The best turntable for music fans: a complete guide

The love of vinyl music knows no bounds, and a quality turntable is crucial for the perfect listening experience. But with so many available options, choosing the best turntable can be a challenge. In this article, we will explore the key features to consider when looking to buy a quality turntable, and take a look at the best designer turntables available on the market today.

A turntable is an electronic device for playing music recorded on a vinyl record. The turntable works through a needle, which is placed on the groove of the vinyl. When the vinyl rotates, the needle follows the groove and translates the information on the record into sound. The sound quality depends on the turntable and stereo system quality.

Before buying a turntable, there are some essential features to consider:

• Type of drive: there are two types of industry, direct drive and belt drive. Direct drive is considered better in speed and accuracy, while belt drive is quieter and produces less vibration.
• Platter material: the platter is the part of the turntable on which the vinyl is placed. The most common materials are metal and acrylic. Acrylic is considered better for sound quality, but metal is more robust and durable.
• Head and stylus: The head and stylus are the parts of the turntable that translate the information on the vinyl into sound. The quality of the cartridge and stylus affects the sound quality. There are moving coil and magnet cartridges, with the former generally considered higher quality.
• Speed control: a good turntable should be able to play vinyl at different speeds, so you can listen to all your favourite albums without having to remaster or digitally edit them. Most modern turntables can play at 33, 45 and 78 rpm.
• Turntable arm: the turntable arm is the part that holds the cartridge and stylus and allows it to move on the vinyl. A good tonearm must be rigid, robust, light and precise to ensure accurate sound reproduction.
• Design and materials: turntable design and materials can affect aesthetics and sound quality. More expensive turntables often use high-quality materials such as solid wood or aluminium, which can reduce vibration and improve sound quality.

Another exciting feature to evaluate is the presence or absence of the built-in preamplifier. Many modern turntables include a built-in preamplifier, which converts the vinyl’s analogue signal to a digital signal for playback on a current stereo system. If your stereo system does not have a phono input, choose a turntable with a built-in preamplifier.

There are many brands of turntables to choose from, but some are considered the best for their quality and reliability. Among the most popular brands are Audio-Technica, Rega, Pro-Ject, Technics and Denon. Each of these brands has a wide selection of turntables, from the cheapest to the high-end, so there is always a turntable to suit your needs and budget.

Among the best turntables on the market, there are several options worth considering for their technical features, build quality and the fidelity of the sound they can deliver.

Taking good care of your turntable ensures high-quality audio playback and long device life. Here are some tips for record player maintenance:

1. Keep the turntable clean: vinyl can accumulate dust and debris that can interfere with sound quality. It is essential to clean the turntable and vinyl before playback. Use an antistatic brush to clean the vinyl and a microfiber cloth to clean the turntable.
2. Replace the stylus: The turntable’s stylus is one of the most critical parts to ensure high-quality playback. It is essential to replace the stylus periodically, depending on how often the turntable is used.
3. Change the belt: if the turntable has a belt-drive, it is essential to change it periodically. A loose or worn belt can cause problems with speed and sound quality.
4. Keep the turntable level: the turntable should be placed on a solid, stable surface, preferably on a suitable stand. In addition, it is essential to check that the turntable is level to avoid speed and vibration problems.
5. Please turn off the turntable after use: after using it, it is essential to turn off the device and remove the vinyl. This prevents premature motor wear and protects the turntable from damage.
   

By following these simple tips, you can ensure your turntable’s long life and high-quality audio playback.

In conclusion, choosing the best turntable depends on each individual’s needs and tastes. However, these five models are among the best on the market and offer excellent performance, high-quality construction, and outstanding sound. Before buying a turntable, it is essential to consider your needs and budget. Still, with these high-end options, you can make an informed choice and ensure a high-quality listening experience.