If you’re looking for a turntable that’s under $400, the Teac TN-300 is one of the best – if not the best – turntable in this price range. When you’re looking at the best audiophile turntables, not many are able to compare to the TN-300.
And while this model may not be as advanced as the Teac TN-350, it is nearly half the price and provides nearly the same level of audio quality.
We’re going take a look at this model in-depth with our Teac TN-300 review so that you can determine if this is the right turntable for you.
Pros
- USB output allows you to convert vinyl music to digital format.
- Built-in MM Phono equalizer allows for quality output and sound.
- Aesthetically, this is a beautiful turntable.
- You have the option of playing vinyl with or without the phono equalizer thanks to the phono and line outputs.
Cons
- There is no automatic return needle.
- You cannot play 78s on this model.
The cons are very minuscule at most, and it took a while to come up with them. While this model cannot play 78s, it will play the majority of your vinyls without an issue. I do want to state that the lack of an automatic needle return requires you to return the needle to your cradle and place it back in its place. For most people, this isn’t a much of a concern – especially in this price range.
Teac TN-300 Review
The Teac turntable is one of my all-time favorites. When you receive this product in the mail, it comes double boxed to ensure that it is packed with the utmost safety in mind. Set up is a breeze, and it should take you less than 30 minutes to start playing vinyl with this model.
Thankfully, the instructions were extremely easy to understand, and after plugging it in, it’ll take just minutes to master.
Aesthetically-pleasing, this turntable comes in a cherry wood color (other colors are available) that is both fancy and made with durable material. But you want to know about sound, so let’s get to the essentials. First and foremost, this model uses the audio-technica MM (VM) cartridge for high-quality audio, and it comes with an authentic belt-driven turntable (manual). The turntable supports 33s.
When you turn this model on, you’ll notice that there is a built-in phono preamp, which will be able to be used or disabled. You also have the option of plugging in the preamp, or you could use a line output so that you need to utilize the equalizer that is built in. This gives you the utmost in control over your sound, and is a great addition for any professional DJ that wants to change things up on the dance floor.
It is so important to note that this model includes a built-in USB digital output.
What does this mean? You can start playing all of your old albums, and plug the turntables right into your computer to capture the sound. If you have any Pink Floyd vinyl records or the Beatles, you know just how amazing these albums sounded on vinyl. Now, you can protect your collection by digitizing these albums right on your home computer.
All the plugs you need are included, and the RCA connections are all gold-plated for the highest quality connection.
The MDF base is rather heavy, and it is designed to resist external vibrations for the utmost in sound quality. A DC motor spins your records with ease, which allows for premium quality sound at all times. Neoprene rubber belts are utilized to isolate motor vibration so that none of the noise is transmitted through your speakers or your amp.
The tone arm is straight and made out of aluminum, and there’s an anti-skid mechanism that ensures your records play appropriately at all times.
You’ll be able to play 33s and 45s with this record player, and the signal-to-noise ratio is just 67 dB. Weighing 10 pounds, you won’t need to worry about the record player moving. Plus, there’s a one-year warranty included with your purchase.
When you buy this product, you’ll receive:
- USB cable
- Rubber mat
- 45 RPM adapter
- Counterweight
- Two rubber covers
- AC plug inserts
- Turntable
- Headshell with cartridge
- Warranty card
- 39” stereo RCA cables
Teac TN 300 Vs. Pro-ject
Available at the same price, both of these turntables are almost identical, but the TN 300 comes with a built-in phono preamp. It’s competitor does not. You’ll also find that this model offers a USB output as well as a slightly lower signal-to-noise ratio of 67 dB versus 68 dB.
The Pro-ject does offer a one-piece carbon fiber tone arm as well as a pre-mounted moving magnet cartridge, which is a nice addition.
In terms of sound quality, the 300 wins.
Teac TN 300 Vs. Audio Technica LP 120
The LP 120 costs $180 less than the TN 300, and I find that it is a little less durable. What’s very nice about this model is that it can play 78s, which is something that the 300 cannot do. It also allows for the USB cable to be plugged into the unit for digitized backups.
There’s a built-in preamplifier, and this is a really great model for anyone on a budget.
I do want to state that the 300 is much easier to assemble, and the tone arm adjustment is far easier with the 300 than the LP 120. Overall, the TN 300 is a better choice, but it does come in a higher price and offers a better quality as a result.
The Teac TN-300 is one of the best turntables for under $400. This model not only excels in the quality department, but it is one of the most aesthetically pleasing turntables on the market today. With a quality build and a phono preamp, this model is a perfect choice for both casual and expert users. You’ll also find that the USB port allows for flexible music backup options, and is ideal if you’re planning on buying this turntable for your parents or grandparents who want to back up their records.
