There is no better way to liven up a party than with a karaoke machine. It’s simply the best way to get the party groove going. It also lets your guests rock to their favorite songs all night long. Karaoke nights create some of the best memories in any party and as such, you should definitely buy one. Karaoke units come in a huge variety.
You can easily find some that have thousands of songs already built in and others that can be connected via WI-Fi to any device. This makes it possible for you to access any kind of music you want. With all these options, deciding which karaoke machine is ideal for you can be a little difficult.
Well, in case you are scratching your head not knowing what brand or model to choose, we may have made your work a little easier. In this review, we look at the top ten karaoke machines in the market, their features, as well as the pros and cons of each model.
The goal of this guide is to give information about a wide range of top karaoke machines in the market so that in the end you can make an informed decision.
A Short History of Karaoke
Before we get into karaoke machine reviews, let’s start by showing you a short history of the karaoke machine. Karaoke came to light for the first time in the 1970s. It was a group of people who gathered somewhere in a party and sang along to their favorite songs. There were no specific machines involved or any special music effects.
Fast forward a few decades and Karaoke is a developed industry that has penetrated all parts of the world. Specialized karaoke machines have been developed to help you sing along to the songs you love. It’s just an outstanding experience.
Electrohome Karaoke Machine Speaker System
One of the most affordable karaoke machines out there
Offers great variety in voice effects
Comes with high-quality built-in speakers
Good warranty
Memorex MKS-SS2 SingStand 2 Home Karaoke System
Very compact and takes very little room space
Simple handheld controls
Automatic voice balancing feature
This karaoke machine can be easily connected to a smartphone or TV
Singtrix Party Bundle Premium Edition Home Karaoke System
Singtrix Home Karaoke System enables excellent sound quality
Offers the largest variety of sound and vocal effects
Comes with a professional look although it's fun to use
ION Audio Block Party Portable Bluetooth Speaker System
Highly durable for heavy use
Comes with a rechargeable long lasting battery
Easy to use even for beginners
Offers a stable Bluetooth connection
Singing Machine SML385UW Karaoke System
Comes with disco lights on the front for flashing party effects
You can swap CDs easily with a top loading machine
A good machine that comes with two extra microphone jacks
Things to Look for When Shopping for the Best Karaoke System
Karaoke machines are not all the same. There are a number of unique features that differentiate one brand from the other.
Here are some of the most important things to look for in a karaoke machine:
Speakers
There can never be music without speakers. Each karaoke machine usually comes with a speaker but the quality varies a lot. As you have witnessed before, singing during karaoke nights can get too loud.
The off-key voices of everyone will easily drown out a basic speaker so it’s recommended to get a machine that features a high-quality sound system. Although you can still hook up your own set of high-quality speakers to the machine, it’s often better to have a karaoke unit that can also do the job when the external speakers are not available.
Screen
Karaoke machines come with a screen. Even though most brands can be hooked up to a TV for better experience, sometimes you may not have that luxury. Perhaps you are bringing your party outside in the open.
We also know that a screen is essential in karaoke because it displays the lyrics as people sing to them. Audiences can also get into the music by reading the lyrics on the screen and joining in as you sing. In that case, you want a karaoke machine that has a large screen that can be viewed easily by everyone in the party.
Audio Quality
The sound of the karaoke machine needs to be crystal clear. Professional units will offer these features no doubt and even though they cost a little more, you will definitely see their worth. There are a few machines though that allow you to connect to an external speaker.
This is because in some cases the karaoke speaker may not have a good enough sound system for your needs. This is still a good thing because you have the option of customizing the sounds to your specification. Nonetheless, it is often better to pick karaoke machines that come with PA speakers as opposed to traditional stereo speakers.
Powered Mixers
A power mixer in a karaoke machine will allow you to adjust various audio signals in your machine. You can also amplify the sound to be as loud as possible. This is a good bonus feature to have in the machine. The bigger the variety of power mixers the better the karaoke machine will be.
Age of the User
The age of the user may also determine the kind of karaoke machine that you should go for. Children, for example, will need a very different karaoke machine compared to adults or teenagers. In that case, you need to pay attention to age.
For instance, if you are buying the machine for kids, you will be better off going for a lightweight option that offers more sound effects. Adults, on the other hand, would prefer a machine that gives them a huge variety of song options. So you need the best karaoke machine for adults.
Available Audio Formats
Songs come in a wide range of formats. While most devices play these formats, you may find that some karaoke machines are only limited to certain formats. This also limits you and the kind of music you can jam to. In that case, you should get a machine that can play a wide variety of formats. This will give you a very good collection of music to enjoy with your friends.
Type of Microphone
You want your karaoke machine to give you the option to hook up at least two microphones. I mean, who doesn’t love a heartfelt Aaron Neville and Linda Ronstadt duet. Having two or more microphones makes that possible. Many machines come with a single microphone with an outlet to hook up another. You should definitely go for those.
Sound Effects
Sound effects are designed to make your voice a little bit better. Let’s face it, even though everyone sounds nice in the best professional karaoke machine, we don’t have the best of voices. You need a little help to bring out your best sound and voice effects help you to do that. Karaoke machines with many sound effects will be perfect.
Strength and Durability
Karaoke machines will, of course, be operational during parties and things can get rowdy sometimes. You want to make sure that the machine can withstand a few knocks here and there. A sturdy construction with a durable design is therefore recommended. It will last long despite the wear and tear of day-to-day jamming.
Connectivity Options
The music is the most important thing in a karaoke machine. Some models come built in with thousands of tracks. In some cases, you may need to insert a CD to play your music. But even with these options, we all know they are not enough.
A karaoke machine that can be connected to other devices via Wi-Fi gives you better options and more personalization. In essence, you can virtually play any songs you want on YouTube or on any other music sharing platform.
Connectivity can be done in a number of ways. Wi-Fi connectivity is the most basic though. It allows the machine to connect to the Internet. You may also want to check whether the machine has HDMI or RCA connection for easier integration with other devices including TVs.
10 Best Karaoke Machines in the World
Well, as we have clearly stated at the introduction of this guide, karaoke machines are available in many different models. Going through all these options and deciding what you want can be very hard. The good thing is that you don’t have to. We have researched some of the best home karaoke machines in the market and came up with a top ten list for you.
1 – Electrohome Karaoke Machine Speaker System
The Electrohome Karaoke Machine is probably one of the most popular karaoke machines out there. The design is simple and yet very comprehensive which makes it the best karaoke system for home.
In case you are buying it to use at home with the whole family, you will be happy to know that its lightweight and highly portable design makes it ideal for such a situation. The machine is also very durable and quite powerful in its audio output all thanks to the high-quality built-in speakers.
You can also choose between two modes. The first “standalone” mode simply allows you to use the karaoke unit on its own. There is also an integrated mode that ensures the machine can be connected to your home’s entertainment system.
The Electrohome Karaoke Machine comes with a standard AUX jack that can be used to hook it up to your smartphone. Dual microphone input is also available in case you want to break out in duets at home.
The price is very good. For all its features, there’s no doubt that the Electrohome Karaoke Machine is one of the most affordable units out there. Also, don’t forget to check out the RCA cable that lets you connect the system to your TV or PC.
The voice control features and voice effects are also quite good. In case you want a home karaoke system that meets all the highest standards of quality, the Electrohome Karaoke Machine will not let you down. It’s the best karaoke machine for home use.
Pros:
One of the most affordable karaoke machines out there
Offers great variety in voice effects
Comes with high-quality built-in speakers
Good warranty
Cons:
No built-in monitor for lyrics
The machine doesn’t feature Bluetooth connectivity
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2 – Memorex MKS-SS2 SingStand 2 Home Karaoke System
The Memorex MKS-SS2 is also another home-based system but it’s actually very rare compared to the other machines in our list. It’s also very unique in its design. For instance, instead of offering the external standard speaker box and a microphone attached, the system comes built in with all these things.
The speakers are quite good too. They are built into the base of the unit which enhances acoustics remarkably. However, in case you intend to use the Memorex MKS-SS2 in a bar or an open place other than your home, it may be a good idea to invest in high-quality external speakers.
Nonetheless, the machine comes with a standard line-in hookup that can fit any device with a headphone jack. In essence, you can hook up your smartphone anytime. We also loved the “Audio Voice Control” feature in the unit.
The feature is designed to automatically balance the output of your voice with the song that you are singing to ensure you are not drowned by the music. It also makes sure that you are not too loud for the song. Voice balancing singing in a karaoke machine is not easy. However, the Memorex MKS-SS2 does this automatically for you.
The machine also comes with a 59-inch microphone stand to accommodate singers of all heights. It also offers an instrument hook up feature that allows connecting things like guitars, keyboards, and other musical instruments out there.
Pros:
Very compact and takes very little room space
Simple handheld controls
Automatic voice balancing feature
Can be easily connected to a smartphone or TV
Cons:
Doesn’t have light effects
You don’t get a monitor for your lyrics
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3 – Singtrix Party Bundle Premium Edition Home Karaoke System
The Singtrix Party Bundle Premium Edition has had a very good share of publicity. The machine has appeared on many TV shows including on Ellen, Shark Tank, and The View among others.
What really makes the machine stand out is the fact that it actually makes bad singers sound very good. It also makes good singers sound amazing. The Singtrix Party Bundle Premium Edition integrates professional grade vocal effects into the simple karaoke process to deliver an outstanding experience.
Although there are so many karaoke machines that claim to offer “voice correction capabilities”, the Singtrix Party Bundle Premium Edition takes this to a whole new level. The system comes with over 300 unique vocal effects.
There are not many karaoke machines that offer this much. There’s also a natural pitch correction technology, 4-part harmonies, and other incredible choir effects. The system is a modern machine and features some of the best technologies out there.
Its audio format versatility is also worth mentioning. The Singtrix Party Bundle Premium Edition can literally play any kind of music. Whether you want to load YouTube videos into the Karaoke track or select MP3 songs from your mobile device, the Singtrix Party Bundle Premium Edition will play them all.
You can also plug instruments for live music. The biggest challenge with this system is the price. The features, of course, are high end and it’s fair that the manufacturer charged more for them. But it’s definitely one of the best and most expensive karaoke machines out there.
Pros:
Excellent sound quality
Offers the largest variety of sound and vocal effects
Comes with a professional look although it’s fun to use
Cons:
Can be bulky and heavy for some users
The warranty period is short compared to the other systems
You don’t get a built-in display for your lyrics
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4 – ION Audio Block Party Portable Bluetooth Speaker System
The ION Audio Block Party Live karaoke machine is definitely the best karaoke unit out there. When you look at the reviews of many users, one thing comes out very clearly. It’s the best karaoke they have ever used. And for good reason too.
For starters, the machine offers one of the best sound outputs in the market with its high-quality PA speakers. It’s also very versatile and can be used in any setting.
Whether you are getting ready for a live jamming session in a bar or a simple sing-out at home with your family and friends, the ION Audio Block Party Live will deliver what you want.
The unit comes with a 50-watt/106-decibel speaker that will easily blast out the music even in large concert halls. The machine is also Bluetooth compatible, a feature that many top brands in our list lack. There is also a standard auxiliary hook that will help you connect your smartphone and any other MP3 player.
The ION Audio Block Party Live karaoke machine also comes with a half-disco ball embedded at the top as part of its design. It may seem a little cheesy at first but once you see the light show provided by the ball you will love it.
The ball can project lights in line with the music, bringing out that party feeling every time you sing. You can even download an external app on your smartphone and use it to control the light coming out of the ball.
The ION Audio Block Party Live machine comes with a standard AC adapter that can be plugged in anywhere you go. The unit will also offer you a rechargeable battery. The manufacturers say that the battery can hold up to 75 hours depending on how heavily you are using the unit.
When it comes to portability, the ION Audio Block Party Live karaoke machine does it better than many other brands. It comes fitted with wheels and an extendable handle.
It resembles a carry on bag and you can wheel it anywhere you want. The unit is relatively professional with an array of premium features. But even if you are a home user, you will definitely enjoy using it. Be ready to fork out some good money though to buy it.
Pros:
Highly durable for heavy use
Comes with a rechargeable long lasting battery
Easy to use even for beginners
Offers a stable Bluetooth connection
Cons:
Very expensive
The MIC volume can sometimes be low
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5 – Singing Machine SML385UW Bluetooth Karaoke System
The SML385UW is one of the bestselling karaoke machines from Singing Machine and it’s not hard to see why. It has everything you can ever think off in a karaoke machine and a few extra features too.
First, the unit can easily be connected to a TV so that you can see the lyrics of your song clearly. Although it’s designed to take CD + G, you will also get an audio plug in that can be used to connect external devices with a headphone jack.
The only challenge is that the lyrics cannot be streamed on the screen using the audio cable. You will also get one microphone with the SML385UW and two jacks to hook up two extra ones.
The SML385UW also comes with some colorful lights on the front to deliver that party feeling and experience. The unit is quite durable and will last you for years even with heavy use.
Pros:
Comes with disco lights on the front for flashing party effects
You can swap CDs easily with a top loading machine
Comes with two extra microphone jacks
Cons:
The knobs sometimes create static noise
The output of the microphone volume could be better
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6 – Akai Professional KS5500-BT Karaoke Mini System
The Akai Professional KS5500-BT is actually one of the top CD + G karaoke machines out there. The unit comes with one free karaoke CD to get you jamming right away. You will also get a line-in input to connect additional external devices including a smartphone or a tablet.
The Akai Professional KS5500-BT also features a USB port for extra connectivity options. Unlike many karaoke machines in our list that only come with one microphone, this one has two. The unit also features two simple microphone holders on the side to ensure the mics are safely tucked away when not in use.
Additionally, the Akai Professional KS5500-BT also offers a built-in 7-inch screen. It’s not that big but it’s enough to help you read lyrics as you sing. Besides, most of the machines we have reviewed don’t have a screen at all.
But in case you want to connect the unit to a TV, an AV cord to do so is provided. One of the key challenges with the Akai Professional KS5500-BT is the height. At 43.4 inches, the unit is highly limited when it comes to portability. But overall, the unit offers great value for money.
Pros:
Very good sound output from inbuilt speakers
No assembly needed, just use it right out of the box
Offers flashing light effects
You get two microphones
Cons:
The quality of microphones is not good enough
CLICK HERE TO VIEW PRICE ON AMAZON
7 – Pyle Wireless Portable PA Speaker System
The Pyle Wireless Portable PA Speaker System is designed for people who are looking for a professional karaoke machine with excellent sound systems. The unit comes with a powerful PA sound system that delivers outstanding sound output.
The unit in fact has the ability to handle 500 watts of power that supply an 8-inch subwoofer and a 3-inch compression tweeter speaker. This ensures that your voice is projected as clearly as possible every time you sing.
The high-quality sound system makes the Pyle Wireless Portable PA Speaker System one of the best options to use in large open spaces including bars.
The unit also features a built-in iPod dock to connect your iPod or your smartphone. In addition to this, you will also get a quarter inch jack input for an external CD or MP3 device. The Pyle Wireless Portable PA Speaker System will allow you to connect external musical instruments including a keyboard or a guitar.
The unit comes with a wireless microphone that can be used over a distance of 100 feet. This gives the singer a lot of freedom to move around the stage and feel the music.
The Pyle Wireless Portable PA Speaker System gives you the best sound. That’s its major selling point but it still has many great extras like being the best portable karaoke machine.
Pros:
Offers very high-quality sound
Special sound effects are included
Wireless audio streaming capabilities
Features cool LED lights
Cons:
The battery life is very low
The LED lights can drain the battery very fast
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8 – Karaoke USA GF845 Complete Karaoke System
Karaoke USA GF845 gives you one of the easiest options to download and play your favorite songs. The unit comes with USB and SD card slots to make this happen. It will also accept auxiliary input from any device including gaming consoles.
The system allows you to record your performance on an SD card in MP3 format too. Once you have made a recording, you will have the option to play it back right away and decide whether you want to save it or not.
The unit also comes with a sizable color screen to display the lyrics. There’s a built-in sound amplifier too that will boost the sound output. This makes the Karaoke USA GF845 ideal for large spaces.
In addition to this, the unit will come with over 300 songs in a disc that you can plug in and play right away. Besides, the Karaoke USA GF845 is also capable of playing DVD formats.
So, if you are taking a break from singing, you can catch a movie if you want on the machine. It doesn’t even have to be on DVD. The SD and USB ports will also work to make this happen.
Pros:
High-quality microphone
7-inch easy to read color screen
Compatible with an array of music players out there
Cool flashing light effects
Cons:
The voice recognition feature doesn’t work very well
No portable handle
CLICK HERE TO VIEW PRICE ON AMAZON
9 – L P Kids Karaoke Machine – Simply the Best Karaoke Machine for Kids
The L P Kids Karaoke Machine is specifically designed for young kids. It comes with an adjustable stand and two microphones to ensure your kids have all the best singing options.
The unit also features flashing disco lights and pedals designed to offer the most absorbing musical atmosphere. It is also very light, compact and perfect for kids three years old and above.
The L P Kids Karaoke Machine is easy to assemble and comes with an extendable handle for easy portability. You will get an auxiliary cable to stream music from other devices. But the unit also comes with pre-installed sounds including a few lullaby tunes.
The height adjustment is, however, one key feature that has impressed many users. The L P Kids Karaoke Machine can actually be adjusted in height as the kids grow. It’s definitely a big plus since this unit is the best karaoke machine for kids.
Pros:
You get two microphones
The stand is adjustable
Very impressive light effects
Easily portable
Best kid friendly karaoke machine
Cons:
The length of the microphone cord is relatively short
CLICK HERE TO VIEW PRICE ON AMAZON
10 – Singing Machine SDL9030DB Carnaval Karaoke System
The SDL9030DB Carnaval from Singing Machine offers the ultimate versatility when it comes to connections. The unit can easily be hooked up to a TV, smartphone, or even a tablet. It comes with Bluetooth, USB, and HDMI connectivity options.
The unit also features two microphones and lighting effects too. Despite this, we noted that it was taking too long to pair the SDL9030DB Carnaval with other devices using Bluetooth. Nonetheless, the machine is very easy to use.
It has clearly labeled controls and knobs. Sadly, the SDL9030DB Carnaval doesn’t have a screen to display lyrics. But this is not a deal breaker in any way. After all, you can hook it up to a TV anytime. The sound quality is also very good. It doesn’t matter whether you are in a small bar or a large theater, the machine will deliver excellent sound.
Pros:
Easy to use and set up
Offers great connectivity options
Comes with two microphones
Cons:
No built-in monitor
The Bluetooth has issues connecting some times
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How to Care for the Best Karaoke System in Your Home
Your purchase of the best karaoke system for home requires you take regular care of the machine. Since this is an electrical device keep water away from it. As you know, water and electricity have a combustive relationship. Here are common sense tips to keep any karaoke machine working optimally.
A – Keep the karaoke machine away from any type of fluid.
B – Wipe-off dust on a regular basis before it can penetrate into the most important components.
C – The packaging box should not be thrown away as it can be used to store the karaoke machine when not in use.
D – Read the owner’s manual and follow the suggested rules and steps needed to keep the portable karaoke machine working flawlessly.
Conclusion
Akai Professional KS5500-BT Karaoke Mini System
Very good sound output from inbuilt speakers
No assembly needed, just use it right out of the box
Offers flashing light effects
You get two microphones
Pyle Wireless Portable PA Speaker System
Offers very high-quality sound
Special sound effects
Wireless audio streaming capabilities
Features cool LED lights
Karaoke USA GF845 Complete Karaoke System
High-quality microphone
7-inch easy to read color screen
Compatible with an array of music players out there
Cool flashing light effects
L P Kids Karaoke Machine
You get two microphones
The stand is adjustable
Impressive light effects
Easily portable
Best kid friendly karaoke machine
Singing Machine SDL9030DB Carnaval Karaoke System
Easy to use and set up
Offers great connectivity options
The Singing machine comes with two microphones
Getting a high-quality karaoke machine is never easy but with the huge number of options in the market, you should be able to pick something that works. Based on our analysis, the Electrohome Karaoke Machine Speaker System is a perfect choice for the average user. It offers great sound effects and high-quality sound. The machine is also very affordable.
However, for people looking for a more professional unit that comes with outstanding premium features, the Singtrix Party Bundle Premium Edition Home Karaoke System is highly recommended. As the manufacturer says, the unit makes bad singers good and good singers amazing, all thanks to its sound and vocal effects.
What do you get from three nerds (Joe, Ray, and Paul) that decide to create a functioning tech gadget review site? The first is data-driven arguments lasting way into the night. You can read more…
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