Best Receivers for Turntables, Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

I know every audiophile owns a record player, speakers, and a turntable receiver like the components of his acoustic system since many of the digital formats require sound improvement. By using a receiver for your turntable, you get that warmer sound accompanied by a wider dynamic range for analog audio.

A turntable is like a good lead actor. Do you agree? Well, it is already good on its own. However, a turntable can better offer a more rewarding experience if something else is there to be the supporting actor. The solution? A high-quality stereo receiver.

Contents

Top-rated Stereo Receivers for Turntables 2021

Receivers are not created equally. Some units offer the basics, while others can provide more. Let me help you find the best receiver for your turntable. Outlined below is a list of top-rated receivers we can buy today.

Product:

Features:

Benefits:

Sherwood RX4508

Quartz PLL synthesized digital tuning and functions, robust block pattern

compatible with different speakers and crisp sound quality

Yamaha R-S202BL

40 AM & FM presets, in-built Bluetooth, four stereo RCA inputs

2-year warranty,60-day money-back guarantee

Sony STR-DN1080

DTS:X decoding and Dolby Atmos, 7.2-channel surround sound system

Good sound production and quality, versatile, compatible with most of the latest devices

Pyle PDA5BU.0

200W power capacity, LCD display, multiple inputs

Good performance, superb sound production

Onkyo TX-NR575

built-in WiFi, built-in Chromecast

more innovative, easy to use

Denon AVRS730H

Compatible with Alexa, easy to use

HEOS network, good music streaming experience

Pyle PDA7BU

Made with heavy-duty aluminum alloy and metal panel, LCD display and ID3 tag data

Cell

Yamaha RX-V385

4K Ultra-HD audio, Dolby Vision, HDR10, YPAO automatic calibration technology

good sound quality, powerful

Fosi Audio TPA3116

Bluetooth 4.2, 18-month warranty

small and compact

Denon AVR-S540BT

Denon HEOS Technology

Cell

Detailed Reviews of the Receivers

1. Sherwood RX4508

Best Affordable Receiver for Turntable

A lot of consumers assume that the Sherwood RX4508 is a good 2-channel amp that you can get at an affordable price. Sherwood claims this unit can produce a sound that sounds more dynamic and open than what some receivers can offer.

The RX4508 is compatible with any speakers. It can manage to deliver high-quality sound that is powerful and clear even at high volumes. The Quartz PLL Synthesized Digital Tuning and Functions is responsible for auto-scanning and preset scanning for fast searching. It comes with three audio inputs, two audio outputs, and one phono input.

Sherwood RX4508

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Conclusion:

Sherwood has been one of the most trusted brands of receivers through the years. The RX4508 is a good deal for its price. It has interesting features and capable of producing good sound quality.

The Pros

  • Features more tuning and scanning options
  • Powerful amplifiers
  • Good design

The Cons

  •  No HDMI

2. Yamaha R-S202BL

Stylish Receiver

Yamaha has been one of the most trusted brands when it comes to electronics. The R-S202BL is the brand’s pride when it comes to receivers. It features a revolutionary circuitry design and Bluetooth connectivity that allows you to stream and play your favorite music streaming service.

The unit also goes with 40 AM and FM station preset tuning with a frequency response ranging from 10 Hz to 100 kHz. It looks good and elegant as it features a brushed aluminum texture. The design is pretty simplistic, making the device pretty easy to use.

 Yamaha R-S202BL Stereo Receiver

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Conclusion:

The R-S202BL could be a perfect choice for any music lover to whom the style matters more. This unit stands out, not just in design. Its performance is good, and the overall quality is also satisfying.

The Pros

  • Good design
  • Easy to use
  • 40 AM/FM station preset tuning

The Cons

  • Expensive

3. Sony STR-DN1080

Powerful Receiver

The STR-DN1080 is designed to turn your living room into a more entertaining home theater. Packed with more features to enjoy, this unit seems to be a good match for Blu-ray players and 4K TVs. Featuring DTS:X decoding and Dolby Atmos, this unit can deliver 360-degree high-quality surround sound, guaranteeing you the best cinematic experience.

Sony claims users will be able to easily control the device with their tablets or smartphones. The SongPal application is free to download on Apple Appstore and Google Play Store. You can also use it along with the Google Home controller for a hands-free control for volume and playback.

Moreover, this receiver will give you more choices for wireless listening. The built-in Chromecast will allow you to use your tablet, smartphone, and computer in streaming music from more than 100 audio applications.

The STR-DN1080 also features connections designed for 9 speakers. It can efficiently power up a maximum of 7 speakers at the same time. You can also set up the regular 7.2-channel surround sound system or reassign the surround rear channels and use them as height channels on Dolby Atmos.

Sony STR-DN1080

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Conclusion:

The STR-DN1080 is worth considering if you’re after a cinematic experience. It has several interesting features to offer.

The Pros

  • Best to use with Blu-ray players and 4K TVs
  • Excellent construction and durability
  • Good sound production and quality

The Cons

  • Expensive

4. Pyle PDA5BU.0

Powerful Receiver for Turntable

The PDA5BU.0 provides the power of up to 200 watts perfect for 4 ohms ohmic resistance speakers. This makes the unit a good addition to any home theater system. It will let you enjoy the awesome audio quality and crisp, clear stereo sounds.

It also comes with a built-in Bluetooth system that lets you pair the device with your laptop, PC, smartphone, tablet, or any other wireless devices. The Bluetooth connectivity is guaranteed smooth as it comes with an in-built antenna for a wider range.

Multiple inputs are available. The personal digital amplifier box comes with a USB port that enables digital music file playback. It also goes with a radio tuner, AUX input, and microphone inputs for unlimited music experience.

It also comes with a digital LCD screen showing you all functions or inputs that currently in use. The remote control is also included in the package for convenient distant use and adjustments. The buttons for audio selectors and sources are responsive and crisp. The same for the rotary switch for volume adjustments. The blue LED lighting can be adjusted with the LED switch key.

Conclusion

Pyle PDA5BU.0 seems to offer the best value by the way it looks and how it works. Packed with all the necessary functions, buttons, and controls, it is truly worth considering.

The Pros

  • With a digital LCD display
  • LED lighting
  • Multiple inputs and keys for ease of use

The Cons

  • Somewhat expensive

5. Onkyo TX-NR575

Best Value Receiver

The TX-NR575 from Onkyo is a good receiver to use together with Blu-ray players and 4K TVs, promising to deliver life-like Ultra HD image quality. All sounds, even the bass, will be loud and clear with the help of DTS:X and Dolby Atmos. The surround sound is audible and crisp for a better entertainment experience.

The unit offers wireless music choices, multi-room music options, and easy control, making the TX-NR575 a compelling option. Onkyo claims it as the best stereo receiver for vinyl as it comes with more innovative features. First in the line is the built-in WiFi connection that allows a user to access and play music saved on his networked PC.

Second is the built-in Chromecast that allows one to use PC, smartphone, or tablet in streaming the hottest music from more than 100 audio applications to this receiver. For more convenient use, you can use the Onkyo Controller application that enables you to control the device as it streams right through your smartphone.

The TX-NR575 also comes with multiple outputs for 9 speakers for a more flexible speaker configuration. It offers a 5.2-channel surround sound system and zone 2 outputs that allow you to connect two speakers so that the sound can be heard as well in the next room.

Onkyo TX-NR575

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Conclusion:

The TX-NR575 is a good receiver that goes with many interesting features to enjoy. It can be a great option for anyone who might be searching for a simple but efficient receiver.

The Pros

  • Built-in Wi-Fi
  • Built-in Chromecast
  • Easy to use

The Cons

  • Limited to 5.2-channel surround sound system

6. Denon AVRS730H

Modern Receiver

Denon has been a reliable brand of receivers. AVRS730H is one of the best products of Denon. This one works effectively with Alexa designed to ensure efficient voice control. The unit serves as a great 7-channel stealth amplifier that features high-current stealth power output units on various channels.

According to Denon, the unit is capable of delivering high power. Its efficiency is rated at up to 165 watts/channel. Powered with HEOS wireless technology, you can use this for multi-room audio streaming. Thanks to the HEOS app.

This receiver offers a large selection of services for music streaming. You can access all these services through the HEOS application, allowing you to play the latest songs on your AVR and other devices connected to the HEOS network. The receiver is compatible with more audio file formats.

Denon AVRS730H

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Conclusion:

Denon AVRS730H looks quite compelling based on its features. It’s a simple but super-efficient receiver that you can use for your turntable.

The Pros

  • Works with Alexa
  • Compatible with various audio file formats
  • Easy to use

The Cons

  • You need to buy an Alexa device

7. Pyle PDA7BU

Durable Receiver

The PDA7BU is a good vinyl receiver. It is one of the top choices when it comes to wireless music streaming. It is a modern device equipped with Bluetooth 2.1, allowing you to connect it to a wide range of devices. You can use it with your smartphone, tablet, and so on. It can stay connected to any compatible device at a maximum range of more than 30 feet.

It also works as a good home stereo amplifier. You can use it as an FM radio. It’s easy to use. It has a vibrant LCD display and ID3 tag data that shows you the song title. You can connect the receiver to your external devices like USB flash drives and SD card readers. It also has an AUX input jack and an RCA input connector.

Pyle guarantees the durability of this device as it comes coated with heavy-duty aluminum alloy and metal panel that will protect it against scratches and dents. Included in the package are the durable detachable rack mount braces for quick and reliable installation, FM antenna, and remote control.

Pyle

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Conclusion:

Pyle PDA7BU is a great vinyl receiver that is ideal for daily use. It looks nice and sturdy and seems to offer good value for money.

The Pros

  • Reliable and sturdy
  • LCD display
  • Works as an FM radio

The Cons

  • No built-in WiFi

8. Yamaha RX-V385

Best Ultra-HD Receiver 

The RX-V385 is another great offer from Yamaha. It features a 5.1-channel surround sound system that you can extend to the nearby room with a pair of speakers. It also comes with Bluetooth for seamless wireless connectivity. It also supports HDMI 2.1 and HDCP 2.2.

4k Ultra-HD quality is supported along with Dolby Vision, HDR10, BT.2020, and hybrid log gamma. The RX-V385 also features YPAO automatic calibration technology that ensures superb sound quality. It also includes Yamaha’s Cinema DSP Technology that enables HD audio playback for expansive and natural sound imaging. The unit is compatible with the newest HDMI standards.

Yamaha RX-V385

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Conclusion:

The RX-V385 is pretty interesting, mainly due to its unique features like YPAO automatic calibration technology. Seemingly, this receiver is capable of providing extraordinary music streaming experience.

The Pros

  • Supports HDMI 2.1 and HDCP 2.2
  • YPAO automatic calibration technology
  • Yamaha’s Cinema DSP Technology

The Cons

  • Expensive

9. Fosi Audio TPA3116

Compact Receiver

The TPA3116 is a small, compact, and simplistic. Despite that, Fosi Audio claims it is quite powerful and practical to use. It is a Hi-Fi device designed to provide a smooth and stable wireless connection for your turntable.

Equipped with Bluetooth 4.2, it can connect to devices at a maximum range of 50 feet with minimal signal delay. In a good position, you will not notice any popping noise. The sound will stay loud and clear.

The TPA3116 also goes with the innovative circuitry design. The built-in speakers keep the sound crisp and clear. The included 18-month warranty sweetens the deal.

BT20A Bluetooth 5.0 Stereo Audio

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Conclusion:

The TPA3116 is worth considering for anyone who wants to be more certain of his investment. With an 18-month warranty, one is allowed to return and ask for a refund in case problems came in.

The Pros

  • Bluetooth 4.2
  • 18-month warranty
  • Small and compact

The Cons

  • No built-in WiFi

10. Denon AVR-S540BT

Efficient Receiver for Turntable

This receiver aims to deliver excellent contrast, brightness, and color as it comes with HDR, Wide Color Range, and other special features for this purpose. Equipped with built-in Bluetooth, it promises a seamless music streaming experience.

You can also use it in building an incorporated audio system via Denon HEOS Technology. It will let you playback the music from various digital streaming services like TIDAL, Spotify, Pandora, etc. Using the device has been made easier with the on-screen assistant that will guide you in every step of the way.

It also has 4 fast-select buttons located on the front side. Use these buttons for saving your favorite audio settings for Blu-Ray, TV, and more.

Denon AVR-S540BT Receiver

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Conclusion:

AVR-S540BT is another excellent receiver from Denon. It has smart features, especially the fast-select buttons for the easier saving of your preferred settings.

The Pros

  • 4 fast-select buttons
  • Denon HEOS Technology
  • Easy to use

The Cons

  • No built-in WiFi

Buying Guide for Stereo Receiver for Turntable

Why Should You Use a Receiver for Vinyl?

A receiver is a must for every music lover. Imagine this: it’s a Saturday morning, and you have many things to do at home. You have to clean the house, wash the laundry, cook, etc. Listening to your favorite songs is one way to energize yourself, allowing you to do all those tasks throughout the day.

Your home theater system is far from the rest of your home, so you may not be able to hear the music once you go further. A receiver for the turntable is a solution. With this, you can add another pair of speakers that will amplify and extend the system, allowing you to hear your favorite songs when you’re just in the next room.

Investing in a receiver is a practical choice. It does not matter if you are a music lover or someone who loves horror movies. Having this will surely make your experience even more rewarding.

This article gives you a detailed recording studio equipment list.

Essential Features to Look for in a Cheap Stereo Receiver

When buying a receiver for vinyl, you must not forget to consider these features as they will help you make a good choice:

AM and FM Tuner and Presets

FM radio is among the most common and popular places to go whenever you want to hear music. Aside from letting you hear the hottest music, a radio will also allow you to enjoy the famous songs of the past several years and stay updated with the latest news.

When you shop for a receiver for your turntable, you’re sure to come across those models with 40 AM and FM presets. Hence, a listener who lives in a city will still find his favorite stations in just one press.

If you’re from a rural region, you may want to grab the available signal your radio can get from a station located in the next county. If not, you just want the signal to be stronger so that the voices will be louder and clearer. The solution is a receiver. You need a receiver that has a stronger and durable FM/AM antenna.

Analog Inputs

The stereo RCA connections have been around for a long time. These cables are so handy. One can use them in connecting cassette decks, CD players, and turntables, or vinyl.

If you want to connect a receiver to a turntable, it is important to determine if the receiver comes with an in-built phono preamp. If the unit does not have this one, then you will have to run the output from your turntable to another phono preamp. Audiophiles usually need an outboard device that can give better options compared to an in-built phono stage.

You will find the balanced inputs on flagship receivers. These units are compatible with the XLR cables, which can transfer the sound signals through a longer distance without experiencing aggravated noise or loss of signal.

Interested Review: Unboxing the Fluance RT81

Digital Inputs

A lot of stereo receivers have some regular digital inputs, namely coaxial and optical. Dialogue, sound effects, and music are clearer and crisper than usual when you play them through a stereo receiver for vinyl and a premium speaker set.

There are different forms of USB jacks that a receiver can use. You need to ensure that you get something you need. The type-B USB inputs are ideal to use in connecting a receiver to a PC when streaming music from the files saved on a hard drive. A lot of receivers have the type-A USB that connects the flash drive that contains all your favorite hits.

As you’re streaming audio content almost every day, a receiver features the Ethernet port designed to be connected straight to the router. In some cases, a receiver has HDMI inputs.

So, when buying a stereo receiver, be sure you don’t forget to search for features such as HDR and 4K compatibility. This way, you’ll be more certain that the images will be of good quality once they pass over the receiver.

Receiver Outputs

The most significant outputs a stereo receiver should have are the ones called speaker terminals. They can be spring-clip connectors that you will find on affordable entry-level units. However, a lot of units have been equipped with binding posts. The posts might be gold-plated to enhance conductivity. The banana plugs provide a more convenient way to make solid and durable speaker connections.

Some receivers have the line-level RCA outputs, allowing you to set up the 2nd zone with another stereo amplifier or two stereo speakers positioned in the next room. You will need a pair of speaker terminals. However, many receivers feature two sets that are tagged as A/B.

That will let you set up another pair of stereo speakers. Perhaps, you can put them in a separate room or the patio. It can play songs in one or both rooms in some cases. Just remember one thing: you cannot play various sources in both A & B locations.

Your receiver is good if it has one RCA output tagged “SUB”. It means you may add bass through a subwoofer to your theater system. Traditional systems seldom have the option of adding a SUB. However, many listeners today crave deep bass whenever they listen to songs or watching a movie.

A subwoofer cable is heavily grounded and shielded so that it will not introduce noise or hum. Do not forget the role of the headphone jack.

Get more information from thet turntable with speakers reviews

Other Factors to Consider When Buying a Receiver for Your Turntable

  • Durability – find out the materials used in the unit’s construction. See how durable it is.
  • Price – go for a receiver that can offer the best value for your money.
  • Warranty – look for a receiver with a better offer for the warranty. The longer it is, the better.

Streaming Songs with Your Stereo Receiver for Vinyl

Bluetooth and WiFi are now widely found in most of the latest stereo receivers sold in the market. With these features, you can connect your smartphone, tablet, or laptop to your receiver and stream music. No cables that will tangle. You can even make the most of the built-in support for apps like Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn, Deezer, and many more.

Also, you can stream music straight from your receiver to your wireless speakers. This will allow you to build a huge audio system that covers more space and rooms. Popular receiver makers like Yamaha and Sony equip their products with proprietary technologies. These features allow their users to control their units by using an app wherein they can make a playlist and stream songs through your receiver.

Besides, these technologies stream out the source, wireless, or wired to just around any Bluetooth speaker or headphones. That makes these receivers great to use for private listening in the middle of the night.

High-end receivers have special features like the wireless multi-room streaming from tablets and smartphones. Others have a built-in Chromecast that will let you stream video and audio from mobile devices to your TV and receiver. If any of these features sound interesting to your ears, you will be glad to know they exist in most receivers.

You may be interested on how to connect turntable to speakers without receiver.

Last Words

A receiver is another good addition to your home theater system. Whether you are a music lover or movie enthusiast, you will never go wrong in getting one today. Just remember this: the unit should serve its purpose and give you some perks. Likewise, it has to give the best value for your money by the way it works. It must be easy to use and something with more extra features to offer.

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