Hi there! I’m Kerri, and I’m the Digital Media Assistant for Atomic Ranch. Most of my days are spent on AR’s website and on our Social Media channels, so when it comes to relaxing and getting into the holiday mood, I like to unplug and go old school for awhile. These holiday mid century tunes and fabulous vintage and retro-inspired record players take me back to my childhood of playing disc jockey with my parent’s holiday vinyl collection while the whole family decorated the tree. Take a look at my picks below!
“Well, well, well….My, how the Turntables have…..”
These small but mighty record players might not impress the seasoned collector but they’re a great place to start if you’re thinking of starting a collection, giving one as a gift or have limited space available for your music setup. They’ll play your mid century tunes in a style reminiscent of the era.
This stylish suitcase comes in a variety of colors. Currently priced at $49.99 on Amazon.
At just $42.49 on Etsy, this little player gets great reviews and has upgraded audio with its built-in speakers.
This minimalist-mod styled player is $74.99 on Amazon and has a sturdy, clear-view dust cover.
“Girl, put your records on….”
Wherever I am or whatever I’m doing, when I hear any of these mid century tunes from the following albums, I’m swept up in nostalgia and the holiday spirit.
My favorites include “Christmas Waltz” and “Merry Christmas, Darling” (I’m not crying, my eyes are just sweaty today.)
“Little Saint Nick,” “The Man With All the Toys,” and “Santa’s Beard” are three original songs created for this album that became Christmas classics and are still popular today.
Cole’s rendition of “The Christmas Song” is by far the most popularly played version of the holiday favorite, but this album primarily focuses on classic Christmas hymns and carols. It’s dreamy, nostalgic and an absolute MUST when it comes to your Christmas music collection.
I know this is an odd choice but let me finish! This album is a Christmas music and Muppet Comedy Special rolled into one. The musical selections come from the 1979 television special that featured John Denver and the entire Muppet cast as they attempt to create the perfect Christmas special. In usual Muppet fashion, misadventure and hijinks ensue. The madcap style of the original Muppet Show paired with John Denver’s serene vocal styles makes for a delightful collection that kids and grown-ups will both enjoy.
“Speaker now or forever hold your peace…”
While most turntables have their own small, built-in speakers, sometimes it’s great to have the option of turning it up to 11. These bookshelf speakers are effective, affordable and will look right at home in a mid century styled space.
This wood-sided pair is $79.99 on Amazon and has a built-in wall-mount bracket.
Sleek, subtle and stylish! This pair is $139 on Amazon.
At $76.98, this small-but-mighty pair gets great reviews on Amazon and is specially suited to pair with record players.
But if you’re looking for the best-of-the-best and are willing to go all out on your music setup, then this all-in-one console from Wrensilva is for you. At the price of $7,999, this piece of modern furniture is an investment! However, it includes everything a music lover would need including a premium turntable, six listening modes, Bluetooth capability, a 3.5mm mobile jack and two RCA inputs. So if you’ve been reeeeeaaalllyyy good this year, maybe Santa will bring you one.
Wherever you find yourself this holiday season, I wish you the merriest Christmas and the happiest of New Years! These past two years have been full of uncertainty but when I take time to pause and dwell on the hopeful message of Christmas, I feel peace and joy. Listening to a classic Christmas album (ad-free) on a record player takes me back and relaxes me in the middle of a very busy time of the year. I hope you also find moments to breath and reflect this Holiday season- you deserve it!
For more terrific tunes try these Essential Retro Christmas Albums or learn more about Saint Motel’s new album.
We’ve also got 10 MCM Record Storage Solutions and easy tips on How to Declutter your Mid Century Collection.
And of course, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for more Mid Century Modern inspiration!
