Turntables

Turntable: the ultimate music experience

Experience music in a whole new way with the ultimate turntable. But what exactly is a record player and how do you find the best one? In this article, we take a closer look at what to look out for when searching for your new favorite turntable. Read on and discover the world of spinning vinyl!

What is a turntable?

A record player is a device that plays music from vinyl records. It works by using a needle to read the tiny grooves on the record and translate them into sound. Turntables have experienced a resurgence thanks to nostalgia among music lovers and the unique, warm sound of analog technology. Some modern turntables may also have Bluetooth functionality for easy streaming of music, or via a USB in some cases.

When looking for a good turntable, consider factors such as speed, the quality of the gramophone arm and the noise reduction system. It is important for vinyl collectors to choose a high-quality model to optimally enjoy the authentic sound quality of their vinyl record collection.

Which type of turntable is best?

It is difficult to say which type of turntable is best, as it depends on individual preferences and needs. There are different types of turntables such as direct drive, belt drive and idler wheel drive. Direct drive turntables have a more stable speed, while belt drive turntables have less noise and vibration. Idler wheel drive turntables are more rare and are known for their high quality sound reproduction.

With us you will find 3 main categories of turntables:

• Hi-Fi Turntables
• DJ Turntables (professional turntables)
• Retro turntables

It's also important to consider other factors such as tonearm, needle and record weight when choosing a turntable. It's always a good idea to research and read reviews from experts and other vinyl collectors before deciding on a turntable - no matter how serious you are about turntables and vinyl. This way, you can find a turntable that suits your needs and budget.

Of course, you're always welcome to write or call us for expert advice.

How a turntable works

The groove of the record and the needle are the heart of a record player. The needle reads the information from the groove and translates it into sound. The motor controls the speed of rotation, which is important to achieve the desired quality of sound. The tonearm holds the needle on the record and ensures that the pressure between the needle and the record is optimal.

When choosing a turntable, you should consider the following factors:

• Spin speed: 33 1/3 or 45 revolutions per minute
• Analog or bluetooth
• Gramophone, retro or modern design

For music lovers with nostalgia in mind, an analog gramophone will create the ultimate experience of authentic vinyl record sound.

Benefits of listening to vinyl

Vinyl collectors know there's something special about the sound of a record. Here are three benefits of listening to vinyl:

• Higher sound quality than digital formats:
• The turntable reproduces the music in analog form, allowing for a warmer, more authentic sound.
• Physical collector's item with artwork on the cover:
• A LP is not just a piece of music, it's also a work of art. The cover can be as valuable as the record itself.
• True music experience without the distraction of a screen or other technology:
• When listening to vinyl, you need to focus on the music and nothing else. This can make for a deeper experience.

Turntables are particularly aimed at true music lovers and nostalgic souls who want the ultimate music experience without Bluetooth or speed optimizations.

How to find a good turntable?

When looking for a good turntable, it's important to consider your budget. Turntables come in different price ranges and it's important to find a balance between price and quality.

Besides the price, the tonearm can also have a big impact on the sound quality of your turntable. It's a good idea to research which type of tonearm best suits your needs before making your final choice.

Budget

When considering your budget, make sure to look for a turntable in the price range that suits you and your needs. Remember that high price doesn't always mean better quality - choose the quality over the brand. Our experts can help you here if you have any questions.

Tonearm

Choose a tonearm with adjustable counterbalance and anti-skating control to get the best sound quality from your turntable. It is also important to choose a tonearm of appropriate length for your record size to avoid unnecessary wear and tear on your vinyl records. The material of the tonearm can also have an impact on the sound - consider carbon or aluminum for optimal performance.

Belt or direct drive

Direct drive can provide greater stability at high speeds, while the belt can reduce noise. However, it is important to note that belts can be more sensitive to wear than direct drives and should be replaced when the time comes. When it comes to 'plug and play' solutions for turntables, they will often have belt-based motors.

Dust clearance

Ensure an optimal dust gap between the platter and the pickup. This ensures both the sound quality and the lifespan of the needle. The size of the platter plays a role in how much space there is between the platter and the pickup, so it is important to take this into account when choosing a turntable. Also keep in mind maintenance of the area, such as cleaning the pickup.

For the best sound experience with your turntable, you should keep the following in mind:

• Ensure the optimal dust gap between the platter and the pickup
• Choose a suitable size of platter in relation to the position of the pickup
• Clean the pickup regularly to avoid accumulation of dust and dirt

Most turntables today are optimized for standard vinyl. However, it is a good idea to be aware of the above - just in case.

Size of the record player

Consider the size and shape, as this can have an impact on the placement in your home. It's important to consider the size of the record player and where it will be placed in the room. There are different sizes and shapes available on the market, so research what best suits your needs.

When choosing the size of your turntable, it's also important to make sure you have enough space for both the platter and tonearm. Therefore, check the specifications before buying a turntable.

Be aware of any need to transport the turntable - for example, when moving house. A large or heavier model may be more difficult to handle than a smaller version, so take this into consideration before buying your new turntable.

• Consider size and shape
• Make sure you have enough space for both the platter and tonearm
• Be aware of potential transportation of the player

Phono preamplifier

If you are looking for a phono preamplifier, there are some important things to consider. First of all, check whether your turntable has a built-in phono amplifier or requires external amplification. Then make sure you choose a phono amplifier with the appropriate gain level for your pickup. You may also want to consider buying a model with adjustable capacitance and resistance levels.

A good phono preamp will help you achieve the desired sound from your vinyl records, so it's important not to underestimate its importance in your setup. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that your turntable's performance is maximized and give you the ultimate music experience.

How can I clean my turntable?

Cleaning your turn table is an important part of maintaining its performance and longevity. Here are some steps you can follow to clean your turntable:

1. First of all, turn off the power and remove the platter and belt.
2. Use an anti-static brush to gently remove dust and dirt from the needle.
3. Use a soft cloth to wipe dust and dirt off the plinth and tonearm.
4. Use a vinyl cleaning fluid and a soft cloth to clean the platter and belt.
5. If there is caked-on dirt or grease on the plinth or tonearm, you can use a mild soap solution to clean it off.
6. When you're done cleaning your turntable, make sure to dry it off completely and let it dry for a few minutes before putting the platter and strap back in place.

It is important to remember that you should not apply too much pressure when cleaning your turntable as this can damage the needle and platter. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your turntable stays in top shape and gives you the best listening experience.

How much does a good turntable cost?

The price of a good turntable can vary greatly depending on the brand, model and features. Generally speaking, a turntable can be bought for anything from 1,500 up to several thousand dollars. It's important to remember that the higher the price, the better the sound quality will usually be. It's also important to consider what you want from your turntable.

If you only want to listen to vinyl records in the comfort of your own home, you can settle for a cheaper model, while professional vinyl collectors, DJs and musicians will often need a higher quality turntable with more features, which will of course affect the price. Remember, a good turntable is an investment that can provide enjoyment and good sound quality for many years to come.

To conclude

A turntable is a worthwhile investment for any vinyl collector as it provides the ultimate music experience. It is important to choose a turntable carefully as the price and quality can vary greatly depending on the brand, model and features.

In addition, it is also important to take care of your turntable by cleaning it regularly to maintain its performance and longevity. By following these tips, you can ensure that your turntable stays in top shape and gives you the best listening experience.