What You Need to Start Playing Vinyl Records
Four things. That's it. Here's what each one does and what to look for.
A Turntable
The turntable spins the record while a stylus (needle) reads the grooves. This is the main purchase — everything else supports it.
What to look for:
- • A magnetic cartridge (not ceramic) — protects your records
- • A counterweight on the tonearm — lets you set proper tracking force
- • A reputable brand: Audio-Technica, Fluance, U-Turn, Pro-Ject, Rega
- • Budget: $150–$300 is the sweet spot for first-time buyers
Don't buy: Cheap suitcase-style record players. Most use ceramic cartridges and heavy tracking force that damages records over time. Spend a little more on something that won't wreck your collection.
A Phono Preamp
A turntable produces a very quiet signal that speakers can't use directly. A phono preamp boosts it to a normal volume level. Without one, you'll hear almost nothing.
Built-in preamp (easiest)
Some turntables — like the AT-LP60X — have a preamp built in. Plug directly into speakers. Nothing else needed.
Separate preamp ($50–$100)
A small box that sits between your turntable and speakers. Required if your turntable doesn't have one built in. The ART DJ Pre II and Schiit Mani are popular choices.
Receiver with PHONO input
If you already own a stereo receiver with a PHONO input, plug the turntable directly into that — it has a preamp built in.
Speakers
You need speakers to hear the music. The two main types for a vinyl setup:
Powered (active) speakers — easiest
Have their own amplifier built in. Connect directly to your preamp output with an RCA or 3.5mm cable. Edifier R1280T and Klipsch R-51PM are reliable beginner options.
Passive speakers + amplifier/receiver
Passive speakers need a separate amplifier to power them. More components, but more flexibility later. Good if you already have a receiver.
Budget $100–$150 for a decent pair of powered bookshelf speakers. The difference between cheap and decent speakers is immediately audible.
Vinyl Records
You'll need records to play. A few practical things to know:
- • 33 RPM: Full-length albums (LPs)
- • 45 RPM: Singles — usually a 7-inch disc with one song per side
- • New vs used: New records are clean but expensive. Used records are cheaper but vary in condition. Inspect the grooves before buying — scratches and deep marks affect playback.
- • Where to buy: Local record stores, thrift shops, Discogs (online marketplace for vinyl)
Most turntables play both 33 and 45 RPM records. 78 RPM records (older shellac discs) require a special stylus — don't try to play them on a modern turntable without checking first.
What Does a Complete Beginner Setup Cost?
A $300 total investment gets you a complete, genuinely good-sounding setup that will last for years.
Ready to pick a turntable?
These pages cut through the noise and give you clear recommendations:
- → Best Turntables for Beginners — three stress-free picks at different budgets
- → Best Turntables Under $300 — the best options in the $150–$300 range