Is the IKEA record player any good? FULL REVIEW

[@jpesack]

IKEA made one of the greatest equipment contributions to vinyl collecting (whether unwittingly or not) when they introduced the Expedit, later the Kallax bookcase systems. Too bad they didn't hit it out of the park with their initial turntable offering. You are right, there are WAY more viable choices out there. Hopefully they will refine this product and improve it. There is simply no excuse for a wobbly platter at that price point.

[@johntiggleman4686]

I have all my stuff on the Kallax system. I need just one more cube for my Heathkit mono set up.

[@sailormatlac9114]

Don't forget the Gladsax frames.

[@crazyivan030983]

I'm not a vinyl fan... but WHO BUYS turntable from Ikea? However good it is... it is just a hipsters toy...

[@kurukururin]

my guess is, since this is a limited time only offer from ikea, its just an attempt at a "future collectors item" cult object. nothing more, nothing less. were all collectors here, so we understand ;D personally i dont think its fun enough to take up space at home, but im not really an ikea collector either. Maybe its worth it for someone in the future. they are already sold out in sweden at all ikea's and are up for sale second hand at our version of ebay for double the price. thats why this was born.

[@DustyD0]

Just a recommendation for the phone measurements, they are usually fairly accurate in my experience, but what i do is put a 45rpm adapter on the spindle and set my phone centered on that. That puts the weight fully on the middle bearing and always an equal distance from the center which prevents any wow deviation in the measurement. As for that turntable I feel like IKEA could do great if they just worked with someone like project or rega and made a designer plinth with the premium parts, and sold it at a premium, with options like a budget fluance table out there this turntable seems to have no place in the market imo.

[@leyland9999]

There is at least one similarity between a product marketed by REGA and this Ikea product. The cartridge! The bottom of the line REGA cartridge, the Carbon, is exactly the same as the Audio Technica 3600 mounted on this turntable.

[@rollingtroll]

@@leyland9999 Except the Rega is three times the price :D.

[@The_One-Eyed_Undertaker]

Ladies and gentlemen, we have officially arrived to PEAK VINYL! Thanks Frank for taking one for the VC!

[@pancudowny]

And suddenly, my "lowly" Pioneer PL-300 seems like a vintage Rolex... because of it's quartz accuracy, and truly smooth operation. And all had at the price of a Casio, with all the pleasing sound of playing with one!😉

[@Channel33RPM]

Sometimes, you gotta be the guy :)

[@Frank_nwobhm]

@@pancudowny I'm looking at my two mid-80's Technics p-mount tables with a renewed sense of respect.

[@PeterBruins]

Have been using this turntable for a few months now, I like the simplicity of it being a manual. Also, the small footprint allows me to place it on top of my record rack nicely.

[@Phiyedough]

My old Philips 437 I bought in 1978 has a plastic case but it does have suspension and it does have an aluminium platter. The platter weight is what gives a better wow and flutter performance due to the flywheel effect. That was one of the cheapest turntables on the market at the time but still sounds good.

[@prowlingfrost5588]

Those are good quality turntables from late 70's and early 80's can't ever compared to new crap like that Ikea turntable. I have similar Rotel direct drive turntable from early 80s. The parts they use for new turntables are not the same quality anymore, motors etc. Even the plastic was better quality in the old times, heavier and when you "knock" it, it feels sturdy.

[@highrantdistrict]

Good review, Frank. I thought the record was warped when you were playing it! I think the best first table for someone is either the AT LP120 if they have to have something new or with a preamp, or having a friend who knows turntables help them find one at a local thrift store or Craigslist. Cheers, Tom

[@t0nito]

When measuring wow and flutter with the app it's preferable to put something like a cylinder, like maybe a roll of tape centered on the platter and then the phone resting on the top and centered, the phone placed like that will shift the weight unevenly and will affect negatively the results.

[@tinostabile3256]

Hi have no vinyl and turntable and I still enjoy your info regarding all kinds of audio gear. That says a lot. You rock my friend. God bless you and your channel wishing you a great week ahead.

[@Channel33RPM]

Thanks Tino.

[@happyhippythevinylguy]

Glad to see you back Frank you must be feeling better bro

[@Channel33RPM]

Thanks Rod. Luckily, I recorded this vid last Sunday before the stupid COVID. Hopefully I'll be good to go with something new next week!

[@happyhippythevinylguy]

@@Channel33RPM I kind of figured that Frank!

[@kevinpatrickmacnutt]

It is way too expensive for what it is. You are far better off with the much cheaper Audio Technica AT-LP60x which features a metal platter and a better build. The IKEA turntable would be a good $90 turntable but pretty disappointing at that price point. The AT-LP60x actually performs well.

[@defiraphi]

IKEA is not a turntable manufacturer nor is it a Kitchen specialist etc.... Same goes for Aldi, Lidl, and other supermarkets names . We are far from real record players. Today we have junk professionnals thinking they're good . Since in fact no .....Can people even compare three types of records listening ? No 1) The causal listener who listens a few records like Beatles, Jazz, Classical music which usualy needs a different material as hi-fi and speakers . 2) we have the pretenders ones and low quality music that shouldn't be on records at all . 3) the dj materials for those in nightclubs and other stuff with Disco , Electronic music and so on Many people seem to not understand what real passion is to listen to records today . Sadly the revival is a big farce same goes for fashion ( clothes ) etc... My biggest question is why always buying "new" instead to go in second hand stores during the weekends ...really ..

[@wetroom.2949]

Audio Technica AT-LP60x is more expensive bro..

[@CT-vm4gf]

@@defiraphi IKEA doesn’t manufacture these.

[@nomen.nescio]

Why not buy a cheap MP3 or CD player instead. Much more convenient and way better quality.

[@joramsim]

@@nomen.nescio bro..

[@Music4thsoul]

I just think it's about getting new users into vinyl and if that brings more people to appreciate it than that means vinyl will stay around alot longer and not fade out to newer technology or get the younger generation into appreciating the art work sleeve, sound etc... as experienced vinyl lovers we take it for what it is, something we wouldn't buy because we know the difference between great and yep not so great. Hell when I purchased my first vinyl and system I didn't know the difference but it made me love it so.... it is was it is, bringing it back into fashion to those inexperienced... vinyl 🤘

[@danielcocan4145]

randomly clicked on the video to see what this Ikea record player is about without any extensive knowledge on the matter, and I was not disappointed, not to technical and any technical terms were explained so that a novice, like myself could easily understand. Keep up the good work! will definitely be checking your videos when before buying a record player

[@Channel33RPM]

Thanks man!

[@tonyjedioftheforest1364]

Thank you for sharing your opinions on this. I was considering one for a Christmas gift for my son but now I have seen this will be getting him the Audio Technica 60 instead.

[@mikefinney423]

I love the full description. I laughed every time you hoisted it like a feather. Let's call this thing what it is....a piece of crap. $200? IKEA can KMFA. This thing arrived just in time to ruin Christmas, as well as any record that touches it. One of my favorite parts... 8:22 With only a plastic plinth and lack of any vibration isolation other than tiny silicone feet, you might have to get 30 yards of speaker wire and position the speakers way over at your neighbors house. 😆🤣 For any prospective TT buyer... Rather than waste $200 and then have to spend another $200+ a year later, just save up at least $400 and then go shopping for a TT. You'll be much happier and you'll have for years. People should only give this IKEA TT as a gift to someone they absolutely hate....Or as the Grinch would say, "LOATHE !"

[@jmsjms296]

Exactly: avoid at all costs. IKEA should be ashamed of that. But the industry never knows any shame.

[@CosmeticHappy]

I just picked up a factory refurbished audio technica lp120x for $280 and it works beautifully. Hopefully people realize they have an infinite amount of better options for around the same price point.

[@GodfreyMann]

His wow and flutter test (8:49) needed a control as a benchmark which he could have easily done by also measuring it on his main turntable…this would have minimised the inaccuracies of his measuring equipment (smartphone & app). Additionally, if his main turntable is of sufficient quality then its wow and flutter would be public information and high quality gear (by definition) should measure close to the published figures. Thus by doing a bit of maths he could calibrate his phone/app combo and have presented more accurate figures for the Ikea record player.

[@cpta03]

Even though I have no interest in the IKEA turntable, I enjoyed watching your video. I agree, there are many turntables that are better values, including the Audio Technica LP60.

[@Channel33RPM]

Thanks Steve.

[@craigfelter]

The LP60 isn't a value, at $150 it's a ripoff. There's many a used direct drive Technics deck out there for less money.

[@theclearsounds3911]

About the high wow reading. Other people have touched on it, but the weight of the phone COMBINED with the warp of the platter are what's making the reading artificially high. The motor is constantly driving your phone uphill and downhill. You can see how the speed is always higher in the same spot. As others have correctly pointed out, if you could have the phone in the middle, these forces wouldn't be as strong. But, if the platter weren't warped your wow reading wouldn't be anywhere near as bad. Also, if you are going to leave the phone the way you have it, you really need to make sure your record player is on a perfectly level surface.

[@Channel33RPM]

Good tips. Thanks!

[@NeedleDropRules]

I think as far as the quality and build goes, it might be a decent turntable for a kid, or someone just getting into the hobby. My only gripe is the price tag. From everything I have seen and heard, I feel like it should be around the $100 mark. At its current price point, I just feel there are better options out there for the same price or just a little more. As always, great video!

[@Channel33RPM]

These are good point, Stacey - I agree with you.

[@off.arretezvousx]

You definitely can find a better turntable for about the same price. AT-LP60X costs about $150 and the quality is better. It’s a nice beginner turntable for someone getting into vinyl. Plus the holidays aren’t far away and most likely it will be discounted during Black Friday, cyber Monday, and Christmas.

[@gmsingh100]

The quality of the tonearm is paramount. Also, it comes with a cartridge that retails around $40 if memory serves.

[@carpentershub1726]

Those are my thoughts exactly. Even for a kid, if you can get one of better quality for the same or lesser price, get the kid something better. :)

[@NeedleDropRules]

@@DavidB-rx3km it’s all relative. I’ve always felt that if you’re happy with what you’re hearing, then you’re doing it right.

[@MrJDNJ]

Yikes, for that price I think my Numark tt200 cost about $200 (15 years ago). The ikea unit should have been designed to compete with the suitcase/travel crosley stuff, which come with a speaker, I think. OBEGRANSAD seems to translate into "Unlimited."

[@ralphreinhardt6020]

It's a hunk o junk. Thanks for taking one for the team Frank. Ya hoser ! Take off ! 😎👍

[@railinly610]

As a teenager in the 80s, I had my fair share of affordable record players, some stand alone and some in cabinet systems from the likes of brands like Hitachi, Sanyo, pioneer etc. Basically average consumer quality of that time. I also grew up playing records from the age of 2 really . In the end I'd say that if your amp is of good quality and your speakers too, a mid quality turn table should easily suffice. Expect, wow, grit, noise, wobble, dust and general dirt.....the way music sounded before digital perfection came along. Having said that, I'd rather have my mp3 collection any day now, far less baggage.

[@TheHammerofDissidence]

The LP60 is still the undefeated champ of new budget tables.

[@twisted2291]

Great Video Frank. After seeing Just Audio take it apart. I though it was junk to start with. And now what you said confirms it for me. Save your money and get something better.

[@johncicci917]

And then there's the fact that's it's going to get covered in dust having no cover. The rest of your assessment was exactly what I was expecting to hear. Awesome reviewing

[@elvisway1]

The Insignia turntable from Best Buy is way ahead of this one for the price of 129.99. It has speed control, Anti skate adjust and tonearm weight adjustment. It has a metal platter and dust cover plus Bluetooth. Mine sounds great!

[@jimmyMNSTR_911]

Belt-driven or direct drive?

[@elvisway1]

@@jimmyMNSTR_911 Belt drive

[@KokkiePiet]

Still got my technics turntables (2) I bought in the 80’s and the revox I inherited, so happy with them.

[@chilligoz]

Hey Frank, would’ve been interesting if you did that speed test with your personal turntables you have…. Just to get a comparison… Love the vids Frank … cheers 🍺

[@jhutt8002]

I bought Philips FP 146 couple of years back. Just because it was linear tracker and really cheap. It was an awful piece of crap from mid 80's, very cheaply made plastic turntable that really had no redeeming features whatsoever. Just a hair above those all in one Amstrads etc... That had wov and flutter measure of 0,26. Tells something how bad these modern ones are. My main turntable is Sony PS-LX 55 II and that, with same phone test, showed 0,07

[@JeremiahBurns]

I suspect that there's the potential to really grow the hobby through the IKEA player. The AT gives you more bang for your buck, but perhaps more casual shoppers are likely to come across the IKEA player and pick one up for its simplicity.

[@Rudolf_Edward]

Thanks Frank. I think you are too kind for this ‘record player’. Like someone stated earlier, it looks like a prop you find everywhere in Ikea that suddenly actually works… One thing about the wow and flutter: i think you should have placed your phone right in the middle of the platter. Because all is lightweight on the Ikea, due to the momentum and centrifugal forces caused by the phone on the side of the platter, i guess you get misreadings… I’m afraid Ikea was a bit hasty jumping on the vinylhype wagon and came with this… A missed chance.

[@bernardchesneau3091]

The 70's was the era of great turntables design and innovation, in 50 years, we mostly lost the skills to build a turntable. This does not only apply to turntables.

[@patbarr1351]

Seems to me that we have the benefit of strong, lightweight materials like carbon fiber and titanium that were absent from most '70's designs for tonearms along with computer design aids. There were interesting ideas that came along earlier, but some of them didn't seem to lead to a better product (e.g. tangential tracking). With companies all over Europe & North America building record spinners, we have a lot of design talent out there today.

[@michaelscalisi4316]

There are plenty of great turntables still on the market. Those 70's tables may be solid, but they were not cheap. This table is cheap.

[@bernardchesneau3091]

@@michaelscalisi4316 Cheaply built yes, maybe 5 $ max to produce yet incredibly expensive to purchase when you see the junk you are getting. Bet you the card box box is worth more.

[@johntiggleman4686]

Yup. I'll keep my Kenwood direct drive and my Technics belt drive from the 70s. Hell, even my 1960s Garrard RC-210 is better than this silly Ikea thing. I'm not sure about powered speakers...I want to be able to adjust bass and treble, and since I've not looked at any, I don't know if there are any with that ability. So, I'll keep my PROJECT/one and Kenwood 70s receivers.

[@markrl75]

Yep we cant make decent record players anymore the skills have indeed been lost like so many other things. We cant even remember how we got to the moon and therefore have no idea how and when we could ever get back.

[@TorontoJon]

$200 CDN for a plastic IKEA turntable? That's just maddening and you're right, Frank, that judging by the photos, it looked like the turntable had a wooden plinth or medium density fiberboard plinth, so that plastic plinth as well as a plastic platter are just ridiculous. Add to that how the RCA jacks are on the side of the unit instead of behind and things are not shaping up well even before giving it a listen. Thanks for your honest review, Frank, and keep on spinning.

[@dansteinmeyer4369]

I agree with you - the RCA jacks on the side would be an immediate no from me. That's just like - huh? Aesthetically that just looks bad, which is not like IKEA. IMO you'd be much better off saving a little more and buying something better like the AT or a Fluance.

[@Opurt1971]

Thanks for the review Frank. But for the same price i would probably recommend the Fluance RT80 which I'm currently using (and enjoying)

[@mrhoffame]

I went to Ikea tonight and saw this for the first time. I literally thought it was a prop just sitting on the shelf. Even when I picked it up I though it was just for show. The only thing that tipped me off was the price tag attached to it lol.

[@Channel33RPM]

That's funny - I can easily see how someone could think it's a prop. Cardboard boxes weigh more than this thing.

[@jonasthemovie]

Considering how good Ikea are at making wood products, the plastic is quite surprising. Also, the matching size of the platter and the base made me think they would come in a smaller box and stacked.

[@jmi5969]

9:10 - May I suggest placing the cellphone right in the center of the platter, using a roll of insulation tape to raise it above the spindle. The WF might improve... or maybe not.

[@Channel33RPM]

May be worth a shot!

[@jmi5969]

@@Channel33RPM That's certainly the case with my direct-drive deck. Any off-center load causes the PLL regulator to hunt up and down. The thing has a five-kilogram rotor, and yet it is too sensitive to anything off-center.

[@mogglie]

Obegränsad translates to “unlimited or without boundaries” in Swedish. If anyone wondered.

[@dimebagdave77]

FRANNNNK! great 2 have you back

[@Channel33RPM]

Thanks! Luckily, I did this vid before the COVID, but hope to have something new for next weekend.

[@rixvspinner]

Find a used Dual 505-2, the best example of an excellent entry level quality turntable worth using. Use a wide range of cartridge choices you want, not just their Ortofon carts like many other Duals. This table has brass main bearing (in which the platter thrust pad sits in a well). The spindle is the other end of that thrust pad. The sub or main table is made of metal. The platter is aluminum. The tonearm bearing can be tightened with over torqueing it for friction free movement, with having play or movement in the arm bearing. You can find this table in the used market for $100 USD no problem, maybe less. It blows away an turntable that retails for $350-$500 USD or less. So, in this case, buy used and you won't trouble finding one since Dual probably produced this since discontinued model by the truck loads. So again, do not waste your time trying to buy a new turntable unless your willing to spend at least $500 USD.

[@richmorrison8194]

Enjoyed this review Frank! Happy Halloween!

[@Channel33RPM]

Thanks, you too!

[@theflipside-vinylcommunity]

Great review brother

[@neilforbes416]

A word misspelled. The pick-up arm is *ALUMINIUM!* That's *AL-YOU-MINI-UM!* Al as in Capone, You as in "not me!' Mini as in the popular British car of the 1960s, and Um, as in Ummmmmmmmmmmm!

[@JESUSCHRYSLER5512]

OKAY, **KAREN!!**

[@31415as]

Amazing that its hitting such a consistent RPM in spite of the hughe imbalance you put there! ;)

[@Ipsissimus]

Oh yeah, didn't think of that.

[@xfoolsgoldx]

Have speed watched the video now and It's not not very good and wouldn't recommend to anyone. Thanks for the unboxing and review👍

[@littleraven28]

Wow, never expected Ikea to make one. Makes you think vinyl is making a bigger come back than I thought. Good thing I still have my dad's Technics player.

[@RUfromthe40s]

i´m using today a 76 technics direct drive full automatic in what concerns to play options, like repeat till 6 times and play and stop also automatic but a mechanical system that doesn´t make interferencies with the output sound but i have also more 4 turntables some ofered to me and already sold my two sl-1200mkII i used for 35 years for 500€ with two concord stylus from ortrofon and the original cartridges and stylus from technics professional range, when wanting to sell them it was considered not a good turntable, audiophiles would laugh if i told them that they had good sound, today it´s a must have ,this audiophile thing changes a lot each decade or less, that´s why i having 3 systems in my home working and also in my home ofice i have shelfs all over the room covered in a piece of cloth i asked a woman to make them so they could cover interelly the shelfs filled with all types of compone nts that i gathered all my life, a year ago i counted how many cassette decks i owned and i had 43 decks but sold some for a lot of money and today only have 27 ,the nakamichi ones i sold them for a lot of money this all restored and working perfectelly, some colect stamps or coins ,i colect hi-fi components

[@flipdry]

Nice! I have a Technics SL-3300 I snagged for $30 in 2014. I use a Shure M44-7 on it and can't complain :)

[@RUfromthe40s]

@@flipdry i own since new a SL-3310(colour ash) that came with a very good sounding cartridge from technics but substitution needles are very bad today ,a third of the size badly shaped ,i looked for a ,at least good sounding as the original and bought a grado gold prestige III, it sounds perfect ,all mechanical functions are working perfect ,only opened the box in 2017/8 ,better than most of the turntables sold by project i´ve seen ,the 2m red is not even half the quality of it´s original cartridge and i heard a pro-ject turntable from a friend of mine but between the TT itself and the cartridge and stylys 14.000€´s were spent there, i prefer my old technics, pioneer´s and thorens turntables everyday

[@gregorymoore2877]

So it rotates at a rate of 33 1/3 Revolutions per Monkee... er... minute? 😉 Since it doesn't have automatic needle return, does that mean it can play the inner groove at the end of Sgt. Pepper? Does it at least include an adapter so you can play 45's?

[@rbartsch]

An elliptical nude ATN 3652 E stylus improves the sound quality of an AT3600L cartridge a lot. 😉

[@SteveInScotland]

If IKEA had included a power adapter it would need to meet various regulations. Skipping the power supply means it can just ship without it having to pass tests or meet regulations. Also they already have products available in every region that have been tested…..the usb chargers. It’s easier for them and let’s be honest, it’s an extra few bucks profit from that adapter.

[@andrewhaines3259]

Ikea is primarily a furniture manufacturer and retailer with a "lifestyle " image. This is part of that "out of the box " lifestyle. When they first opened in the UK, their furniture was good quality, mostly solid timber or wood veneer with strong metal constructional parts. This meant you got good quality at a good price point. Now, quite a lot of the products are plastic foil coated with plastic constructional pieces, which is neither good for quality, longevity, or for the planet in terms of initial production or recycling. Part of their ethos has gone in terms of being planet friendly. This record player may be a step up from a Crossley etc, but still retains that throw away feel at way too high a price point especially when you have to add on a tenner for the power supply plug! I'd still recommend going second hand. My Pro-Ject Debut III was the same price 2nd hand a few years ago and for me it's great. I've upgraded the stylus to an OM10 recently, which is what I could afford. Looking on the market, there are some good deals to be had.

[@jim_wicks]

This is the kind of turntable my parents would have bought me when I was six years old.

[@pancudowny]

This thing is no better than the old BSR I bought my mom, to use with her collection... only this thing is belt-drive!

[@Channel33RPM]

Yes - but for less than $199 (or whatever your local currency is).

[@jim_wicks]

@@Channel33RPM surprised no assembly was required given that it’s from IKEA

[@stewnelless2416]

Hello from southern Alberta (love the Big Rock Grasshopper poster). A trick that has often been accomplished is to fill hollow plastic plinths with plastercene or electrical "ductseal". The duckseal is available for not much money at home improvement stores of your choice or an electric supply store.

[@Channel33RPM]

Good tip. Now to grab a Grasshopper!

[@kookamunga2458]

I think it's slightly better than a entry level Crosley. I have several vintage turntables and they are my favourite babies.

[@michaelscalisi4316]

Thats a low bar

[@davidornberg]

How the Swedish letters Å Ä and Ö sonds like-ish. Å= say the word english word "All" . Ä= Say the word "Air" . Ö= say the word "Fur". Those word have the sounds of the Swedish letters-ish....

[@SianaGearz]

Is it possible to implement a better wow&flutter measurement protocol? You can buy Timecode records easily, Serato compatible ones and such, DJ technology. Is there software to measure wow and flutter from audio output of those that you can capture? If there isn't I might just implement it? Because I don't think it's fair to weigh down turntables with a 220g phone laying on one side. The mechanism can behave either better because more weight or worse because unbalanced than with a real record, so even comparative measurements are going to not be very conclusive. Maybe at least give it a counterweight though that can cause its own issues.

[@MyCovertNarcissism]

Fantastic review, thank you for this one.

[@alm5693]

Does it give you hardware and instructions to attach it to the wall so it doesn't fall over and injure you or your family, forcing you to sue IKEA?

[@thereal_myfirstcigar]

Ha! So cool, I actually bought the turn table you recommended at the end as my first turn table getting back into vinyl after a number of years and am very happy with it. I think I bought it based on one of your previous videos. I love your videos, keep up the good work 😁👍

[@Channel33RPM]

Thanks!

[@rarenium2500]

How does the new players like this IKEA stand against old turntables? I got my Pioneer PL-514x for $30 and I really like it, needed new belt tho.

[@andyhart5669]

I visit a lot of houses with my job. I see a lot of modern record players styled to look like old Dansette cases. I presume they all sound terrible! I started collecting records in the 00's when you could get most records for £1 from a charity shop. I needed something to play them on, so turned to a popular online auction site and got a 1980's Marantz for £10. It's plastic, bit has a bit of weight, the platter is aluminium. Not the best player in the world but pretty certain it sounds better than modern budget options. I then upgraded to a Pro-Ject who I believe make the best budget record plays available today. Incidentally, you can if you shop around pick up their base model for £149. I still play the Pro-Ject most days, and have the Marantz in a second system that I use from time to time.

[@samwui94]

I heart the insignia record player from bestbuy is quite solid. Could you do a review on that as well?

[@xfoolsgoldx]

I'm guessing it's awful without watching the video😆

[@705johnnyboy]

thats a no brainer lol...

[@xfoolsgoldx]

@@705johnnyboy exactly👍

[@nomen.nescio]

Of course it is. Who buys a record player in 2022. Outdated technology.

[@xfoolsgoldx]

@@nomen.nescio 🤣🤣

[@Material_Monkey]

@@nomen.nescio records have higher sales than cds

[@dasherf17]

If you have an RL/SS copy of Led Zeppelin II, you can see how well it tracks... It would work well as an auxiliary turntable, hooked up with the built-in, always on preamp... Nice job, Frank!

[@Tom55data]

Thank you for your review Just to note, you are correct that a phone on a platter will affect particularly the W&F. You should put a weight on the other side of the platter to balance your phone. Here are my results from a reasonable belt driven deck .. With phone - without balance 2% W&F With phone + weight adjusted so the platter does not wobble (it was actually my amp remote). 0.04% I recommend you do another measurement with a balance weight and you might be able to get it down to 2 %

[@eladiocofresi5202]

Great review! As someone who does not know enough about audio equipment, I agree with you on the simplicity on how to connect it to an external speaker (which I heard positive remarks about their Enneby speaker.) The design does not totally bother me, although I wish it came with a lid. As for the housing being plastic, I am not totally bothered, but I wish it came with more heft to it.

[@pancudowny]

When introduced, my Pioneer PL-300 was considered "lowly"... but it still out-performs the "entry-level" new belt-drive jobs on the market. And for less money, too!😉

[@Channel33RPM]

Thanks for watching!

[@Balikon]

Here in Germany you will pay 149 Euros plus 7 Euro for the power supply, makes 156 Euros in total. An Audio Technica LPT60X costs 159 Euros, also has a AT3600L, is fully automatic, has a plastic body too but a aluminum platter, the preamplifier can be turned off. Although the tonearm of the LPT60X is more simple, it is the better deal in my honest opinion.

[@grahambiggs9822]

Hey Frank that was a good, honest, thorough review so thank you. It may appeal to new vinyl starters and the look is unique, but for the price it’s only a small step up from the Crosley Cruiser!! Top job and keep on spinnin !!👍👍

[@pancudowny]

Better to get a Pioneer PL-300, and have it serviced & prepped by a tech. It'll be worth more than this "uber grandstand" in the long-run... trust me!😉

[@Channel33RPM]

Thanks for the video idea, Graham. I may still do a follow up... doing a direct comparison with an all-in-one.

[@petracore4812]

I got it because it was a AT platform I was familiar with... but after a week the band started spinning way too fast and could not be slowed down. I returned it. It sounded good when it worked.

[@lolvalle]

The name "Obegränsad" means "Unlimited". Greetings from IKEA-land (Sweden)! :)

[@brianartillery]

Good honest review there, Frank. IKEA are famed for their basic flatpack furniture, and meatballs. I think they went a bit too basic on this record player, though. I'm not keen on the USB power supply, and the non adjustable tone arm - I was thinking, were I to buy one, I'd replace the Audio Technica cartridge with an Ortofon (my preferred cart) one, but, as there's no adjustment possible, that's a no go. Pity.

[@Channel33RPM]

Yeah...not worth switching carts on this thing.

[@fepeerreview3150]

Thanks! This review was very useful. I'm a newbie and this told me what I need to know. I was curious about the IKEA turntable. But I'll probably be buying the Audio Technica lp60x or the lp60usb.

[@gravengladomain6297]

Love the Michael mask in the back ground \m/

[@Channel33RPM]

Thanks! He kept messing up my auto focus!

[@remixed8079]

Any “record player” will do the trick whether Direct or indirect drive if all you wanna do is listen to music and not do anything extreme (ie mixing, scratching, etc) just make sure you have a decent stylus that’s where the sound quality comes from. Most users will use the pre-amp feature as it makes this much more user friendly when considering what you can hook it up to.

[@oeiras99]

Not a word about how well the IKEA player reproduces music, how the stylus tracked or if there was audible distortion, which might be an important consideration. That said, I was expecting some assembly necessary but relieved that it wasn't.

[@bronxcartel6193]

Gotta hand it to IKEA, they do know how to make some really nice product photos

[@jrb9272]

I am both a woodworker and a vinyl fan. To me this is no surprise - Ikea's furniture does look nice from a distance, but up close their use of vinyl over particle board leads to heavy furniture with poor strength. But it's cheap. The turntable seems to be much the same. BTW, I have both a U-Turn Audio and a Pro-ject DC carbon, and love them both.

[@dmitripogosian5084]

I have a lot of real wood stuff (yes, often laminated, but not particle boards) from IKEA

[@timothylowe8327]

Thank you for this test. I was quite close to getting one, now not so much.👍

[@Channel33RPM]

No problem 👍

[@raggeragnar]

Hey there , Frank ! Good review. I suppose Michael Myers up in the corner agrees , based on the look on his face/mask, hahaha.

[@Channel33RPM]

Haha yes! But damn Michael also kept causing my camera to go out of focus.

[@raggeragnar]

@@Channel33RPM : hahaha , that’s so funny !

[@xfoolsgoldx]

If no dust cover its a immediate no go😁

[@pancudowny]

Yeah... even my old Pioneer PL-300 came with one, and it was 2nd-hand for $20! And performs far-better than all these late-model "entry-level" belt-drive jobs, too!

[@ralex3697]

Some expensive tables don’t have dust covers. This is a piece of junk. Who buys this ?

[@xfoolsgoldx]

@@ralex3697 I know but still wouldn't want one👍

[@rollingtroll]

The first thing I remove when I want to listen to records properly , is the dust cover. It's just a resonance catching wobbly piece of plastic.

[@pineo81]

Can I have a drink? Crown, splash of water with one ice cube please.

[@stevemccrea2688]

I think vinyl needs a pre-amp to convert the industry standard RIAA equalisation that is used to optimise audio due to the limitations of vinyl grooves.

[@rsolsjo]

Fun fact: Obegränsad (pronounced "oh-be-grens-ahd") means "unlimited" in Swedish.

[@TheBoomerPlace]

Geez. For a hundred bucks more you can get a Fluance RT-81 (I have the RT-85 and a Technics SL 1200 MK II) and it’s definitely worth the xtra 100. This IKEA is best suited for spin art. I’m not trying to be an audio snob, but I can’t stand manufacturers making garbage like this to sell to newbies who don’t know any better just to make a buck. And charging that amount for a 50 buck turntable. Shame on IKEA. Oh, great review as usual.

[@alfonsoagren414]

When messuring the flutter n such with that phone app, did hou think about the phone weihht compared to a vinyl disc? If the motor is tuned for certain weights and set to use as little energy as possible it could be a problem. A direct driven turntable could make a better result too depending Not complaining. Just thinking. I am not sure I would use that player. Am used to Technics SL-1200 since my DJ dsys. Hehe. I know audiiphiles will rinkle their noses towards that too, bit Its more than good enough for norma listening. Cheers!

[@Channel33RPM]

Yeah... as I said it the video, the reading is likely not accurate or shouldn't be taken to seriously (or something like that...I can't recall the words I used)

[@Ceiryus]

Just visited IKEA today and saw they were clearing stock. They had a shelf of them for $99.

[@svtcontour]

Is it possible all those issues are due to the weight of the phone being on the unit - and not centered at that.

[@Zamot83]

What's very ironic here is that "obegränsad" means "unlimited" in Swedish.

[@davidlawrence9091]

The Speakers look good with the turntable, as far as style.

[@andyshacks7812]

Great review Frank! If the turntable is so light does it not jump/skip every time you walk past it ? You’re right; for the same price you can get an AT deck!!

[@Channel33RPM]

Andy ... you should really watch my video draw from a couple Fridays ago...

[@trabucchi]

I bought it and I m happy just for cartridge and design

[@TheAlkhemiaStudio]

I wonder, and would love to see a video of this, but how "hackable" is this turn table? as in, how easy would it be to fix/improve what it has. Maybe changing both the cartridge and weights, maybe "deactivate" the preamp with a cable bypass? Maybe changing the plater for a solider/leveled one? Many of the IKEA furniture is hackable on the DIY community, and this player looks "simple" enough??? I dont know, would love to hear your opinion on this or anyone's.

[@michaelscalisi4316]

The biggest problem is the plastic platter. There's no point spending money on an upgraded cartridge for a toy turntable.

[@johntiggleman4686]

Maybe if you could get one for $25, then yeah, you could dink around with it; but not at $199. Better to buy a quality one for that price.

[@mikefinney423]

Thinking about the weight or lack of weight thing.... how does it compare to the old classic Close-N-Play unit? 🤔 Can you weigh them both if you have both?

[@Channel33RPM]

I will follow up comparing it to a Victrola all in one.

[@Tubaman71]

I'm really surprised you didn't have to assemble the entire turntable!

[@metalmogul]

When I saw the images I swore it was an aluminium case. At the end of the day you get what you pay for and it might well be the perfect intro to vinyl for someone. Horses for courses. Great review Frank!

[@Channel33RPM]

Absolutely - if it gets someone into vinyl, then that is a good thing. That said, I do think this record player is overpriced.

[@pancudowny]

When introduced, my Pioneer PL-300 was considered "lowly" because of it's plastic plinth... but it still out-performs the "entry-level" new belt-drive jobs on the market. And for less money, too!

[@JazzVinylSurfer]

@@Channel33RPM For this price a secondhand turntable is more recommended if you want something to have for now and the future.

[@Robottorobots]

I had assumed it would be MDF like all the other IKEA things. Weird.

[@janzandbergen7199]

Did you try using a shifting power supply for less wow? The one in the video seems really cheap.

[@falkc11]

Audio Technica cartidges definitely punch above their weight and probably is the lone reason this turntable was listenable

[@davidharvey8238]

Seriously Frank, I would say to a vinyl newbie. Keep streaming, save those dollars and buy yourself a quality table.

[@ralseidreemurr2682]

I know this may feel and look cheap but i am just glad to see something thats not Crosley for a change

[@bobbydigital311]

I snagged a seeying all in one player...it actually works really well

[@anderspaulsson]

Obegränsad means Unlimited in Swedish. Kinda weird as a name but like all Ikea products, they have weird names.

[@lobbymccawker2083]

Where's the cover? How do you stop it getting dusty?

[@pancudowny]

Leave it in the box, at the store, and get yourself a decent turntable--like a Pioneer PL-300--and have it serviced & prepped by a qualified tech. It'll be worth more than even these "entry-level" belt-drive jobs in the long run... trust me!😉

[@zachary_attackery]

Say what you want but the kernugstrig on that player is pretty good quality as well as the bjorgenflurgen. I will say however that the kruduk and nergendok need a little work

[@Channel33RPM]

:)

[@pancudowny]

VURTDEFURK you talking about...?!😆