Finding the best karaoke machines is vital if you want your parties to be great. There are many different types of karaoke machines, with varying features available on the market. While most of these sound systems are fun to use, they may not be necessarily best suited for your needs. Here's why we are here to help you make the right choice and become the karaoke king or queen in your friend circle.
Table of Contents
- The Best Karaoke Machine
- 1. Singing Machine SML385BTW Karaoke Machine
- 2. Karaoke USA GF842 Singing Karaoke Machine
- 3. ION Audio Party Rocker Max
- 4. Memorex MKS-SS2 Microphone SingStand System
- 5. Electrohome Portable Karaoke System
- 6. Singing Machine iSM1030BT Professional Karaoke Pedestal
- 7. Grand Videoke Symphony 2.0
- 8. Kids Karaoke Machine with 2 Microphones
- 9. Akai KS213 Portable Home CD&G Karaoke System
- 10. Singing Machine SML-283P CDG Home Karaoke Player
- 11. Singing Machine STVG785W Karaoke Machine
- Karaoke Machine Buyers Guide
A lot of people love to make karaoke machines a part of their parties. Whether you're a college student or a grown-up professional, a home karaoke machine is something that is for everyone to ensure a great karaoke night.
Singing Machine SML385BTW Karaoke Machine | Karaoke USA GF842 Singing Karaoke Machine | ION Audio Party Rocker Max |
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The Best Karaoke Machine
1. Singing Machine SML385BTW Karaoke Machine
It's rare that you find a karaoke machine that's both high quality and cheap. This Karaoke System from Singing Machine is good quality, fun, and incredibly affordable. There's also a CD player in this home system, making the uses of this machine endless. We're often told that CDs are "so 90s", but a lot of good music still exists in our CD collections. You can connect your phone too, using Bluetooth. Although there's only one microphone included with the machine, there's also another jack, meaning you can connect multiple microphones.
You know what that means? Duets! It is a funky looking machine with a built-in speaker, easy controls, and diverse play options. You can use the RCA cable to connect the machine to the TV, so you have a screen to read the lyrics off. Every karaoke needs something extra, and with this, the disco light effects brighten the room - just add some disco balls!
Click here for our reviews of the best microphone stands for home karaoke machines.
Pros:
+ Excellent value
+ Built in party lights
+ Built in CD player
Why We Liked It - This particular system is super affordable. A lot of students and teenagers want these machines for their parties, as this suits their budget well. It shouldn't be too expensive to have a nice party.
Karaoke Lyrics - Karaoke machines that link to tablets and smartphones require you to install karaoke software on the device you're using, but they may also take CDs, USB sticks, or memory cards. Karaoke music + lyric files can be found for free online, simply download the file onto your USB stick or memory card and you should be able to view the lyrics on the built-in or external screen. Some special karaoke CDs - aka. CDGs - have lyric files built-in to the files. These should automatically play back the lyric files on a compatible device (e.g. one that has a built-in screen).

2. Karaoke USA GF842 Singing Karaoke Machine
If you're looking to add funk to your party, this is the machine for you. It has a 7 inch TFT color screen that makes karaoke easy and fun. All the controls are next to the screen and it's pretty convenient to make adjustments. You can play your recordings back instantly. The microphone is high quality, something which isn't all that common in karaoke machines.
As for sound, the 35 watts powered speaker system is likely to wake your neighbors - meaning you can be sure about its high audio quality! You wouldn't want to go to the machine every time you have to change a song or the volume. There's a remote control to do just that, so you can easily control it from the other side of your room.
Pros:
+ 7" color screen
+ Excellent sound
+ High quality microphone
Why We Liked It - We love this one because of its colorful LED lighting system that follows the rhythm of the music. Every party needs a little lighting effect, and this is just perfect for that. The bright lighting system changes the mood pretty quickly, a feature that'll get everyone on the dance floor. See the Karaoke USA GF829 as an alternative.
3. ION Audio Party Rocker Max
Get a portable speaker and karaoke machine that packs a punch with the ION Audio Party Rocker Max. This masterpiece of a speaker features wireless Bluetooth connectivity for effortless streaming – stream rich, vibrant sound from your phone, tablet, or computer with ease.
Don’t have a Bluetooth device? That’s fine! This model also comes with an aux input, so you can still rock out, no matter what. This machine’s microphone is built for a professional-sounding karaoke experience. With five different light settings to choose from, this eye-catching display will electrify any celebration. Party for hours with a long-life battery to see you through the whole weekend.
Pros:
+ Battery life lasts 75 hours
+ 8-inch woofer
+ 100 watts of power
Why We Liked It - Not only does this karaoke machine sound professional - it looks cool, too! The light show will light up any karaoke night. Sing in style.
HDMI Connections - If you want to connect your karaoke player to a TV or projector then you'll likely need an HDMI output. Some will work via USB too. Of course, you could just connect a different device to the TV or projector instead, like a laptop or phone. You can then load up karaoke videos on YouTube to sing along to.



4. Memorex MKS-SS2 Microphone SingStand System
While some people love the funky lighting system and colorful displays that come with their machines, others like their karaoke to be a little simpler. Memorex Karaoke System is perfect for these individuals. It's a stand that acts as a karaoke machine too. A powerful speaker at the base also houses the controls to manage sounds. There is another microphone jack as well. The construction is secure, to ensure that everything stays in place no matter how crazy the party gets.
The Automatic Voice Control technology automatically balances your vocals in ratio with the music. Moreover, the instrument input means you can insert your guitar, or other musical instruments, to play the music yourself.
Why We Liked It - It's a simple yet multipurpose karaoke stand that takes up minimal space in the room. With all the controls in your hand, you can host fun karaoke parties right from the comfort of your own living room. It comes with accessories, making it the complete package for a karaoke night of fun.
5. Electrohome Portable Karaoke System
Electrohome offers a Karaoke machine that works well with virtually all kinds of audio inputs. It has a CD/CD+G input, as well as a USB port, to play right from your flash drive. There is, of course, an auxiliary port for playing music directly from your phone, tablet, or pc. The machine is small and therefore portable enough to carry anywhere. Two speakers produce highly amplified sound. The 3.5 inch screen displays lyrics, but if you need a bigger screen you can connect it to your TV.
The Adjustable Digital Key control lets you tune the recorded music to match your voice range, eliminating the need to scream out loud. This is a must-have if you throw karaoke parties often. There is a disc included with the machine, that harbors popular karaoke sounds. T, price is reasonable considering it offers so many features and is quite innovative.
Why We Liked It - This one is jam-packed with the latest technology, as is evident with its features. One of those brilliant features is that the Auto Voice Control. This records your sounds when you sing at your best, so if you sing it again and your voice fails, it plays the prerecorded song - so you never really mess up! How cool is that?
6. Singing Machine iSM1030BT Professional Karaoke Pedestal
Are you a party person who's always on the lookout for professional equipment to for your parties? Well, this Karaoke Pedestal is exactly what you need. It has everything you could want for a karaoke night filled with music, love, and fun. The two-tower speakers produce top-quality sound that will shake the walls. Like other karaoke machines, this one is compatible with most audio/video inputs. You can insert karaoke CDs, MP3 players, and mobile devices like phones or tablets. There's a 7 inch TFT display that showcases the lyrics, but there are also connectivity options for other displays as well.
The machine comes with a cradle that holds both Android and iOS tablets. You can record music and vocals on a flash drive, which is great if you like covering latest tracks. The cord is long, meaning the mic can go anywhere in the room.
Why We Liked It - It's a mix of quality and convenience that will create an exceptional karaoke experience. Moreover, the machine's stylish speakers will only add to the look of the room. With features like echo control and auto voice control, what more could possibly ask for?
7. Grand Videoke Symphony 2.0
This is a one of a kind Karaoke system that features two exceptional quality microphones with a myriad of functions. The control is in your hand, literally, and the fun never ends. Grand Videoke Symphony provides a long list of songs, including both hits from the past and recent songs. You can find whatever song you're in the mood to sing in the roster. This range eliminates the need to connect a device to play the song you want.
There are 5,150 built in songs. Another good feature it offers is voice command - you can control the home system with your voice alone. It also includes HD picture backgrounds to add some visual effects to your parties. Since there are two mics, this machine makes an amazing fit for duets.
Why We Liked It - The Grand Videoke Symphony makes singing songs effortless, as most karaoke favorites are already programmed in. Whether you want to sing Abba or Lady Gaga, it's all right there in your hands. Above all, it's super easy to carry as well.
8. Kids Karaoke Machine with 2 Microphones
It wouldn't be fair to leave out the kids, so here's something that's perfect for them. This is a funky, purple-colored home system that's sure to be the life of all birthday parties. This system features two microphones, including one with an adjustable stand. The height lies in between 18.5 to 40 inches, perfect for most kids.
Since this machine is marketed at kids, the controls are very easy. There's a button for switching it on or off, and the aux allows you to quickly connect the device and play the kids' favorite tracks. It works on 4 AAA batteries, included in the set. The colorful party lights shine when the song plays. The kids will love it.
Why We Liked It - It's funky, decent quality and comes with a price tag that's not at all heavy on the pocket. It makes the perfect birthday present for your boy or girl.
9. Akai KS213 Portable Home CD&G Karaoke System
This rectangular karaoke machine is going to be loved by anyone who likes to sing with style. It will look spectacular in your room or living room. Not only does it look great, but it has practically all the features that a karaoke player can offer. Aside from the compulsory aux connection, it has input for CDs. There are two microphone jacks if you're up for a duet. The builtin speakers eliminate the need for separate speakers.
There is an iPad or tablet cradle on top of the player, where you can hold your device to read lyrics off. Technologies such as echo control, balancing, and auto voice control ensure your karaoke parties are the best, and your vocals shine out! The Akai KS213 is one of those machines with a great value for money.
Why We Liked It - The colorful led lights on either corner of the machine flash as you sing along the music. In a dim karaoke setup these will shine, and get the mood energized for some dancing. It's perfect for those who want a little funk in their house. Try the Akai KS808 as an alternative.
10. Singing Machine SML-283P CDG Home Karaoke Player
If you like boom box, you will love this particular karaoke player from Singing Machine. With its neon pink color, it's hard not to notice. It has everything you could possibly want in a karaoke player, including echo control and automatic voice control. With two microphone inputs and built in speakers, the party follows you everywhere you go. The machine will take in karaoke CDs. The disco balls display is fancy!
It's great for a teenage or sorority party on campus. The Singing Machine is one of the most affordable machines on the list, and a definite must have if you want something that's light and easy to carry.
Why We Liked It - The popping pink color makes it a favorite at just a glance. The disco ball lights are sure to get you up and make you groove. Any party with this machine will never be boring. Much like a boom box, you can take it anywhere.
11. Singing Machine STVG785W Karaoke Machine
Singing Machine has time and again proved that they are the king of home karaoke machines. The bright disco lights that surround the speaker create that disco mood whenever you're singing. Even if you're shy, you'll be shaking your hips and singing your lungs out once you get this.
The echo and voice control gives your vocals that professional edge. The input options cater to music from all times and all genres. You can even connect it to the TV through RCA.
Why We Liked It - This machine has a professional look and feel to it, which makes it great for clubs and bars as well as home use. It's also easy to control, and the microphone is of high quality. Whether you want it for professional use or just for your weekend parties, this machine will not disappoint.
Internal vs External Speakers - If you want to connect to external speakers then you'll need an RCA or AUX output. RCA is suitable for connecting to mixing desks and PA speakers and is suitable for large in-venue sound installations. AUX is fine for connecting to smaller household speakers or powered monitor speakers.



Karaoke Machine Buyers Guide
Karaoke Machines For Every Musical Purpose
Portable Machines
Component Machines
Power Output
In terms of specifications, your primary consideration should be the power output. This usually determines the quality of the karaoke machine's sound and volume. The watts vary significantly from one machine to another. Small machines can have as little as 5 watts, and some can have as many as 300 watts. In most settings, a watt of 90 should be enough, especially in a domestic setting, but this largely depends on your needs and the size of the room you are going to keep it in. If you want a machine for personal use then something under 90 watts should do well.
Quality of Sound
The most important thing to consider is the sound quality of the karaoke machine. The built-in speakers vary greatly in terms of quality, with low-priced ones lacking in quality. If you're very particular about the sound, then go for a high-end brand of karaoke machine, with high-quality speakers.
Formats and Connectivity
Another crucial consideration is the format. You have many forms for input available; these include CD + G, VCD, DVD, and MP3 players. As for connectivity, there are several options that vary from one machine to another. If you think you will be using the player with multiple devices, such as phones, tablets, or TVs, then you should go for one with multiple connectivity options. It should also have RCA, stereo, HDMI, USB, and even an iPod connection.
Microphones
Built-in Track Lists
Many karaoke machines have built-in rosters of old and new songs. This is great for those who don't have CDs or MP3 of their favorite songs. If you want something that's ready to go, and doesn't require a lot of input, like a CD or your phone, then go for a machine with an existing song database. Alternatively, you can purchase a machine with a CD+G option to record your most frequently used songs, and play it any time you like. As a general principle, the more versatile it is in terms of formats, the more options you have in terms of songs.
Value for Money
Like with other things we buy in our lives, we naturally want the best quality karaoke machine with the highest value for money. For that, you need something that's within your budget and yet offers all the necessary features. It's not hard to find a model like this, as many brands produce quality machines with almost all the features found in expensive ones. ION Audio Block Rocker is a perfect example of a machine that offers excellent value for money. Not only is it filled with innovative features, but it's also highly portable. All of that comes with a reasonable price tag.
Best for Kids
When buying for kids, make sure to check the features it has on offer. You necessarily won't need a lot of things, and they usually have prerecorded songs that are favorites for almost every kid. The good thing is that these machines are somewhat cheaper than regular karaoke machines.
High End
Usually, these machines do not cost a lot, but some high-end brands can be a little more expensive. You can easily find a decent quality karaoke machine under $100. However, some high-end ones from famous brands, such as GRAND VIDEOKE SYMPHONY 2.0, can cost more than $100. The benefit of buying such a model is that it usually has better speakers and microphones, and lasts longer than low-end machines. The overall look and performance of the machine is much more professional. So if you're going to use the machine in a professional setting, like in a bar or club, then it makes sense to buy the highest-quality one you can, from a high-end brand. These have all the latest functions, as well as versatile input and output options, delivering a fulfilling karaoke experience.
What is a karaoke machine?
Karaoke is used throughout the world, but most popular in bars, clubs, and private parties. The designs and features vary greatly, largely depending on your needs. Some are rather simple and designed for personal use, while others are professional and, therefore, more expensive.
These machines have several formats you can play the music from; usually CD, DVD, MP3, and auxiliary cables. You can even record your voice on some machines and play it later. While there is a small screen available on some karaoke machines, these usually have an outlet for connecting them to a TV.
No party will be boring with karaoke! There are special karaoke bars in many cities around the world, because that's just how popular it is now. No matter where you are in the world, you can easily find somewhere with a karaoke machine. Some restaurants have this kind of entertainment often on weekends to give their customers a chance to have a little fun.
Can karaoke machines play MP3's?
What is CDG?
It stands for Compact Disc and Graphics, which is pretty self-explanatory. These CDs not only include audio, but they also have an additional track that shows the lyrics to the song. This can be displayed on the karaoke screen of the machine, or television. The lyrics are usually color-coordinated, highlighted by a contrasting color when it's time to sing them. This is pretty much the standard format for karaoke.
For this to work, you need a top-loading CDG player, which is not uncommon. The only difference between a CD and CDG player is that the later also has the technology to read video content from the tracks. These also have echo control, which is essential for balancing the vocals of the singer and making it sound more professional. All of these home system packages are very easy to use - all you have to do is plug in the CDG, hook it up to a TV, and start singing!
What is a Karaoke DVD?
A karaoke DVD is much similar to a karaoke CD, but the video quality on the DVD is higher. However, there are no significant additional features on a DVD except for improved background graphics. Both the CD and DVD should do the right job for you. DVDs are a bit more expensive compared to a CD and usually have fewer tracks. DVD players can also accommodate CDs, and have additional features such as echo control and recording.
What is a multiplex format?
The CDs, DVDs, and VCDs come in a multiplex or non-multiplex format. The former has vocal demos for each song, so you have two versions; one with vocals and one without vocals. The other version only has songs without vocals. You can even remove the vocals from these songs by locating the multiplex function on the machine. The guide that accompanied the machine should help you with that.
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