When the record is finished, the arm will move back in place. Automatic turntables will lift the stylus and gently lower it onto the right spot. These are all important, as our experts stressed the importance of external speakers for your turntables - internal vibrations will damage the vinyl over time.Īutomation: This refers to how you get the turntable’s stylus (the technical term for the needlelike tip at the end of the arm) on and off the record. A wired output, such as a built-in phono amp (also known as a phono stage), allows for connectivity via aux cords and is considered standard for turntables.
USB ports will allow users to digitise their vinyls, while Bluetooth-compatible models can link up to wireless speakers. Dan Alani, a DJ at Reprezent radio, agreed that “bargain-priced retro-styled players” like Crosley “have been known to damage records, potentially ruining your collection.”īest overall | Best less expensive | Best for absolute beginners | Best direct driveĬonnectivity: We’re looking for turntables that connect to speakers with ease, including USB, Bluetooth, and aux. “Whatever you do, don’t get a Crosley,” said DJ Prestige of the blog Flea Market Funk. One word of advice: All our experts advised avoiding one very popular all-in-one record player that comes in a suitcase.
We spoke to eight experts, including DJs, producers, and other audio professionals, to find out the best options for beginners. Whatever your needs, or your budget, if you are a beginner to the world of turntables, the terminology - automatic versus semi-automatic, preamp or no preamp - can be confusing. Maybe you’re wondering whether or not to buy a Bluetooth-enabled option in the Richer Sounds sale. For example, you might be looking for something stylish to decorate a nook in your living room or for something technical to make the most of your limited-edition CRASH vinyl. If you’re in the market for a turntable, you’ll soon learn that what is best for some people might not be best for others. A version of this story originally appeared on the Strategist U.S.