Looking for an Easy to Use & Affordable Turntable That Will Last?

Don Lindich Has a Recommendation.

A reader of Sound Advice submitted the following question to longtime audio columnist Don Lindich regarding automatic turntables,

Q: Can you recommend a good automatic turntable that does not cost a lot of money? I don’t want to have to do anything when the record is done playing.
– T.B., Beaver, PA

His answer? Be careful with cheap automatic turntables.

“Though they are more complicated than a manual turntable, automatic turntables tend to serve the entry-level market… So though there are affordable automatic turntables available, the trick is finding a good one. I have received complaints about inexpensive automatic turntables that do not last long or sound very good.”

His solution? The SpinDeck 2 by Andover Audio.
Instead of choosing a flimsy automatic, Don recommends this thoughtfully designed semi-automatic turntable that delivers much better quality, reliability, and performance—without overcomplicating things.

“Andover Audio is well-known for great-sounding, attainable vinyl gear, and their new $329 SpinDeck 2 would serve you well.”

Why Semi-Automatic Makes Sense
The SpinDeck 2 strikes the perfect balance: you lower the tonearm manually (a simple, intuitive step), and at the end of the record, it automatically lifts the needle and powers off—saving your stylus and sparing you the sprint to the turntable.

“It should be enough since you have to put the record on the platter anyway, and lowering the needle is a natural second step.”

Built with real components—not toy-like plastics or cut corners—the SpinDeck 2 is designed to last, and it sounds great right out of the box.

Even Better Together: SpinDeck 2 + SpinBase 2
While the SpinDeck 2 works with any audio setup, Don points out that it really shines when paired with the SpinBase 2, Andover’s compact all-in-one powered speaker. Together, they form a clutter-free, furniture-worthy stereo system—no receiver required.

“These critically-acclaimed self-contained audio systems, now in their second generation, serve as a vibration-free platform for your turntable…”

Features of the SpinBase 2 include:

• Built-in phono preamp

• Bluetooth transmit and receive

• Digital input for CD/DVD players

• IsoGroove™ tech to eliminate turntable feedback

• Stylish, compact design that sounds far bigger than it looks

“SpinBases don’t take up a lot of space, look good, and sound good, delivering an easy and satisfying way to enjoy music, especially from vinyl.”

Many vinyl lovers use the SpinDuo (SpinDeck 2 + SpinBase 2) as a second system in a home office, bedroom, or apartment. It’s a modern take on the classic console stereos of the past—only sleeker, smarter, and far more versatile.

Final Word
If you’re new to vinyl, or just want something that’s simple and solid without sacrificing sound, take Don’s advice: skip the flimsy automatics and go with the SpinDeck 2. Pair it with SpinBase 2, and you’ve got a full-featured system that’s ready to impress.

Read Lindich's full column here