Best Beginner Record Player

With the resurgence in the popularity of vinyl records, people are looking to purchase record players or, turntables (I’ll clarify the difference between record players and turntables below). For most people, vinyl records are unknown. If you were born after 1990, there’s a good chance you’ve never even heard a vinyl record. Where do you start? What is the best beginner record player? Having been a vinyl DJ for several years and a live sound engineer for over 14 years, I’d like to offer consumers a better understanding of record players, turntables, and what to consider when buying.

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Record Player vs Turntable

People often talk about a record player when they are referring to a turntable. A record player is an all-in-one system with a turntable, built-in speakers, and amplifier. A turntable is a standalone unit with no additional built-in features. The outputs, usually RCA line or phono, are connected to an external HiFi or speakers.

Beginner Setup

If you are buying a record player or turntable for aesthetics, then go for an all-in-one model. But, know that you will either damage your vinyl or the record player will break in the first year. Most of these brands do not have any after-sales service so you won’t get your money back.

A decent beginner setup doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. You need a turntable and some entry speakers.

Best Beginner Record Player Recommendations

Direct Drive vs Belt Drive

There are two primary drive systems in a turntable. Direct drive and belt drive. Belt drive turntable systems are the most common in consumer record players. Belt drives are simple and inexpensive. In the most basic terms, the motor is separated from the turntable platter. The motor turns the platter via a belt.

The belt also acts as a dampener. It prevents the motor’s noise and vibration from affecting the sensitive needle. If you have ever stopped a vinyl record with your hand, you’ll notice when you release it again, there is a second or two of lag before playback resumes properly. This is the belt taking up tension and starting to turn the platter again.

In a direct drive turntable, the motor is connected directly to the platter. Usually right below the center. When a direct drive turntable is turned on, the platter starts moving instantly. This immediate torque is why direct drive turntables are preferred by DJs, particularly turntablists and who scratch vinyl records.

Due to the noise turntable motors generate, direct drive systems require some form of dampening or shock absorption. The advanced motor system and dampening are what makes direct drive turntables more expensive.

If you are just playing records, a quality belt drive turntable is sufficient. If you’re a DJ or turntablist, you want to go with a direct drive system.

Cartridge and Stylus

Your stylus and needle affect tone, volume, frequency range, and timbre. There are three elements to this part of the turntable: cartridge, stylus, and needle.

A cartridge encases the needle and stylus at the end of the tonearm. The stylus sits below the cartridge housing the wiring and electrical elements. The needle fits to the stylus and runs along the grooves of a vinyl record.

The best record players and turntables allow you to change the entire cartridge. The cartridge is attached to the tonearm via a simple screw and a release collar. This freedom allows you to choose a cartridge and stylus from any brand.

Some needles and stylus are manufactured or tuned to accommodate a specific purpose. For example, a turntablist will likely want a cartridge system tailored to scratching records.

In a beginner record player or turntable, usually, only the needle is replaceable. The stylus and cartridge are part of the tonearm and cannot be removed.

Vinyl Cleaning & Accessories

One of the most important and neglected practices of owning vinyl records is cleaning and maintenance. Vinyl records require care and attention. The disc’s grooves are exposed to the elements and are susceptible to dust build-up or damage. Owning a vinyl collection is like caring for a child or pet. You need to make sure your vinyl collection is well looked after.

Cleaning is a relatively simple routine. Get into the habit of wiping your vinyl with an anti-static cloth before and after you played a record.

For a more detailed clean, you can use a velvet cleaning brush. Place a record on the platter and switch on the turntable without the needle. Subtly hold the brush on the surface of the record and allow a few revolutions. When you’re done, keep the brush on the record and gently swipe. Use an anti-static cloth to wipe off the dust collected.

Conclusion

Remember that, even as a beginner, it’s best not to skimp on a decent record player or turntable. If you have the money to spend, get a decent system right from the start. Alternatively, if you are on a tight budget, we will be speaking about great record players under $100, $200 and $300 soon – stay tuned!

My recommendation is: wait until you have at least $300 to spend and purchase a decent turntable and speakers. Once you have a decent turntable, you can always upgrade the speakers at a later stage.

Most importantly though, have fun and enjoy the vinyl experience!