Turntables | page 17

Turntables are for anyone who wants to listen to LP records at home, in a studio or in a smaller Hi-Fi system without spending unnecessary time matching compatible parts. The key choices are the drive type, cartridge, built-in preamp and whether you prefer fully manual control or the extra comfort of automatic operation. In this category you will find simple models for a first vinyl setup as well as options for listeners who are already planning speakers, an amplifier and regular record care.

How to choose a turntable for your system

If you are starting from scratch, the easiest route is a home turntable or a model with an integrated preamp. You can connect this type of turntable directly to active speakers or to the AUX/LINE input on an amplifier. If you want to listen to records outside the living room, portable turntables are practical; with these, comfort matters more than the most precise sound.

A classic Hi-Fi system is best served by a turntable without unnecessary extras, with a better tonearm and the option to replace the cartridge. If your amplifier does not have a PHONO input, add a turntable preamp. For a collection that alternates between LPs and CDs, the category turntables with CD player can also make sense.

The most important parameters when choosing

Feature	What to watch	Best for
Drive	Belt drive dampens vibrations, while direct drive offers a faster start.	Home listening, DJs or frequent record changes.
Preamp	A built-in preamp makes connection to active speakers easier.	Beginners and simple systems without a PHONO input.
Cartridge and stylus	A good cartridge improves detail and reduces record wear.	Listeners who want to upgrade the sound over time.
Automatic operation	An automatic tonearm reduces the risk of mistakes when lowering the arm and at the end of the record.	Comfortable home listening and a first turntable.

Who each type is suitable for

Beginner: choose a model with a preamp, a pre-set cartridge and simple controls.
Hi-Fi listener: look for a stable platter, a quality tonearm, adjustable tracking force and a replaceable cartridge.
Record collector: cleaning, antistatic care and safe storage of accessories are worth considering too.
Practical listening across formats: check models with Bluetooth, USB or a CD player if convenience matters more than a purely analogue system.

Cartridge, stylus and record care

The sound of a turntable is not defined by the device alone. A worn stylus can distort the sound and, over time, damage records, so it is worth checking compatible turntable styli and turntable cartridges. Dust, static electricity and improper storage can cause noise and skipping, which is why turntable accessories also belong in the setup. If you want to understand the differences between drive type, preamp and cartridge in more detail before buying, the guide how to choose a turntable will help.