Hifi Turntables

The turntable may, on the face of it, appear an old-fashioned technology, long past it's sell by date. However, this has not proved the case, it continues to thrive, and bewilder experts who pronounced it's death decades ago.

Also referred to as a record player, phonograph, or gramophone, the turntable continues to entice a new generation of fans.

It's true to say it continues to be a low-tech 'source' unit, consisting of a base table, arm, cartridge and power on switch. Many audiophiles maintain it still has distinct advantages over more modern source units, like a CD player.

Principally, the dynamic and rhythmic properties of vinyl has seen dance and hip-hop DJs stay loyal to the format. This in turn has influenced a renaissance amongst fans of these music genres.

Audiophiles believe that it was DJs, who continued to use vinyl in the dance and hip-hop genres, that kept the turntable industry alive, and enabled manufacturers to launch a new generation of models and technologies.

Components

Due to aesthetic appeal, a large proportion of modern turntables do not come with a plastic dust protection lid. The base / plinth of the turntable is made from materials like aluminum, which help to lower any vibrations.

Situated on the plinth is the power on switch and a speed selector. Though the word 'turntable' refers to the whole unit, it also refers to the spinning disc or 'platter' placed on the plinth.

A rubber skin can be incorporated on top of the platter, or a rubber mat can be placed on top. A direct drive or belt drive system has traditionally been used to power the platter.

In the middle of the platter is a spindle, which fixes the vinyl record on top of the platter. The spindle can have bearings placed within it to reduce vibrations. To the right hand side of the platter is the tonearm.

At the base of the tonearm is a counter weight, anti-skating device and arm elevator. Halfway down the tonearm can be a arm rest. At the end of the tonearm is a cartridge, stylus cartridge and needle.

Cartridges can be made out of ceramic and magnetic materials, it is generally accepted that magnetic cartridges make for higher-fidelity.

Turntable tips

- Leave the platter spinning overnight for a new turntable. This helps run-in the deck.
- Position it as far away from the speakers as possible, to avoid external vibrations.
- Use a spirit level to make sure the turntable is level.

   Further Reading

    Related Pages - Belt Drive, Cartridges, Direct Drive, Features, Phono Stage, Speed Adjustment, Tonearm
    Related Pages - USB Socket, Vinyl