Buying Guide for the Best Turntable Under 200
Choosing the right turntable can greatly enhance your music listening experience. When selecting a turntable, it's important to consider several key specifications that will affect the sound quality, ease of use, and overall performance. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and find a turntable that best fits your needs and preferences.Drive TypeThe drive type refers to how the turntable's platter is powered. There are two main types: belt drive and direct drive. Belt drive turntables use an elastic belt to spin the platter, which helps reduce motor noise and vibration, resulting in better sound quality. Direct drive turntables have the motor directly connected to the platter, providing more consistent speed and quicker start-up times, which is ideal for DJs. If you prioritize sound quality for home listening, a belt drive might be better. If you plan to use the turntable for DJing or need quick start-up, a direct drive could be more suitable.
Cartridge TypeThe cartridge is the component that holds the stylus (needle) and converts the grooves on the record into an audio signal. There are two main types: moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC). MM cartridges are more common, easier to replace, and generally more affordable, making them a good choice for beginners. MC cartridges can offer higher sound quality but are typically more expensive and require a compatible phono preamp. For most users, an MM cartridge will provide excellent performance and ease of use.
Platter MaterialThe platter is the rotating part of the turntable where the record sits. Platter materials can vary, with common options including plastic, aluminum, and acrylic. Plastic platters are lightweight and affordable but may not provide the best sound quality. Aluminum platters are more durable and offer better sound isolation. Acrylic platters are considered high-end and can provide superior sound quality by reducing vibrations. If you are looking for a balance between cost and performance, an aluminum platter is a good choice. For the best sound quality, consider an acrylic platter.
Tonearm TypeThe tonearm holds the cartridge and stylus and guides them across the record. There are two main types: straight and S-shaped. Straight tonearms are simpler and can provide more accurate tracking, which is important for sound quality. S-shaped tonearms are often preferred by DJs for their stability and ease of use when scratching. If you are focused on high-fidelity listening, a straight tonearm is likely the better option. If you plan to use the turntable for DJing, an S-shaped tonearm might be more suitable.
Speed OptionsTurntables typically offer different speed settings to accommodate various types of records. The most common speeds are 33 1/3 RPM (revolutions per minute) for LPs and 45 RPM for singles. Some turntables also offer 78 RPM for older records. It's important to choose a turntable that supports the speeds of the records you plan to play. For most users, a turntable with 33 1/3 and 45 RPM settings will be sufficient. If you have a collection of older 78 RPM records, make sure the turntable can accommodate that speed as well.
Built-in PreampA preamp amplifies the audio signal from the turntable to a level that can be played through speakers or a receiver. Some turntables come with a built-in preamp, which can simplify setup and reduce the need for additional equipment. If your audio system does not have a phono input, a turntable with a built-in preamp can be very convenient. However, if you already have a high-quality external preamp or a receiver with a phono input, you may not need this feature. Consider your existing audio setup when deciding whether a built-in preamp is necessary.