Are you a vinyl enthusiast who’s been confused by the terms “record player” and “turntable”?
You’re not alone. These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to different things.
A turntable is just one component of a record player, which also includes a preamp, amplifier, and speakers. On the other hand, a turntable is a standalone unit that requires additional equipment to play music.
In this article, we’ll dive into the differences between these two devices and help you decide which one is right for you.
So sit back, relax, and let’s explore the world of vinyl together.
What’s The Difference Between A Record Player And A Turntable
As mentioned earlier, a turntable is just one part of a record player. It houses the platter that holds and spins your record while it plays. However, unlike a record player, a turntable does not come with a built-in preamp, amplifier or speaker. This means that you need to purchase additional equipment before you can use it.
A preamp, or preamplifier, amplifies the signal from the turntable and feeds it into an amplifier or receiver. Some turntables come with built-in preamps, while others require a separate purchase. An amplifier further amplifies the audio signal from a record player so that it can be played over speakers. A receiver is similar to an amplifier but often includes a built-in radio component, a tuner, and other functions depending on the model.
On the other hand, a record player is an all-in-one listening device that includes a pair of speakers and an amplifier along with the turntable. It is much more elaborate than a turntable and usually includes a ton of additional features like the ability to play various other file formats (CD, MP3, radio, etc.).
The main advantage of a record player is convenience. You don’t need to get any additional components. You can simply plug it in and start enjoying your music. However, they are generally larger and heavier than turntables and thus not nearly as portable. For that reason, record players are usually kept inside the home on a dedicated stand or in a home entertainment center.
What Is A Record Player?
A record player, also known as a phonograph, is an electronic device used to play audio recordings. The record player consists of a turntable that spins the vinyl phonograph records at a constant speed. The sounds are then reproduced through a stylus or needle that runs along the record’s spiral groove. The vibrations from the stylus are then amplified through electric speakers, reproducing the recorded sounds.
Unlike a turntable, a record player includes all the necessary components for listening to music, such as an amplifier and speakers. This means that you can simply plug it in and start enjoying your music without having to purchase additional equipment. Record players also often include additional features such as the ability to play other file formats like CDs or MP3s.
Record players were the most common consumer device for audio playback between the 1920s and 1980s. Even in the early 21st century, record players have continued to see use due to their nostalgic appeal and unique sound quality. While they are generally larger and heavier than turntables, they are more convenient and easier to use since they come with all the necessary components built-in.
Components Of A Record Player
A record player is comprised of several key components that work together to produce high-quality sound.
1. Plinth: The base of the record player, which provides support for all the other components.
2. Platter: The surface on which you place your record, which spins when the turntable is in use.
3. Drive: The mechanism that powers the platter’s rotation. This can be a belt or direct drive.
4. Tonearm: A pivoting arm that holds the cartridge and stylus, allowing it to track the grooves on the record as it spins.
5. Cartridge: The component that houses the stylus, which reads the grooves on the record and converts them into an electrical signal.
6. Preamp: Amplifies the signal from the cartridge to a level that can be further amplified by an external amplifier or fed directly into speakers.
7. Amplifier: Further amplifies the signal from the preamp, making it loud enough to be heard through speakers.
8. Speakers: The final component that converts the electrical signal into sound waves that can be heard by the listener.
Other minor components of a record player include isolation feet, dust cover hinges, and speed selection knobs. Each of these components plays a crucial role in producing high-quality sound and ensuring that your records are played back accurately and with minimal distortion.
What Is A Turntable?
A turntable is a standalone unit that you can purchase separately from a record player. It includes the platter that holds the record and spins it, as well as a tonearm that reads the record while it plays in order to play music. At the end of the tonearm is the cartridge, which uses a stylus (sometimes called a needle) to play music. The platter is the “rotational part” of the turntable where the record sits, while the center of the turntable over which the record sits is called the spindle.
A turntable also usually comes with a pre-amplifier, which allows you to connect the turntable to an external component without a dedicated phono input. In simple terms, the stylus runs in the grooves of the record and transmits the vibrations through wires in the tonearm to the cartridge. This information is then transmitted to the preamp, which turns it into sound via an external amp and speaker.
While a turntable requires additional equipment before it can be used, it is preferred by those who want to pick out all of their equipment. The options for customization are endless, depending on the components you pair it with. Also, using external components means higher quality than those built into record players, which are not usually anywhere near as good as an external one.
How A Turntable Works
A turntable is a standalone unit that requires additional components to play music. It includes a platter, tonearm, cartridge, and usually a preamp. The platter holds the record and spins it at a constant speed, while the tonearm reads the record and transmits the vibrations through wires to the cartridge.
The cartridge uses a stylus (also called a needle) to play music. As the stylus runs in the grooves of the record, it picks up the signal from the needle going between the grooves as your stylus goes up and down. This signal gets sent down the tonearm wires to an electronic board where your preamp and receiver amplify it.
The preamp amplifies the signal from the turntable, which is usually a weak signal on its own, and feeds it into an amplifier or receiver. Some turntables come with built-in preamps, while others require a separate purchase. An amplifier further amplifies the audio signal from a record player so that it can be played over speakers.
Pros And Cons Of Record Players Vs Turntables
When it comes to choosing between a record player and a turntable, there are pros and cons to each option.
One of the main advantages of a turntable is that it tends to have a higher build quality than modern record players. This includes everything from solid hardwood plinths to a configurable tone arm and cartridge. A high-quality turntable cartridge can be very expensive should you decide to upgrade it. In addition, the price of external components required for a turntable like preamps, amplifiers, and external speakers can add up. However, the higher quality components that go into a turntable usually translate into superior sound quality.
Record players, on the other hand, are simpler and more convenient. They are typically made to be easy for the buyer, requiring very little barrier to entry. You can buy a modern record player at retailers like Walmart or Target and start playing your records immediately. Because of the low cost, record players are often mass-produced and feature lower quality components. Your turntable stylus is often entry-level, and while you can replace it, you usually have limited options for upgrading it. The plinth, tonearm, and other components are usually plastic or low-quality wood. Although the cost is higher, the higher quality components that go into a turntable usually translate into superior sound quality.
If you’re looking for portability, however, record players may not be the best option for you. Record players contain all of the mechanics inside them, making them larger and heavier than turntables. This makes them more suitable for home set-ups rather than on-the-go listening experiences.
Choosing The Right Option For You
When it comes to choosing between a record player and a turntable, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you are looking for convenience and an all-in-one listening device, then a record player may be the better option for you. However, if you are more interested in customizing your equipment and have a preference for higher quality components, then a turntable may be the way to go.
Consider factors such as portability, space limitations, budget, and desired sound quality when making your decision. If you are short on space and prefer a more compact option, a turntable may be the better choice. If you have more room to spare and want a device with additional features, a record player may be the way to go.
Additionally, consider your budget. Record players tend to be more expensive than turntables due to their all-in-one design and additional features. If you are on a tight budget, a turntable may be the more affordable option.
Ultimately, it is important to do your research and choose the option that best suits your needs and preferences. Whether you choose a record player or a turntable, both can provide an enjoyable listening experience for vinyl enthusiasts.
