But since so many audio receivers already have one, we don’t consider it mandatory (and you can buy an external phono preamp for $50 to $100). Having a built-in phono preamp makes it easier to add the turntable to any existing system that has an analog audio input-be it an audio receiver, a soundbar, or a pair of powered speakers-without having to purchase any additional equipment. Some turntables have one built in some do not. This process is handled by a phono preamp. Phono preamp: The signal from a phono cartridge must be amplified and equalized to be compatible with normal stereo systems or powered speakers.If you aren’t listening to your 45 rpm records because changing the speed is a pain, or if you have to worry that you’ll forget to stop the player and cause extra wear on the needle, you aren’t getting enjoyment from it. Ease of use: Convenience features, like easy switching between speeds and a tonearm that automatically returns, become more important the longer you own a turntable.The ability to easily upgrade the cartridge to improve sound quality is also valuable.

Ease of setup: Turntables that ask you to mount a cartridge, that need a separate stylus gauge, or that require advanced alignment of the cartridge can be hard for a vinyl novice to set up well.

While most of these speakers are pretty cheap, some new models incorporate speakers with separate woofers and tweeters for better sound.

All-in-one record players have the same issues, but they add speakers into the equation. Records can occasionally have pops, which some turntables are better at suppressing. Some turntables have better speed accuracy than others. Some have better bass with more detail and separation, while some do better with vocals.

Sound quality: There is far more variation in sound quality between turntables than there is between digital music players.

We stuck with the same price limit when considering all-in-one record players, although almost all of them cost much less than $600. In other words, a $1,000 turntable may sound better, but the improvements from spending $600 versus $250 are much greater than those from spending $1,000 (and up) versus $600. People after a high-end turntable can easily spend $2,000, $5,000, or even $45,000 (or more), but we’ve found that $600 marks a point of diminishing returns. Price: For dedicated turntables, we looked at those priced around $600 or less.

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