Turntables, also known as record players, are devices used to play vinyl records. They have been around for over a century and have experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years. Whether you’re an audiophile looking for high-quality sound or a collector of vintage records, a turntable can be a great addition to your home music setup.
This beginner’s guide will cover everything you need to know about turntables, including different types, setting them up, playing records, and maintaining them. By the end, you’ll have a good understanding of how to use and enjoy your turntable.
Table of Contents
The Beginner’s Guide to Turntables
The Beginner’s Guide to Turntables is a comprehensive resource for those new to vinyl record players. It covers all the essential information you need to know to get started with your turntable, including how to set it up, properly handle and care for your records, and get the best sound quality out of your system. Whether you’re an audiophile or just looking to add retro flair to your home listening setup, The Beginner’s Guide to Turntables has you covered?
Types Of Turntables
There are three main types of turntables: belt drive, direct drive, and USB.
Belt-drive turntables use a belt to transmit the rotation of the motor to the platter (the part that holds the record). This can result in less vibration and a smoother, quieter sound. Belt-drive turntables are generally more affordable and are a good choice for casual listening or as a starter turntable.
Direct-drive turntables connect the motor to the platter, allowing faster start-up and stop times. DJs often prefer them for their speed and reliability, but they can be more expensive and produce more vibration, affecting the sound quality.
USB turntables are a newer type that includes a built-in conversion system to digitize vinyl records into a digital audio format. This allows you to easily transfer your records to a computer or portable device. USB turntables are convenient, but the sound quality may be better than other types.
Setting Up A Turntable
Setting up a turntable can seem intimidating, but it’s quite straightforward once you know what to do. Here are the steps to follow:
Unbox and assemble the turntable according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically involves attaching the tonearm (the arm holding the stylus or needle) and any cables.
Place the turntable on a stable surface, such as a shelf or stand. Keeping the turntable level is important to ensure the stylus tracks the record grooves properly.
Connect the turntable to an amplifier or receiver using the appropriate cables. The amplifier or receiver powers the turntable and sends the audio to your speakers.
Adjust the tonearm and cartridge. The tonearm should be balanced, and the cartridge should be properly aligned with the record grooves. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific details.
Playing Records On A Turntable
Once your turntable is set up and connected to an amplifier or receiver, you’re ready to start playing records. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Set the speed to match the record: Most records are designed to be played at either 33 1/3 RPM (revolutions per minute) or 45 RPM. Some turntables have a switch to change the speed, while others require you to manually move the belt to the correct position on the motor pulley.
Handle records and the stylus carefully: Hold records by the edges and avoid touching the grooves, as oils from your fingers can cause damage. The stylus is delicate, so be gentle when setting it down on the record and avoid applying too much pressure.
Skip and repeat tracks as needed: Most turntables have a lever or button to move the tonearm to a different track. Some also have automatic features that allow you to lift the tonearm and return it to its rest at the end of a side or even a button to return the tonearm to the beginning of the record.
Maintaining A Turntable
Proper maintenance is key to getting the most out of your turntable and ensuring it lasts for years. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Clean the stylus and records regularly: A dirty stylus can cause skips and degrade sound quality, so it’s important to clean it with a stylus brush or special cleaning solution. Records should also be cleaned with a record-cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth before playing to remove dust and dirt.
Replace the stylus and cartridge when needed: The stylus (also known as the needle) and cartridge wear out over time and will need to be replaced eventually. Consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for how often to replace these parts or consider upgrading to a higher-quality cartridge for improved sound.
Store records and the turntable properly: Records should be stored vertically in a sleeve or album to prevent warping. The turntable should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Set Up A Turntable For Beginners?
Setting up a turntable for the first time can seem intimidating, but it’s quite straightforward once you know what to do. Here are the steps to follow:
Unbox and assemble the turntable according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically involves attaching the tonearm (the arm holding the stylus or needle) and any cables.
Place the turntable on a stable surface, such as a shelf or stand. Keeping the turntable level is important to ensure the stylus tracks the record grooves properly.
Connect the turntable to an amplifier or receiver using the appropriate cables. The amplifier or receiver powers the turntable and sends the audio to your speakers.
Adjust the tonearm and cartridge. The tonearm should be balanced, and the cartridge should be properly aligned with the record grooves. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific details.
What is a good starter turntable?
Many good starter turntables are available, ranging from entry-level models to more advanced options. Some factors to consider when choosing a turntable include:
The type (belt drive, direct drive, or USB).
Budget.
Intended use (casual listening or DJing).
Some popular starter turntables include the Victrola Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Portable Suitcase Record Player, the Jensen JTA-230 BTBT Bluetooth Stereo Turntable, and the Fluance RT81 Elite High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable.
What Is The Difference Between A Turntable And A Record Player?
A turntable is a spinning platform that holds and plays a record, while a record player is a complete system that includes a turntable, amplifier, and speakers. Many people use the terms “turntable” and “record player” interchangeably, but a turntable is just one component of a record player.
How Do I Start Listening To Vinyl?
You’ll need a turntable, an amplifier or receiver, and speakers to listen to vinyl. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting started:
Set up your turntable according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically involves assembling the tonearm and attaching any cables.
Place the turntable on a stable surface, such as a shelf or stand. Keeping the turntable level is important to ensure the stylus tracks the record grooves properly.
Connect the turntable to an amplifier or receiver using the appropriate cables. The amplifier or receiver powers the turntable and sends the audio to your speakers.
Adjust the tonearm and cartridge. The tonearm should be balanced, and the cartridge should be properly aligned with the record grooves. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific details.
Set the speed to match the record. Most records are designed to be played at either 33 1/3 RPM (revolutions per minute) or 45 RPM. Some turntables have a switch to change the speed, while others require you to manually move the belt to the correct position on the motor pulley.
Handle records and the stylus carefully. Hold records by the edges and avoid touching the grooves, as oils from your fingers can cause damage. The stylus is delicate, so be gentle when setting it down on the record and avoid applying too much pressure.
Enjoy your music!
Are Turntables Better Than Cds?
This is a subjective question and ultimately depends on personal preference. Some people prefer vinyl records’ warm, analog sound, while others prefer CDs’ convenience and digital sound quality. There are pros and cons to both formats.
One advantage of turntables is that they can produce a more natural, organic sound compared to CDs, which are digital and can sometimes sound sterile or harsh. Turntables offer a more tactile and immersive listening experience, as you can physically handle and interact with records.
On the other hand, CDs are more convenient and portable and don’t require the same level of maintenance as turntables (such as cleaning and replacing the stylus). CDs also offer a wider dynamic range and can produce higher-quality sound sometimes, especially if the recording was originally mastered for CD.
Ultimately, the choice between turntables and CDs comes down to personal preference and what you value most in your listening experience.
Conclusion
In this beginner’s guide, we’ve covered the basics of turntables, including different types, setting them up, playing records, and maintaining them. Whether a beginner or an experienced vinyl collector, a turntable can be a great way to enjoy your music and add nostalgia to your home audio setup. With proper care and maintenance, your turntable should provide years of enjoyment.
Best Vintage Turntables
