Buying Guide for the Best Turntables
Choosing the right turntable can greatly enhance your music listening experience. Whether you're a casual listener or an audiophile, understanding the key specifications of turntables will help you make an informed decision. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting a turntable that best fits your needs.Drive TypeThe drive type refers to how the turntable's platter is powered. There are two main types: belt-drive and direct-drive. Belt-drive turntables use an elastic belt to spin the platter, which helps reduce motor noise and vibration, making them ideal for home listening. Direct-drive turntables have the motor directly connected to the platter, providing more consistent speed and torque, which is preferred by DJs for scratching and mixing. Choose a belt-drive if you prioritize sound quality and a direct-drive if you need durability and precision for DJing.
Platter MaterialThe platter is the part of the turntable that the record sits on. Common materials include plastic, aluminum, and acrylic. Plastic platters are lightweight and affordable but may not provide the best sound quality. Aluminum platters are more durable and offer better sound isolation. Acrylic platters are considered high-end, providing excellent sound quality and reducing vibrations. If you're a casual listener, a plastic or aluminum platter may suffice, but for audiophiles seeking the best sound, an acrylic platter is recommended.
Cartridge TypeThe cartridge is the component that holds the stylus (needle) and converts the grooves in the record into an audio signal. There are two main types: moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC). MM cartridges are more common, easier to replace, and generally more affordable, making them suitable for most users. MC cartridges offer superior sound quality but are more expensive and require a compatible phono preamp. If you're new to vinyl or on a budget, an MM cartridge is a good choice. For audiophiles seeking the highest fidelity, an MC cartridge is worth considering.
TonearmThe tonearm is the part of the turntable that holds the cartridge and stylus. It plays a crucial role in tracking the grooves of the record accurately. Tonearms can be straight or S-shaped, with straight tonearms generally providing better tracking accuracy and S-shaped tonearms offering better balance and reduced wear on records. Additionally, some tonearms have adjustable counterweights and anti-skate mechanisms to fine-tune performance. If you want ease of use, a straight tonearm with basic adjustments is sufficient. For those who want to optimize sound quality, look for a tonearm with more advanced adjustment features.
Speed SettingsTurntables typically offer different speed settings to accommodate various types of records. The most common speeds are 33 1/3 RPM (revolutions per minute) for LPs and 45 RPM for singles. Some turntables also support 78 RPM for older shellac records. It's important to choose a turntable that supports the speeds of the records you plan to play. If you mainly listen to modern LPs and singles, a turntable with 33 1/3 and 45 RPM settings will suffice. If you have a collection of vintage 78 RPM records, ensure the turntable can accommodate that speed as well.
Built-in PreampA preamp amplifies the signal from the turntable to a level that can be processed by your speakers or amplifier. Some turntables come with a built-in preamp, which simplifies setup and allows you to connect directly to powered speakers or a standard audio input. If your audio system already has a phono input or you prefer using an external preamp for better sound quality, you can opt for a turntable without a built-in preamp. For beginners or those looking for convenience, a built-in preamp is a great feature. Audiophiles might prefer an external preamp for more control over sound quality.
