Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something through one of our links, we may earn commission.
in this story
RetroAudio Bluetooth Record Player, from $87 (was $166)
Why do we like this deal?
The resurgence of listening to music on vinyl is not driven entirely by nostalgia, as the ritualization and ownership of physical media compels streaming in a way that is intentional. Pulling a record out of the sleeve, setting the needle, sitting down with an album front to back instead of a playlist – it’s why record players have overtaken CDs every year since 2020, and if you’re interested in seeing why, this entry-level Bluetooth record player is a great start at almost half the price.
Normally priced at $166, the RetroAudio Bluetooth Record Player is now just $87 at Walmart. The best deal is on a black record player, but a brown record player that looks like natural wood is also on sale for $94. It’s neither the lowest nor the most expensive modern record player you’ll find, but it hits a sweet middle point that gives you fairly good specifications and fairly nice aesthetics, and it even includes speakers, whereas many others don’t.
RetroAudio Bluetooth Record Player, from $87 at Walmart (was $166)
What shoppers need to know
- Material: Hybrid Platter Mat,MDF Cabinet with Belt-Drive Mechanism
- Compatibility: Plays 7”, 10”, and 12” vinyl at 33 1/3, 45, and 78 rpm, 45 rpm adapter
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, RCA Output, Aux-in, Headphone Jack, USB
- These include: Turntable, two external bookshelf speakers, dust cover, 45 rpm adapter, power adapter
- Best for: Casual vinyl listening, apartment setup, gift giving, and anyone coming to this format for the first time
Many entry-level BT turntables use a ceramic cartridge that distorts records, or have built-in speakers so weak that they make vinyl sound worse than a phone. RetroAudio circumvented the second problem by using two separate bookshelf speakers instead of embedding them. The belt-drive motor prevents vibration from returning to the stylus, the auto-stop disconnects the needle when the record ends, and Bluetooth lets you play the phone through the speaker if desired.
You can expect to pay anywhere from $70 to $130 for a good entry-level Bluetooth record player, and that’s exactly what you’re looking for. But generally speaking, it’s a solid price for a BT player that comes with speakers (not something they have to have), and perfect for those who want to participate in the vinyl resurgence without spending $300 on setup before finding out if it sticks.
RELATED: 70 Years Ago Today: The Legendary Singer Recorded Two Future No. 1 Hits
what shoppers are saying
One reviewer “was skeptical because it was on clearance,” but found that they were “extremely pleased with the sound.” Another reviewer wrote, “It’s very small and light, so I was surprised by how good the sound was.”
It looks great when installed: “The classic wood design adds a touch of nostalgia to the room, and the modern features make it a versatile entertainment center.” It’s also a great starter option for younger fans or those just getting into vinyl.
The RetroAudio Bluetooth Record Player is now available for just $87, and since there’s no guarantee this deal will last much longer, you should get one soon if you’re interested.
also check
- RetroAudio Record Player 10-in-1 Bluetooth, $126 at Walmart (was $240)
- UDreamer Vinyl Record Player, from $47 at Walmart (was $93)
- DigitNow Vinyl Record Player Bluetooth, $40 at Walmart (was $46).
