RECORD PLAYER BUYERS GUIDE
RECORD PLAYER BUYERS GUIDE
RECORD PLAYER BUYERS GUIDE
Where To Begin?
Are you considering buying your first turntable? If so, you may wonder if the record player you choose really makes a difference in the sound quality you get from your vinyl records. The answer is yes!
Several components affect the sound quality, with the turntable acting as the foundation. By selecting a strong foundation, you can prevent technical issues in playback and build on top of it with other factors such as speakers, stylus, and cartridge types and brands.
Keep in mind that sound quality can be subjective and not a simple matter of good vs. bad.
This guide aims to provide you with information on the different types of record players, their pros and cons, and other essential considerations when selecting one.
All-In-One
Let’s start with the all-in-one turntables. While many vinyl enthusiasts dismiss these models for sound reasons, they may be a suitable option for some.
All-in-one record players are typically affordable and have a sleek design that appeals to the high school and college demographic, such as the Victrola canvas record players from Target.
They are easy to store, making them ideal for those with limited space, and more accessible for someone who wants to test the hobby without spending a lot of money.
However, all-in-one turntables have some significant drawbacks to keep in mind. The built-in speakers can cause vibrations that damage the record and result in poor sound quality compared to separate speakers.
Cheaper parts and build quality often cause the record player to bounce, potentially leading to stylus skipping and tonearm distortion. In addition, the needle’s tracking force is often pre-set and cannot be adjusted correctly.
All of these issues can damage the record and reduce the overall sound quality. While the price of all-in-one turntables may be appealing, investing in a more expensive record player provides a better foundation, leading to more significant improvements in sound quality and won’t damage your records.
Key Components
Rather than offer specific comparisons of higher tier record players, I’ll offer specific components to keep an eye out for. If the record player you come across has these elements, then it’s safe to say it’s quality.
When looking to purchase a turntable, some characteristics to look for include an adjustable counterweight, a removable headshell, and anti-skate control.
A counterweight found at the opposite end of the needle arm applies more or less pressure of the needle to the record. Adjusting the weight is crucial to prevent the needle from bouncing or scratching the record.
A removable headshell allows you to switch out the cartridge and needle for better sound quality, while anti-skate control prevents the needle from jumping out of the grooves.
Additional Factors
Other key factors to consider when purchasing a turntable include whether it has a preamplifier and amplifier. Many modern turntables have a preamp built-in, but some vintage models may not. If your turntable does not have a preamp, you will need to purchase one separately.
The amplifier enables the transition from the preamp to the speakers. Some speakers have an amplifier built-in, while others require you to purchase one separately. The quality of the record player is not diminished or gained from having either of these components built-in or separate, it’s mainly something to be aware of.
Lastly, selecting a good pair of speakers is essential for getting the most out of your vinyl records. Records produce high-quality sounds, so a cheap set of speakers won’t be able to reach those different depths.
All Right, Wrap It Up...
In summary, investing in a good turntable provides a strong foundation for the rest of your setup, preventing technical issues and improving sound quality.
Keep in mind the importance of an adjustable counterweight, removable headshell, and anti-skate control when selecting a turntable. Additionally, consider the preamp, amplifier, and speakers you will need to complete your setup.
Where To Begin?
Are you considering buying your first turntable? If so, you may wonder if the record player you choose really makes a difference in the sound quality you get from your vinyl records. The answer is yes!
Several components affect the sound quality, with the turntable acting as the foundation. By selecting a strong foundation, you can prevent technical issues in playback and build on top of it with other factors such as speakers, stylus, and cartridge types and brands.
Keep in mind that sound quality can be subjective and not a simple matter of good vs. bad.
This guide aims to provide you with information on the different types of record players, their pros and cons, and other essential considerations when selecting one.
All-In-One
Let’s start with the all-in-one turntables. While many vinyl enthusiasts dismiss these models for sound reasons, they may be a suitable option for some.
All-in-one record players are typically affordable and have a sleek design that appeals to the high school and college demographic, such as the Victrola canvas record players from Target.
They are easy to store, making them ideal for those with limited space, and more accessible for someone who wants to test the hobby without spending a lot of money.
However, all-in-one turntables have some significant drawbacks to keep in mind. The built-in speakers can cause vibrations that damage the record and result in poor sound quality compared to separate speakers.
Cheaper parts and build quality often cause the record player to bounce, potentially leading to stylus skipping and tonearm distortion. In addition, the needle’s tracking force is often pre-set and cannot be adjusted correctly.
All of these issues can damage the record and reduce the overall sound quality. While the price of all-in-one turntables may be appealing, investing in a more expensive record player provides a better foundation, leading to more significant improvements in sound quality and won’t damage your records.
Key Components
Rather than offer specific comparisons of higher tier record players, I’ll offer specific components to keep an eye out for. If the record player you come across has these elements, then it’s safe to say it’s quality.
When looking to purchase a turntable, some characteristics to look for include an adjustable counterweight, a removable headshell, and anti-skate control.
A counterweight found at the opposite end of the needle arm applies more or less pressure of the needle to the record. Adjusting the weight is crucial to prevent the needle from bouncing or scratching the record.
A removable headshell allows you to switch out the cartridge and needle for better sound quality, while anti-skate control prevents the needle from jumping out of the grooves.
Additional Factors
Other key factors to consider when purchasing a turntable include whether it has a preamplifier and amplifier. Many modern turntables have a preamp built-in, but some vintage models may not. If your turntable does not have a preamp, you will need to purchase one separately.
The amplifier enables the transition from the preamp to the speakers. Some speakers have an amplifier built-in, while others require you to purchase one separately. The quality of the record player is not diminished or gained from having either of these components built-in or separate, it’s mainly something to be aware of.
Lastly, selecting a good pair of speakers is essential for getting the most out of your vinyl records. Records produce high-quality sounds, so a cheap set of speakers won’t be able to reach those different depths.
All Right, Wrap It Up...
In summary, investing in a good turntable provides a strong foundation for the rest of your setup, preventing technical issues and improving sound quality.
Keep in mind the importance of an adjustable counterweight, removable headshell, and anti-skate control when selecting a turntable. Additionally, consider the preamp, amplifier, and speakers you will need to complete your setup.