Buy turntables - you should be aware of this

If you want to buy a turntable, there are several things to consider. In this practical tip, we will show you which three different approaches you should use to make your decision.

1. Record player for digitizing

If you want to hear your old records on the MP3 player soon, you can buy a turntable for digitization.

• With such a device, you can copy your records to the PC thanks to the USB connection. The included software will help you do the steps.
• Such a device is the cheapest to buy because it is only suitable for the purpose of digitization. Therefore most devices come with a non-replaceable needle.
• The turntable usually works fully automatically, so you don't have to put the needle on yourself.
• If you choose such a device, you pay between 70 and 150 euros.
• Conclusion: Such turntables are only suitable for digitizing. You should invest in a higher quality device if you want to hear the music regularly through your turntable.

2. Listen to the turntable for music

If you mainly want to listen to music with a turntable, you should use a quality device.

• The reason for a particularly high quality is that you benefit from it significantly longer. The needle is usually interchangeable, making the record player more durable. In addition, the high-quality devices are less sensitive if you dance next to them, for example.
• However, such a device is only suitable if you really listen to it regularly.
• These turntables are often only semi-automatic. This means that you can at least put on the needle yourself and even achieve a little retro effect.
• However, these record players are also more expensive. Expect around 100 to 300 euros when purchasing.
• Conclusion: If you are a real music lover, a turntable should not be missing. However, do not save on quality here, because if the needles are not interchangeable, you always have to buy a new device.

3. Record player for DJing

The turntable offers a completely different approach to DJing. Hang up regularly in clubs or at parties, should you buy a suitable device.

• The difference to the other turntables is that you set everything manually. It starts with the weight for the needle, goes through numerous effects and finally ends with you putting the needle on yourself.
• In addition to the needle, you can also exchange a lot, for example, the entire tonearm.
• With such a record player you can of course also listen to music privately. However, it is not recommended, because you have to be around all the time, as everything is done manually.
• Depending on what effects the turntable should be able to pay, you pay very different prices. Good models are available from around 200 euros.
• Conclusion: As a (hobby) DJ, a manual turntable with many effects is just the thing.

We will introduce you to the three best USB turntables in another practical tip.