Experienced Audio Advice - Since 1981
Turntables
Whether you're spinning your first record or upgrading a lifelong collection, the right turntable, cartridge and phono stage bring your vinyl to life. Shop turntables, phono preamps, cartridges, record care and setup accessories, all hand-picked by the hi-fi specialists at Audio Advisor.
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Not Sure Where to Start?
Start with where you are with vinyl today.
"I'm just getting started."
Look for a turntable with a cartridge already mounted. One with a built-in phono preamp can plug straight into powered speakers or any open amp input.
"My amp has no phono input."
Add a phono preamplifier between your turntable and amp. It's also a popular upgrade over a built-in phono stage.
"I want better sound from my deck."
Upgrade the cartridge, or add a better phono preamp. Tell us your turntable and we'll suggest a good match.
"My records sound noisy."
Start with record cleaning and stylus cleaning. If the noise stays, your stylus may be worn and due for a replacement.
Vinyl Playback, Explained
What's a phono stage?
Records are cut with the bass turned down and the treble turned up. A phono stage reverses that (the RIAA curve) and boosts the very small signal from the cartridge.
Moving magnet vs. moving coil
Moving magnet (MM) cartridges are common and usually have a replaceable stylus. Moving coil (MC) cartridges have lower output, so check that your phono stage supports MC before you buy one.
Belt drive vs. direct drive
Belt-drive turntables use a belt to keep motor noise away from the platter. Direct-drive turntables spin the platter with the motor itself, for quick start-up and steady speed.
Tracking force and alignment
The stylus needs the right downward pressure and angle in the groove. A stylus force gauge and alignment tool help you set both to your cartridge maker's spec.
33, 45 and 78 RPM
Most LPs play at 33⅓ RPM and most singles at 45. If you collect 78s, you'll need a turntable that supports that speed and a stylus made for 78s.
When to replace a stylus
Styli wear over time. Follow your cartridge maker's guidance on stylus life, and replace it sooner if you hear distortion or the tip looks worn.
Turntable FAQs
Do I need a phono preamp?
Do I need a phono preamp?
Not if your amplifier or receiver has a phono input, or your turntable has a phono preamp built in. Otherwise, yes. Each product page lists whether a phono stage is included.
Can I connect a turntable to powered speakers?
Can I connect a turntable to powered speakers?
Yes, if the turntable has a built-in phono preamp or you add a separate one. Some powered speakers also include their own phono input.
How should I care for my records?
How should I care for my records?
Brush off surface dust before each play, keep your stylus clean, and give records a deeper clean when they look dirty or sound noisy. Browse our record brushes and cleaning solutions.
What cables will I need?
What cables will I need?
Most turntables connect with RCA cables plus a ground wire, which helps prevent hum. See our turntable cables and grounding cables.