ANGLES HORN Record Player Review

The Angels Horn Record Player is a complete starter vinyl system with a belt-drive turntable, built-in amplification and two separate wired bookshelf speakers. It is aimed at buyers who want to play records without assembling a separate amplifier and speaker package.

This is best understood as a step up from very cheap suitcase-style players rather than a full separates hi-fi deck. The HP-H00501 model adds useful beginner-friendly elements such as an Audio-Technica AT3600L moving-magnet cartridge, an adjustable counterweight and switchable phono/line RCA output.

It should suit first-time vinyl buyers, gift buyers and small-room listeners who value a tidy all-in-one package. It is less suitable for anyone expecting fully automatic operation, Bluetooth headphone listening from vinyl, or the sound and upgrade potential of a more serious hi-fi setup.

The HP-H00501 has a retro component-style look, with an MDF cabinet, walnut-style finish and transparent dust cover. Its separate speaker cabinets make it feel more like a small hi-fi system than a portable all-in-one player.

Construction details are more credible than the most basic record players. The deck uses belt drive, an iron platter, felt mat and a straight static-balanced tonearm with an adjustable counterweight.

The supplied speakers connect by wire to spring-clip terminals and are powered by the turntable system’s internal amplifier. The RCA sockets can also be used to feed an external system, with a switch selecting either phono or line output.

Placement still needs some thought. The turntable is roughly full-width for a compact component and the hinged lid needs extra clearance behind and above, so tight shelves may not be ideal.

The main appeal is the complete package. The box includes the turntable parts, dust cover, counterweight, 45 RPM adaptor, speaker wires and two bookshelf speakers, so most buyers can start playing records without adding an amplifier.

The fitted Audio-Technica AT3600L moving-magnet cartridge is an important feature at this level. It is a more appropriate vinyl playback solution than the ceramic cartridges found in many low-cost suitcase players, and the stylus can be replaced when worn.

The adjustable counterweight gives the user control over tracking force, with the supported recommended setting being 3.5 ± 0.5 g for the supplied cartridge. Correct setup matters, as poor tracking force can cause skipping, distortion or unnecessary wear.

Connectivity is flexible for a starter system. Bluetooth works as an input for streaming from a phone through the system’s speakers, while the switchable RCA output allows connection to powered speakers, an amplifier, receiver or external phono stage.

Setup is more involved than a suitcase player but still manageable if the instructions are followed carefully. The user needs to fit the platter and belt, install the counterweight, balance the tonearm, set tracking force, connect the speakers and then connect power.

First-time users should take particular care with the counterweight. Correctly setting the recommended tracking force is central to reliable playback and helps avoid avoidable mistracking or record wear.

For external equipment, the phono/line switch must be set correctly. Use LINE for powered speakers or a normal line input, and PHONO only with a phono input or separate phono preamp; passive speakers should not be connected to the RCA outputs.

Daily operation is mostly manual. The user selects the mode and speed, places the tonearm with the cueing lever and returns it after playback; official FAQ material indicates auto-stop after the record ends, but this is not a fully automatic start-and-return turntable.

The deck supports 33⅓ and 45 RPM records, including LPs and singles with the supplied adaptor where needed. It does not play 78 RPM records, so shellac collectors should look elsewhere.

The official speed variation figure of +/-1.5% is modest compared with more refined hi-fi turntables. That does not make it unsuitable for casual listening, but it is a reminder that this is an entry-level lifestyle system rather than a precision deck.

Bluetooth is useful, but it is often misunderstood. The supported evidence describes Bluetooth input to the unit, not wireless transmission from records to Bluetooth headphones or Bluetooth speakers.

Based on its supported design, the Angels Horn should offer a more credible entry-level vinyl presentation than very cheap all-in-one players. The MM cartridge, adjustable tracking force, belt drive, larger platter and separate speakers all help give it a better foundation.

The included passive speakers are convenient, but they are also the likely sound-quality ceiling. They should be adequate for casual listening in bedrooms, studies and small flats, but better powered speakers or a separate amplifier and speaker system should provide more bass weight, scale and stereo separation.

The AT3600L cartridge and built-in phono stage point towards a practical, forgiving starter sound rather than an audiophile platform. Buyers who already own good hi-fi speakers and amplification may be better served by a more focused standalone turntable.

Bluetooth streaming adds everyday convenience for phone audio, but it should not be confused with vinyl playback over wireless headphones. For best upgrade potential, the RCA line or phono output is the more important connection.