Interested in vinyl

[jzuzphreek]

This isn't a thread about recommending the best records out there. I have a few, and am interested in getting more. My issue is that I don't have a turntable. I'm interested in finding one, and don't really care about the source. My only requirements are that it's CHEAP! Works! And that it sounds pretty good. I really want to hear music the way it was meant to be heard, so I'm not interested in some new fangled digitally enhanced contraption. Also, I need something small, that I could put away in a cabinet or something. Any ideas?

If I'm browsing flea markets, what should I be on the lookout for? How do I make sure I don't get a lemon? What are some pieces that are commonly broken, but easily replaced? (Remember, I'm only 29, we had a record player when I was a child, but I was very young when it bit the dust.)

Also, why isn't there a gadget/electronics subforum?

 

[Hunter]

Hey Jessy, you can get a turntable that plugs into your computer via USB. I've always seen them around $50-60 Canadian so I figure for you it should be a bit less if not the same. I usually see it at big box stores. Though that also means if your computer has a good sound system or if you can hook it up to a good one in the house.

 

[Luke49783]

I bought my fiancee an Audio Technica turntable for Christmas this past year. The version we bought has a USB connection so that you can convert records to MP3, but that's the only bit of "technology" that it has, otherwise it's just a record player. They make a non-USB version as well. We have it connected to a semi-decent set of computer speakers and it sounds good, if it were connected to a good home stereo, I think it would sound great. Check it out.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002GYTPB8/ref=oh_details_o04_s01_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

 

[jzuzphreek]

Thanks for the tips so far. My interests are much more "analog." Akin to Michael's comment. What do I need to watch out for in a needle? Obviously, if it's missing, that's a problem. But if one is present, what kind of things do I need to be aware of?

 

[jzuzphreek]

Just found THIS article on Art of Manliness. I think this line sums up the point of Badger and Blade and all our various ADs quite well.

It’s a hobby, friends, there is no “finished.”

 

[jazzguy]

I'd look on Craigslist where you stand a chance of finding out if the table is working before you get it home. You'll mostly find direct drive models from the 1970s and 1980s out in the wild but you pretty much have to demo them to know that the motor and speed control are working. The cartridge or "needle" can be replaced for not too much money. The Sumiko Pro-Ject is the best of the entry level turntables available new today but probably costs more than you are looking to spend.

 

[YetiDave]

A newer turntable might be your best bet - drive belts, needles, motor, bearings etc all add extra noise to whatever is playing (analogue warmth is actually this noise) Given that in older kit these parts might have seen a lot of wear and tear, you really won't be hearing the music 'as it was meant to be heard'

 

[SiBurning]

If you want a truly good turntable on the cheap, you want an older Dual turntable. You also want someone rather knowledgeable and experienced with turntables to check it out and set it up. And you'll likely need to buy a new cartridge, unless you get lucky or get one from someone that knows how to take care of it, and has.

If you want new, you could do worse than read Turntable Kitchen’s Top 5 Recommended Turntables.

 

[ReAndyMator]

I'd go vintage. Probably one of the old Technics direct drive ones (but not a 1210 - they're going to be either too expensive, or too knackered) as they're solid and will work until the end of time. But budget for a new cartridge. Whatever the previous owner says, assume it's worn out. It won't take many plays of a record to destroy it with a worn out stylus.

 

[Legion]

Go vintage, late 70's. Turntables never got much better than they were then, IMO. At least, for the price you can get them for now. Hit the yard sales. I've picked up a few good systems cheap that way. Don't forget, you may need a pre-amp as well as the amp.

Sansui is a good brand to look out for. They made decent stuff, but shouldn't cost too much second hand.

 

[dpmtherrien]

If you have a decent music store in your area, they should be able to get one for you in about any price range. Some of those catalogs that always seem to arrive in the mail usually have them for sale too.