Jensen JTA-230 Review
I wrote this review about Jensen JTA-230 because this record player has been my favorite but I wanted one for my camper too. So I started researching new record player and comparing it to my current one. Music offers us and many other people around the world an escape. It can lead you down a path of memory, cure a bad mood, or allow you to be in your feelings. This is why music has been around for eons. Over the years, the way we get that music has changed.
If you ask most audiophiles, one of the best ways we have received music is vinyl. There is a special sound that comes from that needle riding those grooves. It brings with it a unique texture and is something everyone should experience.
For years, vinyl had gone by the wayside due to digital delivery, but over the past few years, vinyl has made a comeback. We can’t be happier about this. That means more people are looking for a good record player. If that describes you, then we think you should take a look at this unique record player by Jensen.
The Jensen JTA-230 is a belt-drive three-speed turntable that comes with high-quality speakers and some unique features that we absolutely love. In fact, this model takes the nostalgia of the vinyl era and throws in some modern technology that can be used to do a lot of cool things.
Of these, the most unique is the ability to transfer the music from that record to your personal computer via a USB cord. The system also comes with special software that will allow you to take that record and edit the music. This is great for creative content creators, as it opens up a world of unique sound and music for your projects.
We also love the ability to control the sound. The unit is fitted with pitch control, as well as the standard volume and speed. This allows you to customize the sound to your tastes.
Who Is This Product For?
This record player is a great investment in many ways for many different types of audiophiles. Because of the focus on creating a unit that can take vinyl to digital, there are a few music lovers that might get more from this unit.
Maybe you are a DJ who is looking to reduce your equipment set-up time and load? Having a record player that could take that vinyl and load it into your music library could be quite handy.
The JTA-230 is easy to use, too. Its simplicity automatically makes us think of new audiophiles. This may be a great gift or starter turntable for people just getting into vinyl. The budget-friendly price tag is also one of the features that stands out to us.
What’s Included?
When you purchase this turntable, you will get the following things in the box:
- Turntable unit
- USB cord
- Dust cover
- Audio software
- Manual
Jensen JTA-230–Overview Of Features
- Belt driven turntable
- AC motor
- 3-speed
- Built-in USB port
- Vinyl-to-digital transferral capable
- Audio software included
- RCA & stereo headphone jacks
- Multiple audio controls (pitch, record speed, volume, & tone)
- Auto-stop switch
- Dust cover included
- Dimensions – 13.4” x 13.8” x 6.4”
- Weight – 5.5 lbs.
There is a lot about this record player that we love. One of the biggest perks is the ability to transfer our vinyl collection into a digital format. This allows us to enjoy the texture and hiss of our vinyl through our phones as we run our errands. For audiophiles like us, this is key, as all too often, digital music lacks a little flavor.
The unit is compact and easy to use, so it won’t take up much room, and that is also a bonus for us. However, before you sign off on making this your record player of choice, you should be aware of a few issues we have with it.
Everything is manual from start to finish, and this includes placing and lifting the arm. It is also not great for heavy bass, as the response is not stellar.
How To Get the Most Out Of It
Like anything, the biggest thing that can make an impact on what you get from the turntable is understanding how to use it. For us, the first thing we do is always read the manual.
If you are more of a visual learner, then you may want to check out this video.
Pros
- Compact design makes it great for small spaces
- USB cord allows you to transfer vinyl to digital via your computer
- Designed to be plug-and-play for easy use without much adjustment needed
- Price versus quality of sound is better than a lot of its competitors
- Stylus replacements are easy to come by and are offered by the vendor
- Player can handle all three speeds of records
Cons
- Arm is designed to be manually lifted only
- Not crafted with an auto stop and start system
- Bass response is not great
Alternative
We know you may be looking for a record player that gives you a more well-rounded music experience. The model we are looking at only has a record player, but some models offer multiple ways to listen to music. If this is something you’re looking for, then we have chosen a great alternative to this Jensen record player. After doing quite a bite of research we found the the Byron Statics Vinyl Record Player has all the modern features but the look and feel of the vintage record player.
Byron Statics Vinyl Record Player
- 3 Speed Turntable Record Player with 2 Built in Stereo Speakers
- Replacement Needle
- Supports RCA Line Out
- AUX in
- Portable Vintage Suitcase
Let’s just say this record player is basically a one-stop sound system. Included in the design is the record player, as well as an AM/FM stereo and even a cassette player. Plus, you can hook up to it via Bluetooth and stream your music from your smart devices. When we look at it, this one word screams at us… nostalgia.
However, the versatility is not the only reason we suggest you look at this as an alternative to the Jensen JTA-230. It can also transfer vinyl and cassette to a digital format via USB. On top of that, it can also be done via an SD card. There are so many options that this is a great investment for all audiophiles out there.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a record player that allows you to take your vinyl and make it more easily accessible digitally, then the Jensen JTA-230 is one of the models we highly recommend.