I've got a few questions about vinyl record players, hopefully some of you guys can help. First off, I have a cheap $70 all-in-one Electro Brand turntable. The audio isn't all that good, I assume it's perhaps a cheap needle/cartridge. Also, the music starts to distort slightly as it gets to the end of the side. This happens with every record. I'll try to post some pictures in a bit of the turntable itself. I can't find any reviews of it online. Why does the distortion happen? Is it the cheap TT itself? It doesn't even sound all that great to begin with. I've heard Technics turntables for example, and those sound excellent. My second question is, what do you all recommend for an AFFORDABLE, good-sounding turntable? I feel like $300 for a turntable is just too much. Am I really going to believe I can't find a decent TT for around $150? What do you all recommend?
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First time I have run across someone asking about super cheap turntables. I was under the impression they were still only used by audiophiles, analog purists and/or hipsters. Trying to play an old music collection or something?
For your budget, I suggest an Audio-Technica LP120. Very simple and no hassle product which one of my friends owns. Great sound for the price. However, don't make the mistake in thinking higher price = not worth it. My ex-fiancée bought me a Linn LP12 for my birthday, and it is exquisite. It is among the finest I've ever heard along with the Technics SL1210 and VPI Scout. I doubt I'll ever sell it. I buy HiFi gear which lasts i.e. Revox and Nakamichi 3-head decks that are 30-year olds in my flat which still run like champs.
For less than $150 you could get some bottles and cans and just clap your hands and just clap your hands.
I have an LP120 and I really like it. You could also try the Pro Ject Carbon but its a bit more expensive.
there is no such thing as a good cheap turntable especially since you need a good phono preamp also. The lost decently priced is the audio-technica lp120. It's 300 bucks but it has a built in preamp can can hook up to your computer also. Other turntable brands are music hall, rega, pro-ject. However, those cost a lot more once you take into account needles and preamp.
I've been told the U-Turn Orbits sound very good for the money. http://www.cnet.com/news/u-turn-orbit-an-audiophile-quality-turntable-for-179/ http://store.uturnaudio.com/
http://www.amazon.com/Technica-AT-LP60USB-Automatic-Turntable-USB/dp/B002GYTPB8/ref=pd_cp_MI_0 Audio Technica LP60 for about $110 total. Anyone have thoughts on this?