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In this article, we’ll be exploring turntables. We’ll cover how they work, how to maintain your system, and how to decide which one to purchase.
The history of sound reproduction goes back to the 1850s, with the phonautograph invented by Édouard-Léon Scott de Martinville. However, this device was only intended for recording audio visually, meaning there was no way to play back the recordings. The phonograph was later invented by Thomas Edison in 1877, which was the first device capable of both recording and playing back audio. Emile Berliner patented the gramophone in 1887, which closely resembles the modern turntable and was the first to use vinyl discs.
With the introduction of the cassette tape and Compact Disc formats in the 1970s and 1980s respectively, turntables and vinyl declined in popularity towards the end of the 20th century.
As you’ll be aware, vinyl has made an impressive comeback in recent years. 2022 marked the first time in 35 years where vinyl outsold CDs in the UK by revenue, and by units sold in the US.
Turntables work by moving a stylus over the grooves of a vinyl record, creating vibrations. These vibrations are picked up by the cartridge, and converts them into electrical signals. An amplifier will pick up these signals, and converts them into sound which can be played through headphones or speakers.
Whilst often used interchangeably, there is a distinction between a turntable and a record player. Generally speaking, a ‘turntable’ is simply a device which holds and spins your record whilst it is played, and requires separate amplifiers and speakers. On the other hand, a ‘record player’ normally also includes built-in speakers and amplification, meaning no additional electronics are required.
Keeping your turntable and vinyl clean is one of the most important ways to maintain them and prevent damage.
Turntables usually come with a lid to prevent dust accumulation when not in use. External surfaces of your turntable should be cleaned at least a couple of times per month with a microfibre cloth to remove any dirt. The stylus should be cleaned after every few uses. As the stylus touches the record, it is important to carefully clean it in order to avoid damage to your records.
Records can be maintained with a microfibre cloth or dedicated record cleaner. It is important to regularly clean your records, as dust and dirt can result in your records being worn quicker/damaged.
Turntable parts can become worn over time, and will need to be replaced. Both turntables and records can be damaged if worn components are repeatedly used.
If your turntable has a drive belt, this should be replaced every few years. The lifespan of a stylus is up to around 1,000 hours, with more durable styli lasting up to around 2,000 hours if properly maintained. You should check your stylus for wear after every few hundred hours of use. The stylus on a moving magnet cartridge can be replaced easily. However, the stylus on a moving coil cartridge should be replaced by a professional; otherwise you can replace the cartridge entirely if this is more convenient.
When you’re replacing components of your turntable, it is important to purchase parts that are compatible with your system. Often, you’ll be able to purchase official parts direct from the manufacturer or authorised retailers.
A record player is typically the more convenient, compact, and typically more cost-effective option.
Whilst record players can sound great, most audiophiles prefer a separate turntable, amp, and speaker set-up. This allows for greater flexibility, customisation, and future upgrade opportunities.
Price is an important consideration for many consumers. As with any other hi-fi purchase, there is no ‘right’ amount to spend on a turntable/record player. It largely depends on your requirements.
If you’re looking for a more affordable set-up, an all-in-one record player system is your best option. However, you should be careful with cheap record players, as these tend to use cheaper parts and have a reputation of wearing records quicker.
You should also consider product lifespan. A high-end turntable will cost more initially, but will be cheaper long-term if it’s more durable. A properly-maintained luxury turntable is also less likely to cause damage/heavier wear to your records.
As mentioned, the features should be an important consideration in your turntable purchase.
One of the first considerations is the record speeds. Almost all releases from the 1960s onwards are designed to be played at either 33 1/3 rpm or 45 rpm (repetitions per minute); these speeds should be found on most turntables. 78rpm records stopped being produced in the late 1950s, though some new turntables continue to offer this speed. If you’ve inherited old records or are planning to collect older releases, you may want to consider this.
As record players are also portable, and offer wireless Bluetooth connection to modern speakers. Whilst this gives you the opportunity to move your set-up easily or even play it outside, these products are often cheaper and carry a poor reputation as described above.
If you’re going for a separate turntable, amp(s), and speakers set-up, you’ll also want to consider the items you’ll pair with it. Streaming amplifiers for example are versatile and also offer wireless digital music streaming from your mobile devices. If you want to learn more about amplifiers, read our guide here.
If you’re based in the UK and are interested in a turntable set-up, now’s the perfect time to take advantage of Roksan’s current Xerxes 20 Plus promotion. The legendary turntable, with almost 40 years of heritage is now on promotion. Until 31st January 2024, you can save a massive £3,000 off the award-winning audiophile masterpiece.
Alternatively, Roksan and sister brand Monitor Audio have teamed up to offer two trade-in promotions. Also running in the UK until 31st January 2024, you can trade-in any old electronics or speakers with our authorised retailers and save a massive 20%! The highly-rated Monitor Audio Silver 100 7Gs can be paired with the multi-award-winning Roksan Streaming Amplifier, or with the Attessa Integrated Amplifier and CD Transport.
