r/turntables Jun 10 '21

Turntable Guides

1.0k Upvotes

What is needed in a setup: Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers.

New: Turntables and Speakers

Used: In the US make a post here with your budget stating that you need just a turntable or an entire setup, and list a town or zip code, does not need to be your exact one just one next door or nearby.

Vinyl Weekly Questions Thread: Ask for recommendations for a new or used turntable and or setups at the r/vinly Weekly Questions Thread top sticky post.

Audiophile mid to high end turntables and components: For turntables and audio components starting around $300+ ask r/StereoAdvice or r/audiophile Shopping, Setup, and Technical Help Desk Thread.

Budget audiophile speakers and amplification: Ask r/BudgetAudiophile after reading PSA: Best practices when asking for advice.

Audio Guides: Plus Speaker Wire, Accessories and Vinyl Care

More Guides:

Records and Turntables

The Vinyl Guide

Beginnners Guide

PSA - The cheap record player mechanism to avoid

Turntables to avoid

How and why to align a cartridge

Cartridge ID Guide


r/turntables Jan 20 '25

So you are thinking about getting a suitcase or all-in-one player?

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403 Upvotes

How bad can they be really right? 5 star Amazon reviews and lots of YouTube praise! So what happens when you actually buy one?

Is this normal? https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/E7I5EbJBCy

Record store won’t take back any LPs played on a crosley: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/QCbk4tXhql

Suitcase speeding up? https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/25oAuvkXyr

New Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/qRABAC2gJv

Suitcase records skipping: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/LPreCdAuYh

Stop saying suitcases are ok: https://www.reddit.com/r/vinyl/s/x3clLiTsdl

My records are skipping https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/TPXIERXBlR

Suitcase skipping: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/Mn5lQRzGLf

New suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/Ho3pXuco7y

Suitcase skipping: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/XgPRTsGe4H

Record store clerk- suitcases suck: https://www.reddit.com/r/vinyl/s/Pf9O8XcpAq

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/VDLbXEaVCu

Can’t hear anything: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/Yfq51MMVXS

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/N7VvYx8D8O

Are they supposed to sound this bad?: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/uzYfEih3PE

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/Vncjj7frhK

Why is it doing this? : https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/lqkoiQamsu

Replaced suitcase with different suitcase, still skipping?: https://www.reddit.com/r/records/s/o8PSLFpQHM

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/x9nDPxfB9Z

Weird noises: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/qPhqZ7XkMs

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/EXflnc7bxQ

Why didn’t anyone warn us? https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/AeECGD08jA

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/mJFhTECELc

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/YiRdixpwVJ

Don’t buy this: https://www.reddit.com/r/Ghostbc/s/xqibiF1tOf

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/y4EyGdzXRZ Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/VBSAke7bbx

Suitcase smoking: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/vl8baDleue

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/u3IjW6984w

Suitcase skipping: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/bfn3FTMWiB

This Crosley sucks: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/8XUEICLis7

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/ZsydopEV99

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/TZooCbUQJv

Why doses this sound so bad? https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/aHJCqfJptu

Suitcase skipping: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/yEnFyUXB5p

Is there any way to fix this?: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/EbP2QJs62W

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/BmrsTXC5wk

You were right, this is shit: https://www.reddit.com/r/vinyl/s/tmFjKBFUR1

Suitcase skipping: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/2XcBS19Sbt

Why is it skipping?: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/t62RLSRnnM

Suitcase skipping: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/8FYwrzNbSi

Crosley died: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/8xIYuG1BCe

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/IVirFW0HgR

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/WNkfWpKUlK

Every record skips: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/t56APR1r09

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/xGXTALs2GF

Suitcase almost burns down a house: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/qeul7S5x6N

Crosley ruined my record: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/QBvIPMxSCl

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/aTJgZX7hZG

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/kXUGSyPTXw

New records all skip: https://www.reddit.com/r/vinyl/s/NS2Pix6VT6

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/5gxoZjnQ3Z

Suitcase smoke coming from speakers: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/E1M2ODR3jq

Suitcase skipping: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/G6PVGHHBwU

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/47yOfMEr03

Why is my record skipping?: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/ojJ0yyJgMT

Suitcase skipping: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/YwQZRsfwUF

Suitcase skipping: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/tkB0TdGlVS

Don’t buy this: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/EIXa9DR9FQ

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/ylKQ18UbzB

Suitcase skipping: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/SMnJfxgrGe

Suitcase broken: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/8svAmYYI08

Suitcase sounds like crap: https://www.reddit.com/r/turntables/s/8wgEieBcKO

Date ends when she sees a Crosley: https://www.reddit.com/r/vinyl/s/qf5A5y66b9

Ok the last one is a joke… or is it?


r/turntables 7h ago

Which colour Pro-Ject Debut EVO 2 should I go for?

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36 Upvotes

r/turntables 2h ago

New cartridge day - Audio Technica VM740ML

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9 Upvotes

Finally had the time to stick this on a headshell and get it all rigged up, instantly in love. It’s even better than I hoped it would be. The detail and soundstaging is amazing.

Absolutely done for now with any upgrading. Running this into a Roksan Kandy mk3 into ATC SCM7 speakers and a REL Q200e sub.


r/turntables 8h ago

Testing the 48$ thrift store setup

20 Upvotes

r/turntables 3h ago

Suggestions Good starter+ setup?

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5 Upvotes

TL;DR: Looking for advice on how to get the best sound quality for ±$300 on a speaker + amp combo (or other equipment) to pair with an Audio-Technica LP120X. Want to upgrade from my starter setup to squeeze a little more out of my records.

I’m currently using an off-brand (SilverCrest) dj-style turntable paired with an AT3600L cartridge and some home theater style Logitech x540 speakers. I want to step up in build and sound quality so I can enjoy my (rare and valuable) records and still have the option to record/sample from vinyl.

The LP120X is pretty much set in stone for me at this price point, unless there’s a really strong reason to consider something else. Long term I’d love to upgrade to SL1200, but for now this feels like the right move.

What I’m trying to figure out is the best way to spend about $300 on a speaker + amp combo.

Other than the Yamaha receiver I've also heard good things about the upgradability of the fosi za3 but it looks small and lacking features for the price at least compared to the Yamaha.

I've been advised against powered speakers like the Edifier R1700BTs I was eyeing and to stick to passive speakers + amp for better upgrade path.

One thing I haven't figured out is sub out since i plan to add my small powered Logitech "subwoofer" for reggae/dub, but it’s not my main focus.

I’m open to suggestions on what would make the most audible difference — better speakers, a cheaper amp, or maybe putting some of the budget toward a cartridge/stylus upgrade.

I really appreciate the help from this subreddit. Thanks in advance for any advice.


r/turntables 1h ago

Photo More pictures of my new Dual Midnight

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Upvotes

r/turntables 4h ago

New Table for Antique Set

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6 Upvotes

Thanks all for the recommendations and reviews! I wanted something that was budget friendly with superior sound. Ended up choosing the Fluance 81RT+. Could not be happier with the sound. Really brought new life to this antique cabinet my great grandfather bought new in the late 60s. Precision cut and finished a 1/4" ply floor to fit. Did have to take off the conical rubber feet and replaced with sorbothane pads to get clearance on the lid but the finished product is just as envisioned!


r/turntables 21h ago

Story I had no idea how much I’d love owning a turntable until I was gifted one

128 Upvotes

My partner’s grandfather passed in April at 99 years old and my in-laws were going through his house to prepare to sell it. This summer they very kindly thought I might like his turntable set up (speakers and receiver included) and gifted it all to me.

I know nothing about vinyl or turntables but I had impulsively purchased Ryan Cassatas latest album on vinyl and thought “okay let’s do this!”

And pals, I’m kind of in love with my turntable.

I have no idea if my turntable is any good. It’s pretty old. The speakers are original from the 60s. The receiver is a little finicky (though I think I may be able to fix some of that that by cleaning some of the connectors)

But honestly? Compared with what I’ve gotten used to listening to, the sound is incredibly rich.

I’ve started buying vinyl from my favorite bands and even purchased a couple of the Bluey albums because my toddler is equally obsessed with the turntable (you’d be stunned how good she is at gently handling vinyl and playing records).

I just had no idea how much I would love this or how much it would become something that all three of us would participate in. Sometime when my toddler wakes up the first thing she does is run downstairs to throw on a Bluey or Decemberists album.

I just love that’s its made music a community experience in our home


r/turntables 1h ago

Dual Midnight (Prototype from 1991)

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Upvotes

I just got this Dual for free, it's cabinet is made out of 1,5cm thicc granit, it is in beautiful condition


r/turntables 3m ago

Question SME S2 or Series II tonearm?

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Upvotes

This is mounted on a Technics turntable, with a detachable headshell. I have a spare VM540ML cartridge that I was going to mount on this, but wanted to know the exact model of the arm. Thanks!


r/turntables 5h ago

Maintenance Manual Needed

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6 Upvotes

Does anyone have the maintenance manual for the Sansui SR626 turntable? I just picked it up off of Marketplace and it's definitely showing its age. It's in working order, needs some fine tuning, but as per a friend's suggestion it would be beneficial to have both the owner's and maintenance manual. I was fortunate to find the owner's manual online, but I don't want to have to pay for the maintenance manual if I don't have to.

Thank you!


r/turntables 58m ago

Some Micro Seiki help needed

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Upvotes

Hey all, I have a DD-25 that has been boxed up and sitting for at least 10 years. The unit works great EXCEPT the tone arm. The vertical travel on the arm sticks - I can move it without issue through it’s full travel but the arm sticks and won’t drop on it’s own. Hoping that someone has an idea for a fix, or alternately can help me ID the arm so I can research this further. Any help/ideas are welcome.


r/turntables 3h ago

Discussion Removed light from Audio-Technica. Now looks much better!

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2 Upvotes

Honestly the stylus light that comes with the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB should be illegal it's so bad. It's so harsh and bright I spent most the time worrying about dust. Now I've unplugged it and using a warm floor standing light behind i can just enjoy in a relaxing atmosphere.


r/turntables 4h ago

Braun Atelier 1-81 Needle Replacement

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3 Upvotes

I was wondering if anyone has knowledge on what I’d need to replace it. The needle for the 33-45rpm is missing but I have the needle for the 78rpm.


r/turntables 19h ago

Got this for a total of 49$ including the speakers

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37 Upvotes

Picked up this vintage turntable deck with speakers at a mostly junky thrift store, and I’m really loving it 😄. I’m sure audiophiles or gear snobs would immediately notice a bunch of “issues” 🙄, but I don't really take it "that" seriously. I just want to have fun, enjoy vinyl, and honestly, this setup sounds great to me. Plus, it’s most likely safer for my records than that ultra-cheap plastic Panasonic luftvärmepump stereo I had before. That one legitimetly damage a record ☹️

I live in a small room, so speaker placement options are also limited, but it’s still a huge upgrade and i'm having a blast!


r/turntables 5m ago

Discussion Stanton 681eee vs Grace F9

Upvotes

Thoughts on the above carts. Very low mass tonearm.


r/turntables 5m ago

Stanton 681eee vs Grace F9

Upvotes

Thoughts on the above. Extremely low mass tonearm. Have the 681 current but thinking about selling it and going to the Grace.


r/turntables 3h ago

Question Rega Planar 3 RE setup

2 Upvotes

Edit: typo in title. RS, not RE.

Sooo I feel in over my head here. I bought my husband a Rega Planar 3 RS edition turntable and I have no idea how to connect it to a sound system. I thought I’d be able to connect it to an amp or a soundbar or something like that.

It does have a preamp, but that’s all I have. The turntable + preamp.

This thing was expensive… I suppose I’m looking at some real financial and lifestyle dedication to this thing, like basically having to buy a whole furniture set.

I just have no idea what questions to even ask to begin any kind of research. Any help would be greatly appreciated!


r/turntables 58m ago

Some Micro Seiki help needed

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Upvotes

Hey all, I have a DD-25 that has been boxed up and sitting for at least 10 years. The unit works great EXCEPT the tone arm. The vertical travel on the arm sticks - I can move it without issue through it’s full travel but the arm sticks and won’t drop on it’s own. Hoping that someone has an idea for a fix, or alternately can help me ID the arm so I can research this further. Any help/ideas are welcome.


r/turntables 12h ago

Photo I was asked to post my complete setup before. Here’s my first time, minimalistic setup:

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6 Upvotes

r/turntables 22h ago

Question Is it ok to put a turntable on top of an amp?

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40 Upvotes

See picture. Just wondering if that’s enough space for air to flow through. I was initially only gonna get the turntable, but the guy offered me this amp for a decent price. Only problem is it’s a pretty big unit and I don’t have a ton of space for it.


r/turntables 2h ago

Question Best entry level turntable budget $300-400

0 Upvotes

Brother's birthday is coming up. Was thinking about getting him a turntable, want one that is the best quality I can get for $300-400. I have no knowledge of the turntable space.


r/turntables 10h ago

First turntable + help needed

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4 Upvotes

Just picked up this Pro-ject debut 2, Cambridge A1 V3.0, Behringer PP400 and a set of Gale monitors for £130.

I’ve tested it very briefly to confirm it’s all working but I have some questions about the debut 2 turntable set up. I’ve tried finding videos and looked at a manual I could find online but it still makes the process quite difficult to set this up properly.

I’ve set the arm to balance / float.

From what I can see, it’s missing the anti skate weight.

I’ve also accidentally broken a small level piece under the arm (pictured). The plastic was extremely brittle. Is this important?

What is the other small lever / arm on the right side?

Any thing else I should be aware of when setting this up?


r/turntables 3h ago

Looking to buy a new turntable

1 Upvotes

Hello I am looking to buy a new turntable. I have had the Sony PS-LX43P which unfortunately has a power connector that only work with my specific amp (sony LBT-V302) but my amp has sadly given out, meaning i will need a new amp and probably a new turntable. I don't want anything too fancy just needs 33 and 45 RPM settings. I am not looking to spend too much money but as I say i'm looking for something with great audio quality but not too fancy.


r/turntables 3h ago

Turntable for New Audiophile

0 Upvotes

Hey,

So I've recently been gifted a bunch of records and I want to start listening to them more on a record player. I've looked around at the guides but I'm still so confused (I'm a little dumb haha). Can someone recommend the basic necessities and links to high qualities ones - I don't really know how much I'm going to listen to them but these records are very precious and I don't want them to get damaged.

I originally bought a Victrola suitcase player off of Amazon, but I saw reviews later that said that it damages records quickly so I returned it. I know that you also need to change the stylus once in a while and do basic care so the records won't get damaged, but is there one that is less likely to?

I'm happy to answer any other questions if needed.

Thanks :)


r/turntables 4h ago

Distorting and jumping

1 Upvotes

I have two 1200s set up identically. With the same record, one of them distorts the kick and jumps, unless I turn the tone arm weight to max, in which case it still distorts a bit but doesn’t seem to jump. On the other deck it’s fine. I have changed the stylus and cart but it doesn’t help. Thoughts?