What are /r/turntables' favorite Products & Services?

From 3.5 billion Reddit comments

are you using the stock cartridge / stylus still? it's best to use a scale such as this (https://www.amazon.com/Neoteck-Digital-Turntable-Backlight-Cartridge/dp/B01HRJ9NAY/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=vertical+tracking+force+gauge&qid=1626806729&sr=8-2) to put correct force on the stylus. i tend to set the anti-skate around the same level as the VTF (vertical tracking force).

is the stylus in good shape? perhaps some damage there is causing your issue?

can you post a pic of your stylus?

What about the speakers?

An alternative to the automatic AT-LP60 is the manual 1byOne turntable.

Then a budget for speakers instead of a stylus and mat upgrade.

The blue stylus can be added later when the white stylus wears out and it's time to replace it.

The acrylic mat can be added later too if the felt mat is really not working.

OP could get away with $220 for the setup with an Audio Technica LP60 and Edifier R1280T

I agree that spending that money on headphones would give more bang for the buck in terms of audio fidelity but its possible for OP to get started building a collection with affordable equipment and upgrade

If you can spend more the Fluance to buy is the newer improved Fluance RT82 $299 that adds an optical sensor speed controlled servo motor for much lower wow and flutter and speed variation and the speed won't drift since the sensor is monitoring the speed 400 times a second. It includes the Ortofon OM10 cartridge that is just as good as the newer version 2M Red.

Pass on the RT81 that like the RT80 also lacks the new speed sensor. Pass on the RT83 since the cartridge is not any better.

Or the Victrola VPRO-2000 is on sale for $103 to start out with and then upgrade to the Fluance RT82 later.

So, there are two pieces to this. You have the cartrdige and the stylus. The cartridge looks to be a standard ½" mount, which means you have a lot of choices. The cartrdige will come with a stylus on it.

Everything will depend on your budget.

One common budget choice is the Audio Technica AT-VM95E which goes for $70 on Amazon right now:

https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT-VM95E-Moving-Turntable-Cartridge/dp/B07JXD79Q1

Prices are inflated now because of COVID.

If you gave us a budget, we could recommend more.

Edifier Speakers

I have the RT81 currently hooked up to these Edifier speakers. Work great and extremely easy to set up.

Just buy this and save yourself tons of time and energy: Neoteck Digital Turntable Stylus Force Scale Gauge 0.01g/5.00g Blue LCD Backlight for Tonearm Phono Cartridge https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HRJ9NAY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_MMxco9SnOhzse

i'd get some isolation pads for those speakers if they can't be placed on a different surface than the tt; they're very cheap and will make a difference!

https://www.amazon.com/Speaker-Pads-Isolation-Fantastic-Recording/dp/B08HMS4KZQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=monitor+isolation+pads&qid=1610352927&sprefix=monitor+isolatio&sr=8-3

Without an amplifier, you're going to need active speakers. Something like this setup: https://www.amazon.com/Edifier-R1700BT-Bluetooth-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B016PATXSI. There's also a PreSonus Eris set at 99 and a few other options if you dig around. If you're willing to go up a few more bucks, you can get into some pretty nice studio monitors.

Worthwhile to spend $10 more for the 4" Edifier R1280DBs that add Bluetooth, a digital optical input, a subwoofer output, and a black finish option.

Or $20 more larger 5.25" mid bass driver Neumi BS5P $139 that also add Bluetooth and a digital optical input.

Definitely man! Some people can be asshole about it. You can move them or get a pair of these that will help tremendously.

Studio Monitor Isolation Pads, Suitable for 5" inch Speakers, High-Density Acoustic Foam for Significant Sound Improvement, Prevent Vibrations and Fits most Stands - 2 Pads https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DCQW156/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_TWMZJ6K874C6G81ZEEYJ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I believe you cannot replace the stylus on it but the turntable is a good price so it's good to get use out of the installed stylus and once it has had a good run you will be ready to invest in a higher grade TT that allows you to replace and upgrade as you please.

What speakers do you use? I have the Edifier 1280DB which are some of the best in its budget class and support Bluetooth (I don't use this feature but it's nice to have available):

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0719C132V/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I like these inter sleeves

Mofi is good also.

I would use either one’s outer sleeves also.

If the aux input is a 3.5mm "headphone" jack then get a 3.5mm to rca audio cord, make sure turntable preamp is on or set to "Line". Hook them up and make sure the speaker is set to play from aux. Like this https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XFQNFSS

Looks like a good deal to me! You will need a new headshell as well as a cartridge as u/mayn1 said.

The AT VM95E is supposed to be a great choice and is easily upgradeable wkth different styli as u/mayn1 also said.

I really like my Nagaoka MP-110 though. Very detailed and low sibilance when aligned correctly. It does an exceptional job of reproducing woody/rich timbres like those produced by woodwind instruments or some drums.

That needs the whole headshell and the cartridge from what I can see.

I believe a standard headshell will work on that so the audio-technica should work. The green is great for the price and the cartridge or even just the stylus can be easily upgraded.

UK built Rega Planar 1 £249 is easy setup plug and play.

The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC £279 adds adjustable anti-skate and a better cartridge.

Or look for a used UK Rega Planar 2 or Planar 3.

And automatic play and stop fucked out...it was drop the needle with such force it shocked itself and reset, like someone bumped it, and would return the tone arm to the rest position...and often with drop there with same force t got stuck in a loop clicking on and off and on and off

regrading non-Bluetooth around the same price, these are meant to pretty solid

https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-RT80-Adjustable-Counterweight-Anti-Skating/dp/B01F2B3FKI

Anything else I can think of/really recommend is starting to get into the $400+ range.

I like 14ga as a happy medium for all-purpose wiring.

Any particular reason you’re grabbing a phono preamp when your receiver has one?

Definitely go for the second option:

https://www.amazon.com/Turntable-Headshell-AT-VM95E-cartridge-Fisher/dp/B08D4Y4971

This is a cartridge that will actually work with any modern day phono pre-amp. Rather important since otherwise you won't be able to enjoy it... This Fisher is a reasonably good turntable and deserves the AT-VM95E.

Safe. The RT82 should have included 2 ground wires in case you also needed to ground the preamp to the speaker amp as well as the turntable to external phono stage preamp.

Or some powered speaker setups need a ground loop isolater that may or may not work instead of the ground wire solution which is working for you.

So they make RCA to speaker wire adapters like these.

https://www.amazon.com/ALEKOR-Terminal-Connector-Speaker-Adapter/dp/B08HVJP8QZ/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=rca+to+speaker+wire+adapter&qid=1629463944&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExODVaSUpXNjJUUlc5JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNTQzMjE3MlM5Wk1TRUZSOFAzUSZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMjU5Njk0SFpEVUhWOUIwWkRMJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==

​

You should be able to just use regular passive speakers that way.

The RT81 is not worth buying since the new improved RT82 for $50 more adds a $100+ increase in performance and components since it adds the new optical sensor speed controlled servo motor for much lower wow and flutter and speed variation and the speed won't drift like it can on the RT81 since the RT82 optical sensor monitors the speed 400 times a second.

Pass on the RT83 since the cartridge is not any better.

Or also instead of the RT81:

Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN $299 has the same speed sensor motor as the RT82, adds a basic built in phono stage preamp, but does not have auto stop.

Crosley C10 $291 is designed by Pro-ject, see the Pro-ject tonearm on it, and is basically an Essential III for lower cost.

MPK Turntable with the white AT stylus is at least better than cheaper suitcase turntables with the cheap red stylus.

Or the 1byOne is a bit better.

Without the Amazon tracker code that the auto mod bot removes: https://www.amazon.com/Neoteck-Digital-Turntable-Backlight-Cartridge/dp/B01HRJ9NAY

If low on budget you could start with a basic AT3600 $22 and upgrade later.

Or start with the AT-VM95E $69 cartridge and upgrade the stylus to VM95EN or VM95ML later.

That's a STEREO preamp. You're missing a PHONO preamp.

How do you control the volume of both speakers? Nobsound MC2 is an option.

Audio Guides, Speaker Wire, Accessories and Vinyl Care

How so better?

Q-UP Tonearm Lifter $is $29. Check the compatible turntable list.

Or leaving the stylus running in the run out groove for minutes to an hour won't hurt anything. Even 10 hours may only reduce stylus life by 1%.

Or if falling asleep to it every night then connect the turntable to a smart outlet to cut the power to the turntable after you fall asleep.

I would look for one that takes a 1/2 inch cartridge. There are not a lot of "p mount" cartridge options available. There is a debate between belt drive and direct drive. Not sure it matters. I have owned and thoroughly enjoyed both. It is easy to find a belt on ebay. Just read the reviews of anything you decide on. For example I got a Technics SL-B202 (belt drive) one time and the motor was noisy as hell. Replaced it and that motor was noisy as hell. I would make sure it has anti-skate and that it works. True audiophiles will tell you that full manual is the way to go, but auto return is a God send in my opinion. You dont want to wake up on the couch to hear you stylus rubbing against the label.

This preamp works just fine.

Pyle Phono Turntable Preamp - Mini Electronic Audio Stereo Phonograph Preamplifier with RCA Input, RCA Output & Low Noise Operation Powered by 12 Volt DC Adapter (PP444) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004HJ1TTQ/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_DQJNSNY4YV30C5NDXVET

I have this one and am very happy with it others scoff

Fosi Audio Phono Preamp for Turntable Preamplifier MM Phonograph Preamplifier with Gain Gear Mini Stereo Audio Hi-Fi Pre-Amplifier for Record Player with DC 12V Power Supply Box X2 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XNTHHBP/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_FQAY4DVCNVJ2XN53H7CA

A while ago I think discogs did a mat comparison and this one won out.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JDWHDSS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_ZMN4SB3VGV0RJNNPZ9BY?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I had it on my SL-B3 and really liked it.

An Audio-Technica AT-LP60 variant can be had for $120 at Amazon.

AT Turntable

You don't need much money to get a nice starter turntable, if you feel more comfortable buying new.

Do you want powered speakers as in plug in play. Powered bookshelf speakers don’t need a receiver or pre amp with that turntable. Many recommend these powered speakers for good to start with.

https://www.amazon.com/Edifier-R1280T-Powered-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B016P9HJIA

I use this on my Rega P2, works like a charm. I too sometimes like to be able to forget a record is on: https://www.amazon.co.uk/UP-Automatic-Tonearm-Lifter/dp/B008OAMD26/ref=sr\_1\_1?dchild=1&keywords=Q+Up&qid=1625621577&sr=8-1

I use drum dampener gel pads. Basically the same material as the Zerodust, but much cheaper.

Place gel pad on platter. Lower stylus onto pad, then raise it up. Repeat. The tackiness of the gel will pull off the debris on the stylus and not leave any residue. Been using this same set of gel pads for over 5 years.

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00J2G1SA4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_2900RB5DBFWAAX3J237X

For better bass and treble you could upgrade and replace both the Victrola and HP speakers with some better Dayton-Audio-B652-AIR speakers.

Then optionally a better amp too Nobsound G3 2 Channel Bluetooth Amp $55 that adds bass and treble controls.

Those are all decent enough entry level stereo receivers to start with. The Onkyo is probably the best of the 3 if it is available and still not sold out or discontinued.

You can add a digital optical input for the TV to any receiver without it by connected a $20 Fiio D3 DAC to the receiver.

Same for Bluetooth if you buy a used stereo receiver or integrated amp without it and you want to add Bluetooth.

Get a couple of wall brackets and boom you have improved your sound and space isn't as much of an issue. https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B004DCAOHK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_7EXX78TW74GKTKANEY32

I have these for my rear speakers in my tv Room.

ANGELS-HORN is a bit better than what you listed.

Better a bit over budget, Audio-Technica LPW30TK.

Ah if not stylus replacement then a new AT-VM95E or Ortofon Super OM10 is just as good and $20 less than the newer version 2M Red.

Or what is the rest of your setup to match the quailty too, phono, amp, speakers?

The AT-VM95E catridge on that table will work with an AT-VM stylus. I can't recommend the AT-ML95ML more highly.

I was a HUGE upgrade. It got rid of all inner groove distortion.

https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT-VMN95ML-Microlinear-Replacement-Turntable/dp/B07JL2NPH5/

It's an easy way to upgrade your stylus without needing to re-align anything.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/House-Marley-Stir-Wireless-Turntable/dp/B07SR3PN45/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=house+of+marley+turntable&qid=1622746067&sprefix=house+of+mar&sr=8-2

This one you mean? Looks also solid to me but for all TT that offer bluetooth or USB, I wouldnt really buy them because of that feature as the sound quality might be underwhelming.

This AT-VM95E/H is a solid cart that comes pre-setup on a headshell. You can easily upgrade the stylus for better performance down the line.

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07JLX1JZ7

Upgraded versions are the AT-VM95(EN, ML, or SH).

Fluance RT82 - $300

Sony STRDH190 Receiver (w/ Phono-PreAmp) - $168

CANTON Chrono 502.2 6" Bookshelf Speaker - $350

Comes in under $800. This system will sound SO GOOD!. These Canton speakers are really great, especially for the price.

I don't think you'll be able to get anything decent in the $200-$250 range, completely new. There are plenty of turntables in that range, but you're going to need a pre-amp, amp and speakers.

If you're on a budget, then I would say buy a used receiver that has a phono input. There are used ones on Craigslist, Offerup and Facebook Marketplace for well under $50.00. You can usually find them in thrift stores for $10 sometimes.

For speakers, these Sonys come highly regarded for the price:

https://www.amazon.com/Sony-SSCS5-3-Driver-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B00O8YLMVA/

For new turntables, you're probably going for an Audio-Technica AT-LP60X.

https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT-LP60X-BK-Belt-Drive-Hi-Fidelity-Anti-Resonance/dp/B07N3XJ66N

The #1 way to improve the sound quality on a turntable is to replace/upgrade the cartridge. The AT-LP60X does not give you that option. It has a built in cartrdige. To get a turntable that has a cartridge you can replace, you'll probably need to spend close to $200 on a turntable, if you go new.

So, if you find you want to get better sound, you'll need to replace the turntable somewhere down the road.

I have this and I love it. People rail on it because it is not a true tube amp, but it definitely made a difference over the pyle amp I had.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XNTHHBP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_NPMF2GC7Y8G27SFWRC6A?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

With these tubes

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087LXW6RL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_GFT9QJZ26EE559MB96GT?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Those are your audio cables. The spade end wire, is your GND, which gets screwed to the GND end on the phono input on the amp.

The other two are the R/L audio, those plug into the RCA connectors on the phono input, match the color on the cable to the color on the input.

You'll want something like this:

https://www.amazon.com/Pro-Ject-Audio-Systems-RPM-Carbon/dp/B017E7LMOY

Note I didn't put much effort into the link. Make sure the description shows your model number of turntable.

Built in phono stage preamp is internally grounded.

Powered speakers can have hum and ground loops of their own. Ground Loop Isolator may or may not help.

To reduce phone wobble, I used something like this inexpensive center spindle record weights to center place my phone:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M6A3OIO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_6X1H81WYVFAVQV7GSHAC?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

A 45 rpm adapter would also work just as well.

I agree about using the W&F readouts as a ballpark estimate because there are way too many factors to contribute to the bad numbers, but still OP’s readouts are almost 5x the normal.

This app was able to give me a 100% accuracy readout on my quartz-controlled direct drive TT — reading of 33.33 RPM with no variations for as long as the platter is spinning. And I can verify by disengaging and engaging the quart lock. So it’s good enough for me.

I feel your pain, I tried a couple before settling on this one. It’s a real cheap kit but gives me RGB, Bluetooth control from my phone app and a really cool customizable music mode among other features. For an under $20 solution I’d recommend it to anyone. Amazon LED Kit

Youll also need to get plastic/ricepaper sleeves to store your records in order to keep them clean. Here's what I use.

Anti-static inner sleeves like these are the best. Paper sleeves can lightly scratch your records and cover them with dust.

If you want to get serious about preserving your vinyl, I would recommend researching record cleaning methods as well.

Amazon Germany is offering at a lower price:

https://www.amazon.de/Lenco-Plattenspieler-L-3808-Digitalisierung-Staubschutzhaube/dp/B014J7OIA2/ref=sr_1_3?__mk_de_DE=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=F06SCR54PY6&dchild=1&keywords=lenco+plattenspieler&qid=1611990007&sprefix=lenco%2Caps%2C167&sr=8-3

You can start with an inexpensive phono stage preamp such as the PP400 or PP500 that are around the same quality as the one in the LP120X and then optionally upgrade to a better one later if you already have or well get better than basic entry level speakers.

I have the Debut Carbon Evo, your turntable is about 2 lb heavier than mine. This is the organizer I picked up from Amazon, and I haven't noticed any stability issues as of yet. It is made from particle board. Not sure what difference the two pounds will make, but this one has been great for me so far *shrugs

I got the RT85 a couple weeks ago and had some issues with the cartridge scraping the record (only a couple records and only at the beginning).

The issue was at least partly related to less than ideal setup, and I had the same concerns as you in terms of the tonearm balance.

So I bought a digital scale to help set the tonearm, which led me to raising it up a little bit more to get it exactly right (the target 1.8g setting is actually more like 1.6g with the digital scale). And now it's working great!

I got this this one, which was only $15. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HRJ9NAY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Technolink TCC TC-750LC $49 has adjustable gain, also available at Amazon, seems to have better gain than the too much gain in the Art DJ Pre.

They will take unbalanced inputs. I have a pair. They have a 1/4" jack on the back for unbalanced. All you need is a 1/4" to RCA cable.

The one real "problem" with them is that they have a gain knob in the back. You're suppposed to set it and forget it. So, you need some kind of inline volume knob/preamp to go with them. I bought a cheap one that has RCA in and out from Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/PAC-LC-1-Remote-Amplifier-Controller/dp/B0002J226O/

I mounted it under my desk. It was very convenient.

This is where I got mine. Viborg LP190H LP Vinyl Record Clamp 6.7 Ounce,Durable & Stylish HiFi Disc Stabilizer,Aluminum Record Weight with Turntable Level & Protective Pad https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F9HPF8D/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_S.96Fb8BSYZM4

I use these for my turntable. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07K9ZYP84/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_WTo3Fb5DD0AXJ And added legs to my stereo cabinet. Now my toddler can run freely while I listen to records without any issues.

You can purchase the AT VM-95e cart with stylus installed on an AT headshell that was mentioned above from Amazon for $79 USD all as one unit. Then you won't have to worry about attaching the new cart to the headshell or with screwing with any of the headshell wires. This cart then allows you to upgrade the stylus in the future without having to change the cartridge ever. Really good value. Here is the Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT-VM95E-Turntable-Headshell-Cartridge/dp/B07JLX1JZ7/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=audio+technica+vm95e&qid=1606757796&s=electronics&sr=1-4

The Debut III S Audiophile has a better aluminum tonearm than the lighter than it should be carbon fiber tonearm on the Debut Carbon.

The PickIt 25 A cartridge on the Debut III S Audiophile is an updated OM10 cartridge that was already a bit better than the newer version 2M Red cartridge on the Debut Carbon.

No, because it lacks an analog input.

If you are sticking to Amazon (I didn't notice you were in Canada until now) then this might be the cheapest with good performance:

Topping L30

Measurements and review

If you have inexpensive basic headphones, TNP Headphones Amplifier.

Philips Fidelio X2HR

HIFIMAN HE-400i

I was choosing between those two and ended up with the Fidelio. I love them.

>edifier r1280t

Sweet, they're Line only so you need a turntable that has its own internal phono staging so it runs to a Line source (or a dedicated phono pre-amp)

Listening to vinyl through Bluetooth just creates a bit of a quality drop, taking analogue audio source and converting to digital and all that, but there's nothing all that wrong with it imo...if it was ONLY ever going to be Bluetooth ran, I'd say it's kinda pointless, but if you've got speakers/stereo to listen usually and just Bluetooth to your headphones sometimes, go for it!

I had pretty bad experience with low level Audio Technica turntable, so personally I'd say avoid them

https://www.amazon.com/Sony-PS-LX310BT-Belt-Drive-Turntable/dp/B07PBLD4QN

I think that's about the only other Bluetooth capable deck at around the $200 USD price range...I'm not expert/audiophile, but have more faith in Sony that AT :)

They won't destroy records, but they'll sound awful. As in really darn terrible. I strongly would not recommend getting either of those (they're actually the same cheap Chinese mechanism, just in different bodies).

In the same budget, you can get this which is a decent turntable.

Definitely don't set them on the floor. If you moved them off the table, use stands. You'd want the speakers at ear level when you're sitting down and listening. But, yes, you can get those isolation pads off Amazon and they will work just fine

I can’t even recall what I paid. I had bought it at Radio Shack...I don’t even think that place exists.

Or not. Found this on Amazon:

RadioShack Audio System Ground Loop Isolator (Electric hum noise reducer) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002YGM5D8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_dKwlBbR276NMW

I have the same turntable as OP and I'm currently looking at the R1280DBs for 139.99 which also has a subwoofer output, but slightly less power than the R1700BTs that you linked. Do you think spending a bit more money is worth the small increase in power? This is my first set up for my bedroom which is pretty confined, and I'm on a budget. The slightly cheaper one I'm considering can be found here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08865JM4N/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A23AS8PFN4IRUQ&psc=1.

It looks like that arm needs a T4P or P-Mount cartridge. The cheapest and easiest option is probably this: https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT85EP-Turntable-Cartridge/dp/B077QG5QSJ/ref=sr_1_20?dchild=1&keywords=at+cartridge+pmount&qid=1597969865&sr=8-20

The cartridge that goes with the stylus you shared is a Technics, and those are harder to come by and a bit more expensive than this AT option.

Pfanstiehl 4759-DE $16. If you don't know how used and worn the stylus is then replace it immediately.

If you want a new cartridge Audio-Technica AT-VM95E $49. Then do a cartridge alignment. However it is also a good idea to double check the alignment if only doing a stylus replacement too.

This is the one I use, simple and easy. https://www.amazon.com/Pyle-Phono-Turntable-Preamp-Preamplifier/dp/B004HJ1TTQ/ref=asc_df_B004HJ1TTQ/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312150547590&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=894271787344312083&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&am...

Also...for just a little more, check these bad boys out. More power and a Subwoofer output, which you may want down the line. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0886B1TWC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_IgIdFb3RVKEWV

for a cheap entry level preamp - I would recommend this one

Also on Amazon. I wouldn't spend less than that for a separate preamp. Def DONT buy this one - Ive tested it to see what a very cheap preamp sounded like and its total crap.

>I’ve been looking at Fluance and I’ll check out U-Turn.

The Orbit is easy setup beginner plug and play. It lacks user adjustable tracking force, lacks a rotary dial on the tracking force adjustment, lacks a speed switch so you need to move the belt to the other pulley to change the speed, the cue lever is an extra $40, and adding options to increase the cost does not make the turntable itself, the tonearm and motor, any better.

The Fluance to buy is the Fluance RT82 $299 with auto stop and then an optical sensor speed controlled servo motor for lower wow and flutter and speed variation. Pass on the older RT80 and RT81 that lack the new speed sensor. Pass on the RT83 since the cartridge is not any better.

Or for lower cost the AT-LPW30TK $219.

For under $400 total I would buy these:

https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT-LPW30TK-Manual-Belt-Drive-Turntable/dp/B07Q7TBNCM/

https://www.amazon.com/75-Watt-Powered-Bookshelf-Speakers-Bluetooth/dp/B08LV4SMH9

$357

The Teac S-100cd was a turntable sold as part of a combo set. It was not meant to be used standalone.

The power input is 12V DC, which should be indicated on the label on the rear.

You can use this power adapter. Remove the current power connector, strip the positive and negative leads (black will be negative/ground, red or white will be positive) and attach them to the connector that comes with the wall wart that has the screw terminals.

If the motor turns in reverse (platter spins counter-clockwise), then reverse the leads.

Under $200, I’d go with the Nagaoka MP-110. $135

Your best upgrade options for that are probably the VMN95EN (nude elliptical) and the VMN95ML (MicroLine).

The EN would just be a snap-on replacement, no real need to scrutinize anything.

The ML would be better, especially in terms of getting rid of inner groove distortion. But ML styli are very sensitive to alignment… and while your vertical alignment should be fine (since the non-adjustable arm height was set with the VM series in mind), I’d strongly recommend double checking your horizontal alignment with an arc protractor to make sure the ML stylus tip is as happy as possible. You’d also be served well by using a small bubble level (like the one in this kit) to confirm that (first) your turntable is perfectly level, and (second) your headshell is sitting perfectly level while the needle is on a record. (There should be some slight play in the headshell mounting collar, and that play can be used to fine-tune your azimuth—the rotation of the headshell on the arm.)

The best cheap speakers you can buy for this use would be these:

https://www.amazon.com/75-Watt-Powered-Bookshelf-Speakers-Bluetooth/dp/B08LV4SMH9

Other people on this thread have recommended Edifier and Mackie. These Neumis are better than anything Edifier sells for under $300 and they’re better than anything Mackie sells, period (not counting their professional studio monitors which are not the rigid product for this use).

I wouldn’t recommend it. It’s not terrible, but it lacks a threaded counterweight and adjustable anti-skate, which are essential features.

https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT-LPW30TK-Manual-Belt-Drive-Turntable/dp/B07Q7TBNCM

Turntable with a built in or external phono preamp + Scarlet > connect both to a stereo preamp/switch, mixer or monitor controller > studio monitors.

Nobsound MC2 has both RCA and XLR inputs and outputs.

It sounds like your stylus is shot. I would get a new one. This cartridge tracks at 3 grams if you are balancing your tonearm correctly and then setting it to 3 grams or higher and it isnt going into the groves the stylus is done. You usually want to change stylus with new gear as a rule.

Www.amazon.com/dp/B00066XTBA

Or do yourself a favor and take this time to upgrade for a much better sound.

https://www.lpgear.com/product/LPGATN3600DLXSE.html

The spare stylus is a brand new 2M Red stylus?

What is your speaker amplification and speakers.

For $245 you can get direct from Audio Technica the newer X version AT-LP120X factory direct refurbished with a warranty with a better phono preamp and bypass switch. The included E stylus is good to start out with and may be close enough in quailty to the 2M Red. Then if you have good better than entry level speakers you could later upgrade the stylus to the EN that is better than the 2M Red.

Or an AT-LPW30TK $218 with a solid MDF plinth. Then if you have good better than entry level speakers then later upgrade the stylus to the E or the EN that is better than the 2M Red.

Technically the important part is that the stylus needs to be contacting the record at the correct rake angle. But that’s impossible to see without a microscope, so aligning the cartridge/stylus body with the record is a good approximator of correct stylus rake angle.

Looking at a diagram of the VMN cartridge, it looks like there actually is some tilt to the bottom of the cartridge body relative to the top. So I was wrong, you shouldn’t be using that line in the plastic.

Here’s what I would recommend:

1. Buy this inexpensive cartridge alignment kit: https://www.amazon.com/Record-Measuring-Tonearm-Cartridge-Azimuth/dp/B07TXBB2JH
2. put the little bubble level on your platter, and make sure the turntable is sitting level. You can adjust the feet to level it out if need be.
3. AFTER YOU’VE LEVELED OUT THE TURNTABLE, put a record on the player, place the stylus on the record, and out the bubble level on the top of the headshell. Adjust your record height until the headshell also sits perfectly level when the stylus is on a record.

That will give you more or less correct VTA, which is an approximation of correct SRA.

You could split the cable that came with the turntable, if necessary.

Or something like this, and again pull them apart if necessary. Check for length, other lengths are available.

https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-2-Male-RCA-Audio-Cable/dp/B01D5H8PQ0

Don't feel bad, the turntable I inherited from my father has a cable that looks almost exactly like that except the grounding wire has a fork on the end to connect it to a ground screw.

Example: https://www.amazon.com/Turntable-Cable-Ground-Terminal-Nickel/dp/B09HMQXH1M/

AV equipment is complicated and gets expensive fast. So there will be a learning curve until you're familiar with the terminology.

Get this

https://www.lpgear.com/product/ATC3600L.html

Replace the stylus with this

https://www.lpgear.com/product/LPGATN3600DLXVL.html

Or for something similar to what you have and cheaper get this

Www.amazon/dp/B07JXD79Q1

Liked this until I was introduced to VL

Www.amazon/dp/B002SDU67Y

>Are the suitcase ones generally regarded as bad quality?

depends who you ask. They get a bad rap bc there's usually no way to adjust the tracking force, if it's too heavy it can lead to premature wear of your records. A cheap vtf scale is all you need to make sure it isn't tracking heavy. You can get creative with some sticky putty to achieve proper tracking force for your cartridge.

I wouldn't bother changing out the cartridge on a suitcase-player. Save your money for records or your dream turntable.

You could possibly get some form of amplifier and used speakers but (like everything) you get what you pay for. Buying used gear can be a crapshoot is you don't know what you're buying.

Honestly if $300 is your max then just add a set of powered ("active") speakers to your suitcase player. The Edifier R1280T are a good back-for-your-buck. To me this would be enough until you're sure this is a hobby you want to commit to.

AT-LPW30TK may be a bit better for $20 more.

The better Fluance to get is the newer improved RT82 that adds the new optical sensor speed controlled servo motor for much lower wow and flutter and speed variation and the speed won't drift since the sensor is monitoring the speed 400 times a second. Pass on the RT83 since the cartridge is not any better.

I used to have a pair of HS5s, the connector you linked is not ideal as it’s stereo. The OP wants something more like this:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H9Y79T3/ref=sspa_dk_detail_0?pd_rd_i=B07H9Y79T3&pd_rd_w=BNH2t&content-id=amzn1.sym.dd2c6db7-6626-466d-bf04-9570e69a7df0&pf_rd_p=dd2c6db7-6626-466d-bf04-9570e69a7df0&pf_rd_r=20SB6TYDT8T87B36EK84&pd_r...

Maybe look at the AT VM95ML ($169) and possibly an Art DJ Pre ii phono preamp($66).

https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT-VM95ML-Moving-Turntable-Cartridge/dp/B07JLYHFR9

https://www.amazon.com/ART-II-Turntable-Phono-Preamplifier/dp/B0777NFCC5

A few options:

Connect a headphone amp between the turntable and powered speakers.

PreSonus Eris E4.5 have a headphone jack and Bluetooth.

Get a new or used stereo or AV receiver or integrated amp that has a headphone jack and a pair of new or used passive speakers.

Great choices for table and p/amp. The Edifiers are fine and very popular. However for about the additional cost of one vinyl album you can get the Neumi BS5P ($139) which is much better imo.

https://www.amazon.com/75-Watt-Powered-Bookshelf-Speakers-Bluetooth/dp/B08LV4SMH9

Ok. Should really sort out where the hum is coming from. First, are all of these devices plugged into the same wall outlet? If so have you checked that the outlet has a good ground? You can use something like this to check.

If the wall outlet has a good ground then you need to detemine if the hum is coming from the speakers, the Phono Box, or the turntable. To check the speakers unplug the Phono Box from them. If you still have a hum then it’s the speakers. If not, then try connecting the turntable directly to the speakers, touch the ground wire to one of the speaker’s rear plate screws, and turn the volume all the way up. If the hum is coming from the turntable then you should still hear it, although it will be very quiet. If you hear a hum then it’s something in the turntable. If you don’t then the problem is in your Phono Box.

No. It's honestly not that great.

It gets you in the door though! Alternatively you can get this new or try to find one used.

https://www.amazon.ca/Nobsound-Preamp-Preamplifier-Turntable-Amplifier/dp/B07TLW8KFP/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?crid=19LJI07LCJB9&keywords=preamp&qid=1671162835&sprefix=preamp%2Caps%2C105&sr=8-7

I got this preamp for my RT85 and it works wonders

Vinyl is the name of the format, but the individual objects are called records, not "vinyls."

The minimum requirements you should look for are a turntable with adjustable tracking force, adjustable anti-skate, and a standard cartridge mount. 150 EUR is a very limited budget... sometimes you can find a turntable that meets those requirements within that budget, but it depends on stock status and sales.

I'm not seeing any under 150 right now but I do see this for 35 EUR more.

https://www.amazon.nl/Lenco-LBT-188-Bluetooth-draaitafel-USB-band-voorversterker/dp/B07MDLN91Z

>With built-in speakers and a headphone jack.

There is no turntable worth using that has built in speakers. Those suitcase style ones you see for $100ish are a bad idea. They sound horrendous—about the same as playing Spotify over Bluetooth to a portable shower/beach speaker—and they wear out records very quickly.

The cheapest setup worth using would be roughly $250… this combo for example.

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/insignia-bluetooth-stereo-turntable-black/6432620.p?skuId=6432620

https://www.amazon.com/Edifier-Powered-Monitor-Speakers-Near-Field/dp/B09DKV849B

If you can’t afford that, the solution is not to buy a record-eating toy turntable. It’s to keep saving.

Most turntables with built-in speakers aren't very good, but one exception is the 1byOne system: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B086WTSMQH

It has an upgradeable cartridge and adjustable tonearm, and the turntable mechanism is isolated from the speaker vibrations, so feedback won't be an issue.