Record players in the early 1920s introduced the concept of a home audio system. It was the birth of the modern two-channel hi-fi stereo system that incorporated polyvinyl vinyl records and, when played on turntables, provided decades of listening pleasure until the advent of the cassette player. After more than fifty years, this sound quality seeks to be revived by the return of the turntables, with much adaptability to enablers of modern sound systems such as mp3, compact discs, etc.

Why the return?

Maybe it’s the stock of thousands of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or vinyl records from those years that contain some precious audio tracks that would be lost if not played again or converted to a modern format.

To enjoy the hidden nuances of the two-channel hi-fi system through the most advanced technology of modern turntables.

To create a new market for LPs or long play records as vinyl records are also known. Listening to analog sound production is getting a lot cooler than digital.

What are the characteristics of a modern record player?

The old stylus on the turntable system plus features like a built-in speaker, a headphone jack, a USB port for archiving songs on your computer, and RCA lines on your home theater system.

What should we look for in a good record player?

A silent turntable is the best or the one that does not produce noise and only lets the music through.

Manual mode does not detract from sound quality, which can be compromised if more hardware is added to make the player automatic (starts with the push of a button)

USB output

Built-in phono preamp

An arm with adjustments to fit a variety of phono cartridges. A good quality pencil and cartridge to capture every bit of music from the grooves of your record without damaging it.

Adjustable feet

Motors that are physically separated from the socket to avoid unnecessary vibrations.

A smaller number of speed variation specification (less than 0.25%)

Playback speed range: should be available between 33 1/3 and 78 (45 rpm included). Remember that 78 rpm would require a different stylus.

How do you buy them and what is their price?

Like most things today, turntables are available online. The best sites are those that sell turntables from different manufacturers, so you can compare prices and features and choose the one that suits you best. DJ-oriented turntables are more robust and offer features like good pitch setting, high torque, and true tracking.

Most turntables under $ 100 offer the 33-1 / 3 and 45 rpm formats only, although there are a few exceptions. Less than $ 100 also come with AM / FM radio, headphone jack, USB cradle, etc.

At higher prices, it has better high-torque direct motors, creative handmade design, built-in speakers, wooden turntables, etc. DJ turntables cost more than $ 200. The more expensive, the quieter the turntables become.

Near the $ 1,000 range, the turntables come with full carbon tone arms and superior belt-drive machines with stainless steel bearings.