Benefits of vinyl records and why someone would want to collect vinyl records.

Vinyl records, also known as phonograph records or simply records, are a type of analog sound storage medium consisting of a flat disc with an inscribed, modulated spiral groove. (Please don’t call them “vinyls”.)

Although they were once a popular format for music playback, they fell out of favor in the 1980s and 1990s with the advent of cassette tapes and CDs. (Both of which are also making a bit of a comeback.)

Read: What It Was Like To Collect Music In The 90s

However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in vinyl records as a medium for music playback, and many people have started collecting for various reasons.

One of the main benefits of vinyl records is their sound quality. Many audiophiles and music enthusiasts argue that the sound quality of vinyl records is superior to that of digital formats such as CDs and MP3s. This is because vinyl records capture the full frequency range of sound, including the subtle nuances and details that are lost in digital formats due to the process of digitization and compression. In addition, vinyl records have a warm, analog sound that is often described as more natural and organic than the colder, digital sound of CDs and MP3s.

Another benefit of vinyl records is their physicality. Unlike digital music, which is stored electronically and played back through a device, vinyl records are tangible objects that you can hold in your hands and interact with. They often come with artwork and liner notes that provide additional context and information about the music and the artists. Many people enjoy the tactile experience of selecting a record, placing it on the turntable, and carefully lowering the needle onto the spinning disc. There is a sense of ritual and ceremony associated with playing a vinyl record that is lacking in digital formats.

Vinyl records also have a certain nostalgia factor that appeals to many collectors. For those who grew up listening to records, owning and playing them can be a way to reconnect with their past and relive memories. In addition, vinyl records have a certain retro coolness that has been embraced by younger generations, who appreciate the vintage aesthetic and the sense of history and authenticity that comes with collecting and playing records.

Vinyl records can also be a more immersive listening experience than digital formats. Because they require more active engagement and attention from the listener, they can be more conducive to focused listening and deeper engagement with the music. This can be especially true when listening to longer works, such as concept albums, which can be more rewarding when heard in their entirety without the distractions of digital media.

In addition to their sound quality, physicality, nostalgia, and immersive listening experience, vinyl records can also be a more collectible and potentially valuable format than other types of music media. Many records are pressed in limited quantities and can become rare and sought after by collectors, leading to higher prices on the resale market. Some records, especially those by popular or influential artists, can even become valuable investments. Collecting vinyl records can therefore be a hobby that combines an appreciation for music with the potential for financial gain. (You shouldn’t get into records thinking it’s an “investment”. This takes an extensive knowledge of music, the vinyl record market, and some luck. You’re better off investing in a more traditional way.)

Note: Artists sometimes only release certain songs on a vinyl record, or a CD, or a cassette. If you’re a fan of that artist or song and want to own a copy of it, sometimes buying that particular release is your only choice. Read the previous linked article on collecting music in the 90s for more info on this.

There are, of course, some drawbacks to collecting vinyl records. They can be more fragile and prone to damage than other types of music media, and they require more maintenance and upkeep, such as cleaning and handling with care to prevent scratches and wear. (Read more on this below) In addition, they can be more expensive to purchase than CDs or digital downloads, and the cost of equipment such as turntables and speakers can also be a consideration. However, for many collectors, the benefits of vinyl records outweigh these drawbacks, and the joy and fulfillment they get from collecting and listening to records makes it worth the extra effort and cost.

In conclusion, vinyl records offer a number of benefits that make them an attractive format for music collectors. Their sound quality, physicality, nostalgia, immersive listening experience, and potential collectability all contribute to their appeal. In addition, many people enjoy the ritual and ceremony of playing a record, and the sense of connection with the music and the artists that comes with it. While there are certainly some drawbacks to collecting vinyl records, such as the potential for damage and the higher cost compared to other formats, for many collectors, the benefits far outweigh these challenges. Whether it’s for the superior sound quality, the tactile experience, the nostalgia, or the potential for financial gain, there are many good reasons to collect vinyl records and enjoy them as a medium for music playback. So, vinyl records can be a great addition to any music lover’s collection.

What to look for in a good quality turntable

A turntable, also known as a record player, is a device that plays vinyl records. It consists of a platter that rotates the record, a tonearm that holds the phono cartridge and needle, and a phono cartridge that converts the mechanical vibrations of the needle in the record grooves into an electrical signal.

Read: Recommended Beginner Turntables

When shopping for a turntable, there are several factors to consider in order to ensure that you get a good quality one.

1. Drive system: There are three main types of drive systems for turntables – belt drive, direct drive, and idler drive.

Belt drive turntables use a belt to connect the motor to the platter, which helps to isolate the motor from the platter and reduce vibrations. This results in a more stable and smoother rotation of the platter, which can result in better sound quality. However, belt drive turntables are more prone to wear and tear and may require more maintenance.

Direct drive turntables have the motor directly connected to the platter, which allows for faster start-up and braking times. They are also more durable and require less maintenance. However, the direct connection between the motor and platter can result in more vibrations, which can affect the sound quality.

Idler drive turntables are similar to direct drive turntables, but they use a rubber wheel to transfer the motor’s torque to the platter. They offer a combination of the benefits of both belt drive and direct drive turntables, but they can be more expensive and harder to find. Idler drive turntables were largely displaced by belt drive turntables.

For a beginner turntable, you don’t need to worry that much about this. Most tables you’ll be interested in will be belt drive tables which are perfectly adequate.

2. Speed: Turntables typically have three speed settings – 33 ^1/3 rpm, 45 rpm, and 78 rpm. It’s important to check if a turntable can play the speeds of the records you own or plan to buy. (Nearly all modern/contemporary records are 33 ^1/3 or 45) Some turntables also offer variable speed control, which allows you to fine-tune the speed for better accuracy and sound quality.
3. Platter and bearing: The platter is the flat surface on which the record is placed. It should be made of a heavy, non-resonant material, such as metal or acrylic, to ensure a stable and consistent rotation. The bearing, which is the mechanism that supports the platter, should be smooth and precise to minimize vibrations and noise.
4. Tonearm and cartridge: The tonearm is the long, thin arm that holds the phono cartridge and needle, and it plays a crucial role in the sound quality of a turntable. It should be well-balanced and have low friction to allow the cartridge to trace the record grooves accurately.

The phono cartridge is the device that converts the mechanical vibrations of the needle in the record grooves into an electrical signal. It should be of good quality and properly aligned with the tonearm and the record grooves to ensure accurate and detailed sound reproduction. Some turntables come with a built-in cartridge, while others allow you to install a separate cartridge of your choice.

5. Suspension: A turntable’s suspension system helps to isolate it from external vibrations, such as footsteps or loud music, which can affect the sound quality. A good suspension system should effectively absorb and dampen vibrations without affecting the tonearm’s movement.
6. Build quality: A turntable should be well-built and sturdy, with tight tolerances and precise adjustments. It should also have a good fit and finish, with no visible gaps or seams.
7. Features: Some turntables come with additional features, such as a built-in phono preamp, digital outputs, USB connectivity, and Bluetooth connectivity. A built-in phono preamp allows you to connect the turntable directly to an amplifier or receiver that doesn’t have a phono input. (Read: Recommended Preamps) Digital outputs, such as coaxial or optical, allow you to connect the turntable to a digital device, such as a computer or a digital-to-analog converter, to digitize your records. USB connectivity allows you to connect the turntable to a computer to record and edit your vinyl tracks. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to wirelessly stream your vinyl records to a Bluetooth-enabled speaker or headphones. (Bluetooth is generally viewed as a modern convenience but is frowned upon by many vinyl enthusiasts.)
8. Price: Turntables range in price from under $100 (usually only recommended for children) up to several thousand dollars. In general, you get what you pay for when it comes to turntables. Cheap turntables may have lower quality components and may not offer the same level of sound quality and durability as more expensive models. However, there are also some good quality turntables available at more affordable price points. It’s important to set a budget and consider the features and performance that are most important to you.

In conclusion, a good quality turntable should offer a stable and consistent rotation of the platter, accurate and detailed sound reproduction, effective isolation from external vibrations, and a well-built and sturdy design. It should also have the features and performance that meet your needs and fit your budget.

How to clean and care for vinyl records

Cleaning and caring for vinyl records is an important task for any music enthusiast or collector. Not only do dirty and poorly cared for records sound worse, but they can also become damaged over time.

New records can come with a bit of debris, such as little paper bits or dust, and used records, depending on where you find or buy them, can be especially dirty.

We will go over the steps you can take to properly clean and care for your vinyl records to ensure that they last for years to come and continue to sound great.

Step 1: Dust and Debris

The first step in cleaning and caring for your vinyl records is to remove any dust and debris that may have accumulated on the surface of the record. A soft, lint-free cloth is the best tool for this task. Gently wipe the surface of the record in a circular motion, starting from the center and working your way outwards. Be sure to get the edges of the record as well. You don’t need to press hard, and be conscious of your finger nails. Once a record is scratched, you can’t unscratch it.

Step 2: Deep Cleaning

If your record is particularly dirty or has visible scratches, you may need to do a deeper cleaning. There are a few different methods you can use to deep clean your records.

One option is to use a commercial record cleaning solution and a record cleaning device, like a Spin Clean. These use a combination of a cleaning solution and a brush to gently remove dirt and grime from the surface of the record. You can also use a cleaning solution and a soft, lint-free cloth to manually clean the record. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the cleaning solution and use it sparingly to avoid damaging the record.

You can also use a device that uses vacuum to suck up the cleaning solution and dirt. These work very well and are relatively affordable. Especially if you already have a small shop vacuum. There are a number of options but we’re fond of this 3d printed device called Squeaky Clean. You just attach a small shop vac to it. It works better than a Spin Clean but it more expensive.

A more advanced option is to use an ultrasonic cleaner. There are many options here as well and some new ones have come out that are reasonably priced. A newer addition is the HumminGuru, pictured left. There are also some more generic ultrasonic cleaners available.

These have their pros and cons as well.

A cheap, popular method is to use a carbon fiber brush to gently remove dust and debris from the grooves of the record. You can also use a velvet brush with a record cleaning liquid. For an older record or particular dirty record, you’ll need to use one of the other options though.

Step 3: Handling and Storage

Proper handling and storage of your vinyl records is crucial to their long-term care. Here are a few tips to follow:

• Always handle your records by the edges or the label, and avoid touching the grooves of the record. The oils from your skin can easily transfer to the record, leading to build-up and potentially causing damage.
• Store your records vertically in a sturdy, protective sleeves. This will help prevent them from getting scratched or damaged. You can also use a protective outer sleeve for added protection.
  
  This is our recommended practice. Just store the record in a protective rice-paper sleeve outside of the cover, and put both in a protective plastic outer sleeve. (They are available in combo packs with both.) Keep the inner sleeve that the record comes with inside of the cover. This way you don’t have to mess with taking the record out of the cover every time you want to play it.

• Keep your records away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as extreme temperatures can cause warping.
• Avoid stacking your records on top of each other, as the weight can cause them to become damaged.
• Don’t store them compacted too tightly. You should be able to easily slide them in and out of the shelf.

Step 4: Stylus and Turntable Maintenance

In addition to cleaning and caring for your records, it is also important to regularly maintain your turntable and stylus. A dirty or worn stylus can cause damage to your records and result in poor sound quality. Here are a few tips for maintaining your stylus and turntable:

• Regularly clean the stylus with a stylus brush or a special stylus cleaning solution. This will remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on the stylus, and help extend its life.
• Check the alignment of your stylus to ensure that it is tracking properly. An improperly aligned stylus can cause wear and damage to your records.
• Clean the turntable regularly to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated. This will help ensure that the turntable is functioning properly and that your records are spinning smoothly.
• If you notice any issues with your turntable or stylus, it is a good idea to have them professionally serviced. This will help ensure that they to function properly and that your records are being played back correctly.

In conclusion, cleaning and caring for your vinyl records is an important task that requires time and attention. This all may be overwhelming to someone looking to get started but it’s all much easier than it seems.

By following the steps outlined above, you can help ensure that your records stay in good condition and continue to sound great for years to come. Regular dusting and cleaning, proper handling and storage, and maintaining your turntable and stylus are all key to keeping your vinyl collection in top shape. With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy your vinyl records for many years to come.

Start Off On The Right Foot With These 10 Entry-Level Turntables

Mid-Century Styled Vintage Turntables For The Design Minded Music Fan

A turntable preamp, also known as a phono preamp or phono stage, is a device that amplifies the inherently weak electrical signal produced by a turntable’s cartridge to a level that is compatible with a standard audio amplifier or receiver. Turntables produce a very low-level signal, known as a phono signal, which is not strong enough to be directly amplified by most audio amplifiers.

For example, if you plugged a turntable, without a built-in pre-amp, into a receiver’s CD input, it would be too quiet. You could turn the volume way up but it’s still going to be too quiet and you’d lose much of the detail of the signal.

There are several reasons why someone might use a turntable preamp. First and foremost, many newer receivers do not have a built-in phono stage, so a turntable preamp is necessary to amplify the phono signal produced by the turntable. Additionally, the phono stage of a turntable preamp can help to correct for any imbalances in the turntable’s cartridge, resulting in a more balanced and accurate sound.

There are many turntable preamps available on the market at different price points. The main differences are generally related to their build quality, performance, and features.

Entry-level preamps tend to be more basic and won’t offer as much flexibility or sound quality as higher-end models. Mid-range and high-end preamps, on the other hand, tend to offer more features and higher performance, but also obviously come with a higher price tag.

Entry-Level Recommendations

Pro-Ject Phono Box E

Pro-Ject Phono Box E Phono Preamp: This compact and affordable preamp is a great choice for those on a budget. It offers good performance for the price and is easy to set up and use.

• Amplification and RIAA equalisation for MM cartridges 
• SMD circuitry 
• Special low noise components 
• Internal metal shielding 
• Gold plated RCA connection sockets

→­ link

Schilt Mani

This budget-friendly preamp offers excellent sound quality and a range of features, including adjustable loading for both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges. It also has a built-in headphone amplifier, making it a great choice for those who like to listen to vinyl through headphones.

• Super low noise and high RIAA accuracy. 
• Gain: Choose 35, 45, 50, or 60dB of gain, for virtually any cartridge from Decca to low-output MC and MI models. 
• Loading: Choose 47KΩ, 200Ω, 47Ω, or 38Ω, and 47pF, 100pF, 150pF, or 200pF for virtually any MM, MC, or MI cartridge. 
• Filter: Choose 6dB/octave or 12dB/octave of purely passive low-frequency filtering (at 15 Hz), to help with warped records or other subsonic problems.

→­ link

Mid-Range Recommendations

Cambridge Audio Alva Duo

This mid-range preamp offers excellent sound quality and a range of features, including a built-in moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) phono stage.

• The switch mode power supply and surface mount technology delivers short signal paths and a faster response with precision and lower background noise.
• Subsonic filter and balance control
• Headphone jack

→­ link

Music Hall Mini

Compact and affordable. Offers good performance and a range of features, including adjustable loading for MM and MC cartridges. It also has a built-in headphone amplifier and a variety of connectivity options, including both RCA and XLR outputs.

• Cartridge Load Capacitance – Fine-tune the pre-amp to match the characteristics of your chosen MM or MC cartridge. 
• Rumble Filter – Filters out disrupting frequencies that degrade the overall sound quality.
• Trim-Gain Control – Match the output with your stereo system.

→­ link

Rega Fono Mini A2D

This mid-range preamp offers excellent sound quality and a range of features, including a built-in analog-to-digital converter for easy digital recording. It also has a variety of connectivity options, including both RCA and XLR outputs.

• MM Phono Preamp with a USB output, connects directly to your computer 
• Converts analog signals to USB 
• Convert your records into high-resolution digital audio 
• User-friendly front and back panels 
• Compact size

→­ link

High End Recommendations

Rega Fono MM MK III

The new Fono MM phono stage has been designed to be effective, easy to use, and above all, to reproduce music.

• Fully discrete, cascaded, complementary amplifier input stage
• Detailed, spacious performance in a small package
• Fine handling of dynamics and timing

→­ link

Music Hall PA2.2

Phono preamplifier for moving magnet and moving coil cartridges, with USB output and headphone amp

• compatible with moving magnet and moving coil phono cartridges
• high performance 24-bit/96kHz Wolfson WM 8786 analog-to-digital converter
• quiet, energy-efficient external power supply

→­ link

Rega Brio

Great rhythm, dynamics, and agile.

• Redesigned circuit
• Integrated phono stage
• Headphone socket
• Mini remote control
• Custom designed case

→­ link

There are certainly many options in all price points, and you can spend as much as a car on a preamp, but we feel that these are respected and reputable offerings that are attainable to most people. Because prices are always changing, we’ve left prices off.

In summary, a turntable preamp is a necessary component for anyone looking to play vinyl records through a modern audio system. It amplifies the weak phono signal produced by the turntable’s cartridge to a level that can be directly amplified by an audio amplifier or receiver. There are many options available on the market at different price points, and the best choice will depend on the individual’s budget and audio needs.

Are you ready to join the vinyl revolution? Or at least pretend like you are for Instagram?

Are you tired of listening to your vinyl collection on a cheap, subpar turntable that skips and sounds like it’s coming through a tin can? Are you ready to upgrade to something a little more high-quality, but don’t want to break the bank?

Look no further, because we’ve compiled a list 10 entry-level turntables.

Pro-Ject Debut Carbon: This sleek, stylish turntable offers high-quality sound at an affordable price. It features a carbon fiber tonearm for improved tracking and an Ortofon 2M Red cartridge for crystal clear audio. It has a similar visual design to many other modern turntables but comes in a variety of color options. (link)

Rega Planar 1: This British-made turntable is a favorite among audiophiles for its smooth, warm sound and reliable performance. It comes with a factory-fitted Rega Carbon cartridge and a high-quality belt drive system. Rega is also known for its high quality tone arm. (link)

Music Hall MMF-1.5: This turntable is a classic choice for those looking for a simple, no-frills option. It features a built-in phono preamp and a removable headshell, making it easy to swap out cartridges. (link)

Fluance RT81: This Canadian-made turntable has a beautiful, retro design and a high-quality audio system, including an elliptical diamond stylus and an S-shaped tonearm. (Comes in walnut, black, or white) The Fluance RT80 is a fine entry-level table that’s more affordable that the RT81, and it comes with an adjustable counterweight, anti-skate, and built-in preamp, as do all the turntables in the RT line. Another plus is that they are all upgradable! Visit the Fluance store.

U-Turn Orbit Plus: This turntable is made in the USA and offers a wide range of customization options, including a choice of cartridges and colors. It also features an acrylic platter for improved sound quality. (link)

Sony PS-LX310BT: This Japanese-made turntable has a sleek, modern design and a high-quality audio system, including Bluetooth connectivity and a built-in phono stage. (link)

Audio Technica AT-LP120XUSB: A fully manual, direct-drive turntable with a design that looks like it’s out of the 80s. Comes with a USB connection for easily converting your records to digital. Comes with anti-skate and an adjustable counterweight. (link) The AT-LP120XBT-USB is same turntable but comes with bluetooth.

Audio-Technica AT-LP60: This turntable may not have all the bells and whistles, but it gets the job done. And it won’t break the bank, either. It’s an adequate ‘no frills’ table that’s easy to set up too. Plus, with its sleek design and convenient built-in phono preamp, it’ll look great on your shelf (or under your bed, whichever works). For an extra $50 or so though you can upgrade to the previously mentioned Fluance RT80.
(link)

Denon DP-200USB: This turntable may not be the most attractive on the market, but it more than makes up for it with its versatility. It can play both 33 ^1/3 and 45 RPM records, and it even has a USB port for easy digitization of your vinyl collection. Just don’t tell your hipster friends you’re “ruining the authenticity” by converting your records to MP3s. It’s fully automatic but is at the low end of features for what more vinyl enthusiast look for in a quality mid-level turntable. (link)

Denon DP-300F: This turntable may not have the coolest design, but it more than makes up for it with its high-quality sound. Plus, its fully automatic operation makes it super easy to use, even for the most technologically challenged. Just don’t try to use it to play your old cassette tapes. It has features, like a counterweight, that the Denon DP-200USB doesn’t have. (link)

So there you have it – 10 entry-level turntables. With any of these options, you can upgrade your vinyl listening experience without breaking the bank. Happy listening!

Here are 10 vintage turntables that may be of interest to the music lover who likes Mid-Century design.

Thorens TD-124: This turntable, released in the 1950s, is known for its high-quality sound and reliable performance. It features a suspended chassis and a belt-driven motor, which helps to reduce vibrations and improve sound quality. If you want a new, updated version of this turntable then you can get one here.

Lenco L-75: This turntable, released in the 1970s, is known for its simplicity and reliability. It features a belt-driven motor and a heavy, die-cast aluminum platter, which helps to reduce vibrations and improve sound quality.

Dual 1219: This turntable, released in the 1960s, is known for its versatility and high-quality sound. It features a belt-driven motor and a heavy, die-cast aluminum platter, which helps to reduce vibrations and improve sound quality.

Rega Planar 2: This turntable, released in the 1970s, is known for its high-quality sound and simple design. It features a belt-driven motor and a lightweight, acrylic platter, which helps to reduce vibrations and improve sound quality.

Pioneer PL-12D: This turntable, released in the 1970s, is known for its reliability and versatility. It features a belt-driven motor and a heavy, die-cast aluminum platter, which helps to reduce vibrations and improve sound quality.

Marantz Model 6300: Features classic styling elements typical of Marantz from this era, including the Marantz font, mixed wood and metal finishing. While it’s beautiful deck, you’re paying for the aesthetics more than for features. You can find better turntables for less in today’s market.

Denon DP-1300M: The Denon DP-1300M, released in Japan in 2003, is a high quality direct-drive turntable. Amongst Japan-savvy audiophiles. Denon’s long legacy of phenomenal turntables, this DP-1300M is a fantastic modern product. It features a quartz phase lock servo motor with rotation feedback control via an innovative optical system.

Linn LP-12: These are classically designed and can cost nearly as much as a car.

Thorens TD-125: A classic belt-drive turntable and was the successor of the TD-124. The TD-160 is a similar looking table.

Yamaha YP-511: A direct drive turntable by Yamaha that was released in the mid 70s. The YP-701 / YP-700 are options as well.

There are new turntables that have the wood styling. Check out these by Audio-Technica, Fluance, House of Marley, and Teac. (If you like the look of the Thorens above then Crutchfield has a Teac model that is relatively close looking.)