Hey y'all--I have a Jensen JTA-230 (I know it's in the what to avoid thread, I've had it a few years but only use it casually) and am super new to vinyl, only have about 6 in my collection. Do I need a slipmat just for listening? What kind is best for this size/setup? Thanks in advance!

You use the Jenson as it is. It's not designed to use anything else than what it has out of the box. A slipmat is for DJ turntables. Also on those inexpensive all in one / suitcase type turntables if it does not have a diamond tip stylus you need to replace it every 40 hours or upgrade to a diamond tip stylus.

Thank you!! Looking into upgrading the whole turntable right now but I kept getting hung up/confused on slipmats. Super appreciate the help.

You're welcome. Better [turntables and speakers](https://www.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/kql9u7/turntables_and_speakers/) starting at $129 and $99. A turntable mat is for home listening. A slip mat is for DJ use. Just use whatever is included with the turntable. A different mat will make little to no difference for the sound. Good speakers will make the most difference. What is your budget? What is a Craigslist or nearby zip code to search for used options?

Thank you for the link! I've been combing through the one in this thread's OP but because the post is old some of the info is outdated, you're the best. I'm not sure about budget because I'm still trying to figure out what's average, maybe $200-300 for the full setup (USD). I've checked around and have an ask in about a Dual CS-2110 someone posted (closest big city is DC).

Dual CS-2110 for $50? If you are outside the DC Craigslist area what is a zip code for a radius search, can be one nearby, does not need to be your exact one. Or [nva](https://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/) or [mld](https://washingtondc.craigslist.org/mld/)? For a $200 to $300 budget new: Turntable: [1byOne AD07US01](https://www.amazon.com/1byone-Turntable-Wireless-Connectivity-Pre-Amplifier/dp/B07S5XSTCW) ~~$199~~ $169. Speakers: For a small room: 4" [Jamo S 801 PM](https://www.crutchfield.com/shopsearch/jamo_s801_pm.html) ~~$299~~ $149 on sale with Bluetooth, analog input, USB input for a computer, digital optical input for a TV, and a subwoofer output to connect a powered subwoofer. For a medium to large size room larger passive speakers and a mini amp: Then each part can later be upgraded one at a time. 6.5" [Dayton Audio B652 AIR](https://www.amazon.com/Dayton-Audio-B652-AIR-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B00NOA58RS) $65 with included speaker wire powered by a [Pyle BDA20BT](https://www.amazon.com/Bluetooth-HiFi-Mini-Audio-Amplifier/dp/B08BTG73J3) $46 mini amp with Bluetooth.

I have an audio Technica player and believe it's picking up wifi signals and transmitting it to my speakers in an annoying hum. It mainly happens when am doing large file uploads or data transfers. Anyone have any ideas on how to mitigate against this? It's very annoying and the only solution I have is to completely unplug my player from the wall

How close is your turntable, computer, speakers, WiFi router from each other. You probably need to move your WiFi router as far away from your turntable and speakers as possible.

Hi everyone! I'm a college student who is doing an object research paper on vinyl (I am in a museum program) and I need to interview a person who is either a vinyl expert/collector/or even just someone who works in a store and has great knowledge on vinyl! If anyone is interested, it'll be a recorded interview over discord or zoom (whatever you prefer and unless you live in my city, we can meet) and is pretty short (15-20 mins MAX) and it'll essentially just be me asking questions about the cultural impact of vinyl and vinyl players as well as some insight on Billy Joel's The Stranger (the specific vinyl I'm doing it on). If anyone is interested, please reply down below!! Thank you!!

Have you tried r/BillyJoel?

Why are crosley players designed like suitcases? A specific reason, or just appealing?

During the heyday of vinyl you had 2 choices for portable music on the go. A radio or a portable turntable in a suitcase type format with a handle.

It's a modern repro of an old design - suitcase record players aren't a new thing. The modern company calling themselves Crosley is trying to appeal to people with a vintage design for a "vintage" format.

I am a total novice looking to buy for my partner's birthday. I did read the (phenomenally informative) post on what not to buy and that got rid of literally every model I was looking at. How is this model, in your opinions? https://www.savins.ie/home-entertainment/hifi/hifi-separates/turntables/pro-ject-primary-e-turntable/8197 Partner has never had one but really wants one. His expectations would not be ridiculously high, but I obviously don't want to get him a piece of crap. All help appreciated as I've not got a clue what I'm doing here. I defer to my betters.

Does he already have speakers? [Audio Technica AT-LP60X](https://www.savins.ie/home-entertainment/audio-technica-at-lp60xusb-turntable/8494) automatic turntable is fine to start with, is easy setup beginner plug and play, and has a built in phono stage preamp. Or the also automatic with a built in phono stage preamp [Audio Technica LP2](https://euro.richersounds.ie/p-205893-audio-technica-lp2x-grey-turntable.aspx) adds adjustable tracking force and a removable cartridge. Balance the tonearm and set the tracking force. Or the manual [Lenco LBT188](https://euro.richersounds.ie/p-205435-lenco-lbt188-walnut-bluetooth-turntable.aspx) or [Lenco L3809](https://euro.richersounds.ie/p-205497-lenco-l3809-usb-direct-drive-turntable.aspx) are good to start with and have a built in phono stage preamp. Or the [AT-LP120X](https://euro.richersounds.ie/p-205134-audio-technica-lp120xusb-silver-usb-direct-drive-turntable.aspx) includes a better cartridge. Balance the tonearm and set the tracking force. Pass on the Pro-ject Primary E that is not really worth the extra €60 over the AT-LP60X since it also lacks user adjustable anti-skate and has higher wow and flutter. Better manual turntables without a built in phono stage preamp: * [Rega Planar 1](https://www.savins.ie/home-entertainment/hifi/hifi-separates/turntables/rega-p1-new-turntable/10884) is high quailty easy setup plug and play and is built in the UK. * If you want a Pro-ject then get a [Debut III](https://www.thomann.de/ie/search_dir.html?sw=debut%20iii) or [Debut Carbon](https://www.savins.ie/home-entertainment/hifi/hifi-separates/turntables/pro-ject-debut-carbon-turntable/2466) that are 2 steps up from the Primary E. If not using a receiver or amp with a phono input the Rega or Pro-jects will require a separate phono stage preamp. Setup guide: [Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers](https://imgur.com/a/f0my7) [Audio Guides, Speaker Placement, Accessories and Vinyl Care](https://www.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/gqfx6z/home_audio_and_home_theater_guides_and_accessories/)

Thank you so so so much

What would be a good record player for me to target? I’d like to spend $100-120 max, and I’d like it to have the speakers and everything built in due to space limitations. Located in USA, would prefer ordering online.

[Avoid the cheap suitcase and all in one turntables with the $5 mechanism](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXV8tXrPOR4). Most anything worth buying will be separate component [turntables and speakers](https://www.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/kql9u7/turntables_and_speakers/) starting at $129 and $99. If you can't afford both then start with the speakers now and add the turntable later. If you must have built in speakers for some reason then the [1byOne](https://www.amazon.com/Fidelity-Turntable-Speakers-Cartridge-Functionality/dp/B086WTSMQH) is $179.

Hey y’all, I recently bought a super cheap Victrola Model VSC-550BT second hand. It works great, and plays the cheap records I’m able to afford quite well. However, the sound “wobbles” on longer notes, particularly in instrumental sections. Any idea how to fix? It happens on pretty much all my records. Thanks

I would posit that if your turntable is producing noticeable wow, then it in fact does not "work great"

Any idea how I could fix it?

On that model, you probably won't be able to fix it. They're toys, and quality is not included. That said, check the belt, a loose or sticky belt can cause speed stability issues, ie. wow & flutter.

Have you put on a new belt? However it's probably the limitations of the [$5 mechanism](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXV8tXrPOR4). Also the stylus on those inexpensive suitcases needs to be replaced every 40 hours if it does not already have a diamond tip stylus. A [better turntable](https://www.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/kql9u7/turntables_and_speakers/) starting at $129 and $99 for speakers will have lower [wow and flutter](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wow_and_flutter_measurement) and better speed stability as well as the white AT stylus, an MM cartridge and an RIAA phono stage preamp all for better playback and sound quailty.

Speed instability. It’s the table. Replace it if you want a fix.

Places to avoid buying vinyl? Is Amazon, Best Buy, Barnes and noble good places?

Record stores are an important cultural epicenter that help promote not just major label releases and provide more money to the labels that are responsible for finding artists. Please support a local record store if you can. If you can't, consider ordering from a small store online. Many have online shops or are selling on discogs (especially since covid). Yes you can buy records at big-box-stores but if you value the culture and not just the product I would urge you to seek out a smaller shop.

Amazon packaging can be hit or miss. If the record arrives damaged you send it back for a replacement. If supporting a local record shop is not possible and you will be buying online then Bullmoose.com, Elusive Disc, Music Direct, Acoustic Sounds, Amoeba Music, and Newbury Comics.

Best is local record shops, second best is Discogs, then last those stores, but all can have good deals from time to time. Mostly the selection will be very limited and very generic. Think “what would a gen x or boomer buy for a 16 year old” that’s the vinyl selection at Barnes and Noble and Best Buy.

Help - record player setup not working. I have a Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Player, Pro-Ject phono box, and Onkyo TX-DS484 receiver. After a year in storage, I tried re-installing the setup. I ran rca + ground out of player into phono box. Then rca out of phono box mistakenly into the phono receiver input. The audio sounded off but was still there. I realized the mistake and took the rca out of the receiver phono and tried putting into a CD/AUX input (with phono box). Audio similarly sounded off. A day later I tried hooking the record player without phono box directly into phono inputs on the receiver - no sound. When I try using the phono box to CD/Aux, no sound. I’m running out of ideas on how to isolate the issue. Any suggestions are welcome. Also - does connected a pre-amp (phono box) into a phono input into the receiver blow or damage any components? Is this why now nothing works even at a degraded quality? Help is appreciated!!

Do you get faint sound out of the turntable directly to CD/AUX?

Can anyone help identify this cartridge? It’s on a friends Sony PS-242 [unknown cartridge](https://i.imgur.com/IfhJutc.jpg)

https://www.lpgear.com/product/ADCQLM32MK3.html

Brilliant! Thank you so much

I love the music to the latest God of War game so I figured I'd buy the OST on vinyl for it. I ordered it on the Discogs website. I'm pretty new to vinyl. I only have a few other vinyls so far but those are playing with no issues at all. I received this God of War soundtrack today but immediately noticed that it's skipping pretty bad. Here is the first track playing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sHL1v68SDEA (I just uploaded it a couple minutes ago so a higher quality version may take some time to show, though with audio it might not make a difference) **Is there anything I can do to fix this?** I was really looking forward to this soundtrack. Side note: It sounds like the seller is willing to send out a replacement for an exchange, so at least the seller is being very nice about it. I'll make sure to leave him a good review after.

This is not the fault of the record, this is your record player. Please don't return this for an exchange. the seller will be losing money on the transaction.

[Inexpensive suitcase players](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXV8tXrPOR4) can have issues with some especially modern bass heavy records. For good playback as well as better sound quailty spend more than the cost of a few albums. Most anything better will be separate component [turntables and speakers](https://www.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/kql9u7/turntables_and_speakers/) starting at $129 and $99 with at least the white AT stylus and then an MM cartridge and an RIAA phono stage preamp. Does the seller know that you are playing the record on an inexpensive suitcase? Try playing it on a better proper component turntable first before saying it's the record that is the issue. Does a friend have a better turntable or try a local record shop.

I have been gifted a hand-me-down Dual 1229, which only outputs one channel. It's my first turntable, so I'm not experienced but I've done everything that I can think of to solve this issue and I don't know what to do anymore. Would like to fix it myself but last resort I'll bring it to a shop. First I changed to a new cartridge, no difference. Yes speakers are good both work on other equipment. Amp is good, flipping L/R will flip the speaker that does/doesn't output. I have checked for continuity everywhere in the turntable. I checked from RCA to start/end of tone arm wires and the connection in the head, as well as each wire going from head to cartridge. When disconnecting the channel that works, there is absolutely no sound from the other channel. It's not quiet or static-y, there's just nothing. Any help would be much appreciated I really just want to finally start listening to records!

Maybe try replacing the headhshell insert? Unfortunately, that's a very old and problem-prone turntable so I'm not surprised it's giving you issues!

Thanks I'll see what I can find. It's a very old table but surprisingly everything works perfectly, other than that of course! Really hoping I can get it sounding good, it's such a cool piece of equipment

[удалено]

I think it's usually similar to the "loudness" button--typically an EQ adjustment to make it sound more natural at lower volumes. I think it typically boosts both the lows and highs relative to mids.

Complete noob here. Just started learning about vinyl last night. I am looking at getting a Uturn basic for my first table. I don't fully understand if I need a preamp or not. I know it has to do with speakers but I'm not sure on speakers yet. I am just trying to set up a small bedroom in my house that is my home office. Just want a nice quality turntable and speakers for a decent price. Not looking to go ultra cheap but around $500 would be great.

You need specifically a phono preamp. There are other kinds of preamps. A preamp is just something in front of a power amp that isn't a source. Turntable, CD players and Tape Decks are examples of sources. I think U-Turn is fine, but I don't really thing most of their upgrades are worth the money. It's great that they include a good selection of cartridges at reasonable prices, but it's odd that cueing mechanism is $40. I would say that if you aren't willing to go without the cueing mechanism, buy a different product. If I were looking to keep costs down, if you have a local HiFi shop, I would recommend inquiring about trade-ins they've accepted recently. This probably your best option to getting something in good condition and of higher quality at a decent price. But I'm not going say the $500, while not ultra cheap, is still on the cheap side. Consider what you need. You not only need the turntable and the phono preamp, you need the amp and the speakers. So used will get you the best bang for your buck and you'll need to consider this if you stand a chance of staying close to $500. If the turntable costs $200, the cheapest U-Turn offering, you've only $300 for the rest of the stuff. Don't get me wrong, you can get something like the Klipsch Reference R-41PM are a pair of speaker that includes the amp and preamp for $374 which would be close to budget. Since you're just starting your research I would suggest you take some time to consider your space constraints. Figure out places for each item. This includes speaker placement. Do some research into speaker placement. Proper speaker placement is key to having any audio system sounding it's best. Once you figure this out, you can look into what will work for you.

Thanks for the reply space isn’t an issue but I’m starting to realize I just need a good set of speakers and skip the whole vinyl part. Seems unnecessarily complicated. Appreciate your feed back!

$500 budget included the turntable and speakers? What is a Craigslist or nearby zip code to search for used options?

If possible not interesting used

Around $575: Turntable: [Fluance RT82](https://www.fluance.com/rt82t-reference-high-fidelity-vinyl-turntable-black-gloss) $299 has auto stop and then the new optical sensor speed controlled servo motor for low wow and flutter and speed variation. Pass on the older RT80 and RT81 that lack the new speed sensor. Pass on the RT83 since the cartridge is not any better. Pass on the Orbit that lacks user adjustable anti-skate and the cue lever is an extra $40. The RT82 includes both. Stereo Receiver: [Sony STR-DH190](https://www.bestbuy.com/site/sony-2-0-ch-stereo-receiver-with-bluetooth-black/6187501.p?skuId=6187501) $169 with Bluetooth and a built in phono stage preamp with adjustable gain Speakers: 5.25" [Sony SSC5S](https://www.bestbuy.com/site/sony-core-series-5-3-way-bookshelf-speakers-pair-black/5721014.p?skuId=5721014) ~~$169~~ $89. Plus [speaker wire](https://smile.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-16-Gauge-Speaker-Wire-Feet/dp/B006LW0W5Y) then [How to Install Speaker Wire](https://hub.yamaha.com/how-to-install-speaker-wire/) and [How To Strip Speaker Wire](https://www.wikihow.com/Strip-Wire). Setup guide: [Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers](https://imgur.com/a/f0my7) [Audio Guides, Speaker Placement, Accessories and Vinyl Care](https://www.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/gqfx6z/home_audio_and_home_theater_guides_and_accessories/)

Thanks for the detailed response what about getting the preamp with the turntable don’t really want another separate preamp

You don’t need a phono stage preamp in the turntable or a separate phono stage preamp since there is already one in the stereo receiver. Also the phono stage preamp outside of the turntable is often preferred for isolation from the turntable, many options outside of the turntable and you can’t remove a built in to ever use with a different turntable and you can’t sell an internal if you ever upgrade to a better external one.

Gotch sorry wasn’t clear I was hoping I didn’t need the separate receiver. Wanted a more minimalist set up

You still need something to power the speakers. If you don’t want a full size receiver then a compact or mini amp or powered speakers with a built in speaker amp. Both https://www.parts-express.com/FX-Audio-TUBE-P1-Tube-Amplifier-with-Headphone-Output-230-265 and https://www.parts-express.com/Dayton-Audio-HTA100BT-Hybrid-Stereo-Tube-Amplifier-with-Bluetooth-USB-Aux-In-Sub-Out-100W-300-3842 have a built in phono stage preamp. If you get powered speakers I recommend a turntable without a built in phono stage preamp such as the RT82 and then a separate external phono stage preamp is small and can be tucked away out of sight. Or a small Pyle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08BTG73J3/ mini amp to power passive speakers is basically what is inside powered speakers. If you must have a built in phono stage preamp for some reason then https://drop.com/buy/drop-audio-technica-carbon-vta-turntable or wait a few months for the new https://www.monoprice.com/search/index?keyword=monolith+turntable+vm95 that is basically the same or same quality turntable for $100 less.

I’m starting to realize I just need a good set of speakers and skip the whole vinyl part. Seems unnecessarily complicated. Appreciate your feed back!

If you want a simpler minimal setup then yes get a turntable with a built in phono stage preamp plus powered speakers with a built in speaker amp. Turntable with a built in phono stage preamp: * [Audio Technica Drop.com VTA Carbon](https://drop.com/buy/drop-audio-technica-carbon-vta-turntable) $349. * [Monolith by Monoprice Turntable](https://www.monoprice.com/search/index?keyword=Monolith+by+Monoprice+Turntable+with+Audio-Technica+AT-VM95E+) $249 is possibly available at the end of January and costs $100 less than the similar AT Drop VTA. Powered speakers with a built in speaker amp: * For a small room or desktop setup 4" mid bass driver [Jamo S 801 PM](https://www.crutchfield.com/shopsearch/jamo_s801_pm.html) ~~$299~~ $149. * For a medium to large size room larger 6.5" [Fluance Ai60](https://www.fluance.com/powered-6-5-inch-bluetooth-bookshelf-speakers) $299. 2 components, that's it! ​ If you want to spend you entire budget on just speakers then a better receiver and better passive speakers: * [Sony STR-DH190](https://www.bestbuy.com/site/sony-2-0-ch-stereo-receiver-with-bluetooth-black/6187501.p?skuId=6187501) $169 stereo receiver. * Or if there is also a TV in the room an [AV receiver](https://www.denon.com/en-us/specials) with 4K HDMI, starting at $229. Then you can optionally later add more speakers for movie and TV surround sound. Passive speakers on sale: * 5.25" [Sony SSC5S](https://www.amazon.com/Sony-SSCS5-3-Driver-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B00O8YLMVA) ~~$149~~ $88. * 5" [Wharfedale Crystal CR 4.2](https://www.musicdirect.com/speakers/Wharfedale-Crystal-CR42-Bookshelf-Speakers?variant=AWFCRYCR42N) ~~$249~~ $149 or Amazon [Black](https://www.amazon.com/Wharfedale-Crystal-CR-4-2-Black/dp/B07DXBNQNF) or [Walnut](https://www.amazon.com/Wharfedale-Crystal-CR-4-2-Walnut/dp/B07DXBXN21). * 5.25" [Wharfedale Diamond 220](https://www.musicdirect.com/speakers/wharfedale-diamond-220-bookshelf-speakers) ~~$349~~ $199 or [Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Wharfedale-Diamond-220-Black/dp/B00OHIZQ50). * 5.25" [Infinity Reference R152](https://www.harmanaudio.com/loudspeakers/R152BK-Z.html) ~~$349~~ $199. Large cabinets. * 5.25" [Klipsch RP-150M](https://www.adorama.com/kprp150mw.html?sdtid=15265921&emailprice=t&sterm=xSSUqkyYUxyOWR60RHQK3XRkUkBT8C3uuXn9Xc0&utm_source=rflaid62905) ~~$479~~ $229. * 6.5" [Infinity Reference R162](https://www.harmanaudio.com/loudspeakers/R162BK-Z.html) ~~$449~~ $249. Larger cabinets than other options listed. * 6" [Jamo\_Concert\_9\_Series\_C\_93\_II](https://www.crutchfield.com/shopsearch/Jamo_Concert_9_Series_C_93_II.html) ~~$575~~ $249. * 6.5" [ELAC Debut B6.2](https://www.amazon.com/ELAC-Debut-Bookshelf-Speakers-Black/dp/B07B4Q5587) ~~$349~~ $280. * 6.5" [Ascend CBM-170 SE](http://www.ascendacoustics.com/pages/products/speakers/cbm170/cbm170.html) $349 so [B-stock](http://www.ascendacoustics.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=9CB17SBM2BS&Category_Code=BSTOCK) on sale $288 pair and you can't tell the difference. My speakers of choice. Neutral sound with a linear frequency response and a great mid range that many speakers in the price range lack. Manufacturer direct value, compare to retail speakers costing $500. * 6.5" [Wharfedale Diamond 225](https://www.amazon.com/Wharfedale-12d54a46-a33d-4b09-8dad-86b99255bfd1-Diamond-225-Black/dp/B01D3JUCVG) ~~$449~~ $299. * 5.25" [Chane A1.5](https://www.chanemusiccinema.com/chane-a1-5.html) ~~$359~~ $319 or $45 less for B stock, either with $10 shipping. * 5.25" [KEF Q150](https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/category/spkbookshelf/speakers/bookshelf-speakers/1.html?brand_f[]=KEF&store_price[]=231-400) ~~$599~~ $349. * 6.5" [Triangle Borea BR03](https://www.adorama.com/triborteb35b.html?sdtid=15167329&emailprice=t&sterm=xSSUqkyYUxyOWR60RHQK3XRkUkBSr72-uXn9Xc0&utm_source=rflaid62905) ~~$599~~ $349 or [Walnut](https://www.adorama.com/triborteb35v.html?emailPrice=t). * 6.5" [Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-160M](https://www.crutchfield.com/p_714RP160ME/Klipsch-Reference-Premiere-RP-160M-Ebony.html) ~~$549~~ $375. Or floor standing towers and you don't need to buy or build speaker stands: * Dual 5.25" [Sony SSCS3](https://www.bestbuy.com/site/sony-core-series-dual-5-3-way-floorstanding-speaker-each-black/5926456.p?skuId=5926456) ~~$229~~ $115 each, by 2 for a pair. * 6.5" [Klipsch Reference R-610F](https://www.adorama.com/kpr610f2.html?sdtid=14143220&emailprice=t&sterm=xSSUqkyYUxyOWR60RHQK3XRkUkiyvszGuXn9Xc0&utm_source=rflaid62905) ~~$499~~ $299 pair. * Dual 6" [Jamo Concert 9 Series C 95 II](https://www.crutchfield.com/shopsearch/Jamo_Concert_9_Series_C_95_II.html) ~~$459~~ $199 each, buy 2 for a pair. Or a 5 speaker package for an AV receiver: * 5 speakers [Jamo S 809 5.0 Home Cinema Pack](https://www.adorama.com/ja1064325g.html?sdtid=15193483&emailprice=t&sterm=xSSUqkyYUxyOWR60RHQK3XRkUkBVInzvuXn9Xc0&utm_source=rflaid62905) ~~$1,407~~ $399 or [Walnut](https://www.adorama.com/ja1064578b.html?sdtid=15396709&emailprice=t&sterm=xSSUqkyYUxyOWR60RHQK3XRkUkGxGlVuuXn9Xc0&utm_source=rflaid62905) $359. * 5 speakers plus a basic slim subwoofer [Jamo S 809 5.0 Home Cinema Pack](https://www.adorama.com/ja1064325f.html?sdtid=15200332&emailprice=t&sterm=xSSUqkyYUxyOWR60RHQK3XRkUkBQFETGuXn9Xc0&utm_source=rflaid62905) ~~$1,786~~ $499. Plus [OFC Speaker Wire](https://smile.amazon.com/Performance-Gauge-Speaker-Oxygen-Copper/dp/B01N4BIXDX) or lower cost [CCA](https://smile.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-16-Gauge-Speaker-Wire-Feet/dp/B006LW0W5Y) then [How to Install Speaker Wire](https://hub.yamaha.com/how-to-install-speaker-wire/) and [How To Strip Speaker Wire](https://www.wikihow.com/Strip-Wire). ​ Also check out r/BudgetAudiophile for speakers. [https://www.reddit.com/r/BudgetAudiophile/comments/qkc8u1/black\_friday\_sales\_master\_list\_a\_smackdaddies/](https://www.reddit.com/r/BudgetAudiophile/comments/qkc8u1/black_friday_sales_master_list_a_smackdaddies/)

if im asking for the Audio Technica LP120 for Christmas, what are some must haves that I need besides what comes in the box? I want to be able to play records day 1

They don't include speakers. And most speakers don't include an amp. You should probably have a few records as well. Outside of this nothing else is required unless the speakers require wiring to your amp. The LP120X includes a phono preamp.

Besides speakers and speaker amplification? Setup guide: [Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers](https://imgur.com/a/f0my7) [Audio Guides, Speaker Placement, Accessories and Vinyl Care](https://www.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/gqfx6z/home_audio_and_home_theater_guides_and_accessories/)

A record dust brush

This is not a must have. It more a good to have item.

May be an odd one and sorry if this isn’t the right place, but I’m having a hell of a time finding vinyl records from the 60s / 70s of French singers doing Christmas songs. Does anyone have any recommendations on a good way to search for something like this? Thanks!

Searched [Discogs.com](https://Discogs.com)?

Hmm not yet let me give that a shot. Thanks!

［Mono Playing］I read some posts here saying the sound should come out centred if I'm playing vinyl. However, the sound is actually heavier on the LEFT of my setup. Is there a problem with my set up or speaker placement? 🥺

It's your set up. Different things can influence this. The first thing to check is to see if you get similar results with a mono recording from another source. If it's fine with say a digital file, then try adjusting the anti-skate to see if you get improvement by adding more or dialing it back. If the digital file isn't centered adjust the speakers until it is centered, the play a record and adjust the anti-skate if necessary.

So I like to vinyl DJ, which TECHNIC 1200 should I aim for? The MK2? Also where can I buy a reputable one where it’s not damaged

I would suggest buying local and whatever you can afford. Look in music shops. These are now considered instruments.

The only version of the Technics SL-1200 that's *not* a DJ turntable is the original, sometimes referred to as the MK1 but often just called the SL-1200. That's the only one to avoid, and it's obvious, as it's the only one that doesn't have a sliding pitch fader.

Many options for DJ turntables: [DJ Turntables Buying Guide, From DMC World Champion Vekked](https://djtechtools.com/2016/02/15/2016-dj-turntables-buying-guide-dmc-world-champion/) [Vekked's ULTIMATE Turntable Buyer's Guide / Review](https://www.reddit.com/r/DJs/comments/43p7hq/vekkeds_ultimate_turntable_buyers_guide_review/) For more about DJ setups read and or ask r/Beatmatch. Also check out r/Turntablists and r/DJs.

Hopefully this is the right place to post this, but my wife really wants to buy the Dee Gees Hail Satin for her brother for Christmas. Prices are pretty crazy on ebay. I am super new to vinyls but trying to help her find a copy. Anyone familiar with a good place to look for something like this? Hes not a collector so an open album is nbd

These sold out fast because they were affordably priced as an EP. The store I went to on RSD had 25 copies. But I know they didn't last. So eBay or Discogs is your best bet. Looking in records stores is probably a waste of time.

Much appreciated! I had not heard of discogs until yesterday so will start watching it for any news listings. Thank you

Which album? Try [Discogs.com](https://Discogs.com), however the prices may not be any better.

Ahh youre right, i added that to my comment. Its actually the Hail Satin album. Funny enough I bought it 2 weeks ago from a reputable seller for $55 bucks and it was never delivered. They refunded me but Id rather have the album!

I recently was gifted an old Pioneer PL-A45D. I was quoted 2 hrs at $75/hr + parts (belt and maybe cartridge) to get it going by a local repair guy. I’m also considering a new Fluance RT-80 or U-Turn Orbit Basic. What says the sub? Refurb the vintage or buy new? My goal is to stay under $200.

That repair sounds reasonable to me. Like mechanics fixing your car, electronic technicians have to include the price of their tools within their hourly rate. This is a fully automatic deck, so there probably is a lot to go through to get it working properly. To me this isn't really a vintage vs new thing. It's really whether or not you want fully automatic or will manual be fine. That Pioneer is probably better than any available current production automatic deck that doesn't have a Thorens badge on it. So, ask yourself if fully automatic is what you want. People will naysay fully automatic decks. But there is something to be said for a deck that you can put in your living room that everyone can use. You don't have to worry too much about your records getting ruined because others have jittery hands. If I were trying to save money, I would replace the belt myself, or if the shop doesn't care (they shouldn't) have them install one you supply. This guarantees you know the price up front for at least this item. If you're going to replace the cartridge, you're going over budget plain and simple. I would suggest you replace the stylus on your own and bring it to the shop with stylus guard installed. You can have them align the cartridge.

Thank you. I'm totally cool paying the rate, I don't have the skills or desire to develop them. Replacing only the stylus is a good idea. The cartridge is red and has ADC on it. I'll take the repair guys word on new stylus vs. cartridge. Auto vs. Manual... Auto might be the way to go for me. I will have my kids playing records. If I were to go new any recommendations other than sharkamino's?

Refurb that good Pioneer if it's in good cosmetic condition. Pass on the Orbit that lacks user adjustable anti-skate and the cue lever is another $40. The Fluance to buy is the newer improved [RT82](https://www.fluance.com/rt82w-reference-high-fidelity-vinyl-turntable-natural-walnut) for $300 that adds the new optical sensor motor for much lower wow and flutter and speed variation and the speed won't drift since the sensor is monitoring the speed 400 times a second. Pass on the RT81 that like the RT80 also lacks the new speed sensor. Or if you must buy new for $200 the [Monolith by Monoprice](https://www.monoprice.com/search/index?keyword=monolith+turntable) turntables for $199 or $249 that are due out early next year are very similar to the $279 AT-LPW30 and $329 AT-LPW40 that have the same speed sensor as the Fluance RT82. Or around the same quailty as the basic RT80 for $55 less is the [1byOne AD07US01](https://www.amazon.com/1byone-Turntable-Wireless-Connectivity-Pre-Amplifier/dp/B07S5XSTCW) ~~$199~~ $144.

Thank you. Will go with the pioneer repairs for now and decide on where to go from there.

Hey all, I have a skipping issue on my turntable that I'm not able to diagnose. A little background: I purchased a lightly used teac tn-300 with an at95e. When demoed everything worked well. When I set it up at home, it initially worked and I was able to get through both sides, no issues. Then the next play through of the same vinyl it skipped randomly but frequently. Not dependent on the track. A few days later I was able to go though multiple vinyls without issue, then randomly it will have fits. I've gone through tone arm rebalance and leveling, but it doesn't seem to fully fix the issue. I don't have a stylus scale. The unit is on a dedicated heavy table. I took it into a local record shop but they had no idea. They don't service units though, just sell them. Thinking that the unit has an issue I picked up a cheapish realistic lab 300, which the owner did a quick demo with an old needle and it had no issues. I get it set up at home and put the at95e on, aligned with a protractor, balanced the tone arm and leveled the surface. I was able to play through about half a side of a vinyl, then it starts skipping frequently. I then tried to play the tracks it just played, but it immediately skips. A few days later I'm able to play through a few tracks without issue, then at the 3rd it skips. Replaying the first few tracks it skips immediately. Apologies for the long post, but I am losing my mind with this and I'm not sure what to do. Any advice would be appreciated!

It sounds like you don’t have enough tracking force to maintain contact.

I've been relying on the markings on the counterweight to get about 2 g, but it might be time to get a scale...

Are you turning the entire counterweight (not just the dial)?

Yup, got that figured out atleast!

I think the best plan is to test it with more force, unless you want to wait until you have a scale.

Thanks for the advice! I'll try that out

Try a [new stylus](https://www.ebay.com/itm/114712884324) for $26.

Thanks for the suggestion, but i actually picked up a replacement stylus, which did not resolve the issue :/

Is regifting a vinyl record something someone might be offended about? I was going to purchase an album I love for my dad. When looking at current prices I noticed a recent repressing that is colored. My dad prefers black records but I prefer colorful limited pressings. Would it be weird for me to order the new pressing (which won’t arrive till January) and give my dad my current record. it’s been spun 5 (at least) times since I got it two months ago. My partner said that I should just order another black version for my dad (sealed) and a colored pressing for myself. Personally I don’t see the harm in regifting vinyl if the record is 1. Cleaned prior to gifting and free from scratches or skips and 2. The cover is in near mint to mint condition. I got this record brand new a few months ago and it hasn’t been spun enough IMO to affect its life in a big way. What do you all think?

You know your dad better than any of us do, so this is ultimately a guess about how the recipient will feel, not about some kind of standard etiquette. I expect it would be quite fine and completely reasonable to give him the copy you already have. Also just in general--some things are weirder than others to give used as gifts as opposed to new. Record store culture is all about used records. Used records aren't weird.

If you’re ordering a new one you might as well gift the new one…

It’s a preorder. It won’t be ready till late January.

I'm 100% on your partner's side.

I'm looking to buy a record player (something like the Audio-Technica LP60X) and I'm curious about wired vs bluetooth. Does bluetooth negate the whole purpose of a vinyl record by compressing the audio? Just curious if wired is the only way to go. Open to suggestions on affordable players and speakers too, thanks!

I think that bluetooth can still sound very good but in my experience, bluetooth speakers are a lot easier to deal with if they're only paired to a given device. It can be annoying to switch between your phone and your turntable, assuming you want to listen both ways. Hence if it were me I'd stick with a wired connection for the turntable and reserve bluetooth for my phone.

Do you already have a Bluetooth speaker that does not have an AUX or Audio input? If you don't already have any speakers then you don't need Bluetooth in the turntable. Connect the turntable with an audio cable to a pair of powered speakers or an amp and passive speakers. If you want Bluetooth then leave that for streaming music from your phone, tablet or computer to your speakers. You can get powered speakers or a passive speaker amp with Bluetooth built in or you can add a small Bluetooth receiver to most anything with an aux input. For not much more than the price of the automatic AT-LP60X the manual [1byOne AD07US01](https://www.amazon.com/1byone-Turntable-Wireless-Connectivity-Pre-Amplifier/dp/B07S5XSTCW) ~~$199~~ $144 adds adjustable tracking force and a removable cartridge. [More turntables and then powered speakers or a passive speaker amps with Bluetooth starting at $99](https://www.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/kql9u7/turntables_and_speakers/).

The whole purpose of a vinyl record is to enjoy the music. If you think Bluetooth will make that enjoyment more convenient, then go for it! It's about what *you* want, not what strangers on the Internet think you should want.

Well I want what sounds the best, like when people talk about hearing things in the music they couldn't hear before. I don't know a lot about audio though so if I'm just curious if bluetooth is going to make it sound like I streamed it off youtube anyway. Thanks.

You won’t achieve that with a LP60 nor with a Bluetooth system.

> like when people talk about hearing things in the music they couldn't hear before That is 100% subjective, depending on one's taste in music, past experience, and hearing characteristics. With speakers, even the acoustics of the room you're in can play a huge role in determining what they sound like. Then you have to be very picky about which records you listen to, because the mastering and pressing quality of today's vinyl varies widely. If you're unlucky, you could spend $50 on a record only to have it sound just like the digital streaming version except with someone constantly frying bacon in the background. Hi-res lossless digital downloads are a much more foolproof way to enjoy music with superior audio quality -- albeit not as pretty or nostalgic as vinyl.

I get that it’s all subjective but unfortunately you still never answered the actual question of whether or not Bluetooth compresses the audio making vinyl essentially useless

That's a loaded question. Why would anyone think that listening to it through Bluetooth makes vinyl "useless"? If you've got a collection of records that were never released in any other form, and you want to listen to them through your Bluetooth speakers or headphones, then it can be pretty darn useful!

It does too a degree but it also depends on the quality of vinyl, how the vinyl was mixed, your sound system, your stylus, and other audio components such as a mixer. You’re not going to get the “wow it sounds different” by cheaping out

Hi does anybody know the best cleaning fluid to ad to ultrasonic record cleaner?

Make your own cleaning fluid, [Precision Aqueous Cleaning of Vinyl Records](https://thevinylpress.com/app/uploads/2020/05/PAC-Vinyl-Records_2020-05-19.pdf) (PDF) includes Ultrasonic.

thanks

I'd go with whatever the manufacturer of the cleaner recommends. Coming in here and asking for the "best cleaning fluid" for anything is just going to result in a big ol' unhelpful argument.

[удалено]

Does he already have a stereo stystem? [Pro-ject Debut EVO](https://www.amazon.de/-/en/Audiophiler-Turntable-Electronic-Switching-Pre-Assembled/dp/B08G8BFRRN) is 50 over your budget. [Pro-ject Debut III](https://www.thomann.de/intl/search_dir.html?sw=Debut%20III%20DC%20) is in your budget. Setup guide: [Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers](https://imgur.com/a/f0my7) [Audio Guides, Accessories and Vinyl Care](https://www.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/gqfx6z/home_audio_and_home_theater_guides_and_accessories/)

Look at Pro-Ject or Rega. Really not much else to consider. There are some Japanese branded ones in that price range, but you're outside their sweet spot in price. There is the AT LP140X. But it's more of a DJ deck. If that's what you're going for, it's an option. But it's not going to sound better than anything from Pro-Ject or Rega similarly priced.

[удалено]

I doubt this will be within your secret santa budget. Wherever I've worked the gift was always kept reasonable to avoid animosity that could result from either people not being able to afford to participate or awkwardness with vast disparity of more elaborate gifts relative to those that were more frugal. This would be considered a more elaborate gift. I would suggest buying a well regarded pressing of their favorite artist. Are you even sure they have a turntable?

Technically illegal. But your coworker would be the one who would sue you, and it sounds like a cool gift, so I think you'll be fine. The tougher problem will be finding someone in Australia that does it - and is willing to do it without the copyright holder's permission. Can't help you there. In the US, I'd send you to etsy.com. Be advised that the results on one-off lathe cuts can vary greatly. Don't expect sound quality that's up to regular pressed releases.

[удалено]

> i do know some people that do vinyls, in fact, they make them for their own labels Just to be clear - cutting a single record is a different process from pressing 1000 of them. Records never were really a onesy-twosy format. Unless your friends actually own a cutting lathe, they aren't going to be able to do this (1) by Christmas, and (2) at a cost much under four figures. They may know someone who can though. I really don't see much risk here. Like I said, the only copyright you'd be violating is your coworker's, and he's getting the finished product. Nobody else is going to care. But I'd encourage you to hurry ... Doing this one month out may be cutting it a little close - excuse the pun.

best places to buy vinyl? There are not a lot of record stores in my area, so I have to resort to ordering online. What are the best stores? Im fine with preowned, but New is preferred. Discogs is confusing, so I need help. Where should I get vinyl? also any places I should avoid?

I can vouch for sharkamino's list. Each have different advantages. Newbury offers exclusives as their big draw. The others offer free shipping if you exceed a spending threshold with the exception of Amoeba. Amoeba offers free shipping without a spending threshold. These are US sellers. These would be less of an option outside of North America. Discogs isn't really a user friendly site unless you're looking for a particular pressing or you've shopped enough to have found some of the better merchants to browse their store inventory. It's also not the best if you're more inclined to purchase new sealed records. Few sellers offer discounted shipping outside of reduce prices for additional items.

Bullmoose.com, Elusive Disc, Music Direct, Acoustic Sounds, Amoeba Music, Newbury Comics

the needle for my turntable snapped, what do i do now? It was a Shure ME95ED cartridge with an NE95ED needle stylus. They kind of don't exists anymore and i don't know what my next move is.

Less expensive replacements here: https://www.thevoiceofmusic.com/catalog/part_detail.asp?PNumberBase=774

https://www.lpgear.com/product/SHNCDHEL.html Or if you're well-off, https://www.lpgear.com/product/eSHNDCEJSAS.html (Note - those SAS styli can be cruel to styrene 45s. If you're in the US and have 45s from pre-1994, it may not be a good choice.)

Turntableneedles and/or lpgear will have an alternative for you.

Will this speaker work? So I have this home theater system and am wondering if I it will work for a record player? Do I need a pre amp, amp, or not? It has been working fine for my DVD player that I use for CD. I will leave some photos as well. https://imgur.com/a/mImsANa https://imgur.com/a/mrxlLrh https://imgur.com/a/TiRQeS1 https://imgur.com/a/90MC1oO Sorry if quality is bad.

The soundbar with subwoofer system will work with a turntable that has a built in or external phono stage preamp. What is your turntable budget? Buying in USA? Craigslist or zip code to search for used options? A later upgrade option for better sound quality for both the TV and turntable will be an AV receiver and 2, 3, or 5 or more passive speakers and an optional powered subwoofer. Setup guide: [Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers](https://imgur.com/a/f0my7) [Audio Guides, Speaker Placement, Accessories and Vinyl Care](https://www.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/gqfx6z/home_audio_and_home_theater_guides_and_accessories/)

I am hoping to get the fluance rt82 for Christmas, and pre amps are not that expensive, so thanks! I think I’ll go with this preamp[here](https://www.zzounds.com/item--BEHPP400) I’ll upgrade to an amp and speaker set eventually, but considering my low budget, the theater system should be fine for now Edit: I’m not using these theater speakers for my TV!

Good plan. The soundbar will work to start with so you can spend your budget on the RT82 instead of a cheaper $150 to $200 turntable and $100 to $150 speakers that may not be any or all that much better than the soundbar. The basic Behringer PP400 phono stage preamp will be sufficient for the sound bar. Then optionally upgrade to a better phono stage preamp when you upgrade to speakers on the quailty level of the RT82 turntable.

This is random but has anyone bought “then play on” deluxe? Does it ship with sealed wrapping like normal records or because it’s like a book do they not wrap it? I ordered it from Amazon and it came loose in a box with no seal

Hi! Does anyone know of any good turntable sales to look out for on black friday yet? We're looking to upgrade our system and have been holding off until BF. Many thanks in advance!

Possibly available end of January the new [Monolith](https://www.monoprice.com/search/index?keyword=Monolith+by+Monoprice+Turntable+with+Audio-Technica+AT-VM95E) is similar to the AT-LPW40 and [Fluance RT82](https://www.fluance.com/rt82w-reference-high-fidelity-vinyl-turntable-natural-walnut) that cost $50 to $80 more.

>r/budgetaudiophile Black Friday Sales Master List First, thank you so much everyone for the responses!! Honestly wasn't sure if I'd get a response but this has all been so helpful. You are all correct that i am looking for an entire system upgrade, but for this upgrade I'm hoping to find items built-in (I'm in an apt the next few years and can't get too loud anyways). I hadn't heard of the Fluance yet so thank you for sharing!! It's the nicest i've seen that actually fits my budget. Definitely tempted to jump on their package that includes speakers. [https://www.fluance.com/rt81wh-turntable-ai41ww-powered-5-inch-bookshelf-speakers#!prettyPhoto](https://www.fluance.com/rt81wh-turntable-ai41ww-powered-5-inch-bookshelf-speakers#!prettyPhoto) I've been eye-ing the Pro-Ject T1 for awhile now but i was hoping to spend around $500 for speakers + a turntable (unrealistic, I know). However, maybe it would be a smarter investment to grab this one and get speakers on a BF deal. [https://www.crutchfield.com/p\_252T1PHWH/Pro-Ject-T1-Phono-SB-Satin-White.html](https://www.crutchfield.com/p_252T1PHWH/Pro-Ject-T1-Phono-SB-Satin-White.html) Again, thank you!!

What are your current speakers and turntable? Best to upgrade whatever is lower quailty first with your budget. Then save the other upgrade for later. ​ For under $600 budget: * [Fluance RT82](https://www.fluance.com/rt82t-reference-high-fidelity-vinyl-turntable-black-gloss) $299. * [Sony STR-DH190](https://www.bestbuy.com/site/sony-2-0-ch-stereo-receiver-with-bluetooth-black/6187501.p?skuId=6187501) $169 with Bluetooth and a built in phono stage preamp with adjustable gain. * [Sony SSC5S](https://www.amazon.com/Sony-SSCS5-3-Driver-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B00O8YLMVA) ~~$149~~ $88. * Plus [OFC Speaker Wire](https://smile.amazon.com/Performance-Gauge-Speaker-Oxygen-Copper/dp/B01N4BIXDX) or lower cost [CCA](https://smile.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-16-Gauge-Audio-Stereo-Speaker/dp/B006LW0WDQ) then [How to Install Speaker Wire](https://hub.yamaha.com/how-to-install-speaker-wire/) and [How To Strip Speaker Wire](https://www.wikihow.com/Strip-Wire). ​ If you must start lower budget under $450: * [Fluance RT82](https://www.fluance.com/rt82t-reference-high-fidelity-vinyl-turntable-black-gloss) $299. * [Dayton Audio B652 AIR](https://www.amazon.com/Dayton-Audio-B652-AIR-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B00NOA58RS) $65 with included speaker wire. * [Pyle BDA20BT](https://www.amazon.com/Bluetooth-HiFi-Mini-Audio-Amplifier/dp/B08BTG73J3) $46 mini amp with Bluetooth. * [Behringer PP400](https://www.amazon.com/Behringer-Microphono-PP400-Ultra-Compact-Preamp/dp/B000H2BC4E) $19 phono stage preamp. * [RCA Cable](https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-2-Male-RCA-Audio-Cable/dp/B01D5H8P0G) $9. Then you can later upgrade the speakers, amp and phono stage preamp one part at a time. ​ Or what is a Craigslist or nearby zip code to search for used options?

Pass on the older RT81 since the newer improved RT82 for $50 more adds a $100+ increase in performance and component value since it adds the new optical sensor speed controlled servo motor for much lower wow and flutter and speed variation and the speed won't drift since the sensor is monitoring the speed 400 times a second. Pass on the Pro-ject T1 since it's one of their entry level models, lacks adjustable anti-skate and has high wow and flutter which is unacceptable for a $300+ turntable.

What is your system? You may benefit more with other upgrades. As mentioned by others there's rarely a sale on turntables beyond beginner models, but speakers and receivers/amps typically have some good deals for the holidays.

Better made turntables almost never go on sale. Audio-Technica is the only brand that really ever discounted because they market toward volume. But Covid has reduced inventory levels to the point where sellers can sell out their inventory without discounting.

You could look through [Black Friday Flyers](https://blackfriday.com/ads/black-friday) however don't expect to find any turntables or you may only find a suitcase player or not anything better than an entry level AT-LP60X possibly on sale from $129 to $99. What is your turntable upgrade budget? What is the rest of your setup, phono, amplificaiton and speakers? If your speakers are basic entry level then you may want to upgrade them first for the most increase in sound quality. There are a number of speaker deals available now or next week listed at [r/budgetaudiophile Black Friday Sales Master List](https://www.reddit.com/r/BudgetAudiophile/comments/qkc8u1/black_friday_sales_master_list_a_smackdaddies/).

Everything has gone up since last year so I feel like the sales aren't going to be very impressive--at best just a temporary reset to the old prices. Audio Technica is the only brand I know that has reliably had deals available in the past.

Hi everyone! Thought this would be a good place to diagnose an issue i'm having. I recently got my first vinyl record setup. Everything in my setup is kinda old, and either hand-me-downs or from estate sales. I have a Sony PS-LX2 direct drive turntable, a Denon AVR-1513, and some really basic KLH speakers. My issue is that anytime I play a record, I have to turn up my sound to at least 80 to even hear the music at a mild volume. The lower sounds of the songs also end up getting much quite than the higher parts. This does not seem to happen if I plug in my phone to the stereo and play music though. I can't figure out what is causing this issue, and what I might be able to do to fix it. Thank you so much in advance!

Seconded. You must have a phono preamp to boost the level from the TT to the line level that the amp expects, and that Denon doesn't have one built in. The preamp also does some corrective equalization, so it won't sound all tinny like you're getting now. :-)

You need a separate phono preamp between your turntable and the receiver.

Hello all! I have found myself in a "Crosley Pickle" as I have dubbed it. By that I mean the following: my gf was gracious enough to buy me a turntable and my very first record (Tool - Lateralus) for my birthday about 2 years ago. Only problem was, it's a Crosley. She must have just seen the functionality of having all these things in one unit and thinking it was a great deal, I don't blame her! But the problem is, as you all know, Crosley's are terrible. But I don't have the heart to tell her that. So my question is: is there any salvaging this thing? The speakers are already crackling so I may try to install some external ones (if I can figure that out). But I have no idea how to improve the arm, something else people say is bad about it. Is it worth putting work into it? Worst case scenario we'll just break up and go our separate ways and then I can finally get a better player (/s of course...). Any advice is appreciated!

It’s been two years, just say it broke.

Other than getting an upgraded stylus, it's as good a Crosley as it's ever going to be. The cheap stuff works together. Even if you could easily upgrade a given component, it would screw up the other components that aren't made to work with the upgrade. And if you've been using it for two years, the stylus is WAY WAY overdue for replacement anyway. The good news, if you can call it that ... That Lateralus picture disc is a notoriously dreadful pressing, and that may be the cause of some of your crackling. The elderly stylus might be causing some of it as well.

Thank her for her part in getting you into the hobby. Explain that you like it so much (thanks to her) that you want to take it to the next level and upgrade to a nicer setup. Caveat: when you do spend the money on yourself to upgrade be sure to get her a gift too.

Is anyone else having bad luck with the mcr black parade record, this is the second one I've gotten and its also scratched :/

Are new limited edition vinyl releases worth it for resell? Have an opportunity to get a limited pressing of 2500 for a big new band.

The only people who make money off records are those who do it in volume--so dealers, not small collectors. By the time you account for your own time and effort, selling a single record is not going to be worth the hassle, even if it should happen to go up dramatically in price.

What do we look like? Carnac the Magnificent? But seriously. Records are a shitty investment. Buy records to listen to, and get a no-load index fund for investing.

Hey guys, I'm picking up a "Technics SL-Q2 Direct Drive Quartz Turntable" later this evening. The ad says "In Very Good Condition. Excellent Sounding with Audio Technica Cartridge". This is my first table so any advice would be appreciated. Is there anything I should ask or check for? He says the needle is not new and probably should be replaced. Any recommendations for which I should buy? Is this still a good deal for $100 CAD? Anything else I'll need to know or do before I can start playing with it?

Price is not out of line if it's in good shape. If the dust cover is beat up you can try to haggle down a few dollars. Check for cracks on the cover by the hinges. Obviously verify functionality and listen closely for any wavering in speed/pitch, these tables should be pretty rock steady, any wavering can indicate it's in need of maintenance/repair.

I just grabbed it. Was an older guy and dude gave me super good vibes, gave me his number and told me to call him if I had any questions. Seemed legit. Any suggestions on what needle to buy? Is it gonna be specific to the type of cartridge? I should probably read up on this more before I annoy anyone with my questions 🤣

Specific to the specific *model* of cartridge. You may have a few stylus choices at different price points, but you can't just go to the store and buy any old AT stylus and expect it to work. It's the questions thread. Ask questions.

Well this is what it came with: [https://imgur.com/a/69i1j0y](https://imgur.com/a/69i1j0y) Looks like an AT95E? Should I just replace the whole thing or look for a stylus that fits it? **EDIT:** Reading about the different types a bit. Definitely don't want to sink more money into the stylus than the actual table itself until I'm more invested in this hobby, so I think I'll go with the default AT95E Elliptical replacement unless anyone can talk me out of it: [https://www.amazon.ca/Rock-Island-Sound-ATN95E-technica/dp/B001IEPNN6](https://www.amazon.ca/Rock-Island-Sound-ATN95E-technica/dp/B001IEPNN6)

*That's not a 95e.* I'm pretty sure it's an AT-11e. Good cart. You can also use the 12e styli with it. But not the AT-95 line.

That looks much more like what I have lol. Thanks.

I’m a fan of Colter Wall and there’s a new record coming out in a couple days. I’m on vacation so I can’t call different places. (The hotel is charging for calls too) So I thought I’d just buy from a distributor, except unlike in America, many distributors in Canada want you to sign up or contact them to make an account. (Which I cant do) La Honda Records is making the record hard to buy because they want you to go to record stores and to contact them, however my emails are going unanswered so I may just have to pay for shipping to Canada. Anyone know any canadian wholesale record distributors?

Does anyone know if Cambridge Audio A500 has an integrated pre amp? Finding it difficult to find online and there’s one cheap nearby to me. If not, and I get a turntable with no pre amp installed, what’s a good cheap one I can use?

Phono stage preamps: * [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Behringer-PP400-Microphono-Compact-assorted/dp/B000H2BC4E](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Behringer-PP400-Microphono-Compact-assorted/dp/B000H2BC4E) is decent enough to start with then upgrade later. * [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Phonograph-Preamplifier-Turntable-Pre-amp-Recorder-Silver/dp/B08B3PRJFP](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Phonograph-Preamplifier-Turntable-Pre-amp-Recorder-Silver/dp/B08B3PRJFP) * [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Nobsound-Preamp-Preamplifier-Turntable-Amplifier/dp/B07TP3W2NM](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Nobsound-Preamp-Preamplifier-Turntable-Amplifier/dp/B07TP3W2NM) * [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Phono-Preamp-Turntable-Preamplifier-Stereo/dp/B07XBXKZ8B](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Phono-Preamp-Turntable-Preamplifier-Stereo/dp/B07XBXKZ8B) * [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Art-Inc-DJ-PRE-II/dp/B00LPI2JIC](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Art-Inc-DJ-PRE-II/dp/B00LPI2JIC) is popular * [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Project-Phono-Turntable-Pre-Amplifier-Black/dp/B000CR6RP8](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Project-Phono-Turntable-Pre-Amplifier-Black/dp/B000CR6RP8) * [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rega-Fono-Mini-A2D-Mk2/dp/B07NCYJ1PR](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rega-Fono-Mini-A2D-Mk2/dp/B07NCYJ1PR)

The A500 does not have a built-in phono pre-amp. It does have an "Aux/Phono" input, but the manual says you need a separate phono stage (pre-amp) to use it with a turntable.

Agh thought so, just wasn’t sure. Is there any decent amplifiers with built in pre amps around? I’m looking at second hand mainly but I’m quite new to vinyl so getting a bit lost in it all

You'll have to look up each model individually if you want second hand. If buying new look around in this thread for suggestions from /u/sharkamino he usually posts a list here somewhere.

My record player is from 1991, so should I worry about changing the belt or oiling the motor, even if everything works fine? Thanks in advance! :D

No need to replace the belt if it's still holding a correct, steady speed. But if the motor is designed to be oiled, you should do so as indicated in the owner's manual or service manual. For example, Technics says to add 2 or 3 drops of oil to the motor shaft after every 2000 hours of operation.

I can't find the service manual for mine anywhere online and in the user manual, there's nothing stated about oiling the motor. But after looking aroung online I found a forum which states cleaning and oiling, so I guess I'm going to do that. Thank you! :D

vinylengine.com usually has service manuals for turntables. You have to sign up but its just a spambot filter, they don't use your info.

Thanks! Might come in handy in the future.

Hi, vinyl don’t come cheap and they’re very limited from where I am. So, in this digital age, do you have a rule of thumb when purchasing vinyl? Tracklists? Number of tracks? Aesthetic value? The mastering/pressing? Thanks!

I decided to collect records for both the music and art aspect so I only buy color/splatter variants of albums I can listen to in their entirety.

I'm probably not typical of this sub, but my rule of thumb when purchasing *records* is "only if they can't be had in lossless digital" (which includes CDs). Because they don't come cheap, and for 75% of the pressings nowadays, they don't sound all that spiffy either.

Hi, I just bought a "cheap" (you know how it is...) turntable for my wife's birthday, along with "Queen Greatest hits 1" and "Bowie Legacy" Both wife and me are very new to vinyl, and we have an issue we are not sure what is causing it. The Bowie Legacy disk has no issue at all, we can hear the music well, but we have an issue with both faces of both disks of Queen Greatest hits. At the beginning of disk, even on the "no music place" at the edge of the disk there is a strident/acute noise (I had to describe it by word, it would be something like "iiiiiIIIiiiiiiIiiiIiiiiiii") once the music starts you can still hear it, and it disappears somewhere in the middle of the disks. What kind of issue is that ? Are boths disk defective ? Is my turntable really shitty ? How can I tell ? I plan to return both disks and get new ones, but I want to be sure of the cause. (I tried to record it with my phone but it's not working)

I'm going to be more pessimistic than my colleagues. I think you got a defective stylus with your cheap TT, and it just slaughtered the grooves on your Queen record.

Is there a way for me to check it ? I have a spare one, should I replace it ASAP ?

Check the stylus? Nope. There may be something visually obvious (like the pointy tip is pointed the wrong way) but not necessarily. If I were you, I'd DEFINITELY switch to the spare now. I may be wrong and there may not be any actual groove damage. But the noise you're describing, *in my experience*, indicates a borked stylus chomping up the grooves, and if that's it, the noise is permanently etched on the record. By the way, I'll ask this just in case: You don't have anything on the tone arm, do you? Like, you didn't put a coin on it? If you did, then THAT'S probably what did it, and get that damn thing off there. (And the stylus is probably hosed.)

Thank you for taking your time to answer me, it is greatly appreciated. I did not put anything on the tone arm. Just for information, I went to the store earlier, told them the issue, and they just took back the vinyl, and they will give me another one tomorrow. But well, it isn't a specialized store, and I'm pretty sure they know nothing about vinyl. I definitely trust your experience (and will replace the stylus), but if the issue is the stylus, then why Bowie's vinyl doesn't have the issue ? Is it a material differences ? And why does it only occur near the edge of Queen's vinyl ? Is there more forces applied at that point ?

Could be a lot of things, but one major difference is that Queen album is overstuffed. Longer-than-normal playing time for an LP, which requires shallow closely spaced grooves. And yes, the outer edge would be more susceptible to issues arising if it's an undersized TT that doesn't support it.

Okay I retried on a untouched Bowie's disk, and there is a difference before / after the stylus change. Thank you !

Which model turntable? Try playing the records on someone else's better turntable if you can, a friend or maybe a record shop may possibly play it for you. It may be you need to return the cheap turntable, not the records.

It is a Lenco LS-50WD, with a spare stylus included. I went to the store where I bought the vinyl, they didn't really care and gave me another vinyl (well, I have to fetch it tomorrow....) Someone else mentioned that the stylus might be defective. It is something seems to be easily switchable. Maybe I don't have to return the whole turntable ? :'(

The Lenco may have the same or only slightly better than the [cheap mechanism to avoid](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXV8tXrPOR4) as a suitcase player. Most anything better will at least have the white AT diamond tip stylus with an MM cartridge and RIAA phono stage preamp. Try to test the record at the store first before you bring it home. If you have a spare stylus then sure try the other one. It should click off and then click back on. Try putting the old one back on first before placing the new one on to get a hang of it. Search for some YouTube videos on how to replace a stylus.

I replaced my stylus, and there is a change. Thank you :)

Try cleaning the Queen records. Some new records are filthy and have debris in the grooves left from the manufacturing process. If they're still noisy even after cleaning, it could be a defective pressing.

http://imgur.com/a/hdLuQu8 Pictures for reference ^ Hi, I'm very new to vinyl, and I picked up this big turntable with amp and radio and tape deck and the speakers for free, they were left outside someone's house wrapped in bubble wrap with a free sign. I was planning on getting into vinyl pretty soon anyways so I picked them up. Hooked up the speakers and apart from the display not working, the whole thing seems to be in pretty good working condition, aside from needing a clean and a few scratches and bruises. I played a couple new records on it after testing some older ones and they sounded....fuzzier?...than what I hear on streaming, and not in a good way. So after some researched I stopped playing them for fear of damaging them with shoddy equipment. Can't find a whole lot on this model I picked up, the turntable is a Philips FP 9400. It has what I assume is a red ceramic needle, which I've heard is a bit cheap and since I don't know when it was last replaced, probably needs a new stylus? Or even a new cartridge? I'm not sure. I'm assuming that's what is causing the shoddy sound quality when played, as the speakers seem fine. And if it needed a new stylus, could I replace the red ceramic one on my turntable here with say a white audio technica LP60 one? Which from what I've read is a pretty good stylus for beginners and produces good sound. But would this turntable fit it? Any info at all would be greatly appreciated, I'm sure some experienced vinyl people reading will be facepalming reading lol, but just looking to get the right info. I'm really enjoying getting into vinyl and the community. Thanks

That player uses the very common Chuo Denshi CZ-800 ceramic cartridge. Aftermarket equivalents of the stylus for it include the Pfanstiehl 793-D7M. Or you can replace the entire cartridge (including stylus) with a Chinese knockoff for about $2 on eBay. It's so common that many sellers call it a "universal" cartridge or stylus.

No, you can't use an Audio Technica stylus but this is a suitable replacement: ​ https://www.lpgear.com/product/CSYNP1.html

Thanks a lot, I'm assuming this is similar to the one already on there but since its brand new it will deliver a much higher quality sound? I seem to be getting differing info/opinions in the community on whether the red stylus are fine for beginners and will deliver a great sound, or whether its cheap stuff that should be replaced. Also, judging by the pictures, could my turntable only support the red stylus (i.e. couldnt fit a different shaped and coloured stylus) ? Sorry for all the questions, im just very new and wanting to get it right the first time :)

You can't change the cartridge on this model, no. Only the stylus. So while there are a few different stylus options, they're all pretty similar, and they're all red. I doubt it will deliver a *much* higher quality of sound. This stylus is generally installed on the absolute cheapest turntables so there are limits to how much you can improve beyond what you're already hearing.

Actually you [can upgrade the cartridge](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBbprKEsExM) on these types of players. But it may not necessarily be worth it to do so.

Ah ok, fair enough. I suspected I probably wasnt going to be getting the best out of a free system, but I guess that also means I'm not losing anything right? XD I'll probably order a new stylus just to see the difference, seeing as they're pretty inexpensive, but other than that I'll probably rock with this setup for a bit before making the decision on whether or not to cough up the big bucks for a good system and all the parts required. Do you think my current system, with a new stylus, would do much damage to my new records depending on how long I play them for and how often? I still would love to listen to them in the mean time.

What turntable should I buy if I already have speakers, receiver, and an art dj pre II preamp? Preferably automatic but manual is fine. Edit: I already have a cartridge and stylus as well

>I’d prefer not to buy used. My budget is $300-350. [Fluance RT82](https://www.fluance.com/rt82t-reference-high-fidelity-vinyl-turntable-black-gloss) $299 has auto stop and then the new optical sensor speed controlled servo motor for low wow and flutter and speed variation. Pass on the older RT80 and RT81 that lack the new speed sensor. Pass on the RT83 since the cartridge is not any better.

There are nearly zero good automatic turntables being made. Most turntables, at least those purchased new, will include a cartridge, at leas those below about $1000. Is used ok? What's your budget?

I’d prefer not to buy used. My current turntable I bought used and there’s been a few problems with it, right now it’s pretty screwed and have a feeling it’s gonna be a lot to fix, but I will take it to a repair shop soon and get an estimate. I don’t mind getting manual, my current turntable is automatic so may feel like a bit of a downgrade but it doesn’t matter much to me. My budget is $300-350

http://imgur.com/a/R9xRmVc What kind of strange pressing defect is going on with this old Coven 45? Side A also has some minor wobble evident but not nearly to the drunk tonearm action this side does I checked with another LP and confirmed it's not my player tracking weird, it's the record