Been collecting records for years but never owned a turntable (lol)
Wondering if it’s a better bet to buy a brand new turntable, or a vintage turntable? I like the idea of buying a vintage made in Japan turntable but not sure if there is actually a difference in terms of technology.
Also, I am interested in ripping some records I have, can any turntable do this? I have a focusrite audio interface already.
Recommendations appreciated. My headphones are AKG K7XX but likely I would be using the turntable with my inexpensive powered Edifer bookshelf speakers.
What country are you in? Very different options sometimes.
What’s your budget? This is probably the biggest factor in answering your questions.
The AT-LP60X or AT-LP3BK are the cheapest turntables you can buy new or refurbished that are actual turntables and not junky plastic pretending to be audio equipment. Link: https://outlet.audio-technica.com/catalog/category/view/id/1115/?product_list_order=name
Do not buy a suitcase or retro-style player. They’re literally all the same cheap Chinese part that is just junk.
For double to ten times the price, you can get vintage turntables in decent condition that are much better equipment. Especially if you can find a place to go in and shop instead of ordering online. That said, I’ve had good experiences with Reverb and eBay (but it helps if you’re a shrewd buyer). I’ve heard lots of people get great gear from Facebook, etc.
Vintage is definitely the best way to go for a good quality first TT. I wish I had actual recommendations but atleast stick to vintage.
I have a vintage turntable (70’s Technics SL1300). Two years ago my kid wanted a turntable, and based on recommendations from r/budgetaudiophile, I got him a Fluance RT82. It sounds good, and has been trouble free, unlike my vintage one. I recommend it as a first turntable.
