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10 Best Audio Technica Turntables
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Buying Guide for the Best Audio Technica Turntables
Choosing a turntable is an exciting step whether you're new to vinyl or a seasoned collector. The right turntable for you will provide the best listening experience based on your needs, preferences, and setup. Before making a purchase, think about how and where you'll use your turntable. Will you be listening at home, DJing, or digitizing records? Each usage has its own ideal features. Also, consider whether you want to plug it into an existing sound system, use Bluetooth, or bring your music to different rooms. Understanding the key specifications of a turntable helps you find the best match for your lifestyle and music habits.Drive TypeThe drive type refers to how the platter (where the record sits) is powered. There are belt-drive and direct-drive turntables. Belt-drive turntables use an elastic belt to spin the platter, which can help reduce vibrations and provide smooth playback, making them popular for home listening. Direct-drive turntables have the platter powered directly by the motor, offering more torque and quick start/stop times, which are favored by DJs. If you're mostly listening to records at home, a belt-drive is often ideal. If you plan to DJ or need fast cueing, consider a direct-drive.
Built-in PreampA preamp amplifies the signal from your turntable to the level needed by speakers or receivers. Some turntables have a built-in preamp, allowing you to connect directly to most audio systems or powered speakers. This adds lots of flexibility, especially if your current gear doesn’t have a dedicated 'phono' input. If your system already has a preamp, or you want to use a more advanced external one, a turntable without a built-in preamp might be preferable. Think about your setup and whether you value easy plug-and-play or prefer expanding your sound system later.
Manual vs. Automatic OperationTurntables come in manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic versions. In a manual turntable, you move the tonearm onto the record and back when finished. Semi-automatic arms return to their rest when the record ends, and fully automatic turntables take care of both starting and stopping. Manual systems give a traditional, hands-on feel, often appreciated by enthusiasts, while automatic models offer convenience and help prevent accidental damage to records. If you want ease and safety, look for automatic; if you enjoy being hands-on and precise, a manual option may be best for you.
Speed SettingsMost records play at either 33 1/3 or 45 RPM, but some old ones require 78 RPM. A turntable may support two or all three speeds. If you plan to play only standard albums or singles, two speeds will suffice. If you have or think you’ll want to play rare 78 RPM records, be sure to choose a turntable with all three speed options. Your past and future record collection should guide your choice here.
Cartridge TypeThe cartridge holds the stylus (needle) that reads your records. Turntables may come with a pre-installed cartridge or allow upgrades. Some feature easily replaceable cartridges, while others are fixed. Removable cartridges make it simpler to upgrade for better sound quality later, while fixed ones keep things simple for beginners. If you want to experiment and upgrade your sound, look for removable cartridges. If you prefer something set-and-forget, a fixed cartridge is sufficient.
USB ConnectivityUSB connectivity allows you to connect your turntable to a computer for digitizing your vinyl collection. It’s handy if you want to create digital backups or playlists from your physical records. If archiving and easy connection to digital devices are important to you, make sure your turntable offers USB output. Otherwise, this feature may not be necessary.
Build Quality and IsolationA well-built turntable will have a sturdy, solid feel and features to isolate it from vibrations. Good isolation minimizes unwanted noise and protects your records. Heavier plinths (the body of the turntable) and special feet help with this. If you expect to listen in rooms with lots of movement or vibration, prioritize turntables with strong build quality and good isolation features. If your setup is already stable, this can be less of a concern, but it still adds to the overall longevity and listening enjoyment.