If you’re serious about sound quality, you already know that most audiophiles prefer listening to vinyl for its richness, warmth, and lack of audio compression. Whether you’re a professional DJ or just a music lover, investing in a turntable or a record player is an excellent way to elevate your listening experience!
Turntables vs Record Players
Many people use the terms turntable and record player interchangeably, but they’re actually slightly different pieces of equipment.
A turntable features a platter, motor, cartridge, stylus, and tone arm. Many turntables also include a preamplifier for connecting to a mixer, amplifier, or another component. A turntable always requires a connection to another device in order to work.
Record players function as stand-alone devices. They include all turntable components plus an amplifier and speakers. If you want a compact and portable way to listen to your records, vinyl record players are the perfect solution.
Differences to Consider
Because record players have built-in amplifiers and speakers, they limit the ways you can listen to your music and reduce the range of audio adjustments you can make. As a result, record players are better suited to casual listening.
If you want more control over audio quality, or you’d like to digitize your records through a computer or mix music through a mixing board, a turntable is a much more flexible selection.
Bluetooth Turntables
When you’ve already invested in a Bluetooth speaker system or have a Bluetooth soundbar for your TV, a Bluetooth turntable can integrate seamlessly into your existing gear so you can listen to your records wirelessly.
Key Features
As you shop for a new turntable or record player, look for models with helpful features like variable pitch control, selectable 33, 45, and 78 RPM speeds, anti-skate control, USB output, and vibration suppression. Clear-hinged lids also protect your turntable from dust and debris between uses.
If you like the idea of a compact music console that can play records and MP3s, a record player with built-in speakers and an auxiliary port is a wise choice.
Get the Best Audio Quality with Turntables and Record Players
Choose a turntable or record player made with reliable, high-quality components to help guarantee you can take advantage of your investment for years to come. Andover Audio, Audio-Technica, Yamaha, Gemini, and Musical Fidelity produce innovative, durable, and professional-grade sound equipment that will make your records sound their best.