I’ve reviewed quite a few turntables for Forbes, but someone recently pointed out that I focus on models aimed at record collectors and music enthusiasts. Not necessarily high end, audiophile-class gear, but more than someone who has just a casual interest in records might be looking for. That’s a fair point, although I have evaluated entry-level turntables like the Fluance RT80. So here’s a record player — a complete 7-in-1 music system in fact — that’s priced at $199.99, the same as that entry-level turntable. This is a hands-on review of the Electrohome Kingston.
What It Is
The Electrohome Kingston is a complete audio system built around a record player. It will play virtually any record (33/45 and 78 rpm), it will play CDs, you can record tracks as MP3 files on a thumb drive, you can play back those MP3s, you can stream music wirelessly to the Kingston using Bluetooth, and you can listen to AM/FM radio. You could even plug a TV into this system using its 3.5mm AUX input. About the only sources missing are cassette and 8-track decks.
In other words, you can play music from pretty much any source. The system includes an integrated amplifier and speakers so it really is a complete, self-contained audio system. With a footprint of 17.3 x 13.5-inches, it’s also relatively compact — considering it’s the full system, no extras required.
In addition, the Electrohome Kingston is designed to scratch the retro itch. It’s designed with a vintage look in mind, including an all-wood (MDF with wood veneer) design, prominent speaker mesh, control knobs, and a cabinet with a hinged lid that conceals the record player. It’s a relatively restrained approach that achieves its goal without looking garish. The wood veneer finish is available in three colors, including my review unit’s walnut.
What It’s Not
This isn’t the system for someone who is looking for premium audio. You can’t expect a $199.99 all-in-one to be able to deliver sound that is competitive with what even a decent pair of powered bookshelf speakers can output.
The record player is fine for causal listening, but if you are investing in a record collection you’ll be better off with a standalone turntable with a diamond stylus cartridge as opposed to something like this — your records will sound better and won’t be subject to the same wear.
Electrohome Kingston Key Specs:
- Acoustically-tuned MDF case with hinged top, real wood veneer (walnut, black, or mahogany finish)
- 3-speed, belt-drive record player with ceramic cartridge and sapphire-tipped stylus
- AM/FM radio with nine presets each
- USB recording (MP3) and playback
- CD player
- Bluetooth 4.1
- 3.5mm AUX input, 3.5mm headphone jack
- RCA output
- 2 x 2-inch drivers, 2 x 3.5-inch drivers
- 30W amplifier, adjustable bass and treble
- Includes remote control with batteries
- 12.25 x 17.3 x 13.5 inches, weighs 23.75 pounds
- MSRP $199.99
How Does It Sound?
I was pleasantly surprised by the sound the Electrohome Kingston puts out. Electrohome points out that it has over 100 years of experience in producing home audio products, and the company has clearly employed all of that expertise here.
The amplifier puts out a total of 30 watts and it’s powering four drivers in an acoustically-tuned wooden (MDF) enclosure. That’s actually a decent amount of volume — more than enough to fill a small to medium-sized room. The four drivers and the wooden enclosure combine for music that’s pleasantly warm with more detail than you’ll get with many portable wireless speakers. It’s not muddy or tinny. There’s no real (or simulated) stereo with the drivers packed so closely together, but the sound is still more expansive than you’ll hear with a portable speaker.
Adjustable bass and treble let you customize the audio to your liking.
Electrohome Kingston Recommendation
Not everyone is interested in building a home audio setup with a turntable. Some people like the retro aspect of vinyl, but they just want to be able to listen to some records — they’re not concerned about optimized sound, or ensuring their records remain in pristine, collectible condition.
The Electrohome Kingston 7-in-1 fits this casual music demographic very well. It has the vintage look, it plays records, it plays CDs, and you can stream music wirelessly to it. No components to connect and there’s even a remote. It’s no audiophile system, but it sounds decent enough. And although bulky, it doesn’t have a huge footprint. And it’s affordable, costing less than many entry level turntables on their own.
If these requirements sound like yours, the Electrohome Kingston is worth checking out.
