Buying Guide for the Best Inexpensive Record Players
When choosing an inexpensive record player, it's important to consider a few key specifications to ensure you get the best value for your money. A good record player will not only play your vinyl records but also preserve their quality and provide a pleasant listening experience. Here are some key specs to look out for and how to navigate them to find the best fit for your needs.Turntable TypeTurntable type refers to whether the record player is manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic. Manual turntables require you to place the needle on the record and lift it off when the record is finished. Semi-automatic turntables will lift the needle off the record at the end of play, while fully automatic turntables will both start and stop the record for you. If you enjoy the hands-on experience and don't mind a bit of manual work, a manual turntable might be for you. If you prefer convenience, a semi-automatic or fully automatic turntable would be a better choice.
Drive TypeDrive type refers to how the turntable's platter is powered. There are two main types: belt drive and direct drive. Belt drive turntables use an elastic belt to spin the platter, which can help reduce vibrations and provide better sound quality. Direct drive turntables have the motor directly attached to the platter, which can offer more consistent speed and is often preferred by DJs. For casual listening, a belt drive turntable is usually sufficient and can provide excellent sound quality. If you plan to use the turntable for DJing or need precise speed control, a direct drive turntable might be more suitable.
Cartridge and StylusThe cartridge and stylus are the components that read the grooves on your records and convert them into sound. The quality of these components can greatly affect the sound quality. Inexpensive record players often come with a basic cartridge and stylus, but some allow for upgrades. If you're just starting out, the included cartridge and stylus should be fine. However, if you want to improve sound quality later on, look for a turntable that allows you to upgrade these components.
Built-in PreampA preamp boosts the signal from the turntable to a level that can be played through speakers. Some record players come with a built-in preamp, while others require an external one. If you don't already have a preamp or an amplifier with a phono input, a turntable with a built-in preamp can be more convenient and cost-effective. If you already have a preamp or plan to invest in a high-quality external one, you might not need a built-in preamp.
Speed SettingsRecord players typically support different speed settings to play various types of records. The most common speeds are 33 1/3 RPM for LPs and 45 RPM for singles. Some turntables also support 78 RPM for older records. Make sure the record player you choose supports the speeds you need. If you only plan to play modern LPs and singles, a turntable with 33 1/3 and 45 RPM settings will suffice. If you have a collection of older 78 RPM records, look for a turntable that supports this speed as well.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to move the record player around. Some inexpensive record players are designed to be portable, with built-in speakers and a compact, lightweight design. If you plan to take your record player to different locations or have limited space, a portable model might be a good choice. However, keep in mind that portable models may sacrifice some sound quality and durability compared to more stationary models.