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If you’re a newcomer in the world of turntables, chances are you’ve come across the renowned brand name “Jensen.” The Jensen turntables, notably the popular “Best Jensen Turntable” model, have garnered significant acclaim. In fact, back in 2016, the “Best Jensen Turntable” held the top spot as Amazon’s best-selling turntable. These portable record players are readily available at major retail outlets, alongside other budget-friendly choices from brands like Crosley and 1byone.
However, the question that needs to be answered is whether or not Jensen’s portable record players are a good investment. Consider both the benefits and the drawbacks of using this audio equipment, just as you would with any other kind. This article will assist you in making an educated decision regarding the purchase of a new record player by providing an in-depth discussion of the benefits and drawbacks of Jensen turntables, as well as a rating of five different models on a scale from one to five stars.
Best Jensen Turntable Comparison Table
| Model | JTA 230 | JTA-245 Dual Bluetooth | JTA-475B 3-Speed Stereo | JTA-315 Dual Bluetooth | 3-Speed Stereo with Built-in Speakers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Playback Speeds | 33-1/3, 45, 78 RPM | 33-1/3, 45, 78 RPM | 33-1/3, 45, 78 RPM | 33-1/3, 45, 78 RPM | 33-1/3, 45, 78 RPM |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | No | Dual Bluetooth | No | Dual Bluetooth | No |
| Built-in Speakers | Yes | No | No | No | Yes |
| AUX Input | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| RCA Output | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| USB Recording | No | No | No | No | No |
| Pitch Control | No | No | No | No | No |
Jensen JTA 230
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Turntable Type | Belt-drive |
| Speeds Supported | 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM |
| Built-in Speakers | Yes |
| Connectivity | AUX input, RCA output |
| Power Source | AC power adapter |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 13.39″ x 4.72″ x 11.81″ |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs |
A JTA-230 can be purchased for about $50. You shouldn’t expect too much from a record player that costs that much. But I’ve found that in the world of turntables, standards aren’t always important, and even the cheapest decks have some charming features. Since this deck has built-in speakers, it’s important that it’s less sensitive to outside noise because that means less outside interference during playing.
The basic 0.7 mm diamond-tip stylus that comes with the JTA-230 is great for playing 33 1/3 RPM and 45 RPM records. The JTA-230 also spins at 78 RPM, which is strange. For that speed to work, the pen needs to be 3 mm wider. The box does not come with a 78 RPM stylus. Even worse, putting and taking out the stylus for 78s is a very frustrating job.
The Good
- Compact size and lightweight design
- Supports three different speeds for playing various types of vinyl records
- Built-in speakers eliminate the need for external speakers
- AUX input allows for connecting external audio devices
- Easy to set up and use
The Bad
- Sound quality may not be as powerful or detailed as higher-end turntables
Jensen JTA-245 Dual Bluetooth Turntable
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Turntable Type | Belt-drive |
| Speeds Supported | 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM |
| Built-in Speakers | Yes |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, AUX input, RCA output |
| Power Source | AC power adapter |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 14.96″ x 14.96″ x 5.51″ |
| Weight | 7.6 lbs |
The Jensen JTA-245 Dual Bluetooth Turntable is a record player that has a lot of features. It plays vinyl records and connects to the internet wirelessly. This turntable has a lot of features that make it a good choice for both audiophiles and people who just like to listen to music.
One of the best things about the JTA-245 is that it can connect to two Bluetooth devices at once. This lets you send music from the turntable wirelessly to two different Bluetooth-enabled devices at the same time. This function gives you the freedom to listen to music through Bluetooth headphones or speakers or share your music with a friend.
The Good
- Dual Bluetooth connectivity allows for wireless streaming to two different devices simultaneously
- Belt-drive system reduces motor noise for improved audio quality
- Built-in speakers provide convenient playback without additional equipment
The Bad
- May not have the same level of audio performance as higher-end turntables
JENSEN JTA-475B 3-Speed Stereo Turntable
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Turntable Type | Belt-drive |
| Speeds Supported | 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM |
| Built-in Speakers | No |
| Connectivity | AUX input, RCA output |
| Power Source | AC power adapter |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 13.4″ x 15.4″ x 5.5″ |
| Weight | 9.4 lbs |
Even though the JTA-475B doesn’t have speakers built in, it has an AUX input and an RCA output so you can add external speakers or audio systems. This gives you the freedom to change the way you hear sound.
The belt-drive method on the turntable helps reduce motor noise, which makes for better sound quality. It also has a pitch control that can be changed for accurate speed changes and a tonearm cueing lever that makes it easy to handle records. The JTA-475B looks nice because it has an LED-lit power display and a sleek design. It comes with a dust cover to keep your records safe when you’re not using it.
The Good
- Supports all three standard turntable speeds for playing various vinyl records
- AUX input and RCA output allow for connecting external audio devices and amplifiers
- Adjustable pitch control for precise speed adjustments
- Tonearm cueing lever for easy record handling
- LED-lit power indicator adds a visual touch
The Bad
- Does not have built-in speakers, requiring external speakers for audio playback
- Lacks advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity or USB recording capabilities
Jensen JTA-315 Dual Bluetooth Turntable
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Turntable Type | Belt-drive |
| Speeds Supported | 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM |
| Built-in Speakers | Yes |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, AUX input, RCA output |
| Power Source | AC power adapter |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 13.98″ x 13.39″ x 4.33″ |
| Weight | 6.89 lbs |
The Jensen JTA-315 Dual Bluetooth Turntable is a record player with a lot of features. It can connect to Bluetooth and play vinyl records. With its dual Bluetooth, you can stream music directly to two different devices at the same time, giving you more ways to listen.
The turntable has three speeds—33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM—so it can play a wide variety of vinyl tracks. It also has a belt-drive system that helps cut down on motor noise, making the sound better. The built-in speakers sound pretty good, which makes it a good choice for casual listening. But you can add external speakers or sound systems through the AUX input or RCA output for a more immersive experience.
The Good
- Belt-drive system minimizes motor noise for improved audio performance
- Built-in speakers offer convenience for immediate playback
- AUX input and RCA output provide flexibility in connecting external devices
- Compact and sleek design
The Bad
- Sound quality from the built-in speakers may not match that of dedicated audio systems
Jensen 3-Speed Stereo Turntable with Built-in Speakers
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Turntable Type | Belt-drive |
| Speeds Supported | 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM |
| Built-in Speakers | Yes |
| Connectivity | AUX input, RCA output |
| Power Source | AC power adapter |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 14.57″ x 14.57″ x 5.12″ |
| Weight | 6.4 lbs |
This turntable stands out because it has speakers built right in. You don’t need to connect external speakers or audio systems to listen to your vinyl library. The built-in speakers sound pretty good, so it’s a convenient way to listen to your best records all in one place.
The turntable also has different ways to connect, such as an AUX input and an RCA output. This lets you add external speakers or audio devices if you want a fuller sound experience. You can connect devices like smartphones or MP3 players to the AUX port, which lets you play digital music through the turntable’s speakers.
The Good
- Built-in speakers eliminate the need for external audio devices
- AUX input and RCA output allow for connecting external devices and audio systems
- Stylish design with a protective dust cover
- Easy to set up and use
The Bad
- Sound quality from the built-in speakers may not match that of dedicated audio systems
FAQs
A turntable is a machine that plays music made of vinyl. It has a disk that spins, a tonearm that has a stylus (needle), and a cartridge. The stylus reads the grooves on the record, turning the physical movements into an electrical signal that is amplified and sent to speakers or headphones.
Yes, the speakers on most turntables need a separate amplifier or receiver to work. Before the sound from the turntable can be played through speakers, it needs to be turned up to the right level.
Automatic turntables have parts that make it possible for them to work by themselves. For example, the platter can start and stop by itself, and the tonearm can go back to its resting state. Tonearms on manual turntables have to be started, stopped, and moved by hand.