How to Buy a Turntable

By Jtfall

Once consigned to the dustbins of history, the turntable found new life as the instrument of choice for DJs and as an essential component for any collector of LPs. Turntables can still be had in any number of configurations. These tips can help you chose the turntable that's best for you.

Tips for buying a turntable

Turntables, like most electronics these days, range in price from inexpensive to very expensive. You should start your turntable shopping with a budget in mind. Luckily, the pricey turntables are the kind really only needed by professional DJs and clubs. Record collectors and DJs who are just starting out or who play small venues can easily find quality in lower-priced turntables.
One avenue traveled by many shoppers is buying a used turntable. You can find used turntables in classified ads and in all sorts of online forums. If you go the used route, be sure that you have a chance to test the turntable with a few of your records. You'll want to be sure the turntable is equipped with a needle that is in good condition, but it is essential that you see and hear how a used turntable performs before you buy it, since the chances that you will be able to return it are slim. Make sure the platter is not warped and that the arm moves fluidly across the records. You also want to check that the turntable rotates at the correct speed.
You should also shop for new turntables at a store that will allow you to test them. You will need to decide on features like automatic, semi-automatic and manual arms, and on belt versus motor-driven platter rotation. Arguments could be waged endlessly about which is best of these features, but in the end it only depends on your preference. If you prefer placing the needle on the record and picking it back up when the side is finished playing, than choose a manual arm. If you want the turntable to do all the work, then go with an automatic arm.
Many enthusiasts prefer belt-driven turntables. Motors in motor-driven turntables are considered to be too noisy. Know, however, that belts do have to be replaced eventually. Again, listen to a few records on both types of turntables and then decide which you like best.
Make sure you know a good source for replacement needle cartridges. Needles wear out, and a worn needle not only distorts the sound of an LP, but also can damage the surface.

Caution

When trying out turntables, listen to their sound performance with and without headphones. Headphones give a true reading of the direct, intimate sound of a turntable. Listening to the turntable through speakers, on the other hand, gives an idea of what your LPs will sound like when played to an entire room.