The Mi VAZA HY-T01 Portable Wood Vinyl Record Retro Phonograph arrived on my desk promising a blend of vintage charm and modern convenience. Wrapped in a stylish PU leather wooden box, it certainly looked the part. But does this aesthetically pleasing turntable deliver on its promise of quality sound and ease of use? I spent several weeks putting it through its paces to find out.

The HY-T01 boasts a classic design, immediately appealing to vinyl enthusiasts. The wooden construction gives it a substantial feel, and the PU leather adds a touch of luxury. Key features include its three-speed functionality (allowing for playback of various record types), a ruby needle for accurate sound reproduction, and built-in speakers for convenient listening. The tonearm with soft damping control adds a level of sophistication often absent in budget turntables. Setup was remarkably straightforward – plug and play, essentially. No complicated adjustments were needed.

Sound quality is surprisingly good for a turntable in this price range. While it won’t match the fidelity of high-end systems, the HY-T01 provides clear and warm audio. The ruby needle did a great job of minimizing surface noise on my records. The built-in speakers are adequate for casual listening, though connecting it to external speakers significantly enhances the audio experience. I did notice a slight hum at higher volumes, which was a minor drawback. The three-speed functionality worked flawlessly, seamlessly switching between 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM records. I tested it with a variety of records, from classic rock to jazz, and the performance was consistently enjoyable.

Over the weeks of testing, I found the HY-T01 to be reliable and easy to use. The tonearm mechanism functioned smoothly, and the soft damping control helped to prevent accidental skips. The overall build quality felt sturdy, suggesting this turntable can withstand regular use.

Pros:

• Stylish and well-built design
• Easy setup and operation
• Three-speed compatibility
• Good sound quality for the price
• Ruby needle minimizes surface noise

Cons:

• Slight hum at higher volumes
• Built-in speakers are not ideal for audiophiles

The Mi VAZA HY-T01 is a delightful surprise. It offers a compelling blend of aesthetics and functionality, making it an excellent choice for vinyl enthusiasts seeking a portable and easy-to-use turntable. While it has minor imperfections, its strengths significantly outweigh its weaknesses. If you’re looking for a stylish and affordable way to enjoy your vinyl collection, the HY-T01 is highly recommended.