4 Tips on How to Upgrade Your Turntable to a Newer Version

Vinyl records have been making a remarkable comeback in recent years, captivating audiophiles and music enthusiasts with their warm, analog sound. If you’re a vinyl lover, upgrading your turntable to a newer version can enhance your listening experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started with vinyl, here are 4 Tips on How to Upgrade Your Turntable to a Newer Version.

1. Assess Your Budget

Before diving into the world of turntable upgrades, it’s essential to establish a budget. Turntables come in a wide range of prices, and your budget will dictate the options available to you.

Consider your financial capacity and be realistic about what you can afford. While it’s tempting to splurge on a top-of-the-line model, there are many fantastic turntables available at various price points that can deliver excellent sound quality and performance.

Also Read: 5 Ways Music Can Reduce Stress and Anxiety.

2. Research and Compare Turntable Models

Once you’ve determined your budget, it’s time to start researching and comparing different turntable models. Consider the following factors when evaluating your options:

1. Drive Type: Turntables can be classified as belt-drive, direct-drive, or idler-wheel drive. Each drive type has advantages and disadvantages, so choose the one that best suits your preferences.
2. Tonearm: The tonearm is a crucial component for tracking and reproducing sound accurately. Look for a turntable with a high-quality tonearm and adjustable settings.
3. Cartridge: The cartridge houses the stylus and is responsible for converting the grooves on the vinyl into an electrical signal. Upgrading the cartridge can significantly impact the sound quality of your turntable.
4. Build and Construction: A well-built turntable with proper isolation and materials can reduce vibrations and resonance, resulting in better sound quality.
5. Speed Variability: Make sure the turntable offers 33 1/3 and 45 RPM speed options, as this covers the majority of vinyl records.

Also Read: 5 Turntable Troubleshooting Tips

3. Consider Upgrades and Accessories

Upgrading your turntable doesn’t necessarily mean buying an entirely new setup. Some various upgrades and accessories can enhance your current turntable’s performance. Consider the following options:

1. Cartridge Upgrade: As mentioned earlier, upgrading the cartridge can significantly improve the sound quality. Research and invest in a high-quality cartridge that suits your musical preferences.
2. Plinth and Isolation: Isolating your turntable from external vibrations is crucial for pristine sound quality. You can invest in a quality turntable plinth or isolation platform to achieve this.
3. Record Mat and Platter: Upgrading your platter and using a high-quality record mat can improve the overall stability and reduce resonance.
4. Phono Preamp: If your turntable doesn’t have a built-in phono preamp, consider investing in an external one to boost the signal strength and sound quality.

4. Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance is vital to keeping your upgraded turntable in top condition. Regularly clean your records, stylus, and tonearm to ensure longevity and maintain sound quality. Store your vinyl records in dust-free sleeves and cover the turntable when not in use to prevent dust buildup.

Additionally, you should follow manufacturer recommendations for setup, alignment, and calibration to get the best performance from your upgraded turntable.

What Do Turntable Needs?

A turntable, also known as a record player, requires several components and considerations to function properly and produce high-quality sound. Here’s what a turntable needs:

• Turntable Plinth or Base: The turntable needs a stable platform, often referred to as the plinth or base, on which all its components are mounted. The quality and isolation of the plinth can impact the turntable’s performance.
• Turntable Motor: A turntable needs a motor to rotate the platter, where the vinyl record sits. The motor can be either belt-driven or direct-drive, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
• Platter: The platter is the rotating surface where you place the vinyl record. It should be heavy and inert to minimize vibrations and ensure stable rotation.
• Tonearm: The tonearm holds the cartridge and stylus and guides them along the grooves of the vinyl record. It should be balanced and adjustable to accommodate different cartridges and tracking forces.
• Cartridge and Stylus: The cartridge and stylus (needle) are essential components for reading the audio information from the vinyl record. The choice of cartridge and stylus can significantly impact the sound quality.
• Counterweight and Anti-skating Mechanism: These are used to balance the tonearm and apply the appropriate tracking force to ensure the stylus follows the grooves accurately. The anti-skating mechanism prevents the tonearm from pulling towards the center of the record.
• Phono Preamp (Phonostage): Most turntables require a phono preamplifier to boost and equalize the low-level signal produced by the cartridge. Some turntables have a built-in preamp, while others require an external one.
• Platter Mat: A platter mat provides a soft, non-slip surface for the vinyl record to sit on. It can help reduce vibrations and improve sound quality.
• Dust Cover: While not strictly necessary for operation, a dust cover can protect the turntable and vinyl records from dust and physical damage when not in use.
• Amplifier or Receiver: You’ll need an amplifier or receiver with a phono input to amplify and process the signal from the turntable. Some turntables also have a built-in preamp, allowing you to connect them directly to other line-level inputs.
• Speakers: Finally, you need speakers to reproduce the audio signal. Choose speakers that match the quality of your turntable setup to fully appreciate the sound of your vinyl records.

Proper setup and maintenance are crucial to getting the best performance from your turntable. Additionally, the choice of components, including the turntable itself, the cartridge, and the amplification equipment, can significantly impact the overall sound quality and listening experience.

Conclusion

Upgrading your turntable to a newer version can be a rewarding experience, offering improved sound quality and a more enjoyable vinyl listening journey. By setting a budget, researching and comparing models, considering upgrades and accessories, and practicing proper maintenance, you can take your vinyl listening experience to new heights.

Whether you’re an audiophile or just a casual vinyl enthusiast, these tips will help you make the most of your turntable upgrade. Happy listening!