In terms of truly budget record players, we can't think of many better than the multiple Award-winning Pro-Ject Primary E. Scooping another prize at this year's What Hi-Fi? Awards this year, the Primary E is our pick as the best entry-level turntable you can get your hands on. Looking to delve into the exciting world of vinyl but don't have much experience or cash to burn? You've just found your saviour.
We originally tested the Pro-Ject Primary E at £150 a few years back, but its price has slightly increased over time – it's currently risen up to £199. It's not a huge price to begin with, and the entry-level spinner is great value before any money has been knocked off it, but it's always best to be informed so that you can nab the lowest price possible. That's why we've dedicated this entire page to showcasing the best early Black Friday deals, as well as all the info you need to know about the Pro-Ject Primary E deck, so that you can be in the best position possible to nab a bargain. We're nice like that.
If a friend came to us asking for the best way to get started within the wonderful world of vinyl, the Pro-Ject Primary E would be our go-to hot tip. As a deck that nails the basics without fuss or fiddles, the Primary E is just about perfect as a "get the job done" sort of a record player. Solidly built, reasonably priced and with an enjoyable sonic temperament, this is the best purist turntable you're going to get for around £150-200, although take into account that you'll need a separate amp with a phono stage or a pair of active speakers with a phono stage built in to complete the setup, so factor that into your budget accordingly.
Anyone looking at this end of the market, though, is clearly being smart with their money, whether you're buying it as a single item or looking to create a budget vinyl system from scratch. If either of those sounds right, you're going to want to squeeze as much value as possible out of your purchase as you prioritise value and sound-per-pound over most other considerations. A deal on arguably the best-value turntable on the market will certainly be right up your street.
Note that best-value doesn't mean cheap or flimsy, and while we find the corners of the Pro-Ject Primary E a little sharp, that's pretty much our only gripe with what is otherwise a superbly made player for the price. The Primary E is a purist design (there's no built-in phono stage or Bluetooth capabilities), but its simplicity makes it a doddle to set up, something you'd really hope for in a model designed to be your entry point into the vinyl world. Best of all, you get a choice of three colours: red, white or black, to truly express your individuality...
Best of all, it sounds great. Nothing bought at this price will change your life forever, but the Primary E serves up a really decent, substantial sound that, as we stated in our review, "confidentially nails the basics, from an event tonal balance to a delivery that's clear and clean and spacious enough to keep things coherent". That, for around £150-200, is exactly what you should be hoping for, and with the Primary E, it's exactly what you'll be getting.
If you've been considering starting up a vinyl collection or you're in need of a low-cost way to get your records spinning again, our 2023 Award winner is your best bet. Wait until that price drops significantly as part of the Black Friday period (we've seen a £20 or so drop before, which is a good start) before you consider taking the plunge.
MORE:
Read our full Pro-Ject Primary E review
See all of the What Hi-Fi? Awards 2023 winners
These are the best record players available right now for every budget
Check out all the latest and best hi-fi deals around
