Features and performance standards for a turntable

Listed below, a section of features which are desirable in a new turntables.

1. Electronic or manual speed change for 33 / 45 r.p.m. Depending on your record collection, and if your lazy. A manual turntable will require you to move the belt from one pulley to the next to switch between 33 1/3 and 45 speed. An automatic speed selector will do this at the hit of switch.

2. Mechanic speed change for 78 r.p.m. During the 1920's it was decided that 78.26 rpm was to be the standard power for turntable motors. Therefore alot of records are referred to as '78s', which is a different record type to 33s and 45s.

3. For optimal performance a separate motor for 33/45 and 78 r.p.m.

4. Equipped with an external or internal phono stage.

5. A turntable platter with an upper layer of conductive material, like a felt mat.

6. A tone arm made from aluminum, or another light metal or material like carbon fiber, so that undue weight is not placed upon the needle.

7. The tone arm should also be solid, and precise in it's movement. Ideally the tonearm should allow for adjustment of the needle azimuth.

8. A dust cover lid, so you will not have to get your duster out.

9. A good cartridge is essential. Some of the best cartridge manufacturers include Dynavector, Autrum, Roksan, Wilson Benesch and Bias.

10. Rubber feet to separate the bearing and arm from the motor and power supply.

11. Anti-skating, ensures the tonearm does not 'skate' across the vinyl, due to a counter weight to the tonearm's weight.

12. Vertical Tracking Angle, allows the tonearm to be lowered or highered to accomodate cartridges and platter mats of varying thickness.