How To Set Up and Use a Record Player
Ready to dive into the world of records? Learning how to set up and use a record player may seem daunting, but don't worry — we'll walk you through everything you need to know. Our guide will give you a comprehensive understanding of what makes a good record player so you can select the best one for your space and the components required to make listening to music a truly pleasurable experience. Let's dig in!
The History of Record Players & Turntables
Record players and turntables have a fascinating history and have shaped how we engage with music today. It all began when Thomas Edison invented the phonograph back in 1877 as a way to capture sound on wax cylinders. Edison would then play those recordings back on his phonograph machine, which used a stylus or needle to translate the grooves into sound vibrations.
Since then, the record player has been the most popular form of audio playback until the advent of cassettes and CDs in the 1980s. During this age of phonography, DJs used record player setups for scratching and mixing music to create an entirely new genre that never existed before.
From their use in classical and jazz music to hip-hop and even EDM shows, record players are an integral part of musical culture — with a sound that uniquely stands out compared to more digital forms.
What Makes a Good Record Player
For those looking for the best audio experience, a thorough understanding of what makes a good record player is necessary. Quality turntables have isolated motors with precise electronic speed control, and the best ones have completely separate motor units for maximum performance.
Tonearms come in several sizes and differ in weight, so remember that the bearings must be able to guide the cartridge in the groove to play back music without distortion. Be sure to look for lightweight and responsive tonearms for your record player setup to avoid causing too much friction that could interfere with sound quality.
Other features such as size, speed (RPM), manual tonearms vs. automatic, price range, maintenance costs, and equipment placement are all factors you must consider before you purchase a record player. With this information, you can make an informed decision based on available resources, sound quality, and spacial characteristics to get the optimal listening experience.
How to Set Up Your Record Player
Setup A: Record Player with Built-in Preamp
(with Preamp)
Setup B: Record Player without Built-in Preamp
(no Preamp)
Setting up your record player can be enjoyable, especially when done right. To get the most out of your audio equipment, follow the steps below for the best results.
Record Player with Preamp Installed
- Find a good spot with a sturdy surface, and make sure the turntable is level.
- Look at the back of the record player for a line/phono switch. If you see one, there is a preamp inside.
- Connect RCA or phono cables to the line output on the turntable.
- Plug cables into the line input on the back of each active speaker and connect securely.
- Balance the tonearm.
- Check that the turntable speed is accurate. So your pitch stays consistent during playback.
Record Player with NO Preamp Installed
- Find a sturdy surface at least 10 inches away from speakers or amplifiers.
- Make sure the turntable is level.
- Connect RCA cables and ground wire from the turntable to the preamp.
- Connect another RCA cable and ground wire from the preamp to the receiver.
- Connect speaker wires from the receiver to the left and right passive speakers.
- Balance tonearm.
- Check turntable speed.
To determine if speakers are active or passive, check the back panel for a volume knob. If you see one, you have active speakers. Passive speakers need a power source, such as the stereo receiver, so they have positive and negative terminals for the speaker wire on the rear.
Active speakers do not need an amplifier or receiver, but passive speakers do. As a result, it is critically important you verify what kind of speakers you have and the type of record player before setup. You can get the best listening experience possible if you take a few extra minutes.
Record Player Setup FAQs
What is a good record player setup?
A good record player setup includes all the necessary components for playing vinyl records, such as a turntable, preamp, amplifier, and speakers. You'll also need a phono cartridge and stylus (or needle) to play your records.
What makes a good record player?
When looking for a good record player, consider factors like sound quality, ease of use, and features like automatic speed control and anti-skate adjustment. Confirm the turntable has an adjustable tonearm counterweight so you can adjust it for optimal performance.
What is anti-skate control?
Anti-skate control keeps the tonearm from skating across the vinyl as it plays, reduces distortion, and improves sound quality. To adjust the anti-skate control settings on your turntable, refer to the owner's manual for specific instructions.
As you can see, setting up a record player at home doesn't have to be complicated. A turntable, speakers, an amplifier or receiver, and the appropriate cables are all you need to get started. To get the best results from your record player, consider investing in additional Gemini Sound audio components, such as our DJ media players and starter pack. Contact us today to speak to an expert for the perfect sound!
