Understand Your Needs

Before diving into the world of turntables, it’s important to assess your requirements. Consider your budget, your level of expertise (beginner or seasoned enthusiast), and your listening preferences.

Are you looking for an all-in-one system or do you prefer a customisable setup? Understanding these factors will guide you towards the turntable that best suits your needs.

Belt-Drive or Direct-Drive

One of the fundamental decisions when selecting a turntable is choosing between belt-drive and direct-drive models. Belt-drive turntables use a belt to connect the motor to the platter, providing smoother rotation and minimising motor vibrations which can affect sound quality.

Direct-drive turntables, on the other hand, have the motor directly integrated into the platter, offering better torque and speed stability, making them ideal for DJs and mixing purposes.

Tonearms and Cartridges

The tonearm is the pivotal component housing the cartridge or stylus. Its primary responsibility is tracking the grooves in your vinyl record.

What should you look for in a tonearm? Look for a turntable with an adjustable and well-balanced tonearm, allowing precise tracking force adjustment.

Additionally, consider the type of cartridge you prefer—moving magnet(MM) or moving coil (MC)—each offering its own unique sound characteristics. Your preference will help you decide which kind of turntable tonearm you’ll require.

Speed Options and Pitch Control

Most turntables offer multiple speed options, including 33⅓, 45, and sometimes, 78 RPM. Ensure that the turntable you choose supports the speed(s) you require, especially if you have a diverse vinyl collection.

Additionally, if you plan on DJing or mixing records, a turntable with pitch control is essential for adjusting the speed of the record.

Build Quality and Features

If you can, investigate the build quality of the turntables you consider buying; a turntable’s build quality will directly affect its performance and durability. If you can’t view a turntable in person, look for details about design and durability in their online product descriptions.

Look for sturdy materials and well-crafted components that reduce vibrations and provide a stable playback platform.

Additionally, consider the features that enhance your experience, such as automatic start/stop, anti-skate adjustment, and USB connectivity for digitising your vinyl collection.

Phono Pre-amp and Connectivity

A phono pre-amp boosts the low-level signal from the cartridge to line level, ensuring optimal sound quality when connecting to amplifiers, speakers, or headphones.

Some turntables will come with a built-in phono pre-amp, also commonly referred to as a phono stage. Others will require you to purchase an external one if you have not already. Determine whether you need a turntable with built-in pre-mp or if you’d prefer the flexibility of an external option.

Shop Phono Pre-Amps

Budget Considerations

Turntables are available at a wide range of price points, so it’s essential to establish a budget. While higher-priced models often offer superior performance and build quality, there are excellent options available across the budget spectrum.

Strike a balance between your desired features and the investment you’re willing to make. 

Conclusion

Congratulations on taking the plunge into the captivating world of turntables! Armed with our comprehensive Turntable Buying Guide, you’re now equipped to navigate the turntable market and find a turntable perfectly aligned with your needs and preferences.

Whether you’re seeking a nostalgic experience or pursuing audiophile-level sound quality, a well-chosen turntable will unlock the melodic delights of vinyl. Go forth, explore our recommendations below, and let the music spin its enchanting tales upon your new turntable.