A Beginners Guide to Turntables: All the Information You Need
Cassettes and CDs are making a return, and if you are a music lover or an audio enthusiast, then a turntable is the way to go for the best sound quality. If you are new to the world of turntables, this guide will explain everything you need to know about starting out, from choosing the right model to setting it up for the best listening experience.
Key Differences Between Turntables and Record Players
First, it is important to distinguish between a turntable and a record player:
– Turntable: A device that plays records but has to be connected to a speaker system.
– Record Player: A complete system with speakers built in, which are usually preferred for convenience rather than sound quality.
For the best sound quality, a turntable with separate speakers is the way to go.
In his own words Michael Fremer, Senior Contributing Editor at Stereophile says:
“Vinyl is the purest form of music consumption. The experience of placing a record on a turntable, dropping the needle, and hearing that first crackle is something digital can’t replicate.
Key Features to Consider
When choosing your first turntable there are a few factors to consider:
• Manual vs. Automatic Operation:
• Manual: You have to pick up the needle and put it on the track.
• Automatic: The tonearm will lower and raise for you, which helps to prevent damage to your records.
It is always better to use belt drive as it provides smooth sound and less vibration for home use.
• Belt Drive vs. Direct Drive:
• Belt Drive: A elastic belt is used for less vibration and smoother sound (ideal for home use).
• Direct Drive: The platter spins the platter directly for instant response (ideal for DJs).
• Built-in Preamp vs. External Preamp:
Some turntables come with built-in preamps, which makes it easier to connect them to powered speakers.
Most high-end models may require an external preamp for better control over the sound.
• USB and Bluetooth Connectivity:
• USB ports enable you to convert your vinyl songs and save them on your computer.
Bluetoth enabled models offer the convenience of wireless streaming but at the expense of slightly worse sound quality.
This is supported by Kevin Gray, Mastering Engineer at Cohearent Audio:
“The beauty of today’s turntables is that they blend analog warmth with digital convenience. Features like Bluetooth and USB don’t replace vinyl’s magic- they enhance accessibility.”
How to Set Up Your Turntable.
To set up your turntable correctly after you have chosen one, follow these steps:
Find a Stable Surface: To prevent skips, always place your turntable on a level surface that does not vibrate.
Connect to an Audio System: The connection to external speakers depends on the model – via RCA cables, Bluetooth, or a built-in preamp.
Balance the Tonearm: To prevent damage to your records, disable the anti-skate settings and correct the counterweight to achieve proper tracking.
John DeVore, Founder of DeVore Fidelity, advises,
“A perfectly balanced tonearm and a clean stylus make all the difference. If you take care of your records and turntable , they’ll reward you with unmatched sound’”
4. Clean your records: Dirt and dust are known to degrade sound quality. A carbon fibre druse should be used before playing.
5. Enjoy your vinyl collection!
5. Enjoy your vinyl collection!
Improving Your Record Player with the A2D2 Stream
If you enjoy the sound of vinyl but desire the convenience of wireless technology the A2D2 Stream makes for an ideal solution. It links up to your turntable through a wired connection and then wirelessly transmits the audio to digital speakers via Wi Fi or to headphones, through Bluetooth. Unlike USB digitisation that transforms vinyl into files permanently the A2D2 Stream retains the nostalgic analogue feel while allowing you to savour it on contemporary gadgets—without compromising on sound. It's all, about the quality.
As TechRadar notes
“..with a quoted 48KHz audio to digital conversion”
Meanwhile What Hi Fi emphasises its range of compatibility by stating
"You can connect to Sonos, Airplay, Alexa, Denton HEOS and Chromecast speakers with minimal setup."
Final Thoughts
A turntable is not just a music player, it is an experience. Whether you are fond of the vintage look of the vinyl or the crystal clear sound, it is important to get the right equipment. When it comes to crucial aspects, step-by-step setup process, and possible additions like the A2D2 Stream, you will be able to listen to vinyl in the present world easily.
As Steve Guttenberg, The Audiophiliac said:
“ People often ask if vinyl sounds ‘better’ than digital. It’s not just about better or worse- it’s about a different listening experience that’s more immersive and intentional.”
Are you ready to start spinning? Put the needle on the record and let the music take over!
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