Best Suitcase Record Players: Top 8 Vintage Portable 2020

So now the time has finally come when you have decided to buy a new record player. But we have to agree that there are a plethora of options available in the market that can often be confusing. Even when you go ahead with your search online for the best Suitcase Record Players, it does get overwhelming.

And there is a high probability that if you directly go to a store, you will come out with a Vintage Suitcase Record Player that’s at least $ 400.  And there might not be as many features either as you are unaware of what exactly should be present.

So considering everything here I shall be talking about all that you need to know about the suitcase record players and also the best you can buy. The features will help you understand your preference, and then you can make an informed, wise decision.

You may like: Crosley Executive Review 2020

Suitcase Record Players Comparison Table

Best Suitcase Record Players

Product Image	Product Name	Brand	Value	Check Price
	Victrola VSC-550-BT – BK: Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Portable Suitcase Record Player	Victrola	$$$	Buy on Amazon
	Crosley CR6232A-BR: Nomad Portable USB Turntable	Crosley	$$	Buy on Amazon
	Victrola Nostalgic: Classic Wood 6-in-1 Bluetooth Turntable	Victrola	$$$	Buy on Amazon
	Crosley CR6231D-GR: Sterling Portable Turntable	Crosley	$$$	Buy on Amazon
	Victrola VTA-600B-ESP: 8-in-1 Bluetooth/Wireless Record Player	Victrola	$$$	Buy on Amazon
	Crosley Cruiser: Bluetooth Suitcase Turntable	Crosley	$$	Buy on Amazon
	Crosley CR8005A-TU: Portable 3-Speed Turntable	Crosley	$$	Buy on Amazon
	GOODNEW Vintage Suitcase: GoJiaJie Vinyl Record Player Turntable	GOODNEW	$$	Buy on Amazon

Best Suitcase Record Players at a Glance

Victrola VSC-550-BT – BK – Most Affordable record Player

This is a Victrola Suitcase Record Player and the best choice in case you are on a strict budget but looking for something with quality sound. It is a belt-driven record player and has 3-speed options for playback.

There is RCA and Bluetooth connectivity so you can also connect it with the smart devices that you have at home. There is a built-in speaker that offers a good sound experience. The model is light in weight, and PU leather made that makes a stylish suitcase-style record player.

It can play three records, and this feature makes it appealing. The design is undoubtedly funky and modern, and the colour range is endless that makes sure that you do find something as per your specifications.

Crosley CR6232A-BR – Best Overall record player

This one is one of the most popular Crosley Suitcase Record Player and several features make it so. The design of the record player is elegant, classy, and will remind you of the ones that were found during the second world war in every household.

It has almost every feature that a god turntable can have. Has a belt mechanism with three speeds. Slightly expensive, but you do get features that make it a value for money product. It has a headphone jack, auxiliary output, and USB connectivity as well.

You can also edit the audio content through a software suite which also makes this one unique. The cartridge-style is moving and magnetic that is mostly found in high-end models.

Victrola Nostalgic – Best Value for money Record player

This victrola suitcase record player also comes with three-speed modes and is Bluetooth compatible. You also get auxiliary input with it has the most beautiful wooden vintage turntable design and comes in 6 different colour variations. You get all of the modern features like FM/AM radio, can play cassettes, vinyl records and CD’s as well.

It can play all standard records smoothly. You won’t need any additional equipment with it so perfect for beginners, and the set up is done in minutes. The build quality of this record table is worth a mention and has strong hinges, and the real wooden case showcases the trust of over 115 years that is offered by the brand.

This is a mid-ranged model, but total value for money as the features remain endless. There can be small issues related to cartridge and needle as there is not enough pressure put on some of the records for the right play. It has a beautiful wooden finish that has a huge dial display and analogue radio.

The speakers are of decent quality, and you can always use the RCA jack for connecting the external speakers as well. You also get wireless playback through Bluetooth. You will be able to take full benefit from it as there is a CD player and a built-in cassette player.

This does seem inexpensive when you see that you just won’t need any kind of additional gear that might work has a hindrance to the great music experience.  One of the things that can limit the player versatility is the lack of analogue radio and recording functionality while we compare to similar models of the range.

Crosley CR6231D-GR – High-Quality sound Turntable

Another one in our top list is this CR6231D-GR Crosley suitcase record player. This is also available in other colour variants that are black and red that offers an amazing vintage look.

Although this one is a bit heavier than some of the other models that we motioned on the list, I am not complaining. Mainly because the record player has been built with the focus on sound quality in mind and comes with full-range speakers by Dansette Bermuda.

There are a diamond stylus and a supporting stand present, and you will have a sound experience like none other. The turntable has a design that reminds you of the ’60s and has Bluetooth connectivity and an AUX capability as well.

Victrola VTA-600B-ESP – Best Vintage Suitcase Record Player

If you had been searching for the vintage record player that is best in sound quality as well as value for money, this is the one to go for. There are several features, including transferring from vinyl music to MP3 recording.

With this victrola suitcase record player, there is a big analogue tuner and its made from real wood. This certainly offers cool décor to the modern functionality home. For streaming music, there is also Bluetooth connectivity.

So you will be able to connect it to the smart device and has the ability for vinyl into the MP3 recording. There are also functions like a CD player, cassette player, USB media, analogue dial, and FM radio.

This turntable also comes with three speeds. So you can play the music at 33, 45 and 78 rpm as per the choice. Another great feature is the phono output that uses RCA, and there is also 3.5 mm AUX present that you can use for connecting external speakers. You get three replacement needles with it. I love the old world charm that this gear offers and is like no other.

Crosley Cruiser – Best Color Styles

Another good choice for the vintage suitcase record player is the Crosley Cruiser. This has been improved for pitch control and Bluetooth connectivity. Now you will be able to stream your favourite music through the phone. There is a stylish leatherette that comes with it.

You get stereo speakers for great music enjoyment. This does seem a bit expensive, but if you are looking for something that’s a premium quality, one has to go for it. The highlight of the record player is, of course, the pitch control that is adjustable, so you have immense control over the sound output.

The design of the record player is very cute and has a modern adaptation to the traditional suitcase player. Also as you have about 24 colour options, you are sure to find something that fits your room décor perfectly well. As per the price point, this specific model is not known for durability.

Most of the reviews that you observe do have a complaint about it. Also, the playback quality is slightly lower than what you expect at this price range.

Crosley CR8005A-TU –  Best Vintage Design

If you were in search of a Vintage Suitcase Record Player, then there is a high probability that you will like this one. The company was inspired by the turntables that were found in the 1930s.

In case you had been searching for an antique designed model with technology, and without the need to spend a huge amount of money, this is the one.  This suitcase player makes it impossible to take eyes off from. The lines are clean and have a minimalistic approach when it comes to the exterior.

There is also an advanced and powerful audio system that offers great sound quality. It is available in nine different colours and has a belt-driven mechanism. With three speeds and NP6 needle of system, the operation is smooth. There is no USB connectivity, but you can still enjoy some rich and authentic sounds of the classic vinyl collection.

GOODNEW Vintage Suitcase Record Player – The Best Automatic Turntable

If you are looking for an automated record player, then you can go for this one. The design is rugged and when you shut the case down, it seems strong and elegant. Has a long battery that assures quality music non-stop for three hours.

The inbuilt stereo and three-speed options add to the features. You can also listen to FM radio on this one and it comes with RCA and AUX jacks. There is an auto-stop feature with Bluetooth connectivity. At 7.3 pounds of weight, this one is not too heavy or light, somewhere in between when we compare it with other record players on the list.

Things To Consider While Buying Record Players

It is important that before you decide on making your purchase for a record player, all of the key features need to be observed. Remember that this is one music device that you will be using for years to come, so there shouldn’t be any compromise with the quality. There are several factors to look into, and I have some important ones right here for you:

USB connectivity

This is a crucial feature to have in a record player that allows you for moving the vinyl record music to digital.

Speakers

Get information on if there are in-built speakers in the turntable. This becomes vital if you are planning to use it without a connection to your stereo system. Also, the quality of speakers is of utmost importance for the best sound.

Speeds

One of the ideal speeds that should be present in a record player is 78 rpm. This is especially true if you have a collection of vintage turntable records with you. The list of a turntable that we mentioned above, all of them do have three-speed functions, so you are sorted.

Portability

Suitcase record players will be your ideal choice for high portability. These are light in weight and usually, come with a handle. So when you close it, carrying it from one space to another, and the set up becomes easier.

Why Should You Go For Portable Record Players?

When we talk about the best suitcase record player portability is certainly the feature of top priority. And if you spend some time while researching for the portable turntable, there are several reasons for the specific recommendation, even though the market is filled with so many variations. The variety can be seen in size, price, and also in features. All of these do play a vital role in offering an overall fantastic product.

However, with the huge number of options, one often gets confused about the one that you should purchase. I have a simple answer for it: You have to take some time out for discovering the best turntable brands and then start narrowing down the search from that point.

As the record player industry is huge in the present times, you will be able to find some incredible cheap option as well. This might seem a steal but will also cost you a lot more money in time as there is an inability for playing the music of high standard. If you had been searching for the option that goes portable, we have covered the best units that you can go through for features available and are best in the market.

Consider that you might want to take for the favourite records for a trip or party. And in case you are supplying the record player, it is recommended that you go for a self-contained, compact unit. With the above list of the best suitcase record players, I hope that your confusion is cleared out.

Are There Any Advantages Of Expensive Record Players?

One thing that is obvious when it comes to electronics is that the more budget that you have, the better features you enjoy. High-end record players can reduce the external noise like vibration, make better use of needles and cartridges, have quality isolated motor, better tone-arm, and durable.

When you shop for a vintage suitcase record player, the main aim is going for a model that one can afford. But the sound quality is also a key factor. Therefore if you can spend a little more in the record player that offers sound quality that you want, go for that one. When you think long term, high-cost models will last for years and the cheaper once will need a replacement sooner.

FAQs On Best Suitcase Record Players

Should I buy suitcase record players? Are they any good?

Most of the suitcase turntables are good. These are portable, so easy to carry, and are not going to ruin the vinyl records. Try to go for one that has high-quality in-built speakers and the best ceramic cartridge available.

Does portable record player need speakers?

Most of the portable models do come with in-built speakers. You can also buy separate speakers and connect them to the record player for better sound quality if you like. The suitcase set up on its own has all of the components needed, and all you have to do is push the play button.

Can Cheap Record Players Damage Records?

Yes, the quality of the record player can impact record. There can be a loss of sound quality while permanent damage to the vinyl record. This can also lead to needle skipping songs on the record.

Is Victrola Suitcase Record Player good?

Yes, these record players are great. The brand has been known for its competitive pricing with all-round features and amazing design. Apart from this, the sound quality that these record players offer is also good. And as per the price range, finding a similar featured record from other brands is difficult.

What Features Are A Must For Record Player?

You can buy a record player for the analogue sound value. But there are also some models available that help you with creating a digital copy of the favourite album that makes it easy to preserve. This also makes sure that you have your music wherever you go. So look for the one that has a USB output if you want this option.

What does a built-in phono preamp mean?

A phono-preamp or phono stage offers a connection between the amplifier and the record player. When the vinyl used to be standard for the recording of the audio, phono preamp has been built-in for making sure there is a direct connection of the turntable. Now, you get some formats like CD that had replaced vinyl records and this has caused the amplifier manufacturers to remove the phono-stage as these are of not much use these days.

What is a fully automatic record player?

A full automatic record player or turntable can lift the tone-arm and then lower it gently on the record in the right position. After the music is played it is also able to live back the tone-arm and then switch the system off. This doesn’t need any kind of manual handling and offers high convenience to the user as well. Often these are expensive models.

Bottom Line

When it comes to Best Suitcase Record Players, we hope that the above guidelines must help find the one that suits your requirement. Of course, with time and some technological advancement, turntables are gaining popularity again.

There are a plethora of options available in the market today and the best one is the one that fits your budget and features you want. A well-designed suitcase player has many advantages, the major one being the ease in carrying it with you.

These are also great to look at and add to the overall look of your room décor. These also make sure that the ancient records keep rolling with generations to come the best music stays alive!