Nevertheless, the $399.99 Ultimate Ears HYPERBOOM is not your regular portable Bluetooth speaker. Measuring over 14 inches tall and weighing in at 13 pounds, it delivers substantial, room-filling audio, thanks to its speaker array, featuring two 4.5-inch woofers, two tweeters, and a pair of sizeable passive radiators. Additionally, there is an Adaptive EQ feature that optimizes the sound output based on the environment it's placed in. The HYPERBOOM can also connect to external devices through a 3.5MM AUX input, making it an ideal choice for turntables that have their built-in preamps.

If you're in need of some suggestions for a turntable, check out Record Roundup 28. It compiles my top picks, ranging from entry-level to high-end models.

In the gift guide for record enthusiasts, the PSB Alpha AM5 powered bookshelf speakers are recommended for their impressive sound quality and low-frequency performance, making them perfect for vinyl playback. These speakers also support Bluetooth streaming and have DSP for digital enhancements.

For vinyl lovers with limited space, the SpinBase MAX from Andover Audio is an excellent option. The speaker serves as a turntable base, reducing vibrations and distortion during record playback, and features a 270-degree speaker array for immersive sound.

In Section Two, the U-Turn Audio Ethos speakers are suggested for those who own a turntable with a built-in preamp. These speakers offer a flat frequency response and RCA inputs, but a standalone preamp may be required to connect them to some turntables.

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