When it comes to purchasing a turntable, there are countless options available in the market. While some turntables are excellent and can provide you with a lifetime of listening pleasure, others are better left avoided. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of turntables and identify the ones that you should steer clear of.
Why You Should Be Cautious When Buying a Turntable
Buying a turntable can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. With so many options available, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying a new turntable without doing your research. However, this can lead to disappointment and frustration when you realize that your new turntable is not living up to your expectations.
One of the main reasons why you should be cautious when buying a turntable is that it’s an investment. A good turntable can last you for decades if properly maintained, but a bad one can be a waste of money. Moreover, a low-quality turntable can also damage your records, which can be a costly mistake.
Common Red Flags to Look Out for
Before we dive into the list of turntables to avoid, it’s essential to know what to look out for when buying a turntable. Here are some common red flags to watch out for:
Poor Build Quality
A turntable’s build quality is crucial to its performance. If the turntable feels flimsy or cheaply made, it’s likely to be a bad investment. Look out for turntables with a sturdy base, a well-made tonearm, and a smooth-moving platter.
Lack of Adjustability
A good turntable should have adjustable features such as tracking force, anti-skate, and pitch control. If a turntable lacks these features, it may not be able to play your records accurately.
No User Reviews or Ratings
When buying a turntable, it’s essential to read user reviews and ratings. If a turntable has no reviews or ratings, it may be a sign that it’s a new product or that the manufacturer is trying to hide something.
Unrealistically Low Price
If a turntable is priced too low, it may be a sign that it’s a low-quality product. While it’s possible to find a good deal on a turntable, be wary of prices that are significantly lower than similar products on the market.
Turntables to Avoid
Now that we’ve covered the common red flags to look out for, let’s dive into the list of turntables to avoid:
1. Crosley CR6013A-BR
The Crosley CR6013A-BR is a popular turntable among beginners, but it’s a turntable that you should avoid. The main issue with this turntable is its poor build quality and lack of adjustability. The tonearm is flimsy, and the platter is made of a cheap, lightweight material. Moreover, the turntable lacks features such as pitch control and anti-skate, making it difficult to play records accurately.
2. Jensen JTA-230
The Jensen JTA-230 is another turntable that’s popular among beginners, but it’s not a good investment. The turntable has a poor build quality, and the motor is prone to vibration, which can damage your records. Moreover, the turntable lacks adjustable features such as tracking force and pitch control, making it difficult to get a good sound out of it.
3. U-Turn Orbit
The U-Turn Orbit is a turntable that’s gained popularity in recent years, but it’s not without its flaws. The main issue with this turntable is its lack of adjustability. The tracking force is not adjustable, and the anti-skate is not very effective, which can lead to uneven wear on your records. Moreover, the turntable’s motor is prone to vibration, which can affect the sound quality.
What to Look for in a Good Turntable
Now that we’ve covered the turntables to avoid, let’s talk about what to look for in a good turntable. Here are some key features to look out for:
Sturdy Build Quality
A good turntable should have a sturdy build quality that can withstand the test of time. Look for turntables with a heavy base, a well-made tonearm, and a smooth-moving platter.
Adjustable Features
A good turntable should have adjustable features such as tracking force, anti-skate, and pitch control. These features allow you to customize the turntable to your needs and get the best possible sound out of your records.
Good Motor Quality
The motor is the heart of a turntable, and it’s essential to look for a turntable with a high-quality motor. A good motor should be quiet, vibration-free, and have a stable speed.
User Reviews and Ratings
When buying a turntable, it’s essential to read user reviews and ratings. Look for turntables with a high rating (at least 4 out of 5 stars) and read the reviews to get an idea of the turntable’s performance.
Conclusion
Buying a turntable can be a daunting task, but by doing your research and knowing what to look for, you can avoid buying a bad turntable. Remember to look out for red flags such as poor build quality, lack of adjustability, and unreasonably low prices. By avoiding turntables that are known to have issues and looking for turntables with good build quality, adjustable features, and a good motor, you can find a turntable that will provide you with a lifetime of listening pleasure.
| Turntable | Build Quality | Adjustable Features | Motor Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crosley CR6013A-BR | Poor | Lacking | Poor |
| Jensen JTA-230 | Poor | Lacking | Poor |
| U-Turn Orbit | Good | Lacking | Good |
Note: The table above is a summary of the turntables reviewed in this article. It’s essential to do your own research and read user reviews before making a purchase.
What makes a turntable bad?
A bad turntable can be determined by several factors, including poor build quality, low-quality components, and a lack of precision in its mechanics. These factors can affect the sound quality,durability, and overall performance of the turntable. For instance, a turntable with a low-quality tonearm may skip or wobble during playback, resulting in a poor listening experience. Similarly, a turntable with a cheaply made platter or motor may produce unwanted vibrations or noise.
Furthermore, a bad turntable can also be identified by its lack of adjustments and customizable features. A good turntable should allow users to make adjustments to the tracking force, anti-skate, and pitch control to optimize the performance of the record. The lack of these features can make it difficult to achieve optimal sound quality.
How can I spot a low-quality turntable?
Spotting a low-quality turntable can be done by inspecting its physical build and components. Look for signs of cheap materials, such as thin plastic or flimsy metal. Check the tonearm and cartridge for any signs of poor quality, such as loose connections or worn-out bearings. Additionally, check the platter and motor for any signs of vibration or wobbling during playback.
It’s also important to research the brand and model of the turntable and read reviews from other customers. Check for any common complaints or issues reported by other users. A reputable brand with good customer reviews is more likely to produce a high-quality turntable. Additionally, consider the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer.
What are some common problems with cheap turntables?
Cheap turntables often have a range of problems that can affect their performance and sound quality. One common problem is vibrations and wobbling during playback, which can cause the record to skip or the tonearm to jump. Another problem is poor tracking force, which can result in the tonearm skipping over tracks or digging into the record. Cheap turntables may also have poor motor quality, which can cause the platter to spin unevenly or slow down over time.
Additionally, cheap turntables may have low-quality cartridges that can wear out quickly or produce poor sound quality. They may also lack adjustable features such as anti-skate and pitch control, making it difficult to optimize the performance of the record. Furthermore, cheap turntables may have a low-quality phono stage or preamp, which can affect the overall sound quality and require additional equipment to produce a decent sound.
Can I fix a bad turntable?
In some cases, a bad turntable can be fixed or upgraded to improve its performance. For instance, replacing the cartridge with a higher-quality one can improve the sound quality. Adjusting the tracking force and anti-skate can also help to optimize the performance of the record. Additionally, replacing the tonearm or upgrading the motor can improve the overall performance of the turntable.
However, if the turntable has fundamental design flaws or poor build quality, it may not be possible to fix it. In such cases, it may be better to consider replacing the turntable altogether. It’s also important to consider the cost of repairs and upgrades, as they may not be worth the investment.
Are there any turntables that are worth the investment?
Yes, there are many turntables that are worth the investment. High-quality turntables from reputable brands such as Rega, Pro-Ject, and Clearaudio offer excellent sound quality, durability, and precision. These turntables are often made with high-quality components and have adjustable features that allow users to optimize their performance.
Investing in a high-quality turntable may cost more upfront, but it can provide years of excellent sound quality and durability. Additionally, many high-quality turntables have a strong resale value, making them a worthwhile investment for serious audiophiles.
How do I choose the right turntable for me?
Choosing the right turntable involves considering several factors, including your budget, music preferences, and personal needs. Determine how much you are willing to spend and look for turntables within your budget. Consider the type of records you want to play, such as 33rpm, 45rpm, or 78rpm, and look for a turntable that can accommodate them.
Additionally, consider the features that are important to you, such as adjustable tracking force, anti-skate, and pitch control. Research different brands and models, read reviews, and listen to audio samples to find the turntable that best suits your needs.
What accessories do I need to get started?
To get started with a turntable, you’ll need a few accessories. First, you’ll need a phono stage or preamp to connect your turntable to your amplifier or receiver. You’ll also need a pair of RCA cables to connect your turntable to your phono stage or preamp. Additionally, you may want to consider a record cleaning brush and cleaning solution to keep your records clean and free of dust.
You may also want to consider a turntable mat to reduce vibrations and resonance, as well as a dust cover to protect your turntable from dust and debris. Furthermore, you may want to consider a pair of speakers or a sound system to complete your setup.