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‘ChatGPT is done’: OpenAI is rolling out ads to free and paying users, and not everyone is happy

TechRadar News - Wed, 02/11/2026 - 03:43
ChatGPT’s Free and Go tiers are getting ads, prompting a backlash from some unhappy users.
Categories: Technology

Wix Studio review 2026

TechRadar Reviews - Wed, 02/11/2026 - 03:36

Wix Studio is an all-in-one website creation platform that extends the capabilities of traditional website builders to meet the demands of agencies, consultants, and professional web designers. While not a typical choice for the best website builder, this platform deserves serious consideration for specific businesses.​

We have spent thousands of hours testing 140+ website builders. We've seen the market evolve dramatically. While we named the Wix website builder as our pick for the best website builder in 2026, Wix Studio takes things even further for professionals and agencies.​

Built by the same company that led the concept of accessible web design, Wix Studio was specifically engineered for agencies managing multiple client sites. It includes enterprise-grade features like team collaboration, client handoff tools, and centralized workspace management that standard platforms simply don't offer.​

Wix Studio: 1-minute review

Wix Studio delivers a compelling package for agencies and consultants. It combines sophisticated design tools with practical business features that simplify client work. Unlike consumer-focused builders, it provides role-based permissions, real-time collaboration, advanced design tools, and automated client reporting — all from a unified dashboard.​​

What is Wix Studio?

Wix Studio is a website development platform that agencies and consultants use to build, manage, hand off, and maintain client websites at scale. Think of it as a complete workspace where you can collaborate with team members on different designs, then seamlessly hand off projects to clients without leaving the platform.​

With Studio, you get custom breakpoints for responsive design, Figma integration for importing designs, several AI website management tools, and a no-code CMS for content-heavy sites. It also includes features like personalized onboarding kits, content mode for safe client editing, and automated performance reports. Everything runs on Wix's enterprise-grade infrastructure with built-in security, automatic updates, and SEO tools.​

Features

(Image credit: Wix Studio )

Wix Studio packs an impressive feature set tailored for professional use. Its design tools offer precision control with grid systems, API management, custom CSS, and advanced typography. Responsive AI automatically adapts layouts for different screen sizes, while custom breakpoints let you fine-tune designs for specific devices. The Figma-to-Studio plugin lets you import your wireframes and prototypes directly into functional sites.​

For agencies managing multiple clients, you get real-time collaborative editing, commenting, and role-based permissions that keep teams synchronized. Your workspace lets you manage unlimited client websites from a single dashboard, accessible via web or mobile app. Client handoff is smooth thanks to personalized kits and content mode, which lets clients update copy and layouts safely without breaking design fundamentals.​

With the StudioCMS, you can create dynamic pages with custom collections, schedule content for later, and design your own multi-author workflows. Built-in analytics track traffic, signups, sales, and behavior across categories, with customizable reports you can schedule and export. Native integrations with Google, Meta, TikTok, and LinkedIn connect to your social media campaigns seamlessly.​​

Unlike with Wix standard, AI tools extend beyond basic text and image generation. They help you create meta tags, Google Ads copy, CMS collections, and even generate code through the AI assistant. However, low-level code control is restricted, and certain integrations require complex workarounds. Starting at $19/month for the Basic plan and scaling to $159/month for Business Elite, this won't be the platform of choice for most individual and business users. But for agencies and freelancers managing multiple high-volume projects, this pricing is worth the toolset it offers.​

Tools

(Image credit: Wix Studio )

Wix Studio bundles multiple specialized tools into one platform. They cover everything from design and development to marketing and client management. Each one addresses specific needs that agencies face daily, for example:​

Design tools

Studio's design system includes grid layouts, flexbox controls, section stacking, and custom breakpoints for responsive design. You can also use CSS overrides to adjust specific style settings beyond the default options. There's an AI assistant that can make advanced layout suggestions, create workflows, and even write code for you.​

Figma integration

There's a Figma-to-Studio plugin that exports high-fidelity designs directly into Wix Studio, saving you the trouble of manually recreating the entire design. It speeds up the design-to-development process, which works great for designer-developers who can get to deliverables more quickly. Your designs still retain their structure and can be enhanced with Wix's interactive features.​

CMS collections and pages

Wix Studio's no-code CMS builds content-rich sites with multiple dynamic content streams like blogs, wikis, and knowledge bases. Create custom collections, connect them to repeating layouts, and generate hundreds of pages from a single template. Content translates into 180+ languages directly from the dashboard.​

Ecommerce

Build fully customized online stores with flexible product pages and category layouts. Wix handles the inventory, orders, returns, and refunds from the same dashboard. Native integrations add gift cards, loyalty programs, and dropshipping connections, reducing the reliance on third-party software.​

Collaboration workspace and hub

Manage unlimited client websites from one centralized hub. Role-based permissions control team access, while real-time editing and on-canvas comments keep everyone aligned on the current designs. A mobile app lets you manage projects on the go.​

Analytics and reporting

Track website performance across sales, traffic, bookings, subscriptions, and SEO. Schedule automated reports daily, weekly, or monthly to keep clients informed without manual work. Export data or create custom reports tailored to specific metrics.​​

Lots of AI tools

AI features generate text, images, and videos directly on canvas. Wix's AI code assistant provides code snippets and troubleshooting help. Responsive AI makes layouts mobile-friendly in one click, while AI-powered content marketing tools create meta tags, Google Ads copy, and CMS collections at scale.​

Client management features

Personalized client kits include brand assets, guidelines, and templates for smooth handoffs. Content mode gives clients controlled editing access to update copy and media without disrupting layouts. Automated status reports keep clients informed automatically.

Ease of use

(Image credit: Wix Studio )

Wix Studio walks a fine line between accessibility and power. The interface is sleek and minimal, with an inspector panel on the right that controls styles, spacing, and layout. You start with a clean dashboard offering three options: use a template, start from scratch, or import an existing site. This works for both resourceful beginners and professional designers.​

The drag-and-drop editor uses WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get) functionality, so changes appear instantly. There's no need to understand code for basic website creation. However, there's a learning curve when mastering advanced features like responsive behavior and custom breakpoints. Some users suggest the platform is more complex than its marketing implies, particularly compared to the standard Wix Editor. There are also a few outdated components from the classic editor that haven't been updated, which can affect responsiveness.​

For agencies, the interface works great for collaborative workflows. On-canvas commenting, role-based permissions, and centralized multi-site management make coordination a breeze. The mobile app extends accessibility while travelling, letting you manage projects remotely. Yet while beginners can grasp basic functions with a bit of effort, professionals will need time to unlock the platform's full potential.

Wix Studio pricing and plans

Plan

Starting rate (paid annually)

Renewal rate (paid annually)

Basic

$19/month

$19/month

Standard

$27/month

$27/month

Plus

$34/month

$34/month

Business Elite

$159/month

$159/month

Wix Studio's pricing structure scales with your agency's needs. The Basic plan at $19/month includes 10GB storage, 3 site collaborators, and 1,500 CMS items. It's good for freelancers or small teams managing a few client sites. Standard ($27/month) and Plus ($34/month) increase storage, collaborators, and CMS limits, with Plus adding priority support. All plans include unlimited bandwidth, a free domain for one year, site analytics, and payment acceptance.​

Business Elite at $159/month is built for large agencies. You get unlimited storage, 100 site collaborators, advanced ecommerce tools, and the full developer platform. Compared to similar options, Wix Studio is competitively priced. Webflow starts at $18-$29 but charges more for ecommerce and CMS features. Meanwhile, WordPress requires separate hosting costs and paid plugins that can exceed these prices.

Security

(Image credit: Wix Studio )

All websites automatically include SSL certificates that encrypt data between visitors' browsers and your site using HTTPS and TLS 1.2+. Data at rest uses AES-256 encryption, the strongest commercially available standard. Payment processing complies with PCI DSS Level 1, the highest industry security standard, with anti-fraud protection included.​

Wix Studio maintains multiple certifications, including SOC 2 Type 2, SOC 3, and several ISOs, while remaining compliant with GDPR, CCPA, and LGPD. Real-time detection systems guard against DDoS attacks, keeping sites available during threats. Machine learning monitors pattern changes to block suspicious activity across accounts and sites.

Account security features include multi-factor authentication via email, SMS, phone, or authenticator apps, plus social login through Facebook and Google. Enterprise users get additional protections: SSO integration with Azure, Okta, Auth0, and Google; IP whitelisting for access control; full audit trails of user activities; and SCIM for automated identity management.

Wix also runs a Bug Bounty program with independent security researchers and maintains a strict third-party risk management program for vendors.​

How good is Wix Studio support?

(Image credit: Wix Studio )

Studio offers multiple support channels tailored to different user needs. 24/7 live chat provides quick troubleshooting and help for common issues, accessible through the floating chat icon. Response times are fast, particularly for premium plan holders dealing with design or functionality questions. Email support operates through a guided contact form that routes requests to the correct department, with response times typically ranging from 24 to 72 hours.​

For phone support, Wix uses a callback system rather than direct phone numbers. You request a callback through your account, then representatives reach out during business hours (Monday through Friday, with timing varying by region). The Plus plan includes priority support, giving agencies faster response times. The Help Center features tutorials, videos, community forums, and step-by-step guides covering everything from design basics to SEO.​

Enterprise account holders receive white-glove service with a dedicated customer success manager available 24/7. This manager handles technical questions, business strategy, and platform migration with regular check-ins. While standard support is solid, the lack of direct phone numbers frustrates some users when dealing with urgent issues.​

Wix Studio alternatives

Wix Studio occupies a unique position between beginner-friendly builders and developer-focused platforms. It's best for agencies and consultants who want advanced design control without diving into full code development.

Some of the best website builders for agencies include Webflow, which offers more code-level flexibility and appeals to developers comfortable with technical customization. You can see how the two stack up in our Wix Studio vs Webflow guide.

WordPress provides maximum customization but requires more technical knowledge and separate hosting, along with advanced design and management plugins like Elementor or Duda. Shopify still dominates the market for ecommerce-focused agencies.

Non-website building professionals may find WiXx Studio a little overwhelming. If you are just looking to build an individual website for your business, Wix's AI website builder may be a better option for you. You can see how they compare in our Wix Studio vs Wix AI website builder guide.

Wix Studio review: Summary

Wix Studio delivers a complete platform tailored specifically for multi-client agencies and consultants. It combines powerful design tools with practical business features like collaborative editing and role-based permissions.

A powerful CMS and Studio's ecommerce capabilities handle content-rich sites and online stores without any add-on subscriptions. Security is enterprise-grade with automatic SSL, PCI DSS compliance, and multiple certifications.

While there's a learning curve for advanced features, the platform balances accessibility with professional power. Pricing scales from $19/month for small teams to $159/month for large agencies — making it a worthwhile investment for seasoned service providers but not novices.

Wix Studio FAQs Is Wix Studio different from regular Wix?

Unlike regular Wix, Studio is specifically designed for agencies, consultants, and professional web creators, while regular Wix targets individual users and small businesses. Studio includes advanced features like team collaboration tools, role-based permissions, custom breakpoints for responsive design, and centralized site management. You also get Figma integration, advanced CSS controls, and client handoff features like content mode and personalized kits.

Can I migrate existing Wix sites to Wix Studio?

Yes, you can migrate existing Wix sites to Wix Studio. There's an import option when you start a new project, allowing you to bring in sites built on the regular Wix Editor. This gives you access to Studio's advanced features like improved responsive controls, team collaboration, and enhanced design tools. Enterprise customers get dedicated support from customer success managers who can assist with platform migration. However, some elements may require adjustments after migration due to differences in layout and components.

Does Wix Studio require coding fluency?

Wix Studio doesn't require coding knowledge for most website-building tasks. The drag-and-drop editor uses WYSIWYG functionality, meaning you see changes instantly. You can build professional websites, add ecommerce functionality, and manage dynamic content entirely through the visual interface. However, Studio does offer code access for those who want it —you can add custom CSS, use the AI code assistant, and integrate APIs for complex workflows. ​

What's included in the Business Elite plan?

The Business Elite plan ($159/month paid annually) is Wix Studio's top tier for large agencies. You get unlimited storage, 100 site collaborators, and the full advanced developer platform. Ecommerce features include advanced tools for managing products, inventory, orders, and customer relationships. The plan also includes the complete advanced marketing suite with native integrations for Google, Meta, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

Can clients edit their sites without breaking the design?

Wix Studio includes a dedicated content mode that gives clients controlled editing access — they can update copy, swap images, and modify basic content without touching your design. You can set permissions through role-based access controls, determining exactly how much each client can edit. For more hands-off clients, you can provide personalized client kits with brand assets, guidelines, and templates.

Categories: Reviews

Wix Studio review 2026

TechRadar News - Wed, 02/11/2026 - 03:36
Wix Studio is a professional web development platform designed for agencies and consultants — offering advanced design tools, team collaboration, and client management.
Categories: Technology

We raved about these Ninja air fryers, coffee machines and slushie makers – and we love them even more at up to 54% off

TechRadar News - Wed, 02/11/2026 - 00:43
Ninja has discounted a heap of its well-reviewed devices on Amazon, with savings of up to AU$281 on some of our favourites, including some fresh releases like the Crispi and the Luxe Cafe Premier.
Categories: Technology

Nordic Combined at Winter Olympics 2026 Free Streams: TV Channels, Schedule, Preview

TechRadar News - Wed, 02/11/2026 - 00:00
All the ways to watch Winter Olympics Nordic Combined 2026 live streams for FREE, with Johannes Lamparter, Jens Luras Oftebro and Julian Schmid headlining the action.
Categories: Technology

Claude surprised researchers by running a vending machine business better than its rivals and bending every rule to win

TechRadar News - Tue, 02/10/2026 - 22:00
Anthropic’s Claude Opus 4.6 dominated a simulated vending machine test by maximizing profits with surprisingly cutthroat strategies.
Categories: Technology

Today's NYT Mini Crossword Answers for Wednesday, Feb. 11

CNET News - Tue, 02/10/2026 - 21:25
Here are the answers for The New York Times Mini Crossword for Feb. 11.
Categories: Technology

I'm a TV reviewer, and now is a great time to buy 4 of my favorite sets of the year – from bargain LG OLEDs to huge mini-LEDs

TechRadar News - Tue, 02/10/2026 - 21:00
If you're thinking of buying a new TV, here are four excellent models we've tested to get you started.
Categories: Technology

Curious about retro gaming? From bespoke consoles to marvelous upscalers, I can't recommend these products enough

TechRadar News - Tue, 02/10/2026 - 20:00
I highly recommend these retro gaming-focused products, whether you're diving into the classics for the first time, or applying a shiny new coat to old-gen hardware.
Categories: Technology

Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 11, #506

CNET News - Tue, 02/10/2026 - 19:36
Here are hints and the answers for the NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle for Feb. 11, No. 506.
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I'm a fitness writer, and these are my 16 essential home workout solutions, including the cheap way I built muscle and the massage gun I use every day

TechRadar News - Tue, 02/10/2026 - 19:00
Here's my list of 16 essential pieces of home workout gear, including a $40 resistance band set that helped me build muscle at home for months.
Categories: Technology

If you're quick, you can nab AU$200 off our favourite overall blender right now

TechRadar News - Tue, 02/10/2026 - 18:20
Want to splurge on a premium blender to level up your kitchen arsenal? Our most recommended, Braun’s PowerBlend 9, is currently 43% off.
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A wireless HDMI transmitter meets a USB hub and the result is a surprisingly capable docking station for your laptop, your smartphone or even your gaming console - oh and you will absolutely love the receiver

TechRadar News - Tue, 02/10/2026 - 18:05
4URPC’s wireless HDMI transmitter doubles as a 10Gbps USB hub with SD slots and 100W charging, turning a simple casting tool into a compact dock for laptops and tablets.
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Discord, we all know this isn't really about 'creating a safer community', so I'm done with your app — but I'm not sure where to go next

TechRadar News - Tue, 02/10/2026 - 18:00
Discord, you’re forcing me to leave after 8 happy years — but these alternatives really need to step up their game.
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Ecovacs' Latest Robot Lawn Mowers Can Run Wire-Free

CNET News - Tue, 02/10/2026 - 17:59
Ecovacs' new robot lawn mowers shouldn't require any manual intervention after setup.
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Lymow's New Robot Lawnmower Can Mow Your Lawn, Mulch and Cross Hills Too

CNET News - Tue, 02/10/2026 - 17:39
The Lymow One Plus builds on its predecessor with improved design, mulching capability and other features. It's now ready for preorder.
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Samsung just set the date for its first Galaxy Unpacked of 2026 — and all signs point to the Galaxy S26 with plenty of Galaxy AI

TechRadar News - Tue, 02/10/2026 - 17:00
Samsung has confirmed that its first Galaxy Unpacked event of 2026 will take place on February 25 in San Francisco, California, with the Galaxy S26 lineup expected to headline the show alongside a continued push around Galaxy AI.
Categories: Technology

I tested the Philips turntable with a CD player squirrelled away in its plinth and honestly, for this money it's hard to argue with the versatility

TechRadar Reviews - Tue, 02/10/2026 - 16:30
Philips Fidelio FT1 turntable/CD player: two-minute review

There’s no school like the old school, right? Philips certainly seems to think so anyway, because it’s delivered a product you may not have even realised you needed: the Fidelio FT1 is a belt-drive turntable with integrated phono stage and a built-in CD player, that can act as a Bluetooth transmitter and features Auracast connectivity.

And it costs less than a stand-alone turntable or CD player that might easily be considered ‘entry level’.

Obviously the FT1 is not that last word in sturdiness or unburstable build quality. It’s perfectly well put together, though, looks quite good in its gloss-black finish (as long as you’re not the one who has to clean it) and arrives with a very decent Audio Technica cartridge pre-fitted to its aluminium tonearm. Add in a control app to complement its physical controls and you’ve got a ‘just-add-speakers (-or-wireless-headphones)’ plug-and-play device that covers several functionality bases.

In practice it’s not without charm. There’s plenty of drive and energy to the sound, no matter the source of the music you’re listening to, and the midrange communicates very freely. Dynamic headroom is significant, and the Philips controls its (solid, detailed) low frequencies well enough to express rhythms with real confidence. It’s strangely flimsy where treble response is concerned, though, and the bass does tend to sound rather estranged from the rest of the frequency range.

It’s nevertheless an enjoyable listen overall, though, and there’s a lot to be said for the amount of sonic enjoyment, as well as extended functionality, your money buys. One of the best turntables on the market? For this money, I really think it's hard to argue against it.

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Philips Fidelio FT1 turntable/CD player review: price and release date
  • Announced in September 2025, but released early 2026
  • Priced $349 / £269 / (approx.) AU$429

The Philips Fidelio FT1 turntable/CD player/ Bluetooth transmitter is on sale now, and in the United Kingdom it sells for £269, while in the United States it’s yours for around $349. In Australia, meanwhile, the going rate is something like AU$429 – or, at least, that’s what today’s exchange rate suggests…

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Philips Fidelio FT1 turntable/CD player review: features
  • 33.3 and 45rpm turntable with Bluetooth transmission
  • Integrated phono stage
  • CD playback too

You can’t argue with the functionality that’s available here; certainly not at the asking price. In a chassis that’s actually a little narrower than your average turntable, Philips has managed to incorporate a record player with a switchable phono stage, a CD player and Bluetooth transmission. If you’re old enough to remember the whole ‘music center’ thing, you’re entitled to have a mild flashback just about now.

As far as the turntable section goes, the Fidelio FT1 is a belt-driven device that arrives with an Audio Technica AT3600L moving magnet cartridge pre-fitted to a straight aluminium tube tonearm. It has automatic speed-change via a dial on the plinth, and on the rear of the device there’s a switch to turn the integrated phono stage on or off.

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

The platter is of die-cast aluminium and there’s a rubber slip mat supplied too. The FT1 is a Bluetooth transmitter, and can convert an analog signal from your vinyl to a digital equivalent and then send it to a pair of wireless headphones or speakers via Bluetooth 5.4 using one of the SBC, AAC or LC3 codecs with which it’s compatible. Philips, understandably, considers its Fidelio FA3 wireless speakers to be the ideal partner for the FT1, but any Bluetooth receiver is fair game. It’s also Auracast-equipped – so it’s able to transmit whatever’s playing to as many appropriate speakers as you have access to.

There’s a compact disc drive built into the FT1 too. The tray into which CDs are loaded emerges from the front right section of the plinth – the tray door also features an LED display which gives confirmation of the selected input and the usual ‘track number, time elapsed, etc etc’ stuff when a CD is playing. The regular CD player modes (‘shuffle’, ‘repeat’, ‘random’ and so on) are available, and the drive itself is compatible with CD-R/RW and MP3-CD as well as your ordinary CDs.

  • Features score: 5/5

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Philips Fidelio FT1 turntable/CD player review: Sound quality
  • Quite direct and energetic character
  • Insubstantial treble response and slightly dislocated low end…
  • which can make the midrange seem rather exposed

There are, of course, perceived differences in the fundamental sonic signatures of vinyl and compact disc – but initially, one of the most most striking things about the Fidelio FT1 is just how consistent and itself it sounds no matter the source of the music it’s playing.

For better or for worse, its own sonic character seems to override those of the format it’s dealing with. So a CD of Barry Adamson’s Oedipus Schmoedipus is presented in much the same way as a vinyl copy of Doechii’s Alligator Bites Never Heal. The FT1 is an up-front, positive and quite energetic listen. It keeps a firm grip on the lower frequencies where attack and decay are concerned, so rhythms are expressed with confidence. There’s appreciable drive to its presentation, and a facility with dynamics that makes the up- and down-shifts in volume or intensity in a recording perfectly apparent.

Detail levels are respectable, even where the most minor and/or transient information is concerned. And the Philips discloses quite freely through the midrange, giving Doechii’s idiosyncratic delivery abundant character and attitude as well as revealing the goings-on of her technique and tone. This is further facilitated by the way the FT1 organises a soundstage – the midrange is nudged forwards, which further adds to both the intelligibility of voices and the overall sensation of direct communication.

Where tonality and frequency response are concerned, though, we’re on less solid ground. At the top of the frequency range the FT1 can quite readily become splashy and insubstantial, even at quite low volume levels – there’s a lack of body to treble sounds that never quite becomes edginess or hardness, but certainly serves to make the top end sound a little flimsy.

At the opposite end there’s no shortage of low-frequency substance, and a fair amount of tonal and textural variation – but there’s a sense of remoteness to the bass, a lack of unity with the frequency information above it that makes it sound a little distant.

The ability to stream wirelessly to headphones or speakers, or to physically connect to a system of some sort, is of course very welcome. But if you’re switching between the two you’ll need to be prepared to ride the volume control (either in the app, on your wireless speakers/headphones, or your amplifier), because the FT1 is noticeably quieter through its line-level output than it is through its Bluetooth equivalent.

  • Sound quality score: 3.5/5

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Philips Fidelio FT1 turntable/CD player review: Design
  • 130 x 420 x 370mm (HxWxD, without dust cover)
  • Plastic shell contains 20% recycled materials
  • Detachable clear plastic dust cover

You can’t expect the Earth when ‘design’ is concerned when it’s obvious Philips has devoted the bulk of its budget to piling on the features – and sure enough, the FT1 is as pragmatic a piece of design as you’re likely to encounter.

The main box, on which the turntable platter sits (and in which the CD-related stuff lives) is built of hard, extremely glossy black plastic that features a fair amount of recycled post-consumer material. It’s shiny and reflective, as is all too obvious from my photographs – and even though the detachable dust cover is clear, rather than black, it’s just as keen to pick up fingerprints as the rest of the device.

Although the dust cover of my review sample doesn’t sit absolutely centrally on the plinth (it’s offset to the right just about enough to trigger my latent OCD), there’s no arguing with the standard of construction and finish here. Nothing feels vulnerable, even though the entire unit weighs less than 4kg, and the CD tray opens and closes smoothly.

The FT1 isn’t absolutely silent when it’s loading a disc or the turntable’s ‘auto start’ feature kicks in as the tonearm is taken from its rest and moved over the vinyl – but keep the asking price uppermost in your mind and there’s really not that much to take meaningful issue with here.

  • Design score: 4/5

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Philips Fidelio FT1 turntable/CD player review: usability and set-up
  • Control app and physical buttons
  • Auto-start and -stop
  • Rapid Bluetooth pairing

Setting up the Fidelio FT1 is neither complex nor taxing. The die-cast aluminium platter needs to be put on its spindle, and the belt that’s attached needs to be put over the drive pulley. The tonearm needs its counterweight to be fitted and adjusted – Philips recommends a tracking weight of 1.5g or so. There’s a guard on the cartridge which needs to be removed. That’s your turntable section ready to go – for CD playback, just remove the transport tape holding the drawer closed and that’s all you need to do.

The FT1 can be hard-wired to an amplifier using stereo RCA connections – make sure the integrated phono stage is switched either on or off, depending on the input you’re connecting to. There’s a 3.5mm analog output on the rear panel too (not the most convenient location, but let’s not get bogged down in that), in case you’d like to connect a pair of wired headphones. Otherwise, the Philips can be quickly and easily paired with wireless speakers, wireless headphones or any other kind of Bluetooth receiver.

Control of the system is available via some physical buttons on the plinth. There’s a relatively big ‘power on/off’ button and a speed-control dial (choose between 33.3 and 45rpm). In addition, there are buttons handling Bluetooth pairing, source selection, Auracast, play/pause, and the opening and closing of the CD drawer.

The FT1 can be integrated into the Philips ‘Entertainment’ app, too. Here you’re able to duplicate the functions of the physical controls (apart from ‘power on/off’, weirdly), adjust volume, programme the CD player, adjust the clock or set a timer, check for software updates and plenty more besides. It’s not the most intuitive app around, in all honesty, but stick with it and it proves very useful indeed.

  • Usability and setup score: 5/5

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Philips Fidelio FT1 turntable/CD player review: Value
  • Three separates in one, plus Bluetooth transmission
  • If you can deal with a few sonic shortfalls, it's a lot of kit for the money

On the face of it, it’s hard to argue with the value represented by swapping $349 / £269 for an automatic turntable with integrated phono stage and CD player, especially not one that’s a Bluetooth transmitter and Auracast device too.

But of course, you didn’t buy the Fidelio FT1 just to admire its specification (or to constantly be dusting its high-gloss finish), did you? If you can live with its insubstantial treble response and, to a lesser extent, with its rather remote way with the low frequencies though, the Philips has plenty going for it.

  • Value score: 4/5

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Should I buy the Philips Fidelio FT1 turntable/CD player?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Features

It's impossible to take issue over the plentiful separates built into a single chassis

5/5

Sound quality

There are a few compromises to be made here, but again, for the money there's still a lot to like

3.5/5

Design

A lot of glossy black plastic and it's a shade off rock-solid in terms of build quality, but it's all here and it all works well

4/5

Usability and setup

The turntable setup is well-explained and simple and the app, although not the most intuitive, is ultimately a a good and useful addition

5/5

Value

Accept its insubstantial treble response (and it's admittedly remote way with bass) and the Philips has a lot to recommend it

4/5

Buy it if...

You want multi-format convenience
Here’s a turntable, a CD player and a Bluetooth transmitter in a single shiny box

You own Bluetooth speakers and/or wireless speakers
You can connect the FT1 to a traditional system using stereo RCA cables, but where’s the fun in that?

You enjoy full-bodied low-frequency response
They may not get on with the rest of the frequency range all that well, but the FT’s bass sounds are deep, well-controlled and detailed

Don't buy it if...

You’re not particularly houseproud
The ‘none more shiny’ finish of the FT1 needs constant attention if it’s going to stay clean

You’re sensitive to high-frequency response
The Philips system is strangely boneless and insubstantial at the top end

You’re going to switch between wired and wireless use
There’s a fair discrepancy between the output volume of the Philips in one state compared to the otherView Deal

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Philips Fidelio FT1 turntable/CD player review: also consider

The beauty of the Fidelio FT1 is that it’s currently Number One in a field of very, very few - and certainly the ‘Philips’ badge is more credible that that worn by any of its nominal competitors. So unless you want to trust your vinyl collection to a brand you’ve either never heard of or that has a less-than-stellar reputation, the FT1 is probably the way to go.

That's unless you can stomach the idea of a Bluetooth-equipped turntable – the Sony PS-LX310BT is a particularly impressive example, the Majority Folio is also worthy of a look – and an affordable CD player as a separate purchase. But then, of course, you can’t stream your CDs wirelessly…

How I tested the Philips Fidelio FT1 turntable/CD player

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
  • Tested over the course of three weeks
  • Tested its vinyl and CD performance, wired and wirelessly

Naturally I listened to both vinyl and compact discs during the course of my testing. I connected the FT1 wirelessly to a pair of matching Philips Fidelio FA3 wireless speakers (review incoming!), and I also connected it to my reference system using RCA cables and with its integrated phono stage switched on.

I used it with wired and wireless headphones. That’s the thing about products with as much functionality as this – it takes ages to investigate every aspect of their performance…

  • First reviewed: February 2025
  • Read more about how we test
Categories: Reviews

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