I Wanna Rock... On Vinyl

A novices' guide to purchasing your first turntable setup.

So you think you're ready to start digging into the world of vinyl collecting? Well let's get started with some helpful pointers and the basics from this so-called expert shall we?

Equipment Required

The Turntable

This one thing is the single most important piece as you cannot play vinyl without it. I could recommend over a dozen different entry level turntables, but I will focus on the one that you should get if you just want to start out and one that I would not recommend.

The one I would choose based on reliability, functionality, and overall quality is the Audio Technics LP60x ($129.99). At a very affordable price point this entry level turntable comes with an above average entry-level stylus. It also comes with the ability to plug in L/R audio cables into a set of speakers, and a direct drive system for accurate playback speeds on both 45s and 33s. Direct drive causes less distortion of sound during playback due to higher torque and being connected to the motor that causes it to spin (perfect for DJing that next party with your friends too).

Now for the turntable I would not recommend even though it supposedly the ‘perfect entry level turntable’ according to the manufacturer. Sadly, this couldn’t be further from the truth. This product will end up possibly damaging your vinyl after repeated playback due to design and configuration.

The turntable in question is the Crosley Suitcase series of turntables. Why do I say that I do not recommend them? For starters they have no support under the vinyl during playback which causes pressure from the tonearm and stylus during playback which will cause groove damage as its the only thing applying pressure to the vinyl itself. Secondly, they come with a very cheap stylus and no way to plug speakers into them which can cause sound distortion and subpar sound quality. Yes, they are relatively inexpensive but this is one purchase you do not want to cut corners on as it can cost you more in the long run. Do yourself a favor and spend the extra money and get yourself the turntable I recommended above or something with similar features.

Speakers

Speakers are probably the broadest subject and to the beginner who is just starting out this can be very overwhelming due to all the features and range of selection on the market. They contribute so much quality in playback that this purchase is definitely worth a little investing. If you have the space I would recommend either floor standing speakers spaced out pretty far so the sounds do not blend too much together causing muffled sounds or even a mono sounding experience.

For the best bargain I would recommend going with the speakers that I purchased after a three week deliberation period. They are the Edifier R1280DB ($129.99) bookshelf speakers. I went with these due space constraints in my office were I am currently setup to listen to my collection, but don’t be fooled on the quality as they are top notch entry level speakers.

Stylus

The stylus usually comes with the turntable that you purchase and as a beginner I would recommend sticking with the stock stylus. As you become more interested in making an investment this is one thing I would definitely recommend upgrading when you get a chance as it can have a huge difference on playback. Currently I use the Nagoka MP110 Stylus ($174.99) that was given to me as a Christmas present from my wife. The upgrade was considerable from the stock stylus that came with my Audio Technics LP120 but even that one wasn’t bad at all.

Storage

How do I store my vinyl albums? I use the 4x2 Kallax from IKEA. This inexpensive storage unit holds between 500-600 albums. At the price point of $79.99 it is the best bang for your buck. Other sized Kallaxes are 2x2 which is another great option as it will store a considerable amount of vinyl for someone just starting out.

Another wonderful choice for your turntable and audio components is the Crosley Soho ($178.99). It has a top shelf for the turntable, one other shelf for a receiver or amp, and two shelves that can fit about 75-100 albums per shelf.

Vinyl Protection

How does one protect your investment from dust, dirt, grime and ring wear?

Simple! Get yourself some plastic outer sleeves from, Invest in Vinyl ($23.99 for 100) on Amazon or your local record shop. These outer sleeves will do a great job protecting against dust, liquid damage, and other elements that can ruin your album covers.

As for inner sleeves this one is very important. You can get either Mofi ($29.99 for 50) or Invest In Vinyl ($19.99 for 50) rice paper plastic sleeves. These rice paper backed sleeves are anti-static and also are a better option than normal paper sleeves as the paper option can damage your vinyl.

Cleaning Equipment

In terms of cleaning equipment you can really get lost as everyone claims they have the best option. Personally I use, Big Fudge 4 in 1 cleaning kit ($21.99). Other options can be quite expensive but as someone who's just starting out this is the perfect vinyl cleaning combo product. This package includes cleaning spray, brushes, and a non-scratch brush for getting that hard to dust and debris in those inner grooves.

I recommend cleaning equipment as one of the first accessories to purchase. It should be used every time you purchase a used vinyl from a record store or thrift store. You never know what can reside in used album. Some fun stuff I once found are a half smoked joint in a Country Joe and the Fish album, newspaper clippings from a Squeeze concert, and the original purchase receipt for, The Clash’s, Combat Rock.

Now that your vinyl is cleaned up and polished clean you will also want to protect your stylus since dirt, dust and other foreign objects can get in those small grooves which can cause potential damage. For this I highly recommend the ONZOW Zero dust cleaner ($42.99) that will remove all debris on the stylus. The gel pad removes anything attached to it in a safe manner.

Now to cap off all that hard work of getting your new setup, lets play some tunes and have a beverage inspired by the 1972 Rolling Stones tour.

Sunrise With Mick

• 1 1/2 oz. Tequila

• 1/4 oz. Chambord

• 4 oz. Orange Juice

Authors Note - I am not affiliated with any products that have been recommended in this article.