Turntable Buying Tips: Choosing The Right Record Player

Record players can be difficult to choose. In order to eliminate some of the confusion involved, try the following turntable buying tips.

Familiarity with turntable features is essential when choosing a machine. The three main features that should be factored into the decision making process are the platter, tonearm, and drive system.

Albums rest on a turntable structure known as the platter. The platter is also responsible for creating a barrier against motor vibrations that could interfere with the tonearm and sound quality, as well as regulating the record's spinning speed. High quality record players use platters made from heavy materials like cast aluminum. Given that platter quality depends on its weight, lightweight platters such as those made from plastic should be avoided.

The tonearm holds the needle that plays the record. There are three important things to look for in a tonearm. First, a good quality tonearm will have a low mass - a key factor in preventing unnecessary wear to album grooves. Second, a high quality tonearm will have an adjustable counterweight. This makes it possible to replace needle cartridges with almost any type, ensuring that the tonearm can be rebalanced. The third feature to look for is a removable headshell. This makes it easier to replace cartridges, and also allows for the possibility of upgrading the headshell at a later time.

There are two drive systems to choose from when purchasing a turntable - belt drives and direct drives. Belt drives use a rubber belt to spin the platter, keeping it off the motor and essentially eliminating unwanted motor vibrations that interfere with sound quality. Record players that use a belt drive system come with the option of either an AC (alternating current) or DC (direct current) motor. AC motors are often bigger and are generally more powerful, longer lasting and more reliable than the DC motor. If purchasing a belt drive system, an AC motor has a better reputation. Direct drives are always powered by a DC motor. In a direct drive system, the platter sits on top of the motor, eliminating the need for a belt drive. However, because the platter is sitting on the motor, the possibility of motor vibrations finding their way to the tonearm are increased.

Because high quality turntables can be expensive, purchasing used equipment is often an attractive option. It is important to make sure that used machines can be tested before purchase. Check to make sure that there is no warping or other damage to the platter, that the tonearm moves smoothly across the album, and that the platter and drive system are able to maintain the right spinning speed.

Choosing the right record player can be confusing. Just remember these turntable buying tips, and hopefully the process will go smoothly!

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