Lenco L-85

FOR Enjoyable sound; user friendly; price; features AGAINST Rivals offer subtler, more dynamic sound

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Remember the DUPLO blocks you played with as a child before graduating onto proper LEGO sets? The Lenco L-85 reminds us rather of them: a product that gives you all the basics with the promise of more exciting things to come, while still being enjoyable in its own right.

This is a semi-automatic, belt-driven turntable with a built-in phono stage. It supports USB recording. And it costs just £120. The bargain price may inspire misgivings, but the L-85 surprises us. And could surprise you, too.

Lenco has tried to make the turntable experience as easy as possible, and this is one of the best plug-and-play machines we’ve come across at this budget price.

Deceptive appearance

At first glance it looks and feels like a toy. It’s made predominantly of plastic, and is very light. But after a closer look, we can confirm that we have no complaints with the actual build quality. The plinth, platter and tonearm are all nicely made and all fit together neatly, and once we start using it there aren’t any wobbly or creaky parts – it’s an encouraging start.

The plastic buttons for changing the speed (33â…“ and 45rpm) and recording are responsive. Our review sample is a vivid green, but there are five other finishes: red, yellow, black, white and grey.