4 days ago
Majority Stylo turntable review: Classic vinyl meets modern streaming
Vinyl is back, and in a big way. I'm constantly amazed at how busy my local record shops are, no matter when I stop by. Whether you're rediscovering dusty favourites or starting fresh, modern turntables like the Majority Stylo blend old-school charm with new-school convenience, including Bluetooth streaming.
Design and build
The Majority Stylo certainly looks the part, featuring an all-black, minimalist aesthetic that gives it a sleek and modern appearance. It has a matt black MDF plinth that is clean and understated. The aluminium die-cast platter adds a bit of weight and stability, and the carbon fibre tonearm is a surprising touch at this price point. It feels more premium than expected, though the overall construction is light.
This isn't a tank of a turntable, but it's solid enough for regular use. There are a few plastic elements that remind you it's an entry-level model, but nothing that feels flimsy or likely to break with careful handling.
Features
The Stylo is packed with features that make it appealing to newcomers and casual listeners. The built-in phono preamp allows you to connect it directly to powered speakers or systems without the need for a dedicated phono stage. There's also a pitch control slider for minor speed tweaks, which is useful for correcting minor playback issues.
Of course, the big feature here is Bluetooth connectivity. It streams wirelessly to any compatible speaker, headphones, or hi-fi system, with no cables needed. That kind of freedom is a huge win, especially in small spaces or clean setups where you want fewer wires on show.
You also receive a pre-installed Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge, which provides reliable tracking and a smooth, balanced sound. It's not high-end audiophile gear, but it's more than enough to bring your records to life.
One area where the Stylo could use improvement is the pre-amp. While it's great to have, it's a little underpowered. You'll get better results running it through a separate amp or powered speakers with some extra grunt. Another downside is the lack of an autostop function. The platter continues to spin at the end of a record, which means you'll need to be nearby to avoid unnecessary stylus wear.
Real-world use
I tested the Stylo with Majority's own D100 bookshelf speakers, using both Bluetooth and a direct line-in connection. The Bluetooth pairing was fast and hassle-free. It worked right out of the box, and within seconds, I had warm, rich vinyl playing wirelessly. This is precisely the kind of plug-and-play simplicity newcomers need.
The D100 speakers proved an excellent match. Their clarity and balanced response brought out the best in the Stylo's sound. There was none of the harshness you sometimes get with budget Bluetooth setups. Vinyl purists might still prefer a direct wired connection, and I tried that too. Unsurprisingly, the wired route gave a little more punch and detail, especially at higher volumes.
Bluetooth doesn't match the fidelity of a clean analogue signal, but the trade-off for convenience is more than fair, especially in everyday listening scenarios. I found myself reaching for the wireless option more often, simply because of its convenience.
Verdict
The Majority Stylo is a versatile turntable that nails the basics, sounds excellent, and keeps things simple. With solid audio performance, good build quality, and an accessible price, it's easy to recommend.
€249
