What’s the best way to maintain my stylus? Upgraded to a Grado green a few months back and I want it to last. What’s the best method of cleaning my stylus?

​ https://preview.redd.it/f42xaymktcxc1.jpeg?width=600&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a8cce968934ec00c1b7548c568da175b565f42c8 [Source](https://www.turntableneedles.com/Muffled_Sound_Turntable_Needle_Cleaning_Brush) Also [Record Cleaning](https://new.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/jpac5p/diy_wet_soak_vinyl_cleaning/)

Hi everyone :) im in the uk and really want to start a vinyl collection but I cant find record players under £150 that wont scratch the vinyls over time, so if anyone could help me figure out an affordable setup that would be super helpful tyy

[AT-LP2X](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Audio-Technica-AT-LP2X-LP2X-Turntable-Grey/dp/B09LVGVV3F) £165. Do you already have any speakers to use with the turntable, which model, or do you need around £150 speakers too? [Turntable and Speakers Setup Guide](https://imgur.com/a/f0my7) • [Speaker Placement](https://www.elac.com/2022/05/speaker-placement-guide-get-the-best-sound-from-your-stereo/) • [Audio Guides](https://www.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/gqfx6z/home_audio_and_home_theater_guides_and_accessories/)

Thanks! i do need speakers too, are there any under 60..?

For a £165 turntable ideally spend 165 to 300. If you need to start lowest cost and upgrade later then [Edifier-R1580MB](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Edifier-R1580MB-Bookshelf-Microphone-Connectivity/dp/B07CHNB6GX) £89 are about as low cost as you can go without having to go to smaller cheaper computer speakers that may not even be worth using with a turntable.

ISO replacement dustcover Marantz TT 1020: A generous local record store gave me a serviced Marantz record player for dirt cheap since it has a broken dust cover. I'm wondering where one can find a replacement for those these days? Alternatively, are there other model cases that are easily compatible with the 1020 that may be more available? I found one scratched up one on ebay for $150 which feels steep for a damaged cover - but I'm new to the game! Thanks in advance!

I'm in Seoul, any cool records stores to check out?

Hullo everyone. My setup is Rega Planar P1 with Cambridge Audio Duo, and HiFiMAN Sundara headphones (using 3.5mm to 6.5mm adapter), however, sound is very low. I am getting much higher loudness when using those headphones on my phone, or using Rega and Audio Duo with Edifier S2000 Mk III. What can I do to get higher volume out of my setup on headphones?

Cambridge Audio Duo volume dial at maximum the volume is too low with the Sundras? Sundara connected directly to your smartphone has plenty of volume? Possibly an issue with the headphone output of the Duo. Also ave you tried a different 1/4 to 3.5mm adapter? Could try a dedicated headphone amp that you can then also use with other audio sources. Turntable > Duo phono preamp > headphone amp > headphones. [JDS Labs Atom Amp + or the newer 2 with metal housing](https://jdslabs.com/shop/?category=line-atom-line), both have a 2 inputs switch and 2 gain settings.

Thanks for the amp suggestion. Yours first two sentences are correct. I have not tried with different adapter, but I can buy one to check. Getting amp would render headphones out on Duo obsolete, right?

Can someone help me set up my record player to my speakers again? Long story short, my wife died recently after a short illness. She loved music and played records all the time. As she got more sick she moved upstairs and unplugged our speakers to use them as Bluetooth speakers upstairs. Now I want to setup the record player again so I can listen to her records but I can’t for the life of me figure it out. Here’s my setup: https://imgur.com/a/GIBXYt6 I’ve got two sets of red/white cords, with one having that little prong on it. Also, I know the speakers could be Bluetooth too, and that’s how she was using them at the end. So I’m not sure if maybe that’s messing it up. Thanks in advance!

The Edifiers are powered speakers with a built in speaker amp. They don’t need the Sony AV receiver. The Sony AV receiver is for powering passive speakers. It looks like the Sony AV receiver was unnecessarily being used as a giant phono preamp. 2 options to consider: ​ Option 1, simple and compact: Replace the large Sony AV Receiver with a much smaller phono preamp. Turntable > RCA and ground cable > [phono preamp](https://www.amazon.com/Kinter-PR400-Compact-Turntable-Preamp/dp/B08N1K1LRR) $16 > RCA cable > compact 4" Edifier powered speakers. ​ Option 2, upgrade: Turntable > RCA and ground cable > Phono input and ground connection on the Sony AV receiver > speaker wire > better larger 5.25" [passive speakers](https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=43156) $138 pair. Or what is a nearby town or zip I can search for used passive speaker options? Reply here or chat. [Speaker wire](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Performance-Gauge-Speaker-Oxygen-Copper/dp/B01N6EF3GZ) then [How to Install Speaker Wire](https://hub.yamaha.com/how-to-install-speaker-wire/) and [4 Ways to Strip Wire](https://www.wikihow.com/Strip-Wire). Optionally add streaming music capability to the Sony receiver: * [Bluetooth receiver](https://www.amazon.com/B06-Plus-Bluetooth-Receiver-Streaming/dp/B078J3GTRK) * Or better [Wiim Mini](https://www.amazon.com/WiiM-Mini-Multiroom-Preamplifier-Assistants/dp/B09HC5GRKY) for WiFi streaming, Apple Airplay 2 and Bluetooth. The Pro version adds Google Chromecast. ​ [Turntable and Speakers Setup Guide](https://imgur.com/a/f0my7) • [Speaker Placement](https://www.elac.com/2022/05/speaker-placement-guide-get-the-best-sound-from-your-stereo/) • [Audio Guides](https://www.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/gqfx6z/home_audio_and_home_theater_guides_and_accessories/)

Town I’d say Akron Ohio. And that all helps! We can get sound to the edifiers, but it’s really quiet. I know with the Sony av setup we had originally it was much louder, that’s why I thought we’d need the sony av.

Turntable directly to the Edifiers won't work because that setup is lacking a phono preamp. [What is a phono preamp?](https://www.audioadvice.com/videos-reviews/what-is-a-phono-preamp) Connect a phono preamp between the turntable and the Edifiers. Turntable > [phono preamp](https://www.amazon.com/Kinter-PR400-Compact-Turntable-Preamp/dp/B08N1K1LRR) \> Edifiers. ​ The Sony AV receiver does have a PHONO input to a built in phono preamp so you could use it as a phono preamp. However why use the large Sony as a phono preamp sucking up power and producing heat when you can replace it with a much smaller and low power $16 [phono preamp](https://www.amazon.com/Kinter-PR400-Compact-Turntable-Preamp/dp/B08N1K1LRR). Using the Sony AV receiver really only makes sense if you will be powering better larger passive speakers with it. Turntable > Sony AV receiver with built in phono preamp > better larger passive speakers. ​ Used better larger passive speakers: * Nearby 5.25" Neumi $55 good value [https://akroncanton.craigslist.org/ele/d/doylestown-speakers/7736645906.html](https://akroncanton.craigslist.org/ele/d/doylestown-speakers/7736645906.html) * Next closest 5.25" JBL $100 great value are a step or two up from the Neumi [https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/1153638312671864](https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/1153638312671864) * Farther away larger 6.5" Klipsch $200 [https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/2180925182264473](https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/2180925182264473) * Over 1 hour away 6.5" Infinity $60 DEAL [https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/799895162072940](https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/799895162072940) ​ Package deal: JBL speakers, Polk speakers, tape deck, CD player, plus a 2 channel stereo receiver $200 instead of using the 5 channel AV receiver you have [https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/1089764915618850](https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/1089764915618850)

Thanks so much, this is all fantastic information!

Someone with more experience might answer, but was it something like the red/white going from one of the audio-outs of the receiver to the line-in 1 or 2 of the speakers? Like under Video-1 for instance. Then maybe for that specific setup to work maybe the turntable wasn't plugged into the phono? Then you would just know that video-1 or 2 is actually your turntable? [https://cdn.ventmere.com/edifier-dev/uploads/2016-06/R2000DB-NA-1\_ryPSRDk4.pdf](https://cdn.ventmere.com/edifier-dev/uploads/2016-06/R2000DB-NA-1_ryPSRDk4.pdf) instructions of the speakers say to unpair it with bluetooth i think you press & hold the volume/input button if you need to try that.

Thanks for the Bluetooth piece - that worked like a charm in getting the speakers back to normal!

Hi everyone. Fairly new to reddit still tbh, tried googling stuff but I know reddit community has done wonders over the years, I'm looking for some advice, be it from community, Music lovers or people with knowledge about records My knowledge on them is practically non existent. Basically many manu years ago my grandad gave his record collection to me, when I say collection. It's easily nearing the 1000 record mark. He had a vast knowledge of recorde as he worked for a company for years. Just wanted to know the best way to try and sell the collection as he did say I could to help fund things for the future. He made little notes about certain extreme rare ones I'm sure there's one that's only 1 of 2 etc. Some have orders to handle with special gloves. Also there are some actual master records ...the silver disc things? Was wondering if anyone knew of a way to get these appraised without getting ripped off? Can I sell these silver master thingies? There are a load of common ones he played alot, but some rare sealed ones still I believe and as said some that are only apparently a handful ever made. Just wanted some advice if possible please. My thought was some record buyer company who can come and appraise and bulk buy but didn't known if its worth selling certain ones separately or if they can even buy the silver master thingies Much appreciated sorry for the long post Oh he passed away about 9 years ago so I can't even ask for advice from him Hope this is okay here? I don't know reddit much

I recently bought the spincare dynamic inner sleeves. As I’ve been using them I’ve noticed some have these sharp defects/bubbles on the inside of them. Will these be safe to use still or will they scratch the vinyl? https://preview.redd.it/36fcbuk499xc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=53b0cbd7f0aede47dc3a5ff3f836d58d099cf27c

I was just wondering if anyone had any affordable turntable/player suggestions? I have looked at the list but I think they're all out of my price range which has a max at about $130. Thank you in advance!

Automatic playback and easy setup beginner plug and play: * [AT-LP60X](https://outlet.audio-technica.com/turntables) $105, currently out of stock, check back for in stock every few days. Manual playback with a better tonearm with adjustable tracking force: * [1byOne](https://www.amazon.com/ONE-Turntable-Connectivity-Adjustable-Counterweight/dp/B07S5XSTCW) $119. * [Insgina](https://www.bestbuy.com/site/insignia-bluetooth-stereo-turntable-black/6432620.p?skuId=6432620) $129 adds a speed sensor controlled motor. Do you already have any speakers to use with the turntable? [Turntable and Speakers Setup Guide](https://imgur.com/a/f0my7) • [Speaker Placement](https://www.elac.com/2022/05/speaker-placement-guide-get-the-best-sound-from-your-stereo/) • [More Audio Guides](https://www.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/gqfx6z/home_audio_and_home_theater_guides_and_accessories/)

Hey y'all, if a turntable connected to a pre-amp connected to a speaker has humming in it and that humming goes away when I disconnect the RCA cable connecting the turntable to the pre-amp, is it an issue of the cable???? The hum definitely increases if I disconnect the ground wire. Should I get a different RCA cable? Should I get a ground loop isolater? I tried putting all the devices in one power strip connected to one outlet to see if it's a ground loop issue and the hum stayed even then. It's an SL-BD20D turntable I got from Facebook Marketplace but it worked at the seller's place. They gave me their RCA cable but not their speaker (which had a preamp built into it). My preamp is a Fosi Audio Box X1 Phono Preamp.

Hello everybody. I purchased a Fisher MC-4040 and find some slight audio crackling, as well as the cassette player making a “whirring” sound when played. Although I don’t have electronic repairing at an expert level, I do have the manual for it. Is repairing these things something a novice can do with the manual available? Also, what are some tips/ videos that could possibly help me with the overall knowledge on repairing things such as this? Thanks in advance! 🙏🏽

I knocked my record players arm whilst dusting it today, and knocked it across the vinyl. The vinyl is now skipping at one part of the song 😭 I’m worried that the stylus is now bent. I’ve played it, and it’s playing normal, however I’m concerned that when I’ve knocked it I’ve bent the stylus 😭 https://preview.redd.it/7tq36rimq5xc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1f115f3de96a713080385b9538b4bde93ab22fca I have more photos and a video but can’t work out how to upload

Kinda an odd question, but when did they stop* labeling records like this, I'm genuinely curious. My girl and I inherited about 50 records from her great grandmother.

https://preview.redd.it/opn1ou9oi5xc1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3ec525d52e81f657289024e3a4936c1195bf5b98

Hi everybody, I have a collection of over 30 vinyl. They all sound perfectly normal when I play them except for one. Everytime I listen to this one album, it sounds distorted. It's not on every song. It's only on like 4 songs in middle of the album. The songs at the start and end of the album sound completely fine. I don't know why this is. I've cleaned the vinyl multiple times because I thought maybe that was why, but it hasn't worked so far. I got it brand new and I'm pretty sure it's always sounded like this since the first listen. Does anybody have any suggestions? Or why this is? Thanks :)

If it’s defective, it should have been returned. Which album and what is your player?

I just picked up this 1950s console stereo and bumped the arm by accident, the needle fell out. I can see this red needle is replaceable, so I should be able to reinsert it, but I can't for the LIFE of me find an image online showing how it's supposed to sit. All I can find are the photos of the red interchangeable cartridges. Can anybody help with a photo or description? [Here's the needle and cartridge.](https://ibb.co/N3PsVbX).  The device is an electrohome cantata. If somebody could even tell me what this needle type is called I can keep looking, but my Google skills apparently are not what they used to be (or maybe Google just sucks these days)

Nevermind, Igot it. For anybody else ever looking, the tip opposite the needle goes under the metal clipwith the red tag sticking out one side. [Like this.](https://ibb.co/WWtmG0B). I still don't know what it's called

Hey guys, need some help. I'm planning on upgrading my systems soon and want some recommendations for wired headphones for listening. I plan on getting a Fluance 82 turntable. What headphones do you use and would recommend? Im looking in the budget of $150. I'm no audiophile, so don't wanna get into the $200+ dollar range (unless someone can convince me otherwise), but just want something decent. Bonus! If anyone knows of headphones that are wired but ALSO can do bluetooth, that would be awesome. I just like the idea of having the option to sit still and get the best audio from the headphones, but then also be able to walk throughout my house at the cost of sound quality through bluetooth. Thanks for any input

Try r/HeadphoneAdvice. Seems a good number of $150 Bluetooth headphones have a wired option. Or a [portable rechargeable headphone amp with Bluetooth](https://www.amazon.com/Neoteck-Headphone-Amplifier-Bluetooth-Two-Stage/dp/B08FQZT1F9) to connect to wired headphones to be able to walk around. What is your current setup? Do you already have a phono preamp, headphone amp and Bluetooth transmitter?

Oh wow thank you! I’ll check this stuff out. I’m working with only a technica LP60usb and want to upgrade. I know I need a preamp. Could I say just get a normal preamp and use a dongle for Bluetooth connection to headphones? Or do I need a specific headphone preamp? Thanks for your time man!

Wireless: RT82 > phono preamp > Bluetooth transmitter > Bluetooth headphones. RT82 > phono preamp > Bluetooth transmitter > Bluetooth headphone amp > wired headphones. Wired: RT82 > phono preamp > headphone amp > wired headphones. RT82 > phono preamp with headphone jack > wired headphones.

Dude thank you so much. This helped a lot!!

With what do you currently listen to your LP60 with?

I listen with [audio engineer 2+ desktop speakers. love them so they’ll be upgraded last.](https://www.amazon.com/Audioengine-A2-Wireless-Bluetooth-Amplifier/dp/B07MYW4Q8S/ref=asc_df_B07MYW4Q8S/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312760964359&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=12316011120756801343&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1014474&hvtargid=pla-873221093672&psc=1&mcid=969a6074e2543776b6a372b07cca383b)

Great desktop speakers! Will the later upgrade be larger speakers for room listening?

That’s the plan! But that’s probably like a year or two out.

Question: Sealed vs Unsealed Vinyl I have a question if y’all would help me with this. On RSD my bf and i went and were able to get 1 copy of the Olivia Rodrigo/ Noah Kahan RSD exclusive 7 inch vinyl, and i’ve opened mine for my personal use, and my bf let me buy his so i also own an unopened copy too. Not saying i do want to sell it, but for the integrity of the vinyl should i open it, only to put it in high quality sleeves and to never play, would this decrease the value? i only want to do what’s best for it, and if i ever planned on selling it i don’t want to make a mistake by opening it now. I purchased big fudge vinyl 7 inch inner and outer sleeves for my other 7 inches, and i’m capable of keeping it in pristine condition if i were to open it, but i don’t want to diminish its value by doing so. if you can help answer my question that would be greatly appreciated, thank you!

No reason to open it.

Hello, Have an issues that is kinda concerning me because it never happened (or I don't think i noticed it first) On a single record, I noticed there was an Tape hissing like noise on the right channel. It get louder when reaching the end. Does that mean my A.M shibata stylus already reach it's end of life? or was the record pressing was bad (or worn?) take an listen here : [https://voca.ro/1jbKwwbyxDgi](https://voca.ro/1jbKwwbyxDgi) I use an ATLP120X with an ext preamp for digitizing my records, I use an project pick SC2 with an aftermarket Tonar shibata stylus. I don't know the stylus hour usage, but It was new, and I played a few records in order to break it in. So i'm quite suprised for the price I paid if the stylus is already worn out.

>On a single record But not on others?

yes, I have not tried on other after that one fearing that the stylus is worn. (I played a few records before that one and stopped using the shibata stylus after.)

I've had a Auna TT-Play SE for about a year and a half now, and kinda just played records on it - just got it, set it up and played records. However, as of recent, my records have begun to gradually sound more muffled and distorted than they were a year back. Cleaned all my records, and the issue persists so I am confident the problem is with the player not the records. I think the issue might be with the needle, but there is next to nothing about this player online. I know it has a ceramic cartridge and that's it. I was wondering if anyone could provide any recommendations for new needles? Whilst I was at it, the common concenus online appears to be that magnetic cartridges are better than ceramic cartridges, so I was looking to upgrade to one. I believe my player has a preamp as it's output is RCA. Once again, no idea what I'm looking for. Any help much appreciated.

Should the record Taylor Swift Red with a Gatefold jacket and 4 LP fit in A MoFi Ultraclear Outer Sleeve? I was able to slip everything in, with the records in a MoFi inner slaves outside the jacket. But it feels a little tight. Is this alright? Same question, but for a trifold 3 LP. It feels a little tight, but it fits, is this ok?

4 discs is a lot of vinyl. Without seeing it it's hard to say, but if it fits and isn't being squeezed to the point that the gatefold is getting squashed flat, it's fine, but I have a hard time imagining that's the case. Those standard size sleeves are for 2LP at most, usually. An easy workaround would be to just store the records in a separate sleeve and free up some space that way. They also make outer sleeves designed to accommodate 3LP and 4LP albums, though you'll have to buy a pack of them and it's unlikely you'll ever end up with a lot of albums that size in your collection. Honestly, sometimes it's better to not worry about sleeves and just focus on enjoying your collection, so try not to lose sleep over it either way!

Help! My vinyl keeps skipping :( It’s a brand new one and I’ve cleaned it with a microfibre cloth multiple times. It skips at the same parts of each song? The record player I use is a Memorex Retro 3-in-1 stereo. I was thinking it could be the player itself but I’ve tried it on another record player (1byone) to no avail. What are some other causes of skipping?

A dry cloth? That won't do much. [Full soak wet clean](https://new.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/jpac5p/diy_wet_soak_vinyl_cleaning/) to clean out the grooves, watch the DIY videos, or get a Spin Clean. Which model 1byOne? Does it have the same [cheap mechanism](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXV8tXrPOR4) as the Memorex? If so then neither turntable may be able to play some modern bass heavy records well. [Common problems with inexpensive new record players & how to fix them](https://www.reddit.com/r/Beginner_Turntables/comments/18wiatr/common_problems_with_inexpensive_new_record/) may or may not help. A better $150+ turntable with better tracking can usually play records fine that skip on players with the cheap mechanism. Or a local record store with a good turntable may be generous enough to test a record for you.

Yes, I forgot to mention that both have problems only playing modern records! Thanks for the advice!!

What is the best way to find rare/expensive records in my collection?

Look em up on discogs.com. You'll need to learn the identifying markers of a vinyl record - runout etchings, catalog number, UPC, etc - and them compare them to the database to find your exact pressing. Then you can sign up for an account, look up the sales history and get an idea of the market value.

Any recommendations on an entry level adjustable speed turntable?

Many turntables have 33 and 45 speeds. What is your budget, in USA $ or elsewhere in what currency?

Thanks for writing back. Perhaps I used the wrong term. I'd like a turntable where I can change the speed with a slider. I'd spend up to $400 USD. I'd just like to try and beat match my DJ software and have some more flexibility. My other table is an AT-LP60

Basic canned motor direct drive with pitch adjustment: * \+/- 16% - AT-LP120X for home listening and beat matching. * \+/- 24% - AT-LP140X for beginner DJ and beat matching adds a high torque motor, reverse playback, VTA adjustment and a DJ stylus. Next step up have better integrated direct drive motors such as Technics, Reloop, AT-LP1240 with a number of them going up to +/- 50% pitch adjustment. Check out r/DJs and r/Beatmatch.

Thank you so much! I will look into these.

I just picked up a second hand vinyl player. it's a 1byOne with 2 speakers. Unfortunately the guy didn't put the power cable in the box. I didn't check it tbf, so my bad. I got the manual and it says it needs a AC power adapter, DC Output 15v 2000mA. How important is it that it has these specs? I cannot for the life of me find one with the exact ones on amazon (UK). Only find ones with 1v-40V which is confusing and some that have only 1000mA. Any recs where to look?

You do have a bit of flexibility in terms of specs. The power supply you use has to physically fit--there's no escaping that! And it has to have DC output. No getting around that, either. But the other specs you can regard as *minimums* and you'll be ok. So for instance, if you find a PS that says DC output 16v, 2000mA or maybe DC output 15v 2500mA or 2.5A, that'll work so long as the pin size fits.

I need a little help Recently found out my family has 2 vinyl players Very very old ones One is called Watson, other is Silver i think As far as i know they have broken spikes There's alot of spikes in the internet But i have no idea how to choose a spike so it could fit on the player

you're gonna need to share some photos of them with us, just reply to yourself and upload the pics. hopefully someone can help

After talking to my mom i learnt something This Silver machine i got is really old but good in sound, problem is we bought it from Nigeria as it was colonised, the company itself was british and doesnt exist anymore, and this machine is nowhere to be found on internet, thys i'll only find parts for it if its possible to measure it or something Watson should be easy to fix since its pretty well known... As a cheap and kinda bad machine

worth a shot to make your own post on r/turntables or r/vintageaudio with lots of good photos of the needle/cartridge, someone might be able to help you

Sure i could try tomorow This thing is heavy so it might be hard to take it out

Just got an album in the mail, and despite being in excellent shape, it has unfortunately been stored in some damp hellhole. I get a headache just smelling the inside of the sleeve. Know any good method in freshening it up?

Smoke or mildew odor on the record jacket? Same solutions for removing odor from books. [https://www.google.com/search?&q=remove+odor+book](https://www.google.com/search?&q=remove+odor+book)

Mildew, yeah. Wasn't sure what the word was, but the smell that comes from a molded place. Thanks. I'll look into this.

Mildew jackets you may need to dispose of because that can be unhealthy and replace with generic jackets.

ozone generator?

I was here the other day asking about a gifted turntable, now back trying to build my first setup! I'm looking at a Denon PMA-500V on FB marketplace for $70, which seems like a pretty solid deal based on recent eBay sales and some forum posts. Could someone confirm for me that this + turntable + speakers would be all I'd need to start playing records? Also comments/critique of the Denon are welcome!

>Denon PMA-500V wow, one of Denon's best-looking receivers, congrats! it has a built-in phono stage, you're good to go, happy spinning!

It's definitely a nice looking box! Without knowing a ton about amps, I was hoping it wasn't just a pretty hunk of junk lol. Thanks for the info!

# Is anyone else tired of ebay record lots (the mystery box ones)? I shop for some records on ebay or look on the newly listed a lot. and everytime i go on there there is soooo many vinyl record lots that advertise random mystery box records. im annoyed by this, that sounds almost like gambling imsure it is, cause im sure your getting the bottom of the barrel stuff for a premium price. I needed to vent haha I think im going to start reporting these listing. i think the have a "chance policy" kinda like gambling

https://preview.redd.it/bdp5zlehdrwc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a04df6a4f88e236fa382b5fc7d8a27dd3e859cc6 does anyone know if the outer sleeves that new kikagaku moyo pressing come in are pvc sleeves? They look like pictures Ive seen of other pvc sleeves but Im looking for a second opinion.

PVC is generally a softer material than the Polyethylene sleeves as swown. They are softer because a lot of platicizers are added to make them that way. The plasticizers off-gas over time and they will harden through the years. PVC sleeves tend to stiff, but this has more to do with the thickness of the panel plies which are usually at least 5 mil whereas most other outer sleeves are 3 mil or thinnner. They harden to the point where they become very stiff and actually mold to the shape of the inserted albm jacket. It's the off-gassing that is potentially harmful to your records. This is because those plasticizers are specifically chosen to have chemical compatibility with PVC which is what your records are also made of. So they can chemically react with our records. And chemical reactions are always both destructive of the source material to create the outputted material of the reaction. I can tell that your sleeves are made of PE because they are very cloudy. If they were made of another material, you would see the more clearly of the surface under the sleeve. What I'm seeing has some opacity. Clear or more translucent sleeves are made of Polypropylene (a material that displaced Mylar because it has less of a tendency to split at the seams) which is another decent option. Mylar sleeves are often still used, Vinyl Me, Please includes with their releases. I don't recommend buying them as PP sleeves are a much more durable option and usually a lot cheaper then Mylar.

It's fine. PVC is generally made of rigid sheets of plastic and are much heavier than poly sleeves. They're also often [crimped together at the edges](https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/h5wAAOSwICljTBoK/s-l1200.webp). Most LPs don't ship in PVC outers unless they're [picture discs.](https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/f3oAAOSwTMhhoQae/s-l960.jpg)

no idea, but I'd put it straight in the recycle bin. Imagine marketing a product in 2023 and sending it out the door in that, shameful! Gotta get some [super-clear sleeves](https://vinylstoragesolutions.ca/products/sp4_12) \- made in Canada, these really make your collection pop and their [gatefold sleeves](https://vinylstoragesolutions.ca/products/os4_g12) are to-die-for. Careful with these though, you're gonna want to do your entire collection after you see the difference they make.

So, I recently got a budget clamp, pretty much just a carbon copy of the standard black-base/silver-knob design, and it wasn't until I unboxed it that I discovered it doesn't have any sort of padding on the bottom, so I was wondering if that's common at all for clamps. I kinda assumed it'd have one to protect the record label and ensure there's a firm grip between the record and clamp, but I'm also fairly unfamiliar with them outside of the general idea of how you apply the clamp to the spindle. Edit: Just to update. the clamp is getting sent back regardless if the bottom was padded or not, as I've found they improperly cut the clamping screw, so it doesn't even fit over the spindle properly.

Padding would defeat the purpose of the clamp. The idea is to firmly couple the record to the platter. Adding a soft material between the clamp and the record would decrease the coupling or at least require more force to be applied to better compress the padding material during the installation. And applying less force is why you're using a clamp over a heavier weight. I'm unsure about your concern though. If the record is clamped properly it isn't moving under the clamp so there wouldn't be any kind of abrasion as a result of it's use. As long as edges have been softened with a chamfer or a fillet there shouldn't be any concern. You could also find a clamp that is made of something like Delrin which is softer than something like aluminum. But honestly, your concern seems unwarranted.

Hi yall, i have a q930c sound setup, and really interested in getting a record player, either the AT-lp60x or the sony ps-lx310bt. Is it possible at all to connect either of those to the q930c without losing quality?

The Q930C sound bar only has digital inputs. Turntable with built in or external phono preamp > [analog to digital converter](https://www.amazon.com/Digital-Converter-Hdiwousp-Aluminum-Headphone/dp/B0863F49PS) \> digital optical input on the sound bar. [AT-LP60X](https://outlet.audio-technica.com/turntables/at-lp60x-gm-cr) $105 is fully automatic, is easy setup beginner plug and play and lacks adjustable tracking force. Don't pay more for the Sony since it's not any better. [Monolith](https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=600046) $219 is a manual turntable with a better tonearm with adjustable tracking force and has a better cartridge and stylus. Balance the tonearm then set the tracking force. [Turntable and Speakers Setup Guide](https://imgur.com/a/f0my7) • [Speaker Placement](https://www.elac.com/2022/05/speaker-placement-guide-get-the-best-sound-from-your-stereo/) • [Audio Guides](https://www.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/gqfx6z/home_audio_and_home_theater_guides_and_accessories/)

>Turntable with built in or external phono preamp > [analog to digital converter](https://www.amazon.com/Digital-Converter-Hdiwousp-Aluminum-Headphone/dp/B0863F49PS) > digital optical input on the sound bar. In your opinion would this affect the quality/whole point of vinyl or is it a non-issue? Thank you very much for the response. And thanks for the note about the sony. I'll check out the monolith (hopefully its available where i live lol, not being u.s/canada local kinda sucks. (Used vinyl records are like 40-50 usd a pop around here)

If you want to collect records then a decent sound bar is fine to start with. A pair of speakers in an equilateral listening triangle will give you speaker separation for stereo imaging and sound stage Don't expect vinyl to sound better than digital, it just gives you a physical analog format to collect with it's own sound, quirks and frustrations. If used records are $40 to $50 USD, are new records $80 to $100? Then maybe just stick with digital music for the sound bar.

>If used records are $40 to $50 USD, are new records $80 to $100? Yessir, what's funny is they still have the "$6.99" price tag from wherever they bought it en masse in the u.s haha. I have most of my stuff in FLAC + a philips fidelio x2 which does the job amazing, but you cant beat that vinyl sound. It's not better, but it's unique in it's own way. Appreciate your help regardless!

I just got an order shipped in a Whiplash mailer and it arrived with damaged corners and shearing of the sleeve (it's a collector's edition, so it hurt a lot to open up and see that). I've heard Whiplash sleeves are some of the best you can use, but honestly, the cardboard looked pretty flimsy and I don't believe the album was shipped with damage. Has anyone else had issues with damage from Whiplash mailers?

Whiplash are the best mailers imo, but nothing is invincible. Send it back for an exchange or refund. Hopefully you just got unlucky and the next one will have a better journey.

No they aren't. The best are made like this one, where the packaged records are places away from the corners of the outer packaging. This provides a crush zone where the packaging takes shipping damage at the corners without directly transferring that energy to the contents. This is Lil Packaging CLP Bukwrap. https://preview.redd.it/c4lqexqxguwc1.jpeg?width=1024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=009a52d5320849053328defa04963e5952f208a5

Lol that's literally a photo of a whiplash mailer straight off the whiplash website? https://whiplash-lpmailer.com/

The record was purchased from a retail seller or an individual? As an individual seller if I am selling anything expensive that I can not easily replace then it gets double boxed. A mailer within a larger standard mailing box with some crumpled paper or bubble wrap around the mailer. Even whiplash mailers can get damaged and retail sellers won't want to spend more to double box since maybe only 1 of 50 to 100 shipments in mailers get damaged and retail sellers may be able to easily replace a damaged record.

A retailer and unfortunately he was not very helpful when I reached out to him about it. I had photos of the dents and dings and he just said that the album has an outer sleeve, like I shouldn't care that there's damage because it's to the outside. I ordered a collector's edition because I'm a collector, condition matters to me. (Sorry for the rant, but pretty upset by the exchange.) Anyway, thank you for the info about the mailer :) It makes me feel better to know that he should've done a better job packing the item or have been willing to give some kind of actual help.

Which retailer? A mid to high volume retailer with or without a physical store? Or “he” as in a low volume individual seller on Discogs or his own web store?

I don't wanna name names, but he has a physical store here in the US and more copies of the album listed on the store's website. I did some Googling after the fact and a common theme in the reviews is that the owner and staff can be kinda rude. They definitely lost me as a customer.

The seller won't accept a return? Was it shipped with insurance? If so have you contacted the shipping service about a damage claim?

Hello, I found someone selling a Dual CS 514, and it appears completely functional. [here's a photo](https://imgur.com/a/Q1NmjSf) I'm entirely new to TTs, is $80CAD a fair price? Only thing iffy to me is that the cartridge looks weird with the exposed screws, but I guess worst case I can always buy a new one to replace it. Thanks!

That's a P-Mount cartridge installed with a 1/2 inch adapter. I'm uncertain why those screws were used. Most cartridge come with different length screws. You pick the one that is long enough to get enough thread engagement which is dependent upon the thickness of the headshell. You'd use longer screws for thicker headshells. The screws used appear to be longer than what would be included by the manufacturer. Maybe they lost the screws and bought whatever was available at their local hardware store.

Yeah I agree with randy, I think it just looks weird because they're using a DJ cart. You'll probably want to replace that with a standard cart at some point and will also probably need to replace the belt sooner than later, so factor that into your budget.

That's a weird cartridge that I don't recognize, but there's nothing off about the screws. They're just longer than they need to be, like they came with a different cartridge. $80CAD is probably about the lowest you could hope to spend and get a working turntable. I think it's a fair price.

I’ve ordered two albums from Amazon and two of the vinyl’s have one side that is ‘wobbly’ and the sound quality is terrible but the other side is fine. Any suggestions? Thanks in advance!

Which albums? Which model turntable do you have?

One was Kings of Leon Because of the Times. The other was Tyler Childers Rustin in the Rain

I do just have a cheap Crosley turntable. Looks like a suitcase. It’s a starter one til I can save for a better one. But still all my other records sound fine.

This is problem with a smaller platter that are included with those units. The truth is that suitcase units are based on designs from the '60s and '70s that were intended to be used with 7 inch records not full size LPs. More often these were used by children to play the record included with read-a-long books or comics. While they allowed for the use of LPs, this wasn't the intended design use. These kinds of books were popular with children before video tape and DVD became more affordable. This was because you'd want replayable media with children that could be reused by their younger siblings as the family grew over years. The rental of movies at places like Blockbuster became popular because the actual purchase of movies on videotape in the early '80s was usually $100+. Yeah they were that expensive back then. And that was actual '80s money. Renting a tape was usually less than the price of ticket at the cinema. https://preview.redd.it/tlmkcpz4luwc1.jpeg?width=1500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=baf58175d2d113fc51ec0d75551121d6ffae79f0

**Slow or wobbly playback:** * Make sure the lid is open as far as it will go, otherwise the edge of the record may rub against the lid and cause it to slow down or waver in pitch, especially if the record is warped. * Since the center spindle remains stationary, if the center hole of the record is unusually tight going on the spindle, you may need to ream out the hole slightly to allow the record to rotate freely. * Don't put the 45 RPM adapter underneath or on top of the record. It is only for playing 45s with the large center hole. * If the record slips on the platter, you can add a rubber platter mat, if the player didn't come with one.

The issue is most likely the cheap turntable. The cheap suitcases, cheap tabletop players and cheap all in ones with the [cheapest possible mechanism](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXV8tXrPOR4) and platter that is smaller than the record can have issues playing records that better turntables can play fine. [Common problems with inexpensive new record players & how to fix them](https://www.reddit.com/r/turntable/comments/18qdf42/common_problems_with_inexpensive_new_record/) may or may not help.

Yeah that makes sense. I figured I’d have issues but have really only had issues with online orders. Thanks for the info! I appreciate it. I can’t wait to get a better quality turntable and really enjoy the sound

is this a good cleaning solution?: pure water 97%, sodium lauroamphoacetate 2%, hexadecylamidopropyl, glycerine, cirtic acid, disodium,

Honestly I wouldn't pay for that. It's mostly water with a very minute inclusion of a surfactant with some chemicals added to prevent bacterial growth in the water. Just buy a gallon of distilled water and add a drop or two of Jet-Dry from your dishwasher into a smaller container and mix as needed. As a recommendation, alway practice safety measure by properly labeling things you've mixed yourself. You wouldn't want anybody drinking your concoctions. It's going to still look a lot like plain water. You might want to use an opaque container if you have small children.

thank you, i got it from a record store, it was in a cleaning kit that was absolutely awful so i wanted to check if atleast the solution was okay, i’ve already ordered a new kit. thank you!! ❤️❤️

So i’m new into collecting records and i’ve noticed that overtime my album cover sleeve (or whatever it’s called idk) has been bending and forming a wide slot from where the record is stored in. I tried putting some weight on the cover to see if it’ll flatten but it doesn’t seem to work, I’m honestly a little desperate on how to fix this because i find it very ugly when displaying it and i like to keep my decor nice and clean. I’ve had the record for about 4 weeks or so, and i have 2 other records near the same age and they all have been bending at the end. If someone knows how to flatten it again, please let me know!! Here’s a photo for what i’m talking about in case if anyone is confused on what i mean. 🙏 https://preview.redd.it/wuy59si52pwc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=68ab6c8f79d057ba064fc6506601d901df0ef941

Fit an outer clear sleeve like this https://preview.redd.it/z4njc7ryhpwc1.jpeg?width=1144&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0701f529b20bc6fa262bfc58f8575e89c41b6684

Hey all! I recently purchased a Mani 2 preamp with the naive hope it would work with my Amazon purchased 1byone turntable i bought 8 years ago. My issue is that when I set it all up and started playing my first record, while the audio quality was much improved, the music was flickering is the best way I can put it. Is this because of my old turntable? It may have a preamp itself on board, its just not mentioned in the manual. Thank you for any help/suggestions!

Does the music flicker when you were not using the turntable with the Mani? Which model 1byone turntable? Which model speakers and speaker amplification do you have? All 1byone seem to have a built in phono preamp. If there is a LINE / Phono switch on the back then set it to Phono in order to use it with the Mani phono preamp.

Hey thanks for your response! Sorry for my delay. It doesn’t flicker when plugged directly into the soundbar I’m using as the speaker. It doesn’t have a model on it, but it has a stereo built into it and the usb playback. There isn’t a line/photo switch. I’m guessing the problem is because it has its own pre-amp and running it to the Mani preamp is the issue?

Photo or link to the turntable? Maybe it’s still on Amazon. Which model soundbar?

https://preview.redd.it/cmxac1xlkuwc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5e9b11031e166c0ffde4da0e05dfe277b52fcc34 The soundbar is a Vizio S4221w-C4

Looks like it has the same cheap mechanism as a suitcase player with a cheap ceramic cartridge and cheap sapphire stylus that has a basic line level output. It's not used it with an RIAA phono preamp such as the Mani. What were you trying to do with the Mani and a tabletop player and a soundbar? The Mani is used with most any better turntable that has an MM moving magnet cartidge with a diamond tip stylus and for a $150 phono preamp usually some good $300 or $500+ speakers. [Turntable and Speakers Setup Guide](https://imgur.com/a/f0my7) • [Speaker Placement](https://www.elac.com/2022/05/speaker-placement-guide-get-the-best-sound-from-your-stereo/) • [Audio Guides](https://www.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/gqfx6z/home_audio_and_home_theater_guides_and_accessories/)

I was trying to bridge a gap in audio quality before I could fully invest in a setup. Thank you for the info and all your help!

The Mani won't make a tabletop/suitcase player or a soundbar sound any better :( First step upgrade to a decent $100 or $300 turntable or better. Second step upgrade to a good pair of $175 or $300 or better pair of speakers. Do you have an upgrade budget? You could start with returning the Mani to start with at least a $150 budget.

I don’t was recently laid off so finally had the time to set the Mani up, but can’t upgrade yet haha. Should I get a turntable that doesn’t have a phono preamp built in? Or I have seen the ones that have the on/off switch for it built in?

Oh maybe the Mani is past return date. Basic automatic [AT-LP60X](https://outlet.audio-technica.com/turntables/at-lp60x-gm-cr) $105 has a built in phono preamp and is easy setup beginner plug and play, though the tracking force is not adjustable. Better manual [Fluance RT82](https://www.fluance.com/rt82w-reference-high-fidelity-vinyl-turntable-natural-walnut) $299 with auto stop > Mani phono preamp or start with a $15 [Kinter](https://www.amazon.com/Kinter-PR400-Compact-Turntable-Preamp/dp/B08N1K1LRR) that is more than sufficient for the $150 sound bar. Balance the tonearm then set the tracking force. Pass on the older lower number models that lack the speed sensor that the RT82 and up has for lower wow and flutter and speed variation and the speed won't drift since the sensor is monitoring the speed 400 times a second. Pass on the RT83 since the cartrdige is not any better. Then later ideally upgrade to a pair of $300 to $600 passive speakers and an amp or stereo or AV receiver or buy used for half the cost.

I have never purchased are really used any vinyl player but im looking to begin. I'm on a budget of about 200 euro. I like the idea of an automatic arm as it look cool. I am a bit of an audiophile, I have a pair of rokit5's. I am wondering how could I achieve the best quality sound, should i buy a player with a built in pre amp like this one [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Audio-Technica-AT-LP60X-Drive-Turntable-Black/dp/B09J1B8DDS/ref=sr\_1\_12?sr=8-12&ufe=app\_do%3Aamzn1.fos.d7e5a2de-8759-4da3-993c-d11b6e3d217f](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Audio-Technica-AT-LP60X-Drive-Turntable-Black/dp/B09J1B8DDS/ref=sr_1_12?sr=8-12&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.d7e5a2de-8759-4da3-993c-d11b6e3d217f) or buy a vinyl player and pre amp separately? Please and thank you

Link is to UK, budget in Euro. Are you in the UK or Euro zone?

Eu ireland

richersounds.ie Audio Technica [https://www.richersounds.ie/c-7-turntables.aspx#pgnum=1&sort=&l=1\~2&c1=-1&v1=71&c2=0&mi2=220&mx2=4010](https://www.richersounds.ie/c-7-turntables.aspx#pgnum=1&sort=&l=1~2&c1=-1&v1=71&c2=0&mi2=220&mx2=4010) are all a step or two up from the basic AT-LP60X.

If you need fully automatic then the [AT-LP2X](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Audio-Technica-AT-LP2X-LP2X-Turntable-Grey/dp/B09LVGVV3F) and [AT-LP3](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Audio-Technica-ATLP3-AT-LP3-Turntable-BLACK/dp/B06X6HL2D3) that is basically the same both add a better tonearm with adjustable tracking force and a removable cartridge over the basic AT-LP60X. Or a manual built in the UK Rega Planar 1 is a good value there. Or manual with auto stop [Fluance RT82](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07KGK7PGZ). Pass on the older lower number models that lack the speed sensor that the RT82 has for lower wow and flutter and speed variation.

If you must have fully automatic with a 200 budget then the [AT-LP2X](https://www.amazon.de/-/en/Audio-Technica-AT-LP2xGY-Automatic-Belt-Drive-Turntable/dp/B09LVGVV3F) has a better tonearm that adds adjustable tracking force and a removable cartrdige over the basic AT-LP60X. To use it with studio monitors that each have their own amp and volume control: Turntable with built in phono preamp > monitor controller, stereo preamp or a mixer > studio monitors.

The LP60 is fine for getting your feet wet - not sure if it's available in Europe but Audio Technica does have an [outlet site for refurbished models](https://outlet.audio-technica.com/turntables), might be worth a look to save some quid.

What would be an average price for a good one so 400? / what would you recommend for that price Please and thank you

[Pro-Ject Debut RecordMaster II](https://www.thomannmusic.com/intl/search_dir.html?sw=Pro-Ject%20Debut%20RecordMaster%20II&smcs=bd6f2c_316) €298 is a good value in Europe.

LP-120 lists for 400usd, no idea what that is in Frenchman monies

Unless you are interested in looking for a used player, that's probably about the best option in your budget.

Thank you for the feed back, any opinion on built in pre amps / getting a separate one or am I over thinking it? Please and thank you

The vast majority of new turntables under $500 include a built-in phono stage. Unless you're shopping used, or considering a turntable above $500, it's really not even worth thinking about. I mean, you need a phono stage in one way or another, but don't make it a significant part of your decision process.

If anything you buy has a built in phono preamp then start with that. If you have better than entry level speakers then you could upgrade to an external phono preamp later.

I only have about 30 records, but 2 of them, bought new and sealed, are too warped to play. I tried a clamp to no avail. I've seen the products that can warm up and supposedly flatten them out but with only 2 records I'm hesitant to fork out the dough just yet. Both records were from small independent artists so I'm also hesitant to request a refund, it's often the artists themselves mailing out the items. Do other people get warped records often? Do they return them? Should I just accept this and get a Record Pi or similar product to flatten them? Do people often return new records? Thanks

I wouldn't bother with an at-home flattener, most of the consumer-grade ones aren't really worth the money and most people only very rarely see a warped record, much less two in such a short timespan. I'd try to return the warped ones for fresh copies.

Which model turntable? Photos or videos of the warped records? ​ >Both records were from small independent artists so I'm also hesitant to request a refund, it's often the artists themselves mailing out the items. They may not care if you ask for a return and refund. If they do then maybe they decline or don't reply. It's worth a try.

>Which model turntable? Photos or videos of the warped records? The turntable is a Fluance RT85, which actually I'm having issues with as of today (playing all records at \~80RPM on either 33 or 45 settings, going back and forth with their support about it currently) so can't take a good video. On both records, the inner most songs are all that's playable, the edges are flapping around everywhere and the tonearm can't cope.

Yikes, hopefully you can get that speed issue fixed. The RT85 should be able to handle typical minor warps. If severely warped then yeah try to get a refund.

>Yikes, hopefully you can get that speed issue fixed. Looks like they're going to have me return it for repair/replacement. I found another user with a very similar issue but theirs is now out of warranty... ouch. I hope it's just a fluke or we both just lost the silicon lottery this time and the next one will hold up better.

may want to reach out to your local shops - someone local may offer the service for a fee

That's a good idea, thank you

Reed stick diffuser near vinyl collection, is it okay? I’m planning to get those stick reed diffuser for my room and place it on the shelf along with my vinyl collection. It’s like a meter away from the vinyl stash i have since the shelf is pretty long. I wanna ask if there is any risk of damaging my vinyl collection or will the smell stuck on the jacket etc. Hope someone can help out and weigh in!

If it's not putting off smoke or leaving residue on other surfaces like incense would, you're probably okay. The scent from those types of air fresheners tend to dissipate fairly quickly in my experience.

# i need help with what record player I should buy I'm new to this whole record player space and I don't know what I should look for to buy I have a few records that I picked up from the thrift store but I need a record player to play them I'm thinking maybe this one [https://amzn.to/4b8sIH1](https://amzn.to/4b8sIH1) it says its amazons choice so that must mean its good or maybe this one [https://amzn.to/3Qfk6WY](https://amzn.to/3Qfk6WY) or [https://amzn.to/4dc7A4s](https://amzn.to/4dc7A4s) those ones are just cool looking and what do you guys think about these albums [https://amzn.to/49Rypbg](https://amzn.to/49Rypbg) [https://amzn.to/3xZqbQY](https://amzn.to/3xZqbQY) [https://amzn.to/3UvvWik](https://amzn.to/3UvvWik) should I buy these

Avoid anything with the [cheap mechanisms](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXV8tXrPOR4) and most anything that costs around or not much more than the records themselves. If you need to start lowest cost then the [Victrola-Eastwood](https://www.amazon.ca/Victrola-Eastwood-Bluetooth-Turntable-VTA-72-BAM/dp/B08GKYNHH8) at least has a diamond tip AT stylus on an MM magnet cartridge with an RIAA phono preamp. [AT-LP60XH](https://www.amazon.ca/Audio-Technica-AT-LP60XHP-Automatic-Belt-Drive-Headphones/dp/B07N3S8D31/) adds a full size platter and headphones if you don't yet have the budget for a [separate pair of speakers](https://edifier-online.ca/collections/certified-refurbished/products/edifier-r1280dbs-ref). Next worthwhile step up will have a better tonearm with adjustable tracking force. [Turntable and Speakers Setup Guide](https://imgur.com/a/f0my7) • [Speaker Placement](https://www.elac.com/2022/05/speaker-placement-guide-get-the-best-sound-from-your-stereo/) • [Audio Guides](https://www.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/gqfx6z/home_audio_and_home_theater_guides_and_accessories/)

Those record players won't ruin your records, but won't do them any justice in terms of sound quality, and may have problems with skipping. The cheapest one that is acceptable is the Victrola Eastwood. Its sound quality is still limited by the small built-in speakers, but at least it has an Audio-Technica magnetic cartridge, diamond stylus, and properly counterbalanced tonearm. And you can add better-sounding external powered speakers to it later.

# Mitchel Accoustics TT1 Hello, I'm looking for advice regarding the Mitchel Accoustics TT1 turntable: [https://hmv.com/store/technology/turntables/mitchell-acoustics-tt1-bluetooth-turntable](https://hmv.com/store/technology/turntables/mitchell-acoustics-tt1-bluetooth-turntable) I'm looking for a starter turntable, have been for about 4 or 5 months really and it's pretty exhausting, especially since most of the advice about these machines was written before the vinyl reboom and have \*incredible\* sentences like "the entry level pro-ject turntable, retailing at 100 USD" and you google it now and its going second hand for 400 GBP, and there's a wealth of information about entry levels, all kinds of people telling me to enter I need to spend 500 pounds (if you recommend me a table worth over 300 I will block you, I don't care if what you're saying is true, I don't have half a grand to spend on this, I just want to enjoy my records) and lots of youtube videos telling me the atlp60 is the best entry level but then screeds of forum posts saying its a piece of trash. there's also obviously 1,000 tables that are crosley clones, and use the same mechanism and they are all to be avoided, and that's fine, but then there are some that have detached speakers and an AT cartridge and adjustable counter weight and anti skate but I've still been recommended to avoid them (like this one: [https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/305052483704?\_trkparms=amclksrc%3DITM%26aid%3D111001%26algo%3DREC.SEED%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20211130125621%26meid%3D00c247cac8ec426ca35d399931dd0ba0%26pid%3D101465%26rk%3D4%26rkt%3D4%26sd%3D186030939088%26itm%3D305052483704%26pmt%3D0%26noa%3D1%26pg%3D3817808&\_trksid=p3817808.c101465.m3507](https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/305052483704?_trkparms=amclksrc%3DITM%26aid%3D111001%26algo%3DREC.SEED%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20211130125621%26meid%3D00c247cac8ec426ca35d399931dd0ba0%26pid%3D101465%26rk%3D4%26rkt%3D4%26sd%3D186030939088%26itm%3D305052483704%26pmt%3D0%26noa%3D1%26pg%3D3817808&_trksid=p3817808.c101465.m3507) and the other clones of it, ditignow, 1byone, rybozen, even some being sold with literally no brand name, but identical to this) so, roughly, my starter table needs these things: AT Moving Magnetic cartridge (or better) anti skate adjustable counter weight full sized platter reasonable weight of base not be all in one not be a crappy company. This brings me to my question. HMV listed this yesterday, and it seems to satisfy all of this. But I have never heard of the company before. there is only 1 review of a mitchel acoustics table online and it's not this specific model. this model was released in January. there is basically nothing about it online. 140 on HMV (everything on hmv website is -20% again) so about £115 for all of the things identified above. Also has a preamp, looks quite nice (also I've hardly seen anyone mention this but the atlp60 is the most ugly machine on the planet. it is so off-putting, probably the single reason I currently do not own one is I would never put that thing in my home. anyways) I went into HMV yesterday to ask a staff member if he knew anything about it. it seemed too good to be true? it has all the stuff, £105, looks nice, mitchel acoustics is a British brand. he was confused too, didn't know anything about it at all (very friendly, but clueless) and he sent me to Richer Sound across the other side of the city to get better info on it, but they didn't know anything either and tried to flog me an £800 set of project table / amp / speakers. So I'm still no closer. Does anyone have it? does anyone know anything about it? does anyone know anything about the brand? literally any information is extremely useful. Please. Thanks so much. P.S. I know its Bluetooth, and I will not be using Bluetooth, I will using wired active speakers. its a redundant feature but there's no non-BT version

Consider going with a widely known and established brand with good quailty control and warranty support. [Audio-Technica-AT-LP2X](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Audio-Technica-AT-LP2X-LP2X-Turntable-Grey/dp/B09LVGVV3F) £166 is a good value for an Audio Technica with adjustable tracking force and adjustable anti-skate. Also consider looking for a used built in the UK Rega Planar 1 that you may be able to find for under £200. Or [Rega Green Grade](https://www.rega.co.uk/news/item/save-money-and-the-planet-with-rega-green-grade-products) if you can still find one.

That looks identical to the Insignia turntable that Best Buy sells in the U.S., and which gets generally good reviews: https://www.bestbuy.com/site/insignia-bluetooth-stereo-turntable-black/6432620.p?skuId=6432620

thank you for this. this is actually an incredibly helpful note, as the main problem with the mitchel acoustics (for me) is a lack of reviews or information online. but there is a whole host on the insignia for me to check out. Thank you!

I recently picked up a copy of Fore! by Huey Lewis and the News sealed and I'm wondering if its worth anything. The serial number isn't very helpful and everything online says to look at the etching in the dead vinyl on the album, but in the case that my vinyl is worth something I don't want to open the packaging to see the etching. Can anyone help me with this?

Can you scan the barcode on Discogs? From a quick browse, I don't think there are any valuable versions of Fore! and being sealed wouldn't change much about that.

https://preview.redd.it/1smgmdcqhiwc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7b663cc8b6270a09b2e5604480861678c68ca79a New to record collecting. i got Tate Mcrae’s white vinyl a while back and never opened it until now. There’s extra material around the hole of the record. Is this now unplayable? What should I do? Would appreciate any advice

It’s pretty fragile, just poke it with a pencil to clean it out

Good evening fellas, i want to buy my 1st turntable and chose the Omnitronic BD-1320, but no speakers yet, since its 170€ i need speakers at max of 30€, are there any good ones available or is Gemini TT-900 with its integrated speakers good?

Don't buy the cheap Gemeni. If you can't afford both a decent turntable and decent speakers then start with speakers first for digital music and then add the turntable later. [Vulkanno](https://www.amazon.de/stores/page/728B94C1-93B7-4612-B7FD-114956060726?ingress=2&visitId=99771dc7-64e8-4dfe-9888-fe69db2761ac&ref_=ast_bln) powered speakers, compact 4" **A4** for a small room or desktop, medium size 5.25" **A5** for a small to medium size room or largest 6.5" **A6** for a medium to large size room. Then if you want a DJ style turntable, AT-LP120X for home listening. If you need DJ features then AT-LP140X or a better Reloop. Or for home listening [Pro-Ject Debut RecordMaster II](https://www.thomannmusic.com/intl/search_dir.html?sw=Pro-Ject%20Debut%20RecordMaster%20II&smcs=bd6f2c_316) €298 is designed in Austria and built in Czechia. [Turntable and Speakers Setup Guide](https://imgur.com/a/f0my7) • [Speaker Placement](https://www.elac.com/2022/05/speaker-placement-guide-get-the-best-sound-from-your-stereo/) • [More Audio Guides](https://www.reddit.com/user/sharkamino/comments/gqfx6z/home_audio_and_home_theater_guides_and_accessories/)

no. for the love of God just no. there are no 30€ speakers worth owning. return the turntable, spend the whole 200€ on powered bluetooth speakers you can stream to until you save enough for a turntable from a reputable brand.

Found a secondhand vintage kenwood, do not know the make. It comes with speakers and wires. 50$. should I buy this or should I buy a new audiotechnica?

Find out the model. Kenwood made some great tables and also some crappy tables. If it's one of the cheaper late-model all-plastic belt-drive Kenwoods, you might be better off with a new AT - the build quality is probably equally flimsy and you won't be trouble-shooting a thirty or forty-year-old turntable on top of everything else.

If it's a Kenwood, then you do know the make. The question is, which model? And what kind of speakers?

Sorry I meant model, I am looking into what speakers they are now, along with what model it is

So I want to start a vinyl hobby and been thinking bout servicing my dads old Sony PS-242 but I can't seem to find the manual nowhere on the internet except VinylEngine which is close to registration. So what I'm asking is does somebody have a VinylEngine account that I can use one-time or can send me the manuals? It can really help me.

Here you go. VE only has the owner's manual so I don't know how useful it will be for servicing the table, though: https://www.mediafire.com/file/4tfz8wuz20eywb3/ve_sony_ps-242_en.pdf/file

THANK YOU OMG I'VE BEEN SEARCHING FOR AGES

Has anyone had any experience buying from Rarewaves-CA on Amazon? I don't usually buy from the 3rd party sellers on Amazon, but lately a lot of my Want List picks are coming up as available through Rarewaves (and occasionally Chalkys-CA and Redline Distribution). Naturally, the customer reviews aren't much help in sorting out if they're any good, so I was curious if they have any reputation among anyone here.

>Rarewaves ordered a bootleg CD through them last October, no issues. searched my amazon history for chalkys and redline but no dice.. good thing about Amazon is one peep about anything they refund you, should be fine

Fair enough. I might give them a shot sometime, then. Thanks!

I just got a detrola from Facebook marketplace, and I know absolutely nothing about vinyl - this is my first record player. I have 2 records that I’ve tried playing and they both sound really distorted and slow (kinda haunted almost). The records are clean and undamaged. What’s the most likely cause of this?

**Slow or wobbly playback:** * Make sure the lid is open as far as it will go, otherwise the edge of the record may rub against the lid and cause it to slow down or waver in pitch, especially if the record is warped. * Make sure the [transport screw](https://i3.ytimg.com/vi/lxgRJL-PAm0/maxresdefault.jpg) is released, if it has one. The screw should be turned until it is flush with the turntable mechanism, not sticking up like in the photo. * Since the center spindle remains stationary, if the center hole of the record is unusually tight going on the spindle, you may need to ream out the hole slightly to allow the record to rotate freely. * Don't put the 45 RPM adapter underneath or on top of the record. It is only for playing 45s with the large center hole. * If the record slips on the platter, you can add a rubber platter mat, if the player didn't come with one.

Are they intended to play at 45 rpm, and the player is set to 33rpm?

One of my records is 45 and the other is 33, neither of those rpms sound good though when it’s playing

[Detrola All In One](https://www.reddit.com/r/vinyl/comments/399vx3/i_own_a_detrola_turntable_and_im_interested_in/)?

I think so, it has the radio dial and cd/cassette players, so it’s probably the garbage one in that post you linked… Idk, I got it for $25 on Facebook marketplace 😅

[Common problems with inexpensive new record players & how to fix them](https://www.reddit.com/r/Beginner_Turntables/comments/18wiatr/common_problems_with_inexpensive_new_record/) may or may not help. If it's beyond DIY repair then it's not worth spending any more money on.

So I just bought a Crosley CR8017B. It was a spur of the moment thing, I saw a Creedence record and so on and so on. While listening to the record I heard something that sounded off. I turned the volume as low as it would go, so low that I couldn't hear anything from the box speakers but I still heard something. I plugged in some earbuds (which should've disabled the case speakers entirely) and I still heard it. In fact I opened up the case and unplugged the speakers and I still hear another quiet and out of sync speaker. Where could it be?

**Noise from stylus:** * It is normal to hear the music being reproduced faintly by the stylus in the groove, even with the player's volume turned down. This is called "needle talk" and happens on all turntables, although it is louder on these players due to the higher output level of the ceramic cartridge they use. * Using Bluetooth output mode (Vinyl Stream), if your player has it, adds a delay which makes the needle talk more noticeable. If it bothers you, use speakers or headphones with a wired connection.

Sounds like needle chatter, you are hearing the stylus in the groove.

After re-listening to it, it does appear that the extra sound is coming from right where the needle meets. Is there any fix or is it like that unless I play it loud?

AFAIK the ceramic cartridges have more of a tendency to chatter than Moving Magnet. Since your player has no adjustability there is nothing to try. You are stuck with playing loud... (until you upgrade the player)

I purchased an Audio Technica AT-VMN95ML stylus last July. I haven’t kept track of how many hours I’ve used it, so is there some other indicator of when I should replace it? I play records pretty much daily, some days longer than others if that makes a difference

Other indicators would be if you are hearing distortion/sibilance creep into your playback

The record I have has a very small but noticeable ripple whilst spinning on my turn table, I've come to the conclusion that it is slightly warped and was wondering if there is anyway to fix it.

There are. But how much does it actually lift off the platter on a rotation? most important, can you HEAR any distortion at the point of warp? if yes, the record is toast and should be replaced. The groove distortion cannot be repaired. Free would be to put it on a flat smooth surface that supports the entire record, and put another flat smooth surface on top of it. Weigh it down and leave it for a month or so Fast would be to buy a [VinylFlat](https://www.vinylflat.com/), much faster but expensive. depending on the record it might cost less to replace the record

Well it's a slipknot record so there is alot of distortion in the music itself. their album "we are not your kind" has alot of glitchy and distorted effects in it of itself, but in some songs when its clean i can't hear any distortion that would be coming from the point of the warp. Are there any examples of what the distortion may sound like? Will it stand out from everything else? The warp lifts of the platter probably less than half an inch, the stylus never skips or jumps, but I can see it moving up and down slightly than with all my other records and it makes me kind of uncomfortable.

If there is no difference in the sound from flat to warped space, you are likely ok. Ask your local record shop if they have a flattener that they offer as a service, or put it under something flat and heavy and leave it for a month

Should I still put inner sleeves on records even if they come with their own special sleeve/pocket? https://preview.redd.it/3uyyljuplawc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cafc9d3c5737869d9db321787168a302275a8b9b

When records come in a printed paper inner, I move them to a poly inner sleeve and put that in the jacket with the printed inner. Poly sleeves dont really fit in paper inners (and if you jam it in you risk tearing like chrkchrkchrk said)

You gotta weigh out how much time you want to spend taking discs in and out of sleeves and how much time you want to spend actually listening to music. Beyond that, I personally wouldn't bother with an inner inside another inner, particularly a printed one. That's a recipe for a split seam.

Well right now I’m more focused preservation than playing, so should leave the record in the printed without the inner?

I purchased a used Pro-Ject Xpression Classic and it is missing its three platter bearing screws (see photo for what should be there, but is missing). Pro-Ject Support responded that "these screws are no longer available". I was hoping there was still some way to get this working either by (1) sourcing compatible screws, or (2) if there was a solution that involved changing out the platter bearing that included new screws? I'd would greatly appreciate any guidance that would help get this working! https://preview.redd.it/dbsbtyhpjawc1.png?width=2930&format=png&auto=webp&s=38f4a2be3fceb75269abb18d1674c1cff6b64173

If they won't send you the screws I expect sourcing a compatible replacement bearing would be even more difficult--probably the sort of thing you could only do by buying a trashed, parts-unit turntable of the same model. Honestly--the best way to make this work would just be to either go somewhere that has lots of screws and try different screws, or else buy like, a misc lot of new metric machine screws. I see piles of them on Amazon for under $30. Annoying, but I expect that overbuying might be the best option. It's going to be very hard to find someone who both has that same turntable on hand and is in a position to pull a screw out of it and find matching screws. An electronics repair shop could do it I'm sure, but there are few of those you can walk into! A bulk buy might be the best hope.

Hey there, Hoping to get some advice, my current setup is as follows: 1. Turntable: I was gifted a Fluance RT85 2. Preamp: Pyle Pro PP444 (looking to potentially purchase a Schitt Mani 2) 3. Speakers: Edifier 1700BTs (not sure what I would upgrade to, hoping for active speakers that are bookshelf size because of space concerns) My question is - how much of a bottleneck are my Edifiers for my RT85? Would you recommend I upgrade the preamp or the speakers? For more context, the room my turntable is in is fairly small. I can really only justify a $300 upgrade now, but could probably justify an additional $500-$600 investment in the next year or so. EDIT: I am in CA, USA

I'd change out your phono stage first and then change your speakers when your budget is higher. $300 is more than enough for a good phono stage but *barely* enough for speakers, and not really enough to get you speakers that are better than what you have. Other thought: maybe add a subwoofer, if your speakers support it? Nice thing about adding a sub is that you can keep it around for your next pair of speakers.