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How To Frame and Hang Your Vinyl Records on a Wall
Vinyl records are special to music lovers as they offer superior quality and experience of sound. For many, though, the artwork on the large sleeve covers is as valuable as the album it houses. Whether you want to preserve your records or transform a blank wall, there are many ways to display your favorite vinyl records on a wall.

Here are ways on how to hang vinyl records on a wall:
1. Use regular photo frames.
2. Get smart with play and display record frames.
3. Display artwork and vinyl together.
4. Use frames designed for vinyl records.
5. Install shelves on your wall to place framed records.
Vinyl records are wasted when shoved away in a box or closet. Display the records you spent years collecting and enjoy the memory with each whenever you lay eyes on them. To help you do this, here are some easy ways to frame and hang your records on the wall.

1. Use Regular Photo Frames

Using photo frames is the perfect way to frame and hang your records if you want a fun DIY project and use available materials. Regular photo frames, not specifically designed for vinyl records, are cheaper and usually come in packs of more than one.

A vinyl record can come in three standard sizes:
- 7 inch (17.78 cm)
- 10 inch (25.4 cm)
- 12 inch (30.48 cm)
You can use a regular frame for photos to display your records, but the size should be at least 12.5 inches by 12.5 inches (31.75 cm by 31.75 cm) for the most commonly available 12-inch (31.75 cm) vinyl records.

The accurate size is 12.375 inches (31.43 cm), so a 12.5-inch (31.75 cm) frame gives adequate breathing space. If using a larger frame, use a large board sheet to create a border to accentuate the record and cover the extra space in the recycled frame.

As a word of caution, do keep in mind that regular frames not specifically designed for vinyl records can cause damage and scratches to precious vinyl records and their album sleeves. A larger frame may not have the right clasps to secure the record in place, and regular frames do not have the special UV-protected glass that prevents sun rays from damaging records.

You can also buy photo frames designed for vinyl records that won’t break the bank.

Photo Frames To Display Vinyl Records

You can pick up a pack of plastic frames of the right size from the nearest hardware store or use the ones already available to you at home. Just replace the photo inside with your vinyl record album cover.

If you’re ordering online, it’s best to buy photo frames specially designed with vinyl records in mind. Check out these frames from Amazon.com:

Black Music Album Frame

These classic black-bordered frames come in packs of 2 and 4. It can house a 12-inch (30.48 qcm) vinyl LP album cover that can be easily hung on your wall with the attached hanging hardware on the frame. The pictures can be swapped easily by using the tabs on the back, and you can display your current favorites on the wall.

Black Format Front-Loading Frame for Vinyl Record

This multi-functional frame by MCS can display one record and album cover. Its polished front-loading glass protects the record from damage and scratches. It comes with a record spindle inside to keep the vinyl record in place and also has a keyhole to hand the frame easily on the wall with a screw or thumbtacks.

Golden State Art Aluminum Vinyl Record Album

If you’re looking for something in a different color than the usual black borders, this frame comes in gold and silver too. It has a protective film protecting the record on the front and back. The metallic look of the frame helps the colors in the album art stand out more, and the lightweight frame can be installed easily on any wall.

Use thumbtacks, double-sided wall tape, or screws to hang them on the wall like any photo frame. Make sure to map out the placement of frames on the wall with a pencil and a spirit-level ruler.

2. Get Smart With Play and Display Record Frames

If you want a fancy display with easy accessibility simultaneously, this is the way to go! Play and display or swing-open record frames need to be hung once on the wall, and without disassembly, records can be changed in the frames.

Best Frames To Play and Display

Whether you want to keep rotating your vinyl record display according to current favorites or to replace albums that you’re done listening to, play and display record frames intuitively offer a solution for both.

Here are two play and display vinyl record frames that we most recommend on Amazon.com:

KAIU Vinyl Record Frame

These are excellent examples of safe storage with a stylish display for vinyl records. The strong frame will keep your vinyl record safe, and the clear acrylic on the frame is shatterproof and UV resistant, too. Its magnetic hinges allow you to access the frame and easily put in or remove the record from the frame.

Show & Listen Album Cover Display Frame

This set of four frames has a unique quick-release mechanism that allows you to open the frames with ease. Without the need to disassemble the frame from your wall, you can replace or play the vinyl record inside the frame. It has the classic black frames look that goes well with any decor in your room.

FEMELI Vinyl Record Frame Acrylic

This frame has a strong magnetic frame that clicks into place and keeps your vinyl record safe. It offers a tight space that keeps the dust and sunlight away from the records. The classic black frame gives the record a modern look and complements any decor.

3. Display Artwork and Vinyl Together

You can find frames big enough to display the vinyl disc and its album cover together but to hold them securely in place, use frames designed specifically for this purpose. If using a regular frame, find a double photo mount to highlight the disc and artwork separately.

You can use jukebox frames, usually double matted, to accentuate the vinyl disc and its artwork separately. Or use unique props to display vinyl discs against their artwork on the wall. You can also find frames with a square frame for the album cover and a circular frame for the disc.

Jukebox Frames

These frames are a more permanent way of hanging records on walls and are the perfect fit for your autographed records or rare collections. They can be easily hung on the wall using the installed wall mounts in the frames.

Creative Picture Frames 16″ x 24″ Jukebox Record Frame

This frame is available in double white or black matting and allows the display of one 12 inches (30.48 cm) vinyl record and its album cover in a unique style. It can be hung vertically or horizontally on the wall. All you need is to hammer nails on your wall or use a thumbtack for the sawtooth hanger installed in the frame.

The same frame is available in 16-inch by 30-inch (40.64-cm by 76.2-cm) size, which adds significant space between the disc and artwork frames, highlighting each distinctively.

Frame My Collection Record Album Double Vinyl LP Frame

These custom-made frames are the perfect fit for records very special to you. The frame can be custom ordered for thicker album sleeves or if you want to hang it horizontally.

Its unique design gives the illusion of two vinyl records peeking out of the album sleeve. The frame also has real 45% UV glass to protect the vinyl record from damage and preserve it for a long time. You can increase the UV protection to 99% but with an additional cost.

Record Props

Record props are less traditional than the frame and display methods discussed. They allow you to display all parts of a record separately in an art-like manner.

Remember that since these are frameless, they can cause damage to your records from air and sunlight and get scratched from the frequent replacement of records on the prop.

Record Props – Vinyl Record Display

These double-purpose record props allow you to display vinyl records with their album sleeve on the wall or tabletops. It takes around ten minutes to assemble this product, but it is easy to follow the instructions available on their site.

The final display looks like the record — its artwork floats on the wall, which adds to the aesthetics of your wall decor.

4. Use Frames Designed for Vinyl Records

Buying a frame for vinyl records with the best reviews online is easy, but it may not be an ideal fit for your collection. Whether you want to display your favorite Beatles’ large album artwork or preserve rare vinyl records, you have many choices. You can find multiple frames online that make vinyl records or the artwork a major focal point in your room.

You can use Creative Picture Frames Double Vinyl LP Frame (available on Amazon.com) to display two vinyl records from your favorite artist or collection. The black matting adds a touch of class to your display and can blend in well with most decor.

Also, from Amazon.com, this Frame My Collection Album Frame for Gatefold Album is perfect for your favorite vinyl sleeve. There’s no need to fold the precious album cover and snug it away in storage. Display the large unfolded art cover in this UV-protected frame and let the thick black border accentuate the art cover on your wall.

Once you have your frames sorted, you can hang them directly on the wall by using a nail and hammer and the hanging mount available on the frame. Or you can use EZlifego Double-Sided Tape or Amazon Basics Push Pins Tacks (both available on Amazon.com) to place the frames on the wall.

Yet another option but one that may require additional tools is to install shelves to place your framed vinyl records on the wall.

5. Install Shelves on Your Wall To Place Framed Records

Now that your vinyl records are framed, use different shelves or wall mounts to enhance your wall decor. You may need to be handy with your tools to hammer the shelves onto the wall. Once the shelves are in place, place your records on them, and you’re set to go.

You’ll need shelves or wall mounts to ensure these will work. Here are some top recommendations, available on Amazon.com, for your framed records:

NIUBEE Clear Vinyl Record Shelf Wall Mount

These lightweight, clear acrylic vinyl records display your records without covering any artwork. The almost invisible shelves make your records look like they are floating, and their designs prevent slippage and sliding of records. If you want to save space, the 1⅜ inch (2.54 cm) space on the shelf is wide enough for up to three records.

Album Mount Vinyl Record Shelf Stand and Wall Mount

These adjustable wall mounts allow you to display your records by adjusting their height according to your record size. They are easy to install and reconfigured into a shelf stand.

Watch the video below where the Youtuber explains the process of hanging your records on the wall using these album mounts:

Noahrk Clear Vinyl Record Holder

These holders offer an extraordinary design for your vinyl record wall decor. One holder can hold up to five record albums and is an efficient wall display and storage solution. The ten degrees tilt to the holder allows efficient layering and browsing of records.

You can use these shelves without framing the records. They offer an efficient storage solution. Remember to follow instructions on how to secure the shelves tightly on the walls.

Final Thoughts

Vinyl records need to be stored in a safe environment to prevent damage, but if you frame and hang them the right way, you get aesthetics as additional functionality.

You can pick up frames from a yard sale or use ones at home, but they might not hold the record securely in place. Instead, special frames for vinyl records are just the right size and usually have UV-protected glass to prevent color degradation from sunlight damage to your quality vinyl records.
May 18, 2022
Do Record Players Spin Clockwise? Let’s Find Out
We all know the clock moves clockwise, hence the name. The planets and other celestial bodies revolve counterclockwise around the sun, and water drains counterclockwise in the Northern hemisphere. But which way does a record player spin?

Record players spin clockwise universally. They rotate to the right if they’re working correctly. Turning a record player counterclockwise would damage it and is, therefore, not advisable.

To understand this better, in the rest of this article, I’ll explain the design of a record player and why it spins the way it does.

Berliner Designed Record Players To Turn Clockwise

The reality is, record players on this side of the world spin clockwise because Berliner, who invented disc recording, was used to things turning that way. If you’ve looked at the clock your entire life, your brain automatically assumes clockwise is the normal way to spin. Also, Berliner based the design of his flat disc player on a music box that turned clockwise.

There’s no scientific or technical explanation for why a disc should spin to the right and not to the left. It’s just that clockwise seems like the most natural rotational movement to most people. 90% of the world population is right-handed, and placing the tonearm with the left hand is counterintuitive and awkward, to say the least.

However, there’s a design aspect in play, too.

To play a record player, you need to put the needle on the groove. The needle and the record’s rotation must go in the same direction; otherwise, the needle would bend backward and break or scratch the disc. Since needles in the USA and this side of the world are designed to travel from the outside, the player must turn clockwise to match that rotation.

You would imagine that record players in other parts of the world turn anticlockwise because their designs might be different. For instance, some people have the perception that record players in the Southern hemisphere, especially Australia, spin counterclockwise. However, this is not the case since record players turn clockwise universally.

Greg, a store attendant working at RoundAgain Record Store in Australia, confirmed this.

“All record players in Australia spin clockwise. Spinning your player in a counterclockwise direction would only damage it, hence it’s unadvisable to do so,” he said.

What Happens if You Play the Record Counterclockwise?

The stylus and the disc itself will get damaged if you play the record counterclockwise or backward. Numerous cartridges aren’t designed to run in reverse, so playing the record counterclockwise means that the record is going against the law of their nature.

For this reason, the sound you get will become horrible, and people say it sounds like the devil’s voice.

When you play a record counterclockwise, the vinyl grooves push against the stylus because they come towards each other instead of moving in the same direction. Think of it as the difference between dragging a stick behind you when walking and trying to push it forward when it’s in front of you. The latter will be harder, and the stick will likely break at some point.

Some people claim that playing a record backward can help you hear tracks that contain subliminal messages. While that may be true, you do it at the risk of destroying your record player and the records you are playing.

Do DJ Record Players Spin Clockwise?

DJ record players, known as turntables, spin clockwise until the DJ starts back spinning. Back spinning is where the DJ manually manipulates the vinyl record playing on the turntable using his hand’s force to spin backward, despite the platter’s rotation under it.

Back spinning allows them to go back to a particular point in the record, cut music, or juggle beats. Deejays use a slipmat to reduce friction between the record and the platter when spinning the wrong way. You can tell it’s going the wrong way because it makes a shrill sound, otherwise known as a scratch.

However, it’s important to know that DJ turntables are designed a little differently from regular record players. Deejays prefer direct-drive turntables over belt-driven record players because the belt is likely to get stretched or damaged during ‘scratching.’ That said, Deejays are aware that scratching affects the records, and they replace them often.

If you try to spin records in your record player like a DJ, all you’ll accomplish is destroying the setup.

Common Record Player Issues Related to Spinning

Sometimes record players stop working or work in ways they’re not supposed to. Therefore, it’s important to make sure you take good care of your record player. Some of the issues that a record player may face are as follows:

The Record Player Is Not Spinning

There are plenty of reasons a record player would stop spinning, and most of them are fairly easy to solve:
- There is a lack of power. As embarrassing as it is, the main reason why a record player doesn’t play is that it’s not plugged in or plugged properly. Start by checking the power source and move on to other culprits if that’s not the issue.
- The tonearm isn’t reset. Most record players’ tonearm holding the stylus needs to be frequently reset because it clicks off when a record ends. The player won’t play until the arm is reset to the correct position. Gently push it back until you hear a clicking sound, and the player will spin again.
- There are belt drive issues. The belt may get too loose or wear out in belt drive players. Such a problem can be solved by tightening the belt in case of looseness or buying a new one if it’s old. Belt issues are a very common problem, so it should be one of the first signs you check out.
- There are direct-drive issues. If you have a direct drive record player, it could be the internal mechanism of the motor, often affected by dirt or debris getting stuck in the shaft. A jammed platter and faulty on and off switch could be the issue. Regular maintenance and keeping the player clean is the only way to prevent the issues. You can also take it to an expert for a check-up, as most direct drive issues are complicated.
The Record Player Makes No Sound

What do you do when your record player is turning just fine, but there’s no sound coming from it? Do the following:
1. Start by checking the connection on the cartridge. Make sure the stylus is sticking down on the cartridge.
2. Ensure the volume is up by turning it clockwise.
3. Ensure nothing is connected to the earphone jack on the back.
4. Check that the stylus is in the correct position and reset it if it’s not.
5. Ensure the speakers and amplifier are connected and powered on if you can hear the music on the turntable but not on the speakers.
The Record Player Plays Too Fast or Too Slow

Do you think your record player is moving too fast? You may not be imagining things. Sometimes, the speed selector may become faulty due to dirt or grime build-up over time. This causes it to send too much voltage to the motor, making the record spin too fast. You can clean the switch and lubricate it or replace the entire thing if it’s too old.

A loose and misaligned belt is another reason a player can move too fast. With time, belts stretch and get repositioned, causing deviations in speed. You need to replace the belt with a new one.

But what if it’s playing too slow instead? Consider doing the following:
- Lubricate the parts. Some gears and motors under the platter need to be lubricated to reduce friction.
- Change the speed selection. When you change records of different sizes, it’s easy to forget to switch the speed selector from 33 rpm to 45 rpm or vice versa. It will affect the speed, so you need to do it with every change.
Final Thoughts

Under perfect conditions, a record player should spin clockwise until the record is up and then stops. Something is wrong with your record player if it stops playing somewhere in the middle or starts spinning backward. You need to have it often serviced and keep the parts clean.

For people who may want to spin records backward, a spin table designed for Deejaying is the best option for you.
April 28, 2022
Best USB Turntables: Budget to High-End.
Music enthusiasts and audiophiles alike enjoy listening to vinyl records for a superior listening experience. One of the biggest drawbacks of vinyl records is that you can’t just carry them around when you travel. A good alternative is a USB turntable, which allows you to listen to your favorite LP by plugging the turntable into your laptop. And it’s easy to digitalize your vinyl collection with a USB Turntable.

The best USB turntable for most people is the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-GM. It offers high fidelity audio quality while offering a simple design for seamless use. Its automatic arm will ensure the integrity of your records, and its two-speed control will allow you to play a wide range of albums.

I’ll walk you through what you should consider before purchasing your first USB turntable. After that, I’ll give you our top five USB turntable recommendations for different occasions. Keep reading to find out which USB turntable is best for you!

Things To Consider When Buying a USB Turntable

You need to understand what to look for in a USB turntable before investing your money in one. Luckily, you won’t have to invest a whole lot of time into researching what makes a good USB turntable since we’ve already done that for you!

Before buying a USB turntable, you should be somewhat familiar with the following factors:
- Preamp
- Speed controls
- Upgradeable cartridge
- Arm rotation
Let us walk you through what each of these does and what you should know about them.

Preamp

The preamp will amplify the sound coming from your table so that you can play audio from your turntables in speakers or any other sound system. Many turntables come with a built-in preamp so that you don’t have to worry about converting the signal when you plug it into an external speaker.

As a fundamental part of USB turntables in the modern era, we have stuck with turntables that come with a preamp in this guide. You don’t have to worry about amplifying the signal if you choose one of our recommended USB turntables below.

Speed Controls

Vinyl records are pressed at different speeds, which are measured in rotations per minute (RPM). Most records these days are pressed at either 33 ⅓ RPM or 45 RPM. Some older records may also be pressed in 78 RPM, although those are not that common these days.

You will want a USB turntable that is capable of adjusting between 33 ⅓ RPM and 45 RPM at least so that you can listen to a wide variety of albums. All USB turntables in our guide can play records at 33 ⅓ RPM and 45 RPM, so you don’t have to worry about buying the correct RPM record for your turntable.

Upgradeable Cartridge

Whether you’re a record amateur or a seasoned pro, you will want to get a turntable that will give you the option to upgrade in the future. Being able to swap out the needle or cartridge will allow you to improve the sound quality of your USB turntable and also replace these parts if they get worn out after years of use.

Upgrading a turntable cartridge is not that complicated, so don’t worry if you feel like you do not have the know-how to do these improvements yourself. You can watch the following YouTube video to get an idea of how easy it is.

Automatic vs. Manual Arm Turn

If you’re new to the world of vinyl records and turntables, you may not know about the difference between automatic and manual turntables. This refers to how the needle, or stylus, is placed on the record to begin playing and lifted off the record to stop playing.

Whether the machine does it automatically or whether you have to do it yourself determines if it is a manual or automatic turntable.

You may think that this is a minor issue and one that is simply based on convenience or preference, but you should think carefully about which type of turntable you will choose.

If you are a beginner and are just starting to grow your record collection, you will almost certainly want to go with an automatic arm-turn turntable. This will allow the machine to carefully play your records, thus eliminating the risk of accidentally damaging them.

You may lose some sound quality due to the extra automation, but it’s probably worth it to prevent causing some real harm to your records.

If you already have some experience with record players and want to get the best possible sound quality, then you should go with a manual turntable. You will have to do all the work of raising the stylus and placing it on the record, and then lifting it off the record when done, but the sound quality will be second-to-none.

We have included a mix of automatic and manual USB turntables in our guide below. Be sure to decide which type of turntable you want and pay attention to the type of arm turn to make sure you get the right kind!

Best Overall: Audio-Technica AT-LP60XUSB-GM

Audio-Technica is one of the most respected brands in the music and sound production world. Known for offering superior quality at a small premium, any Audio-Technica turntable is synonymous with quality.

The Audio-Technica AT-LP60XUSB-GM is a perfect USB turntable for music lovers and casual hobbyists alike. Its simple design with abundant features allows for a seamless listening experience without sacrificing audio quality.

Bottom Line: Any Audio-Technica USB turntable is guaranteed to be a good choice, but if you’re not sure where to start, then this is the right choice. The convenience of this machine, along with its high quality, makes it the clear winner for the overwhelming majority of high fidelity music enthusiasts, so unless you are a seasoned pro, you will not be disappointed with this machine.

Pros
- Die-cast aluminum platter designed to minimize vibrations and reduce audio distortions.
- Integrated switchable phono preamp for easy connection to external audio output sources.
- Dual speed control plays 33 ⅓ and 45 RPM records.
- Upgradeable stylus.
- A fully automatic arm that allows for easy play.
- Compatibility with Audacity Mac and PC software to easily convert records into digital files.
Cons
- The built-in Audio-Technica cartridge is not upgradeable.
- Ripped audio files may not be of the best quality.
Best for Private Use: Denon DP-450USB

If hi-fi listening is your hobby, you might want to look for a record player that is designed for audiophiles. While this turntable won’t allow you to make killer mashups or adjust the tempo, it will play some of the highest audio quality available today.

The sleek and minimalist design will also ensure this looks great on your coffee table or on a stand in your living room or music room. While not necessarily the type of turntable you will want to carry around, it will definitely be a welcome addition to your house and could be great for people who love to entertain.

Bottom line: This USB turntable is on the pricier side, so only get this if you are a certified audiophile. You will appreciate the turntable’s superior audio quality, as well as its easy digitalization features.

Pros
- A built-in preamp that allows for seamless use of external speakers.
- It comes with some of the most advanced speed controls in the industry, allowing you to play 33 ⅓, 45, and 78 RPM records.
- A fully replaceable cartridge, which allows for a high degree of customization.
- The semi-automatic arm allows for superior sound quality while still retaining a degree of automation.
Cons
- Pricier than other turntables of similar audio quality.
- Not fully automatic.
Best for Beginners: Sony PS-LX310BT

Few turntables are as easy to use as the Sony PS-LX310BT. This turntable was specifically designed for effortless use, allowing even the most inexperienced beginners to enjoy an enhanced listening experience.

This turntable is so effortless, in fact, that you don’t even need a cable. The Sony PS-LX310BT comes with built-in wireless support, allowing you to connect it to your computer via bluetooth or to bluetooth speakers.

Bottom line: If you’re interested in developing a hi-fi listening hobby but don’t have any experience with it yet, this is where you want to start. In addition to being extremely easy to use, this machine is a great balance of audio quality and price.

Pros
- Integrated preamp for seamless use of external output sources.
- Speed controls allow you to play 33 ⅓ and 45 RPM records.
- Upgradable stylus for improved audio.
- Fully automatic turntable.
Cons
- The built-in cartridge is not upgradable or replaceable.
- The lack of a manual arm slightly affects the audio quality.
Best Value: House of Marley Stir It Up Turntable

This is the most affordable USB turntable of all five in this guide. Not only is it a relatively cheap option, but it is also the most environmentally-friendly one. The House of Marley turntable features eco-friendly and lightweight materials like bamboo without sacrificing audio quality.

This turntable also happens to have one of the most creative designs out there. By incorporating Bob Marley quotes and features, you can rest assured that this is a unique machine that can help you add personality wherever you decide to place it.

It’s recyclable materials also make it one of the lightest USB turntables out there. This could make it a great option if you’re looking to purchase a highly portable machine.

Bottom line: If you’re just a casual vinyl record enthusiast and are not looking to invest a whole lot into your USB turntable, this is the best option for you. Plus, you’ll be helping the environment by purchasing a turntable that is made from mindfully sourced materials.

Pros
- Built-in preamp for superior audio quality and easy use of external speakers.
- Speed controls make it compatible with 33 ⅓ and 45 RPM records.
- Upgradable stylus for improved audio quality.
- Made from lightweight and eco-friendly materials like bamboo, recycled plastic, and recycled aluminum.
Cons
- Manual stylus, which means you will have to be careful when playing records to avoid damaging them.
- Cannot upgrade the built-in cartridge.
Key Takeaways

USB turntables are great ways to listen to high-quality audio with the convenience of being able to hook them up to your computer via USB cable. We hope this guide helped you choose the best kind of turntable for you based on your needs.

When buying a USB turntable, remember to pay attention to:
- Whether the turntable comes with a built-in preamp.
- The turntable’s speed controls will allow you to listen to different records.
- Whether the turntable will allow you to upgrade or replace the cartridge.
- Whether the turntable is automatic or manual.
How to convert your vinyl to a digital format

One of the main reasons for buying a USB turntable is that you want to digitalize your entire vinyl collection or just a few vinyl records. It can be intimidating for the non-techie, but don’t sweat. The process is pretty straightforward, and I wrote an entire article about all the necessary steps. Which you can find here: How to Convert Vinyl Records to Digital: 9 Easy Steps
April 8, 2022
How To Connect a Turntable to Sonos? Let’s Find Out!
Sonos speakers are classy, easy on the eyes, and have terrific sound quality. If you consider yourself an audiophile, there’s probably nothing more exciting than pairing the uncompressed sound of a turntable with the power of a Sonos speaker. But how do you connect a turntable to your Sonos product?

Here’s how to connect a turntable to Sonos:
1. Learn about the different options Sonos offers.
2. Check if your turntable has a phono preamp.
3. Purchase any required extras (such as cables or preamps).
In this first step, we will talk about the different Sonos options and how to connect Sonos speakers to your turntable (regardless of whether you have a phono preamp). If you have a turntable that doesn’t have Bluetooth modality and a phono preamp, we will discuss that a little later. Let’s dive in!

1. Learn About the Different Options Sonos Offers

If you’re scouring the internet for information on how to connect your Sonos product to your turntable and finding very little information, there’s a reason for it. Sonos sells a plethora of different products that can pair with a turntable. As you’ve probably found, each one connects a little bit differently. Not only do they connect differently, but they function differently as well.

Below, we’ll discuss the main Sonos products that pair with a turntable. We’ll discuss what makes them different from the other options and how to connect them to a turntable with or without a preamp.

Sonos Amp

The Sonos Amp and Sonos Connect: Amp have line-in ports to connect your turntable to your other speakers. In general, amps take an electrical signal and “amplify it.” You may be interested in this product if you want an undistorted sound through all of your speakers. It gives you more control, as you can adjust the bass, treble, and loudness.

Amps are not speakers but means by which you can control the speakers you already have. They essentially power the speakers you have on your wall or your ceiling. If your home has Sonos speakers in each room that connects wireless or over your wired network. The Sonos amp will help connect your turntable to connect the rest of the speakers.

Here’s how to connect your Sonos Amp to your turntable:
1. You will need an RCA cable which you can find on Amazon here its not included with your Sonos Amp, plug one end into the turntable (or the turntable preamp if yours doesn’t have a preamp built-in).
2. Plug the other end of the cable into the corresponding ports in the back of the Sonos Amp (IN).
3. Place a record on your turntable and play it.
4. Using the app, connect the amp to other speakers by going into the settings tab and looking for “Line In” devices.
The Sonos amp will typically work with speakers that need no more than 2*125 watts. If you already have your favorite pair of active speakers then you can easily integrate them into the Sonos ecosystem by connecting them to a Sonos Amp.

Sonos Amp is also often used for speakers connected to the ceiling or wall in your home. Now, you can enjoy the unfiltered record sound through all your speakers!

Sonos Five

The Sonos Five is an excellent choice if you want the power of a speaker and still need something that has a line in connection for your turntable.

This high-quality speaker has a 3.5mm input built into the back of it and comes with an auxiliary cable so you can hook it up to your TV, CD player, old iPod, or turntable. Unlike the amp above, the Sonos Five is a speaker, so you can plug your turntable in directly and start playing music in addition to connecting to other speakers on your Sonos network.

To connect your Sonos Five:
1. Plug an RCA-Y cable (not included with Sonos Five) into the corresponding port on the back of the Sonos Five. This should be the side that only has one connector. If you don’t have an RCA-Y cable I recommend this one from amazon.com
2. Connect the other side of this cable (which should have colors and two connectors) into the back of your turntable where the colors match up (or into a phono preamp if yours doesn’t have one directly built-in).
3. Place a record on the turntable and start playing it.
If you’d like to connect it to other speakers on your Sonos network, you can go into the app and find the “Line In” option under settings. This way, you can hear the pure sound of your favorite record on the high-quality Sonos Five and any other speakers on your network.

Sonos Port

Like the amp, the Sonos Port isn’t something that will directly play your music aloud. Instead, the Port is kind of like a control tower for all the speakers within your home. It doesn’t power anything like the amp but puts all speakers onto the same network. It’s just like a Wi-Fi router that unifies all smart devices.

With Sonos Port, You can enjoy endless possibilities for multiroom listening and get the Sonos experience on your existing stereo, receiver, and turntable. You can also stream music, radio, audiobooks, and more from your favorite services.

The Sonos Port works with turntables just like both products mentioned above. Essentially, you use this product to connect your turntable to the network.

To do this, you will:
1. Plug one end of the audio cable (not included with the Port) into the back of the Sonos Port.
  I recommend this RCA cable available from Amazon.
2. Connect the corresponding connectors into the turntable (or phono preamp) in the L/R inputs.
3. Play a record on your turntable.
4. Open the app and select the settings.
5. Find the “Line-In” option and connect this to the rest of your speakers (or the speakers you would like to use).
Now, your turntable will be a part of the more extensive network of speakers in your home. The added benefit of this with your Sonos app is that instead of just one speaker playing your music, you can have the cumulative sound of all of them playing it!

Sonos Speakers

There are many different types of Sonos speakers, and you can connect via any of the options above using the “Line-In” option on your settings.

But what if you don’t have any of the above products?

Unfortunately, no ordinary Bluetooth speaker will connect to your turntable unless you have a modern Bluetooth-enabled turntable. The above products work because they connect through some means to the turntable through a cable and can then connect via the Sonos app to other speakers (which is what makes Sonos so cool!). If you’re struggling to connect a Bluetooth speaker to a normal turntable, you should consider purchasing the Amp, Port, or the Five.

If you’re still unsure which product is best for you, the audiophiles at Smart Home Sounds Ltd. have an in-depth video on selecting the right Sonos product for you:

They also go through a few different setups to inspire your next purchase.

2. Check if Your Turntable Has a Phono Preamp

You’ve probably noticed that I’ve referred to different turntable features already one important feature is the phono preamp. Some turntables have one built-in; others require an external phono preamp. The PCMag Encyclopedia describes a phono preamp as a “circuit that amplifies and equalizes.” This thirty-minute YouTube video by the Audiophile mangoes in-depth about different phono amplifiers and their purpose:

For our purposes, we’ll summarize that a phono preamp is an important part of your turntable system. It supports the sound, and it’s needed to connect a Sonos speaker or a line-in chord.

Turntable With a Phono Preamp

If your turntable has a phono preamp built-in, then congratulations!

You won’t need a secondary system to plug into your Sonos speakers. Instead, you’ll just plug the line-in chords directly into your system.

If you are on the lookout for a new turntable and your goals would be much better suited to one with a phono preamp already built-in, we will give you a few suggestions for turntables with preamps already in them. Be wary, though. Some audiophiles still purchase a phono preamp separate from their built-in one to get the sound quality they like.

Here are a couple of turntables with excellent built-in phono preamps:

Audio-Technica AT-LP60 Fully Automatic Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable (Amazon.com)

This turntable comes with a built-in preamp. It also comes in a few lovely colors. Audio-Technica products are known for being stylish and have tons of positive reviews on Amazon. This turntable would make a great addition to your audio setup, regardless of your aesthetic.

Fluance RT81 Elite High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable (Amazon.com)

The Fluance vinyl turntable is sleek, attractive, and highly regarded. This one has a built-in phono preamp as well. It makes connecting it to your Sonos speakers a straightforward endeavor. The finish and hardware on Fluance turntables are particularly reminiscent of those old, classic vinyl players, which pay an homage to the past!

If you want to dig deeper into the subject then you can take a look at this article about the best turntables for Sonos.

Turntable Without a Phono Preamp

If you have a turntable without a phono preamp built-in, you aren’t alone. In fact, most turntables are built without one. This just means that your phono preamp will need to come from an outside source, which you’ll first connect to your turntable and then connect to your Sonos speakers.

Why would someone make a choice to buy a turntable without a phono preamp if they’re so important, though? Because many audiophiles already have their favorite phono amp that they want to use.

If an additional device with cables isn’t a big deal to you, then this doesn’t matter as much. Some people prefer the certain look of a turntable rather than the features, or it could have something to do with nostalgia.

Regardless, there are tons of low-cost and high-cost turntables that’ll need a phono preamp to connect to Sonos speakers. Once you have your phono preamp, setting it up is fairly simple.

3. Purchase Any Required Extras (Such as Cables or Preamps)

As mentioned above, there may be a few other things you have to purchase, particularly if you don’t have a turntable with a built-in phono preamp. Be on the lookout for RCA cables, which you need to connect your turntable to the phono preamp.

A phono preamp is essential for the quality sound of your turntable. If sound quality is important to you (as it is with most vinyl listeners), you’ll want to make sure you find one that doesn’t filter out the sound of your records. Here are a few preamps I like:

Pro-Ject Audio Phono Box (Amazon.com)

This phono preamp is simple, straightforward, and no-fuss. The sleek, gray design doesn’t prompt much attention, which is perfect if you’d like to keep the simplistic look for your audio setup. The quality of this phono box is why it’s listed on Amazon’s Editor picks!

Fluance PA10 High Fidelity Phono Preamp (Amazon.com)

The Fluance PA10 is deemed High Fidelity for a reason. With over 85% of users rating it five stars, this phono preamp is a pick you can be confident in. The wood finish looks great with most entertainment centers, but it is a little larger than most preamps.

SUCA-AUDIO Phono Preamp (Amazon.com)

This is a Tube phono preamp, but this might be a huge plus based on your style! Tube phono preamps use analogue tubes and valves to amplify the signal that turntables emit when they play vinyl records. Meanwhile, solid state preamps use silicon transistor components to amplify the same signal.

Audio Cables

Most preamp setups will require an RCA cable or some other audio cable, which is usually included in the box. However, some may not come with it. When purchasing a preamp, look for information revealing what pairs with your turntable and what cables need to go between the preamp and the turntable.

Conclusion

Sonos speakers have terrific sound quality that won’t muffle the unfiltered sound of your turntable.

Here are a few things you need to remember:
- You will need a “middle man” (such as the Sonos Five, Sonos Port, or Sonos Amp) if you are trying to connect your turntable to a Sonos Bluetooth speaker unless you have a Bluetooth turntable.
- If you don’t have a phono preamp built into your turntable, you need to get one to connect to the Five, Port, or Amp.
- You can use the app to connect your turntable to any speakers on your Sonos network.
April 7, 2022

The 5 Best Turntables for Sonos

Sonos makes wireless sound system solutions that are perfect for vinyl lovers. If you have a Sonos system, you’ll need to find the best turntables to go with it. That way, you can get the most out of your high-quality sound system.

The best turntable for Sonos is the Audio Technica AT-LP60X. This turntable is the best option for most people because it has a low price and offers the best sound quality in this price range. This model is great for new vinyl collectors too. It comes in different colors to match your room.

There are a few cases where I wouldn’t recommend the Audio Technica. These include:

You want the best high-fidelity sound. Choose the Fluance RT81 Vinyl Turntable Record Player (available on Amazon.com and on Turntable Lab.
You want a longer-lasting turntable with a great design and don’t mind paying more for it. In that case, choose the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable (available on Amazon.com and on Turntable Lab.
You want the best sound quality. Select the U-Turn Audio – Orbit Special Turntable (available on Amazon.com).
You want good wireless connectivity to headphones too. Choose the 1 BY ONE Belt Drive Turntable with Bluetooth Connectivity (available on Amazon.com).

This article will discuss a few important factors to consider when buying a turntable for your Sonos system. I’ll then go over all of my favorite picks to see what situations they work the best in. I’ll also explain why the Audio Technica AT-LP60X is the best pick for the majority.

Factors To Consider

The turntable will need a built-in preamp to work with your Sonos system. All of the models on this list do have this feature. In order to connect your turntable to SONOS, you need at least one of the following SONOS system.

If you want to learn more about how to connect your turntable to Sonos, take a look at this article that I wrote: How To Connect a Turntable to Sonos? Let’s Find Out!

Bluetooth isn’t the best option for Sonos, in my personal opinion. However, some Sonos speakers (Sonos Move and Sonos Roam) utilize Bluetooth and can be a great opinion if that is what you are looking for. So make sure you check before you start shopping!

You want to consider these three main factors before purchasing a new turntable:

Great sound quality
A great design
The overall cost

Most Sonos products aren’t costly, so it wouldn’t make sense to buy a high-end, premium record player to go along with your sound system. As long as the turntable scores well in the three features mentioned earlier, it’ll work well with your Sonos.

Let’s now go over these features:

Great Design

Turntable	Number of Color/Style Options	Materials Used
Audio Technica AT-LP60X	6	Plastic, die-cast aluminum platter
Fluance RT81 Elite High Fidelity	3	Solid wood plinth, aluminum platter
Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable	3	Alloy steel, steel platter
U-Turn Audio	2	Solid hardwood plinth, acrylic platter
1 BY ONE Belt Drive Turntable	1	Wood, plastic, and metal platter

First, make sure that you love the design of the turntable! The appearance of the turntable should pair well with your Sonos. Sonos speakers are modern and sleek. That means you probably don’t want a bulky, vintage turntable.

Many of these turntables come in different colors, styles, and materials. You’ll want to consider how the turntable will look in your room, then choose the one that goes well with your aesthetic.

This list gives you plenty of different options to choose from.

Great Sound Quality

Turntable Model	Distortion Level
Audio Technica AT-LP60X	Moderate at high volumes
Fluance RT81 Elite High Fidelity	Low
Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable	Low
U-Turn Audio	Very low
1 BY ONE Belt Drive Turntable	Moderate

Of course, you want a turntable that offers excellent sound quality so that you can enjoy listening to your favorite vinyl. The turntable should provide you with high-fidelity (uncompressed) sound, playing music as close to the original as possible. Other formats can decrease the sound quality.

However, there are many different ways to measure sound quality. What you enjoy listening to is largely up to your personal preference. Some people are willing to invest more money in a turntable for better sound quality. In contrast, others want something more affordable and don’t care about the sound quality.

You want to have as little distortion coming from the turntable as possible. That way, you get a faithful translation of the music coming directly from the source. Vinyl allows you to listen to a song exactly how the artist intended it to sound.

Overall, you want a turntable that provides minimal distortion when listening to songs on your Sonos. Some cheaper models have little distortion at quiet volumes, but the distortion becomes more noticeable when you crank up the volume.

Overall Cost

Lastly, you’ll need to consider the overall cost. The best overall pick on this list is very affordable compared to the other options. However, you might be willing to pay more to get the features that the other turntables offer.

You should always set a turntable budget before you start shopping. Turntables can cost as much or as little as you want — so you have plenty of room to set your budget. If you don’t set one, it can be easy to overspend.

When you pay more, you’re likely to receive a turntable that comes with more features, such as Bluetooth or WiFi capabilities. You also get better sound quality and sturdier materials.

Once you buy the turntable, you usually don’t need to invest more money into it as long as you take care of it. The only other expense may be purchasing a few cables to connect the turntable. However, these cables are usually very cheap!

When buying a turntable for your Sonos, you don’t need to choose an expensive model. A typical Sonos system is rather inexpensive, so you don’t need to buy a premium turntable either — unless you want a fancy model.

In short, you should only pay what you’re comfortable with. Many new vinyl collectors start with cost-efficient record players and upgrade to a more expensive option in the future. You should first figure out what features you want on your turntable.

Best Overall: Audio Technica AT-LP60X

The Audio Technica AT-LP60X is the best Sonos turntable for most people. It’s not overpriced, and it has a good sound quality and a cool design. Many users feel that it’s one of the best-sounding turntables in this price bracket. That’s why the Audio Technica AT-LP60X is the best overall pick.

However, you’re not going to get perfect sound quality at this price point. The turntable will distort slightly at higher volumes, but you shouldn’t notice it very much. Overall, it’s ideal for casual vinyl listeners. Still, that doesn’t mean that it’s bad quality or that you won’t love it. It’s also perfect for use with Sonos!

Check Price on Amazon

Check Price on Turntable Lab

The model comes with two operating speeds and an anti-resonance platter. It also improves tracking for more accurate listening and a reliable dust cover. The device is straightforward to set up with Sonos, too, so you can listen to your favorite vinyl in no time at all!

Audio Technica is one of the most popular modern turntable manufacturers today. The company always makes high-quality turntables, with improvements between each upgrade. This model offers a quiet motor and improved build quality compared to its predecessor. Finally, it comes with a built-in preamp, which you need to work with your Sonos.

Bottom Line: You get all the features you need at a fantastic price — making the Audio Technica AT-LP60X turntable the best for most. You’ll also enjoy all of the color and material options that they have available.

Pros

Great price. This model costs a fraction of the price of other turntables with identical features.
Good design. The turntable is very sturdy, has excellent tracking, and has a dust cover.
Decent sound. The Audio Technica AT-LP60X offers the best sound quality compared to other products in this price range.

Cons

Distortion at high volumes. When playing loud music, you may notice some distortion or a drop in sound quality.

Product Specifications

Number of Operation Speeds	Dimensions	Weight
2	14.7 x 14.1 x 3.8 inches (37.33 x 35.81 x 9.65 cm)	8.11 pounds (3.67 kg)

Best HiFi Option: Fluance RT81 Elite High Fidelity

The Fluance RT81 Elite has a fantastic design — It’s very smooth and modern, making it fit well with anyone’s home. The wooden base is a nice touch too. Many people love the walnut wood finish, which is what gives the Fluance great durability too.

The best feature of the Fluance RT81 Elite is the high fidelity sound. The sound is very clear and accurate, allowing you to enjoy your favorite songs to their full potential with your Sonos.

You also receive two operation speeds, additional vibration control, an adjustable counterweight, and even gold plated line outputs! All of these benefits factor into excellent audio quality. There’s so little distortion that you probably won’t even notice it!

Check Price on Amazon

Bottom Line: The Fluance RT81 Elite has the best HiFi sound in this price range. It comes with a solid wood plinth, making it very sturdy. You won’t ever feel the table the turntable is on vibrate. It’s a turntable for those seeking the best HiFi experience.

Pros

Outstanding design. The Fluance RT81 Elite is beautifully designed and contains quality materials, such as solid wood.
Amazing sound. You receive excellent HiFi sound with less distortion.
Reasonable price. The price is great for the quality that you receive.

Cons

Manual tonearm. You’ll need to move the arm back to its base yourself when the vinyl ends.

Product Specifications

Number of Operation Speeds	Dimensions	Weight
2	13.75 x 16.5 x 5.5 inches (34.92 x 41.91 x 13.97 cm)	6.39 pounds (2.89 kg)

Best Design: Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable

When it comes to a design that can match your Sonos sound system, the T1 Phono SB Turntable is the one to get. This turntable is straightforward to set up and works exceptionally well with Sonos. You get good sound quality, and the cartridge comes precision aligned — you can just plug it in and start rocking.

You have plenty of stylish options for the base. You can choose between 3 different finishes, each of which looks and feels completely unique. For example, you could choose the classic Satin Walnut, which uses natural wood, or opt for the High Gloss Black design.

Check Price on Amazon

Check Price on Turntable Lab

Plus, Pro-Ject is another very well-known brand of high-end turntables. Their turntables are a bit more expensive than the other options on this list, but you receive a premium product.

The design is simple but modern. You’ll need to assemble the turntable yourself, though it’s a very simple process to complete. You’ll just need to make sure you set aside 20 minutes or so to get the job done.

Finally, the tonearm comes with precision sapphire bearings, giving you a pleasant listening experience. You won’t have trouble with distortion or the needle jumping around. It’s a sturdy turntable that won’t vibrate on your table.

Bottom Line: T1 Phono SB Turntable comes in several colors and finishes, making it the best choice for those who want the best design to match their Sonos. It’s the most expensive option on this list, but you do get superior sound quality.

Pros

Outstanding design. The design of the T1 Phono SB Turntable is definitely the best! It’s sleek, lightweight, durable, and has many options to choose from.
Good sound quality. You get reduced distortion, and your music will sound great.

Cons

Cost. This model comes with a premium price tag, so it’s not for everyone.

Product Specifications

Number of Operation Speeds	Dimensions	Weight
3	19 x 15.7 x 10 inches (48.26 x 39.87 x 25.4 cm)	17.42 pounds (7.90 kg)

Best Sound Quality: U-Turn Audio Orbit Special

The U-Turn Audio (Orbit Special with Built-in Preamp) also features a great design but has outstanding sound quality. The acrylic platter is clear and helps the turntable blend into the rest of your surroundings. You also have plenty of finishes for the base, including natural wood.

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However, the best feature on this player would have to be the sound quality. If this is your first turntable, you’ll notice a striking difference between it playing your vinyl collection and the music you stream from your phone. It’s a high-end record player that offers an exceptional music listening experience. Plus, the model sounds great with Sonos.

The acrylic platter gives the player a better speed constituency, which helps reduce distortion. The external belt also removes noise from the motor, giving you the best possible sound quality. If you want the best turntable for Sonos, this model is for you.

Bottom Line: The U-Turn Audio is another premium product with a high cost. However, it also provides you with some of the best audio quality possible through a record player connected to a Sonos speaker.

Pros

Perfect sound quality. The sound quality that comes from this player is clear and precise. You won’t notice any distortion or motor noises at all.
Sleek design. The turntable has a very natural design that suits any room theme.

Cons

Cost. The U-Turn Audio is very pricey, and not everyone will want to spend that much for a turntable that connects with their Sonos.

Product Specifications

Number of Operation Speeds	Dimensions	Weight
2	20.87 x 17.17 x 9.92 inches (53.00 x 43.61 x 25.19 cm)	12.5 pounds (5.66 kg)

Best Wireless Connectivity: 1 BY ONE Belt Drive Turntable

The 1 BY ONE Belt Drive Turntable comes with a preamp and offers Bluetooth connectivity. Some Sonos models work well with Bluetooth. However, please check that your Sonos is Bluetooth-compatible first. Check out this article that I wrote: How To Connect a Turntable to Sonos? Let’s Find Out!

It’s not very expensive, looks nice, and plays vinyl records at two speeds.

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Many people also love that it comes with a USB port, allowing them to digitalize their records and save them on their computer.

It connects well with Sonos products too. However, a cost-effective model will not give you perfect audio quality. You may notice minor levels of distortion here and there.

Pros

Bluetooth connectivity. Bluetooth is helpful to have for some Sonos products. You can also connect your wireless headphones or other devices to it.
Good price. This model isn’t as expensive as the premium options on this list, making it more affordable for more people.

Cons

Moderate distortion. You’ll hear distortion from time to time. This model isn’t for those who want the best sound quality possible.

Product Specifications

Number of Operation Speeds	Dimensions	Weight
2	16.5 x 13.6 x 4.9 inches (41.91 x 34.54 x 12.44 cm)	12.8 pounds (5.80 kg)

Key Takeaways

To summarize, the Audio Technica AT-LP60X is the best turntable to use with Sonos. It suits the most significant number of people and comes at a fair price. However, if you want to buy a more expensive model to go with your Sonos, you have plenty of choices!

I’m confident that you’ll love listening to music on any turntable from this list. If you take the time to consider what you want and the three main factors, you’re sure to choose the one that suits you the best!
Check out the Audio Technica AT-LP60X on Amazon.com or on Turntable Lab now.

April 6, 2022

How To Make any Turntable Wireless (Bluetooth)
Knowing how to make a turntable Bluetooth compatible makes it easier to enjoy your favorite tracks. You can connect the turntable to your wireless headphones, speakers, and other devices. Some modern turntables come with this feature, but you can easily add it to many models.

Here are a few different ways to make any turntable wireless with Bluetooth:
1. Add a Bluetooth transmitter to the preamp.
2. Add an external preamp if needed.
3. Pair your devices and stereo system.
4. Consider a hybrid turntable.
5. Add Bluetooth to a vintage turntable.
Adding Bluetooth to any turntable is easy! I made sure to cover everything on setting up Bluetooth on your turntable so that you can follow along with the article. Let’s get started.

1. Add a Bluetooth Transmitter to Preamp

You can convert any turntable to Bluetooth using a Bluetooth transmitter and receiver. You’ll want to do this with a model that doesn’t already have Bluetooth built-in. For the transmitter, you have a lot of options on LINE! However, you’ll need to make sure it has analog inputs and supports aptX Bluetooth.

I recommend the Hsoipn Bluetooth 5.0 Transmitter and Receiver on Amazon. It works well to convert multiple devices to Bluetooth and do the same for your record player. The transmitter also comes with high fidelity audio and has a listening range of up to 33 feet (10.05 meters). Lastly, it offers a dual connection, so two people can listen simultaneously.

Before ordering one, check the outputs on your record player, it’s most likely RCA. So in that case you need 2 RCA Male Cable to 3.5mm Female to be able to connect the Bluetooth transmitter. (available on Amazon) Then, once you have your transmitter ready, you’ll need to connect it to the preamp on your turntable.

If your turntable has a built-in preamp, you’ll need to plug the transmitter into the RCA output. However, if you have an external preamp, you’ll need to connect the transmitter to the PHONO output there. It won’t work if you have an external preamp, but still, plug the transmitter into the turntable.

From there, you’re ready to listen to your favorite tracks through Bluetooth! It’s a very simple setup process, and you can redo it any time you need to.

How Do Bluetooth Transmitters Work?

Bluetooth transmitters work by converting the audio from the turntable to a file that your Bluetooth device can read through radio waves. You can easily connect your turntable with many different devices this way.

Bluetooth transmitters are required to listen to music through Bluetooth headphones but don’t have a turntable with it preinstalled. It’s helpful to have a transmitter at home because it works with so many electronics- you can even use it on your TV.

Since the transmitter does compress the audio, there is a loss of quality. If you’re looking for the highest fidelity setup, then you’ll want to stick with wired options. However, Bluetooth offers more portability, which some people prefer. The setup process is often much more convenient as well.

Overall, Bluetooth converters can add Bluetooth to any device. It makes it simple to cast audio to wireless headphones, speakers, and virtual assistants like Alexa.

2. Add an External Preamp if Needed

Some turntables won’t come with an external preamp. If you plug the transmitter directly into a turntable without one, it won’t work. You’ll need to add one first. The preamp converts the PHONO signal into a LINE signal, which audio devices can read.

The PHONO inputs on the preamp should connect to the PHONO outputs on your turntable. The preamp’s LINE output connects to the Bluetooth transmitter since that’s what will act as your speaker.

In short, you won’t be able to add Bluetooth without a preamp on the turntable. I recommend the Pyle Phono Turntable Preamp from Amazon.com if you need to buy one. You can use it with any turntable! It even works with vintage models to connect the turntable to modern sound equipment.

How To Tell if Turntable Has a Preamp

You’ll want to know how to tell if your turntable has a preamp. You’ll want to check for a PHONO/LINE switch on the back of the device. Putting the switch on LINE mode will activate the preamp.

If the turntable doesn’t have a built-in preamp, you’ll only see PHONO on the back. You’ll need to get an external preamp. You can also tell because the music will sound quiet and won’t have a strong baseline.

3. Pair Your Devices and Stereo System

Next, you’ll need to know how to pair your devices with the turntable. Ensure the Bluetooth transmitter is connected correctly and fully charged before using it. Then, turn on the transmitter.

You should be able to find it while your devices are in pairing mode. Every headset does have a different way to activate pairing mode, so you might need to check online for your specific model. Once paired for the first time, your devices should connect automatically when turned on.

Overall, connecting to the turntable with Bluetooth is easy! It should only take you a few seconds.

What To Pair With Your Turntable

You have many options with what you can connect to your turntable! As long as the audio device has Bluetooth and can play sound, you can connect it. Many people connect their wireless headphones and speakers to the system.

If you’re looking for a Bluetooth speaker set, you should look into the Cyefacha Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers on Amazon.com. You can pair your turntable with it and connect it to your laptop or smartphone when needed. It even comes with wire inputs, so you can use wired connections if you have to.

4. Consider a Hybrid Turntable

If you’re looking to buy a new wireless turntable, you may want to choose one that has built-in Bluetooth. A hybrid turntable usually comes with multiple ways for you to connect to the device. For example, the player could come with both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. Some hybrid turntables also offer CD readers.

Using a turntable that comes with Bluetooth built-in saves you the hassle of needing to buy a Bluetooth transmitter, a converter, and an external preamp. You also avoid having to connect all of those items to one another. Many people prefer this option when looking for a modern record player because it’s simpler.

Additionally, make sure that your current speakers aren’t Wi-Fi only. You wouldn’t be able to connect to them with Bluetooth, even after setting it up correctly on your turntable. A hybrid set would offer both connection options to work with your Wi-Fi speakers.

Overall, you’ll want to think about how you want to listen to the turntable before buying one. If you’re going to listen using different devices, having a turntable with multiple ways to connect is best.

5. Add Bluetooth to a Vintage Turntable

Since all you need to add Bluetooth to a turntable is a preamp and Bluetooth transmitter. This method works even for vintage record players! You can connect your vintage record player to your Bluetooth speaker or headphones for an entirely new listening experience.

Most older turntables won’t have a built-in preamp, so you’ll need first to make sure you have one. From there, plug your transmitter into the preamp. If you want to follow along with a YouTube video, watch this:

Overall, many vinyl lovers are surprised to learn that it’s straightforward to set up Bluetooth on their old record players. It’s the same process you use to set up Bluetooth on modern models. If you already have a record player at home, you don’t need a new one to enjoy Bluetooth compatibility!

Benefits of Using Bluetooth With a Turnable

Are you wondering why you should connect your turntable with Bluetooth? There are many benefits that you can take advantage of. Many people enjoy having fewer cables to manage and enjoy taking their music around the house with them.

Here are all of the benefits of setting up Bluetooth on your turntable:

Fewer Cables

Having fewer cables is beneficial for many reasons. You won’t have to deal with hiding the wires to keep your space looking nice. Plus, it’s easier to set up the record player anywhere. Without all those cables coming out of the back, you can put it somewhere more convenient.

When people install Bluetooth on their turntables, they usually think of this benefit first. I’m confident your record player could also benefit!

Can Easily Move the Turntable

Using Bluetooth also makes it easier to move the turntable whenever you need to. You can take it anywhere to get power and still listen to your favorite music through Bluetooth. If you want to bring your music outside for a special gathering, you can do so easily.

Suppose you often move your furniture or take the turntable with you during the day. In that case, it’s possible with Bluetooth connectivity.

More Portability

Plus, your vinyl records get more portability overall. You can find Bluetooth transmitters that offer long-range listening, allowing you to move around the home. At the same time, you can listen to your favorite records no matter where you go.

If you want to do chores, sit outside, work out, or clean while listening to your music, you can easily do so without any wires holding you back.

Most Bluetooth transmitters have at least a range of 30 feet (9.14 meters). This option is plenty for most homes! You can likely go upstairs without breaking the connection unless you have a very large house. It’s possible to find options that can reach much further than that if you need them.

Easily Connect to More Devices

Bluetooth is a universal connection- you can find thousands of Bluetooth-compatible devices that you can connect with your turntable. Plus, some transmitters allow you to connect multiple devices at once.

Overall, you’ll have no problem connecting to a variety of devices- without having to change the wires and connections every single time.

Easy Setup

Lastly, setting up Bluetooth is very easy. It shouldn’t take you very long, whether or not you have any experience using it. Simply put your devices into pairing mode, then connect your turntable with them.

Most Bluetooth headphones and speakers will give you audio cues and use flashing lights to tell you when they’re in pairing mode. They’ll do something similar to let you know that you’ve successfully connected to your turntable. Many devices make it obvious to connect with Bluetooth.

Plus, most devices will save their previous connections, allowing them to connect with your turntable as soon as you turn on the transmitter. Setting up later only takes a few seconds after you’ve turned the transmitter and receiver on.

Are There Wireless Alternatives to Bluetooth?

There are wireless alternatives to Bluetooth. Bluetooth is the best option for wirelessly connecting a turntable to your speakers or headphones. However, some turntables also use Wi-Fi to connect to speakers. There are several pros and cons to using Wi-Fi on a turntable.

The biggest con to using Wi-Fi on a turntable is that your music will stutter or stop when you don’t have a strong Wi-Fi connection. If you have issues with your Wi-Fi, it’s not the best choice for you to use at home.

However, music tends to sound better when broadcast through Wi-Fi when compared to Bluetooth. Bluetooth compresses audio, which then needs uncompressed after transmitting for you to hear it. Compression can lower the quality of the sound.

That said, Bluetooth is still the best option for most people to use with their turntables. Your music won’t stop if your Wi-Fi runs into connectivity issues!

Final Thoughts

In short, you can connect your Bluetooth-compatible devices with a turntable through a transmitter. The transmitter should connect to your preamp, whether you have an external or internal one.

This method should even work for vintage turntables! Many vinyl lovers use Bluetooth for its portability. You can use it to listen to your music anywhere in the house. Plus, you won’t have to deal with as many wires.

Related Articles
- What Are Bluetooth Record Players And Are They Worth It?
- 15 Best Record Players With Bluetooth (Wireless Turntable)
April 6, 2022
Top 15 Classical Music Albums To Own on Vinyl
Classical music is a great way to destress, get better sleep, and focus. Blending good classical music into your everyday life will bring you one step closer to the mental health benefits that come with the genre, and one way to go about doing this is to start adding some classical albums to your vinyl collection. However, it can be intimidating to know which albums to buy because there are so many options out there.

Here are the 15 best classical music albums to own on vinyl:
1. The Four Seasons by Seiji Ozawa-Boston Symphony Orchestra
2. Impressions: The Sound of Debussy by Warner Classics
3. Tchaikovsky Concerto No. 1
4. Bach: Complete Sonatas… by Arthur Grumiaux
5. Classical Chillout
6. Mozart: Requiem In D Minor by Deutsche Grammophon
7. J.S. Bach: Goldberg Variations by Johann Sebastian Bach
8. Living Room Songs by Ólafur Arnalds
9. Disney Goes Classical by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
10. Masterpieces Of Chopin by Wagram
11. Masterpieces Of Vivaldi by Wagram
12. The Hobbit & The LOTR by Prague Philharmonic Orchestra
13. Masterpieces Of Bach by Wagram
14. Masterpieces Of Beethoven by Wagram
15. Les Chefs D’Douvres De Tchaikovsky by Wagram
Let’s expand on this list in fuller detail to see why these albums will make excellent additions to your vinyl record collection.

1. The Four Seasons by Seiji Ozawa-Boston Symphony Orchestra

In this album, Seiji Ozawa, John Silverstein, and the Boston Symphony Orchestra perform Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons.

Created by Italian composer Antonio Vivaldi in 1723, Four Seasons truly lives up to the term “classical” and remains beloved to this day. Vivaldi’s best work is known for pieces like “Allegro” and “Largo,” which many of today’s classical enthusiasts know and love. The Four Seasons is audibly stunning, featuring an energizing, yet simultaneously calming, feel.

According to a review on Sputnik Music, Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons is the best piece of classical music of all time that truly stands the test of time.

The Four Seasons is truly a masterpiece. Why not add it to your collection?

2. Impressions: The Sound of Debussy by Warner Classics

Impressions: The Sound of Debussy by Warner Classics features some of the best work of French composer Achille-Claude Debussy.

Praised for his mastery of the piano, Debussy is well known for the sheer beauty of his songs. His best works include “Clair de lune” (“Moonlight”), “Arabesques,” and “La Mer” (“The Sea”). All of these pieces can be found in Impressions: The Sound of Debussy.

Britannica says that Debussey’s music is a great piece of music influenced by poetry and painting.

Debussy’s work is peaceful, hypnotic, and a true example of the audible sanctuary. His music has inspired countless listeners for decades, and will undoubtedly inspire many more in decades to come.

3. Tchaikovsky Concerto No. 1

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky has maintained his position as a well-renowned artist for over a century. Known for being one of the greatest Russian composers of all time, his work has touched the lives of many for decades. His ability to manipulate the piano and transform it into something magical is something nearly indescribable.

If you’re interested in adding some of this composer’s work to your collection, I recommend Tchaikovsky Concerto No. 1 (available on Amazon.com). This classical vinyl album includes a more modern recording of some of Tchaikovsky’s best work. It’s also a relatively affordable album to own on vinyl, which is always a plus.

If Concerto No. 1 sounds like something you want to hear on vinyl, I strongly recommend adding this to your collection of classical vinyl.

4. Bach: Complete Sonatas… by Arthur Grumiaux

Complete Sonatas and Partitas for Solo Violin features some of Bach’s best work performed by violinist Arthur Grumiaux.

Born in Belgium in 1921, Grumiaux was pushed to study music at a young age by his grandfather. He studied both violin and piano and eventually performed at such moving levels that he was recognized for his talent by the Belgian government. The German invasion in the 1940s delayed Grumiaux’s debut, but he quickly advanced once his career was initiated.

Now, you can enjoy the talent of Arthur Grumiax in Complete Sonatas and Partitas for Solo Violin. Add it to your vinyl record collection and enjoy this musician’s take on some of Bach’s most praised work.

5. Classical Chillout

If you’re on the market for a collection of different classical works with relaxation in mind, look no further than Classical Chillout.

Classical Chillout (available on Amazon.com) is an excellent album to own on vinyl for all enthusiasts of classical music. This particular album has been a popular favorite for decades. It was initially released to a public audience in 2001, and has been a beloved choice for music lovers ever since.

This album is a collection of timeless musical works by a wide variety of different traditional composers as well as more contemporary classical artists. It provides you with almost two hours of relaxing classical music, so it’s great to turn on in the background while working, reading, cleaning, or sleeping.

Classical Chillout is definitely one of the best options out there for music lovers who want to take their current vinyl collection to the next level.

6. Mozart: Requiem in D Minor by Deutsche Grammophon

Mozart: Requiem In D Minor is an album made by Deutsche Grammophon and various performing artists.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was an Austrian composer known for his outstanding levels of pure talent. Born in Salzburg in 1756, he soon became the poster child for prodigy. He began playing the harpsichord at three years old and started composing at the age of five. Mozart is also known for anecdotes revolving around his gentle and sensitive nature.

Classic FM crowns Mozart as the most talented classical musician of all time, combining “divine” inspiration and hard work to create masterpieces that never cease to inspire.

If you’re interested in adding a bit of Mozart’s magic to your vinyl collection, this album is the perfect place to start.

7. J.S. Bach: Goldberg Variations

Another excellent album that accentuates the best works of Bach is J.S. Bach: Goldberg Variations.

J.S. Bach: Goldberg Variations (available on Amazon.com) is a collection of different works by Johann Sebastian Bach. These works were performed and recorded on the harpsichord by Pieter-Jan Belder.

Customer reviews describe Belder’s recordings as highly emotional and heartfelt, even by those who are not usually fans of the classical music genre. These reviews are a testament to Belder’s incredible ability to take timeless masterpieces and honor them with beautiful harpsichord skill.

J.S. Bach: Goldberg Variations will make an excellent addition to any vinyl record collection, regardless of whether or not you consider yourself a fanatic for classical music. That’s the magic of Belder’s work in this album.

8. Living Room Songs

If you’re looking for an album that contains modern classical music, Living Room Songs is the perfect choice.

Living Room Songs (available on Amazon.com) is a collection of pieces by Icelandic musician Ólafur Arnalds. Arnalds has experience playing instruments in a few different metal bands, but he’s also a master in the craft of creating heartfelt and expressive experimental contemporary classical music.

Living Room Songs is a great selection for you if you’re a lover of both classically influenced music that also contains modern experimental perspectives. I’m sure this will serve as an upgrade to your vinyl collection.

9. Disney Goes Classical by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

Disney Goes Classical (available on Amazon.com)is an album performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. It offers a classical take on popular Disney tracks from movies such as The Lion King, Frozen, and Toy Story.

According to their website, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra has a mission to create an enriching experience through superb orchestral performances that appeal to everyone. They certainly live up to those standards with their performance in Disney Goes Classical.

This album is perfect if you’re looking to appeal to a younger crowd while simultaneously checking off the “classical music” box. This addition to your vinyl collection will surely be a crowd-pleaser for years to come.

10. Masterpieces of Chopin by Wagram

Masterpieces Of Chopin (available on Amazon.com) is an excellent way to add some of Chopin’s most remarkable works to your classical vinyl collection.

Frédéric François Chopin— also known by the Polish name Fryderyk Franciszek Szopen— was a French-Polish artist born in 1810. Known for his composition and his mastery of the piano, Chopin was truly a wizard in his craft.

While he wrote only a few short piano works, they were enough to make him one of the greatest musicians of all time.

If you’re looking to add a hint of Chopin’s magic and musical genius to your vinyl collection, you can’t go wrong with Masterpieces Of Chopin.

11. Masterpieces of Vivaldi by Wagram

Masterpieces Of Vivaldi by Wagram (available on Amazon.com) is a lovely collection of some of Vivaldi’s finest works.

Antonio Lucio Vivaldi was born in 1678 in Venice, Italy. Taught by the talent and influence of his father, Vivaldi grew to be one of the world’s best classical composers, known for The Four Seasons (which we discussed earlier).

In Masterpieces Of Vivaldi, you get The Four Seasons as well as a handful of some of his other beloved works. This album is genuinely hypnotic in the best possible way.

12. The Hobbit & The LOTR by Prague Philharmonic Orchestra

The Hobbit & The Lord of the Rings (available on Amazon.com) will make an excellent addition to your vinyl collection if you’re on the hunt for something familiar to ease your way into the world of classical music.

Performed by the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra, this album is fantastic, featuring one of the best scores in film history.

The soundtracks were initially composed by Canadian composer Howard Leslie Shore. He has masterminded the music for over 80 different movies, but his work on The Hobbit & The Lord of the Rings has received the most praise of all.

Shore combined beautiful classical inspiration with Tolkien’s universe in a way that produced one of the most iconic scores in film history. His talent and experience truly shines through in this magical collection of works.

According to a review by Classic FM, Howard Shore’s Lord of the Rings score has received so many rewards and won the hearts of many music-lovers through its memorable, melancholic melodies and epic buildups.

If you’ve been wanting to get into classical music but aren’t ready for more traditional pieces quite yet, getting Shore’s soundtracks on vinyl is the perfect way to start.

13. Masterpieces of Bach by Wagram

Masterpieces Of Bach (available on Amazon.com)is the perfect album for letting the best of Bach into your vinyl collection.

Johann Sebastian Bach was born in Eisenach, Germany in 1685. Born into a family of talented musicians, it made sense that Bach would grow up to be one of the most iconic composers of all time.

Bach is best known for works like The Well-Tempered Clavier, Concerto For Two Violins, and Toccata and Fugue in D minor. These pieces are only a few examples of the music that is featured in Masterpieces Of Bach.

This album is an excellent collection of some of Bach’s most beloved and esteemed musical accomplishments. Composed with extremely potent levels of genius and heart, Bach’s strategically-created music will certainly make you feel all sorts of emotions. His work is moving to say the least, and Masterpieces Of Bach is an album that surely makes that clear.

14. Masterpieces of Beethoven by Wagram

Masterpieces Of Beethoven (available on Amazon.com) is yet another collection of some of Beethoven’s finest works, explicitly compiled to feature the masterpieces of this composer.

Beethoven was a genuinely remarkable composer and a perfect example of a person who rose above hardships. Though his father was the first to teach Beethoven anything about music, the man fell victim to his alcoholism and let young Beethoven fall victim to abuse.

But these issues didn’t stop his genius from turning him into a magical conductor, musician, and improviser. He was so prolific, inventive, and energetic that he became famous by the age of 30.

Beethoven’s raw talent is displayed in the works included in Masterpieces of Beethoven. This album showcases some of the artist’s most well known works, including pieces like Für Elise and Symphony No. 9. It also features Symphony No. 5, which is one of the most commonly performed symphonies in the world of western music.

Beethoven’s work is both honored and celebrated in Masterpieces Of Beethoven, an profoundly emotional collection of true musical works of art.

You can’t have a complete collection of classical vinyl records without including Beethoven’s legendary masterpieces. You can hear the composer’s triumph in his music, and this album will surely make that possible for you.

15. Les Chefs D’Douvres De Tchaikovsky by Wagram

Les Chefs D’Douvres De Tchaikovsky is another classical album made by Wagram.
Featuring some of the Russian composer Tchaikovsky’s best works, Les Chefs D’Douvres De Tchaikovsky (available on Amazon) would be right at home spinning on your record player. This album is a truly great one to own on vinyl, and for its affordability, it would be a shame not to make this purchase.
March 30, 2022
Best Jazz Records on Vinyl: 13 Albums You Should Own on Vinyl
With vinyl records more popular now than ever, it can be challenging to narrow down the options out there. It isn’t easy to make decisions when it comes to purchasing albums on vinyl because there are just so many albums to choose from- especially in the jazz genre. That’s why I’ve created a list of the best jazz albums that you need to hear on vinyl.

Here are the 13 best jazz vinyl records that you need to hear:
1. Kind of Blue by Miles Davis
2. Dave Brubeck’s Greatest Hits by Dave Brubeck
3. Duke Ellington and John Coltrane by Duke Ellington and John Coltrane
4. A Go Go by John Scofield
5. Chet Baker Sings by Chet Baker
6. Shadow Work by Mammal Hands
7. Green by Robohands
8. Stay a While by The Cactus Channel
9. End of the World Party (Just in Case) by Medeski, Martin & Wood
10. Memphis Underground by Herbie Mann
11. A Love Supreme by John Coltrane
12. The Incredible Jazz Guitar of Wes Montgomery
13. The Quintet: Jazz At Massey Hall
Now let’s discuss why these jazz albums are so great- and why they will make an excellent addition to your collection of vinyl records.

1. Kind of Blue by Miles Davis

You can’t have a jazz collection on vinyl without owning a copy of Kind of Blue by Miles Davis.

In April of 1959, Miles Davis and his trumpet collaborated with a handful of other jazz artists to create the worldwide phenomenon known as Kind of Blue.

Some regard Miles Davis as the best jazz musician of all time. No other jazz album has sold as well as the quadruple-platinum masterpiece Kind of Blue, which has sold nearly 5 million copies in its 62-year reign as a favorite to many. Davis’ music is still popular to this day, with “So What” having been streamed over 67 million times on Spotify alone.

“Kind Of Blue not only changed the way people regarded Miles,” says a review by BBC, “it changed the very face of music itself… It never falters, despite its meandering pace.”

Kind of Blue is classy, effortless, and kinetic. Davis’ trumpet is crisp and clean, and his solos are an extraordinary kind of genius that you can’t help but drop your jaw to the sound of. So why not add it to your vinyl collection?

2. Time Out by the Dave Brubeck Quartet

You’ve likely heard “Take Five” at least once in your life- and Dave Brubeck is to thank for that.

Dave Brubeck was an American jazz artist who started creating his music in the 1940s. Time Out was initially released in December of 1949 and features some of Brubeck’s best work, including “Take Five.”

“Take Five” is one of the most famous and influential jazz songs in the world. It currently has over 154 million streams on Spotify, and for a good reason.

The song is bouncy, elevating, and the audible embodiment of cheer. The saxophone is glossy and effortless, supported by comforting bass notes and sturdy piano lines. Though the track is simple in theory, the genius behind its complex simplicity is far from elementary. It flows beautifully and leaves you harboring this feeling that has understandably warmed the hearts of millions.

“It’s hypnotic, stabilizing, and inviting,” says a review by jazz enthusiast Allen Michie.

Time Out also features other well-known songs, like “Blue Rondo à la Turk,” which features a more complex and fast-paced kind of excitement that is described as “an ingenious construction” and an “interlocking jigsaw puzzle” by Michie.

“The album seems to roll out of the loudspeakers with a fresh, joyous burst of melody and swing, no matter how complex the meters or pungently polytonal the harmonies,” says San Francisco Classical Voice. “It sounds so spontaneous, so easy.”

Time Out is flawless, and if you have the desire to add a jazz masterpiece to your vinyl record collection, it will surely be an addition that meets the criteria.

3. Duke Ellington and John Coltrane by Duke Ellington and John Coltrane

Duke Ellington and John Coltrane was released in 1963 by- you guessed it- Duke Ellington and John Coltrane.

Duke Ellington was an award-winning pianist and composer who collaborated with the talented saxophonist (and fellow composer) John Coltrane to record the album in 1962. Its first track “In a Sentimental Mood” still remains popular in a day of digital streaming, with over 162 million plays on Spotify.

“In a Sentimental Mood” is a beautiful kind of melancholy. Cleanly sophisticated piano played by Ellington and Coltrane’s heartfelt saxophone work together to create deceptive effortlessness that really does put you in a sentimental mood.

According to a review by On Stage Magazine, the song has an “ability to create an emotional connection between the mood, the music, and the listener.”

“‘In a Sentimental Mood’ is a stroke of brilliance,” says On Stage Magazine about the work of Ellington and Coltrane. “These are two of the giants of jazz, and the music they make together is sublime… [and] not only music, but also a piece of history.”

Duke Ellington and John Coltrane also feature other popular tracks, including more complex and rhythmically outgoing songs like “Take The Coltrane” and “Angelica” that still remain thoroughly-listened to today.

This collaborative album is an authentic piece of art, and if you don’t already have it in your collection of jazz vinyl records, you’re surely missing out on something beautiful.

4. A Go Go by John Scofield

A Go Go is a 1997 album written and performed by jazz guitarist John Scofield in collaboration with Medeski, Martin & Wood. It was nominated for the Soul Train Music Award for Best Jazz Album and features tracks with notes of funk, smooth jazz, and the unconventional electric bliss of Scofield’s guitar.

The album is upbeat and uplifting, and though each track is unique, the album has an overall flow that’s satisfyingly cohesive. Songs like “A Go Go” and “Green Tea” utilize silky bass, soft percussion, and crisp electric guitar to create a sound that’s far from ordinary and near perfection.

A review by Tim DiGravina describes the tracks in ‘A Go Go’ as “mostly breezy, sometimes tense, jam-based grooves” that embrace a “warm, vibrant sound” that’s almost impossible not to dance along to.

“A Go Go is far more than four cool cats jamming together and enjoying each other’s company,” says DiGravina. “It’s an immensely entertaining, enlightening ride.”

With a copy of A Go Go on vinyl, your collection will be blessed with an innovatively unique album that’s sure to appeal to the ear of any jazz enthusiast.

5. Chet Baker Sings by Chet Baker

Chet Baker Sings is an album by trumpeter and vocalist Chet Baker. It was launched by Pacific Jazz Records and won a Grammy Hall of Fame award in 2001, and is one of the most well-loved albums in jazz and 20th-century music as a whole.

Chet Baker Sings is the first album that includes vocals by Baker in addition to his usual cool jazz. The track “I Fall In Love Too Easily” is known and adored by many, and remains popular to this day with almost 70 million streams on Spotify.

The love for Baker’s songs is so understandable. His voice is velvety and calming, and his trumpet is no different. The musician’s work draws you in and hypnotizes you, especially “I Fall In Love Too Easily.” It’s the kind of song that changes you; you’re different after listening to Baker’s songs, almost fundamentally.

“Besides being the poster boy of West Coast Jazz,” says Haluk Dumar in an article about the musician’s life, “Baker is also credited as one of the legendary trumpet players of jazz history.”

Baker’s influence and magic come to life in Chet Baker Sings, and it’s an album that will sound amazing on a record player.

6. Shadow Work by Mammal Hands

Shadow Work by Mammal Hands is an excellent example of modern jazz, and happens to be my personal favorite.

Released in October of 2017 by a newer jazz trio from Norwich, Shadow Work is an intricately surreal and ambient album with saxophone that seems to flow like water and piano that sounds like the fluttering of butterflies- if you could assign music to such a thing.

“Boreal Forest” is a prime example of Mammal Hands’ musical genius. At nearly 4 million plays on Spotify, this song exceeds its worth in terms of popularity. The colorful saxophone, warming piano, and soft percussion come together to create something extraordinary. Its brilliance is the musical embodiment of a true boreal forest.

Though “Boreal Forest” is undoubtedly one of the best pieces of 21st-century jazz, Shadow Work is filled with other outstanding tracks like “Black Sails” and “Being Here.”

A review by Nextbop claims that “there is something tantric, meditative and deeply moving with European jazz [that is] more focused on patterns and vibes” as opposed to maintaining American jazz traditions.

“The band says that they take inspiration from North Indian Folk and the spiritual places it takes you, and that dance is clearly on show here,” says a review by Higher Plain Music. “It sounds like sanctuary… [and] I feel like I’ve been cleansed or gone through a catharsis each time I listen to it – and each time I grow more connected to it.”

Shadow Work is undoubtedly a masterpiece and a true example of artistic jazz that maintains personality, style, and a deep-rooted passion for the beauty that can be found in the natural world around us. It’s something that needs to be in everyone’s vinyl collection.

7. Green by Robohands

Green by Robohands was released in May of 2018 and is yet another charming example of lesser-known modern jazz.

Bandcamp describes Robohands as “the experimental solo/collaborative project of London based composer/multi instrumentalist Andy Baxter.” Like Mammal Hands, Robohands is another example of European jazz that strays from orthodox jazz traditions but still maintains bits and pieces of American influence.

Green is an album that’s calming, inquisitive, and melancholy all at once. Tracks like “Green” and “Lament” seem to draw their inspiration from soft funk with quirky electric guitar lines and notes of delightfully smooth keyboard that almost makes you float.

“With almost zero effort to promote the album, Robohands has grown in underground popularity getting over a million views on his album and songs on YouTube and gaining gig requests left, right and centre from all over the world,” says a review by Content Catnip, which also describes Robohands as “a great example of a musician who is just making his art and doing it superbly on a shoe-string budget. And now he is emerging and achieving success due to his raw talent.”

Robohands is undoubtedly an up-and-coming artist. Adding Baxter’s album Green to your vinyl collection would definitely be an educated decision.

8. Stay a While by The Cactus Channel

Stay a While is an album by the eclectic group The Cactus Channel.

Released in November of 2017, Stay a While has since grown in popularity, with their top track “Stay a While” currently at over 2 million streams on Spotify alone.

The album derives influence from jazz, soul futurism, and alternative trends that make it not only a collection of songs, but a collection of genres and styles as well. “Stay a While” features entrancing bass, electric guitar, percussion, and hypnotic saxophones to produce a track that I cannot stop listening to- and I’m sure you won’t either.

The Cactus Channel is a truly innovative band. According to their About page, their shared “love of soul music and the kind of hip-hop, jazz, and alternative releases that spring from it, meant that from the beginning The Cactus Channel have prided themselves not just on eclecticism, but on the constant sharing of influences among their members; exploring new influences and sonic territories.”

According to a review by Stereonet, the “vintage tone of the dual guitars, the warm, talkative bass style, the jazzy organ, the funky drummer and the fat horn section” all create “a combined effect of harkening back to a classic era of soul music.”

“The bass and horns often help to keep the songs grounded in terms of key,” says Stereonet, “while the keys and guitar parts seem to be pushing against our expectations, whether that be with unexpected counter melodies, or knowing just the right notes to play to create suspense.”

Their music really is remarkable, and you won’t be disappointed by Stay a While. The album is similar to The Cactus Channel itself- creatively unlike any other. It will indeed feel at home in your vinyl collection.

9. End of the World Party (Just in Case) by Medeski, Martin & Wood

End of the World Party (Just in Case) is a jazz-funk album released in September of 2004 by Medeski, Martin & Wood.

Medeski, Martin & Wood is an American jazz band that was formed in 1991 and consists of John Medeski (keyboardist), Billy Martin (drummer), and Chris Wood (bassist). The group is known and praised for their often unusual takes on jazz-funk, and their talent for producing the irregular is clear in End of the World Party (Just in Case).

The album features upbeat and fast-paced funk with influence from more conventional jazz traditions as well. The electric mood of the group’s creative instrumentals provides the listener with a fresh perspective on both jazz and funk genres.

All About Jazz describes the group as “an underground jazz legend” and claims that listeners “will marvel at the mood and flow of this studio creation that certainly contains, apart from the physical presence of the band and an audience, all the best qualities of this trio on stage.”

“The development of momentum is imperceptible,” says All About Jazz, “until you find yourself in the midst of the sharp funk of something like ‘Ice’ and realize how much ground you and the threesome have covered in terms of textures and beats.”

There’s something so special about Medeski, Martin & Wood. They seem to lack any fear of the often-present pressure to stick to what is known rather than unknown. But this group has undoubtedly ventured into the unknown, and within its depths produced something remarkable that would, without a doubt, be a great album to own on vinyl.

10. Memphis Underground by Herbie Mann

Herbert Jay Soloman- known by the moniker Herbie Mann and for his jazz-flute innovations- created Memphis Underground in 1969.

The album is a colorful blend of jazz, blues, and a touch of funk. Mann is known for being one of the first-ever jazz musicians to have utilized the flute in the genre, and his work has served well-known and influential roles ever since it first made its way to the public ear.

“Herbie Mann was one of the most prolific jazz artists ever and was never one to shy away from trying out the latest trends and styles so that he could record yet one more album,” says a review by Music Archives.

This drive to do something new and unheard of made Mann the star that he was. Mann and Memphis Underground undoubtedly had an influence on the jazz genre as a whole, and I’d like to believe that the album will serve you well in your vinyl record collection.

11. A Love Supreme by John Coltrane

A Love Supreme was created in December of 1964 by acclaimed saxophonist John Coltrane.

The album consists of four tracks, each one more unique than the last. Coltrane’s raw talent and master of the art of jazz truly shines through in A Love Supreme. His magic with the saxophone is unlike any other, and it makes the album excellent.

“A Love Supreme is John Coltrane’s defining album,” says Pitchfork. “Structured as a suite and delivered in praise of God, everything about it is designed for maximum emotional impact.”

The album was recorded after Coltrane was fired from the band of Miles Davis for problems involving an addiction to drugs and alcohol. But luckily for Coltrane (and the rest of the world), he recovered from his addictions and felt inspired to let creation bloom in places that were once infected with pain and hardships.

“He wasn’t just covering ground,” says Pitchfork, “he was accelerating.”

Now, A Love Supreme is regarded by some to be the finest collection of jazz works in history. With a masterful expression of love and overcoming adversity, Coltrane’s most famous album has touched the lives of millions throughout the world- and still continues to do so to this day.

A Love Supreme is excellent; it needs to be on your shelf as soon as possible.

12. The Incredible Jazz Guitar of Wes Montgomery

The Incredible Jazz Guitar of Wes Montgomery is an album released in April of 1960 by acclaimed jazz guitarist John Leslie Montgomery.

Montgomery picked up the guitar at age 19 and never seemed to put it back down. He learned how to play the instrument by copying songs by Charlie Christian and figuring out how to play them all on his own. The guitarist had an excellent ear for music, which is beautifully apparent in this album.

Being a self-taught guitarist, Montgomery was known for his unorthodox approach to playing the guitar. He developed a technique that was often seen as unusual, but it gave him a unique sound that helped him rise to fame as a solo artist in the 50’s. One of the noted peculiarities of his technique is that he preferred to use his right thumb instead of a traditional guitar pick.

“Universally acknowledged as one of the greatest guitarists in the history of jazz, Wes Montgomery virtually defined modern jazz guitar during the 1950s and ’60s,” says the official Wes Montgomery website. “His unique idiomatic conception to the instrument and the power of his soloing influenced generations of players who followed him.”

Montgomery’s work as a jazz musician— especially his work in The Incredible Jazz Guitar of Wes Montgomery— created a legacy that has lasted to this day. If you’re looking to add a piece of that legacy to your own collection, this album is the way to go.

13. The Quintet: Jazz At Massey Hall

Jazz At Massey Hall is a live bebop jazz album created in 1953 by “The Quintet.” Known for being Charlie Parker’s last collaborative work, it is considered one of the best live jazz performances to have been recorded.

“The Quintet” was a group of renowned jazz musicians, consisting of Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Parker, Bud Powell, Max Roach, and Charles Mingus. This album features their performance in Massey Hall, a well-known event venue in Toronto.

Parker’s work is loved by essentially everyone, even to this day. Jazz At Massey Hall is considered by some to be a must-have for any collection of vinyl records, and it certainly lives up to its expectations.

Why Listen to Jazz?

Jazz is a genre of such massive historical and cultural influence. It’s a beautiful method of expression, and without it, our world- especially the modern music industry- would surely be something incomprehensibly different from the one we’re familiar with today.

Hopefully, this list of the best jazz albums to own on vinyl has helped you appreciate jazz and the act of vinyl collecting a bit more. This genre is genuinely remarkable, and these albums are great examples of that.
March 27, 2022
5 Steps To Removing A Technics 1200 Platter
Featured Image: “technics 1200 gold” by sergio luna2009 is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Most folks, including myself, love servicing our electronics as a hobby; after all, the key to listening to exceptional music is maintaining your turntable. Unfortunately, suppose you have never serviced your turntable, especially a technics 1200 series turntable. In that case, you may be wondering how you can access the internal parts of your record player. So after thorough research, I compiled the following five steps to removing a technics 1200 platter.

The Technics 1200 series needs to be serviced or repaired like every turntable. And the only way you can access the motor or any other part is by removing the platter. But removing it can be a bit challenging, especially when stuck, so you should be ready to whack the spindle with a screw driver’s head.

The Technics 1200 was one of the most influential turntables series loved by everyone. This turntable became quite popular among DJs after being released in the early 1970s. (source) Unfortunately, removing its platter is not as straightforward as other brands, but it is possible. So in this article, we’ll show you how to remove a Technics 1200 platter.

What Is The Technics 1200 Series?

The SL-1200 is one of the most influential turntables of all time. Developed by Shuichi Obata’s team in 1971, this model was released in 1972. The hip-hop DJs adopted this series in New York in the 1970s. The DJs loved this unit and started using it to perfect their scratching techniques after they discovered its motor would continue spinning at the right speed even after wiggling the record back-and-forth. (source)

The SL-1200 is a direct drive turntable series initially manufactured between 1972 and 2010, before resuming in 2016. The SL-1200 series are direct drive record players under Panasonic Corporation. In fact, the “S” refers to “stereo,” and “L” stands for “player.” Initially launched as high-fidelity turntables, these units were quickly adopted by the disco club and radio DJs.

The SL-1200s popularity increased thanks to its unique high-torque motor design, making them ideal for starting tracks and pushbutton cueing. The SL-1200 is quite popular among audiophiles. And thanks to the high-torque motor system, DJs could mix records accurately and consistently. As high fidelity was the manufacturer’s primary goal, having exceptional control over the music and the quality made it stand out. (source)

These turntables were quite common in recording studios; over 3 million units were sold. This turntable is the most reliable and durable record player ever produced. Plus, most of the 1200 turntables made in the 1970s still get used to date. (source)

Why Are The Technics 1200 Series Popular?

The Technics Sl-1200 Was A Solution For Most Of The Issues Associated With Turntables

The SL-1200 series was a solution for most of the issues associated with the design of turntables. It was a special project designed by Shuichi Obata and his team. Their main goals were correcting the speed errors and minimizing unwanted resonance and acoustic feedback. The team achieved this by making a heavy base using non-resonant composite sandwiched between a rubber base and a cast iron upper plate.

The rubber-damped feet help minimize acoustic feedback that can be a significant issue when using it next to some loudspeakers. This problem made it hard for disco and radio DJs to mix and perfect their trade. But with the SL-1200 series, DJs didn’t have to ever worry about this problem; in fact, this unit made it easier for them to give an excellent performance. (source)

The Platter Comes With A Thick Rubber Coating

The lower side of the platter has a 1.2mm thick rubber coating that helps reduce the ringing; plus, the platter comes with a 2mm rubber mat. But most DJs replace the rubber mat with a slip mat for mixing purposes. Unfortunately, the platter is prone to resonance at 250Hz, mainly when used next to a powerful sound system. (source)

It Comes With A Direct Drive Design

Instead of the belt drive, this turntable comes with a direct drive design. It is a direct-drive design known for lowering flutter and wow, guaranteeing a turntable with minimal bearing and motor noises. The manufacturers managed this by making the platter part of the turntable’s motor mechanism. (source)

It Guarantees You A Consistent And Accurate Spinning Speed

The SL-1200 uses Frequency-Generator-Servo systems to guarantee a consistent and accurate spinning speed. Plus, it is immune to dynamic and stylus drag that triggers high-speed variances. (source) But despite being a reliable and highly durable unit, it is bound to break down once in a while and needs to be serviced. Therefore, you need to learn how to remove the Technics 1200 platter. (source)

How To Remove A Technics 1200 Platter

Unlike most low-end turntables, the Technics 1200 series are an exceptional line of turntables equipped with the best parts in the market. But for your turntable to function correctly, you have to be ready to service it regularly and make sure it’s covered when you’re not using it.

After all, Technics 1200’s platter can get stuck at times, and the fact that it’s made from plastic can prevent you from using too much force when removing it. So here are five steps to removing a Technics 1200 platter:

Step 1: Remove The Dust Cover

The turntable cover is one of the most exceptional parts of the turntable that protects your device from dust. The cover prevents an accumulation of dust on the vinyl played, the record player, and the inner parts of your device. Unfortunately, some folks have complained that it does affect the quality of the sound; therefore, they don’t use it when playing a vinyl record. (source)

Since it is not attached to the turntable in any way, the first thing you should do is lift the dust cover and place it in a safe place. If there is any vinyl record on the turntable, you should remove the stylus from its groove and put it on the side. Remove the vinyl from the record player and then unplug it from the mains. Unplugging it from the mains can help protect you and your device from an electrical shock.

Step 2: Remove The Mat

The Technics SL 1200 turntables come with a 2mm rubber mat that helps prevent resonance. So before accessing the platter, you should first remove the rubber mat. As aforementioned, some DJs tend to replace the rubber mat with a slipmat. The slip mat makes mixing in the clubs more manageable and more fun. (source)

Therefore, if you purchased a second-hand Technics 1200 from a DJ, you should remove the slip mat to access the platter. After all, most DJs tend to replace the rubber mat with a slipmat, making their work easier.

Step 3: Lift The Platter Of Your Direct Drive Turntable

Removing the platter can be pretty straightforward for most well-maintained 1200 turntables. Remember, the platter comes with two access holes which you can use to lift the platter off. (source) All you have to do is place your index fingers in the two access holes and lift the platter and place it aside. This method works for most turntables, including some 1200 record players.

The platter may sometimes be stuck to the spindle thanks to the accumulated dirt and dust, making it hard for you to pull it off. And since applying some force can be detrimental to your machine, you should be cautious.

When too much dust accumulates on the center spindle, the platter can stick, and since it’s made using plastic, you should try and avoid using too much force when pulling it out. Instead, you should try the following methods:

Method 1
- After removing the rubber mat, the first thing you should do is insert your index fingers in the access holes.
- Try pulling it out while pressing the center spindle with one of your thumbs.
- Apply a little force, and it will come off if it is not tightly stuck.
- And then lift the platter using your two hands.
- If the platter wasn’t stuck, this method could work, but if it doesn’t, you should try the following method. (source)
Method 2
- If the above method doesn’t work, you should try lifting it while whacking it with a mallet or a piece of wood.
- You can also lift the platter using your left hand while hitting the spindle and pulling it outside using your right index finger for this method to work.
- All you have to do is place your index finger in one of the access holes and whack the center spindle using the head of the screwdriver while pulling it out.
- You will feel the platter lifting with every strike. And within no time, the platter will be off, and you’ll be ready to start servicing your turntable. (source)
Method 3
- If you have a bad hand and can’t pull it out or hold the platter using your index finger while hitting it, you can place a flat head screwdriver on one edge of the platter and lift it a bit.
- Next, whack the center spindle using a mallet while pressing the screwdriver downwards to push it out.
- You can do this on one side and then switch to the other side if it doesn’t work, repeat this procedure, lift the platter off, and place it aside. (source)
If you try any of the above methods, you will feel the platter lifting until it loosens and comes off. These methods work with every Technics turntable. Plus, the platter won’t get damaged while you’re forcing it out.

Step 4: Service Or Repair The Turntable

After removing the platter, the first thing you should do is remove the muck formed on its spindle. Remember, the muck is the reason why the platter got stuck in the first place, and you had to whack the spindle to remove the platter. Next, you can clean the inner parts of the Technics SL-1200 turntable and, most importantly, examine the motherboard and the magnets placed below the platter.

Therefore, if the main goal for removing the platter was repairing your fast-spinning turntable or a damaged motor, then you should do that before reassembling it. If it’s a second-hand turntable, then the first thing you should do after purchasing it is service it. After all, you don’t know if the previous owner serviced it or damaged any component.

The latest Technics SL-1200 models come with a coreless direct-motor assembly, and it has no magnet ring attached to them. So make sure you know the difference between the 1200 turntables manufactured after 2016 and the older models. (source) After all, any error done while repairing this turntable can be very costly.

Step 5: Reassemble The Technics 1200 Platter

You can place the platter on the turntable after you have finished servicing it and confirmed that everything is back to normal. But make sure the center spindle is in the right hole before pushing it downwards. After removing the muck accumulated on the center spindle, removing the platter can be easy. Finally, you can reinstall the rubber mat or slip mat and plug it into the mains.

Place your favorite record on the turntable, place the stylus on its grooves and listen to some music. Ensure your turntable functions correctly before replacing the dust cover and storing it in a safe place. Suppose the turntable starts malfunctioning after reinstalling the platter. In that case, you will have to repeat the above process and reinstall it correctly.

Why Do I Need To Learn How To Remove The Technics 1200 Platter?

Thanks to the muck and dirt that collects on the center spindle, the platter can get stuck if not well-serviced. The silt can still collect on the spindle even if you keep your device covered using a dust cover. Plus, with the platter made using plastic, you may need to try and avoid using too much force when pulling it out or using the wrong method when removing it.

Prevent Further Damages

Too much force can result in the platter getting damaged. Remember, the platter is plastic, and too much power can break or crack, which is not suitable for your turntable. Too much pressure can damage the center spindle hole or the spindle itself, so you have to be strategic and remove it correctly. You can easily remove the platter without damaging your turntable with the correct method.

You Need To Service The Turntable A Couple Of Times Every Month.

Even with the dust cover, some microscopic dust and dirt can still accumulate on the surface of the rubber mat and inside the record player. So you may have to maintain it after every few weeks, primarily if you use it more often. First, you need to remove the platter and the rubber mat to access the motor. You can service it and then reassemble your turntable and, finally, test it.

Repair It

If the motor is spoiled or is spinning too fast or slow, you may have to troubleshoot the cause of the problem. And this means removing the platter and examining the motor and the motherboard, repairing it, and then reinstalling the platter.

Upgrade The Turntable

If you purchased an old model second-hand Technics SL-1200 turntable, you might need to upgrade some of its parts. You may need to replace the motor or work on the motherboard and update it before testing it. These upgrades will mean removing the platter and working on your turntable.

FAQs

How Do I Remove A Technics Sl-1200 Platter?

You can pull it up with your fingers on the access holes until it moves. You can try tapping the center spindle using a piece of wood while pulling it. You can whack it using the rubber or plastic handle of your screwdriver, and it will pull out.

Should I Use Too Much Force When Whacking The Center Spindle?

Simply tapping the center spindle won’t do the trick at times; you may have to use a little force. So instead of tapping it, you should whack it while pulling it out. Don’t be too afraid to tap the center spindle a little hard; after all, you need a little force for the platter to come off.

Are Technics SL-1200 Worth It?

Considered by most audiophiles as the best, many regard the SL-1200 as a legend by most radio and disco DJs. The turntable was designed to correct some of the main issues associated with turntables in the 1970s. And thanks to its unique design, it is one of the few turntables the DJs use to perfect their scratching techniques.

Conclusion

Despite being popular among the DJs removing its platter can be tricky, especially if some dirt has accumulated on its spindle. In order to remove a Technics 1200 platter that has gotten stuck, you need to insert your left or right-hand index finger in the access holes and whack the center spindle using the screwdriver’s head. You can try and tap it a little harder for the platter to come off.

Sources
1. Wikipedia contributor, Technics SL-1200, Accessed December 31, 2021
2. Joshua Kanter, Protect Your Decks With These Turntable Dust Cover, Accessed December 31, 2021
3. Santaji, Turntable Disassembly, Accessed December 31, 2021
4. Deck Tech, How to remove a seized platter from a Technics 1200/1201 turntable deck, Accessed December 31, 2021
5. Briansredd, Technics SL-1200 Platter Removal, Accessed December 31, 2021
6. Willie Harris, How to remove a platter from Technics turntables, Accessed December 31, 2021
February 7, 2022
How To Tell If Your Cartridge Is MM Or MC
You could have the best record player in the market with a fancy amplifier and exceptional speakers. Still, without a reliable high-end cartridge, you’ll always question the quality of the sound produced. After all, the cartridge is the only part of the turntable responsible for reading the undulations on the vinyl records.

This component, especially the MC cartridge, does more than protect your records; but it also guarantees you high-quality sounds. So if you want to know how to tell if your cartridge is MM or MC, please read on…

The MC (moving coil) cartridge comes with coils glued to the cantilever and spinning in a field created by permanent magnets. On the other hand, the MM (moving magnet) cartridge has vibrating magnets that vibrate around the coiled wire. The MM cartridge comes with a replaceable stylus.

The cartridge plays a crucial role in the quality of the sound produced by the record player and the longevity of your vinyl records. Therefore, when purchasing a new turntable or replacing a damaged cartridge, you need to know the difference between the two types of cartridges. This article will show you the difference between the MM and the MC cartridges.

What Is A Cartridge?

The record player’s cartridge is a crucial component that links your vinyl records to the speakers. The cartridge, however small, can affect the quality of your music, which is why audiophiles have several cartridges attached to the headshells of their turntables. The multiple cartridges allow for flexibility in enjoying certain music genres.

Luckily, every turntable comes with a reliable turntable, with the high-end ones coming with high-quality cartridges. But if you purchase a low-end turntable, you can upgrade it with time and improve the quality of the sound it produces. Fortunately, the cartridges have evolved over the last few decades from the mono cartridges to what we have today.

Like the mono cartridges, some have a design intended to read old vinyl records. The mono cartridge was developed specifically for reading monophonic records. Therefore all the mono vinyl records manufactured in the 1950s and 1960s are read using the mono cartridge. (source)

When the 78RPM records were introduced, the manufacturers made the 78 RPM cartridge. The 78RPM was explicitly designed for vintage records with a wider groove than the typical vinyl records. But currently, most record players are designed for reading 33 1/3 and 45 RPM records. But some folks still have the old vintage record players that can read even the 78 RPM records.

After all, some cartridges come with a removable stylus while others have a fixed stylus. So if you own the latter, you will have to replace the cartridge every time the stylus wears out. Suppose you have ever found yourself in a position to replace the cartridge. In that case, you must wonder what the difference is between the MM and the MC cartridges. (source)

What Is The Difference Between The Mm And The Mc Cartridges?

The two most common turntable cartridges are the Moving Magnet and Moving Coil cartridges. Both the MC and the MM cartridges have their advantage and disadvantages. So before purchasing a new cartridge, you should test it first. Or, if you buy it online, you should ensure that the description matches the sound quality you’re seeking. But if you don’t know how to differentiate the two, you may purchase the wrong option.

The MC and MM cartridges function as small electromagnetic generators. These cartridges have a needle that reads the vibrations on the vinyl records’ grooves and converts the mechanical movement or vibration to an electric signal. After all, the cartridge is the only component associated with the records directly, thanks to the stylus. (source)

These cartridges use a combination of wire coils and magnets to generate the electric signal by vibrating with the stylus. The signal is sent to the amplifier and the speakers. Unfortunately, the amplitude of navigating the record’s grooves is not an easy task.

The signals amplitude varies, and this requires a generator that can react quickly to the bumps and dips of the records. It would be best to have a light and robust stylus that can read the vibrations on the records’ grooves to achieve this. The needle must be light to limit vinyl record wear and respond quickly to the vibrations. Of course, you’ll set the tonearm balance, but check to ensure it matches the original manufacturer weight specifications for the cartridge. It should also be sturdy enough to transmit the mechanical signal from the tip of the needle to the generator. (source)

The cartridge should have little resonance. If it has to have resonance, its frequency should be between 20 and 20,000 Hz (outside the audible frequency band. It won’t affect the sound quality if it’s within this range. It should also have a low frequency that won’t accentuate the resonance and the noise of vibrations. (source)

What Is The Moving Magnet (Mm) Cartridge?

The MM cartridge is a crucial part of the turntable that features a unique cantilever-stylus combination with some small permanent magnets. These are placed between two sets of coil wires to create an exceptional electromagnetic generator. (source)

As the magnets vibrate while responding to the stylus’s movement on the record’s groove, the electromagnetic generator induces a current in the coils. When the two magnets vibrate, they cause the production of the electric current of lower intensity. (source)

In the MM cartridge’s assembly, the heaviest components are the magnets. But by positioning them near the pivot point or fulcrum of the cartridge, the weight of the needle will be minimized for it to respond accurately and quickly to the needle’s motion in the record’s groove. Other than enhancing the response, the lower tip mass lowers the force applied on the record to reduce the record’s wear and damages.

The MM cartridge produces high to moderate output levels, has a replaceable stylus, and works perfectly on a phono input on a receiver or stereo amplifier. The MM cartridge comes with a robust design that makes them excellent for demanding tasks like archiving, radio broadcasts, and live DJ.

Advantages
- It is affordable
- It comes with a replaceable stylus
- It is compatible with all the preamplifiers
Disadvantages
- It is heavier than the MC cartridge
- It is less accurate
What Is The Moving Coil (MC) Cartridge?

The MC cartridge reverses the position of the wire coils and the magnets. Therefore, the two coils get glued to the cantilever instead. They move in a field of fixed magnets positioned in the cartridge’s body to create the electromagnetic generator. The coils on the MC cartridge are smaller than those used in the MM design; plus, they use thin copper wire in their construction. The styli’s weight gives it an advantage over the MM cartridge design.

The electric signal produced by the arrangement is of low-output-level signals and low impedance. It might not seem reasonable at first, but this lightweight cartridge guarantees:
- A wider frequency response
- An improved transient response
- A detailed overall output, especially the low-level signal that a heavier cartridge can miss.
The MC cartridges are small, precision components that are generally more costly than MM. The high price is due to the difficulty and precision in manufacturing them. In fact, they are loved by audiophiles thanks to their better and measurable performance.

Unfortunately, the MC produces low-level output that requires an extra gaining stage to increase its volume. So it would be best if you had an even high-quality receiver and amplifier designed for that purpose.

You may sometimes find a dedicated set of phono inputs labeled “MC” that you can use with the record players with the MC cartridges. If your receiver or amplifier doesn’t have the magnetic coil section, you require a step-up transformer. You can also use an MC photo stage between the amplifier and the record player to get this gain. The MC is unique compared to the MM cartridge, but it has a fixed stylus.

The MC cartridge is available in two varieties, the high output, which produces over 1.5mV, and the low output, which makes less than 1mV. Other MC cartridges come with an even lower output of less than 0.3mV. When used on the MM inputs, the high output MC cartridges are compatible with the older preamplifier gain. On the other hand, low output cartridges have insufficient preamplifier gain or excess noise. (source)

A considerable percentage of the preamplifiers come with separate low noise and high gain MC inputs that accommodate the excess noise produced by the MC cartridge. A cartridge with low output requires a separate pre-phono amp phase before reaching the MM or MC preamp phase.

Advantages
- It provides a better tracking experience than the MM cartridge
- It comes with lighter mobile components
- It provides high frequencies that guarantee more precision
Disadvantages
- You cannot replace the stylus
- Restricted compatibility
Moving Coil Vs. Moving Magnet Cartridge

Despite performing the same function, these cartridges are pretty different. In fact, their difference is what makes them unique and reliable. So here are some of the main differences between the MM and MC cartridges:

Cost

Producing the MM cartridges is easier and cheaper; therefore, they are common among low-end turntables. On the other hand, manufacturing the MC can be costly, so they are pretty expensive and common among high-end turntables. (source)

Plus, you will need some additional amplifiers to amplify the small signal produced by the MC cartridges. The high-quality receivers play a vital role in the price of turntables with MC cartridges. So if you plan on upgrading your turntable, you should go for the MC cartridges, which can improve the output quality.

But despite their price and unique designs, the debate on which produces better sound is quite heated, with audiophiles preferring the MC cartridges. But the difference between the quality of their outputs is usually blurred by their design and cost. (source)

Mass

Generally, many believe that the Moving Coil cartridges have a lower moving mass, which is true compared to low-quality MM cartridges. The low-quality MM cartridges on low-end turntables are heavier. But the high-quality MM cartridges provide an even lower moving mass than some high-end MC cartridges.

A good example is technics EPC-100CMK4 which has a tip mass of about 0.55mg of MM design, while the Denon DL-301 MC design has a moving mass of about 0.270mg. Therefore, the moving mass of the MC design is lower than the low-end MM cartridges. (source)

Impedance And Inductance

The Moving Coil cartridges have low impedance and inductance than the Moving magnet design. Therefore, the MM cartridge’s capacitance effects are negligible compared to that of the MM cartridges. Even though the MM cartridges have a high impedance and inductance, their cable capacitance can easily affect the linearity of the phase response and flatness of your system’s frequency response. The adverse effects of cable capacitance account for the sonic benefits to the MC turntables. (source)

Stylus

Unlike the MC cartridges, the MM cartridge comes with a replaceable stylus. Therefore, when the needle of the MM cartridge gets damaged or wears out, you can only replace the stylus, which is relatively easy and cheaper. You have to remove the old stylus and install the new one.

But when upgrading your low-end turntable’s cartridge, you should be ready to either change the needle or the entire MM cartridge. On the other hand, the MC cartridge comes with a fixed needle. Therefore, the stylus is glued permanently to the cartridge. When it gets damaged, you have to replace the entire cartridge.

Which Cartridge Should I Choose?

Generally, both the MC and the MM cartridges guarantee excellent performance. They come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, prices, and quality levels. Therefore, folks looking to achieve high-quality sound from the turntable must pick one with an MC cartridge. (source) luckily, the model and make of the record player are the most crucial factors.

After all, most record players are compatible with one or more kinds of cartridges. So if you’re unsure of which types of cartridges are compatible with your turntable, then you should look at its manual or online. So when picking your next cartridge, you should confirm before purchasing just an option in the market.

When Should I Replace The Stylus Or Cartridge?

Generally, most manufacturers recommend that you should replace the cartridge or stylus after 1,000 hours of play. But if the stylus has worn out, you should replace the cartridge of the MC turntable as soon as possible if you plan on protecting your records. So here are a few things to watch out for when determining the right time to replace the cartridge:

Suppose you detect the static, crackle, channel imbalance, noise, or fuzziness. In that case, you should replace your cartridge or stylus as soon as possible. If you detect any form of distortion, you should look for a new cartridge for your turntable. (source)

Some of the physical signs of the record player you need to replace the cartridge or stylus. If the needle bounces or skips the records’ groove, it is time to purchase a new cartridge. You can also examine the needle using a magnifying lens for deformities or muck. If it’s coated with oil and dust, they combine to form a hardened residue that can mess the tip of the needle. (source)

If the stylus’s tip is damaged, distorted, or bent, then you need a replacement. Remember, even the MM cartridges need replacement at some point. After all, they are not designed to last forever. Replacing the needle can give your cartridge a new lease of life. But if you purchased a second-hand turntable, the first thing you should do is replace the cartridge. (source)

FAQs

How Can I Tell If My Record Player Has An Mm Or Mc Cartridge?

The most common thing to watch out for is the presence of a replaceable stylus. If the turntable has a replaceable stylus, you can replace the needle. Then it is most likely an MM cartridge. But if it has a fixed stylus, it’s an MC cartridge.

What Is An Mm Cartridge?

The moving magnet cartridge is the most common of the two cartridges in the market. The MM comes with tiny magnets attached to the cantilever, glued to the stylus. So, in this case, the coils are fixed while the magnets move to create the electric signal that is converted to sound.

Are Most Record Players MC Or MM?

Generally, most low-end turntables come with an MM design. So if you are working with a tight budget, you have options. But if the sound quality matters to you, you should go for the record players with MC design.

Conclusion

Generally, the most common types of cartridges are MM and MC cartridges in the market. But if you are new to the world of turntables, you may not know the difference between the two types of cartridges. The main difference between the two is the presence of a replaceable stylus found in MM cartridges and the position of the magnets and coils in the cartridges.

Sources
1. David Murray, A guide to Turntable cartridges and the best budget models, Accessed January 06, 2022
2. Clement, Moving Magnet or Moving Coil Cartridge: What is the Difference and Which Model to Choose? Accessed January 06, 2022
3. Wikipedia contributors, Magnetic Cartridge, Accessed January 06, 2022
4. Gary Altunian, Comparing Moving Magnet and Moving Coil Phono Cartridge Types, Accessed January 06, 2022
5. Stanley Goodner, How to Choose Your Next Turntable Cartridge or Stylus, Accessed January 06, 2022
February 7, 2022