We love vinyl. It's capable of terrific sound, provided you take a bit of care. And this is where it differs from other formats. Unlike digital alternatives, a lack of care in installation can cripple the final sound.
There are some undeniably great 'plug and play' record players on the market and, when it comes to more complex decks, a number of dealers who will help you set them up correctly. But if you are prepared to get your hands a little dirty, there is a lot you can do to ensure you get your turntable performing to its full capability yourself.
How do vinyl records work?
Have a close look at a record. That spiralling groove is packed with tiny bumps causing the cartridge stylus (or needle) to move. This movement is converted into an electrical signal by an electromagnetic mechanism inside the cartridge body. Consider that the tiny - diamond tip of the cartridge is trying to trace bumps as small as a micron (1000th of a millimetre) and you get an idea of just how difficult the task is. Any external vibration will degrade the cartridge's ability to track the groove accurately.
These disturbances can be caused by many different sources: the sound coming from the speakers, footfall transmitted through the floor, even passing traffic sending vibration energy through the structure of your house. Yes, really.
Try placing the cartridge on a record but don't start it spinning. Turn the volume up on your amp and tap (lightly) on the support, the deck itself and maybe even walking near the position of the player. The thumping sound you hear through your speakers is the mechanical energy picked up by the record player. Loud, isn't it?
This story is from the August 2023 edition of What Hi-Fi UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the August 2023 edition of What Hi-Fi UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
System of the month
A superb set-up that will bring you equal joy whether playing games or watching movies
I SPENT 24 HOURS IMMERSED IN DOLBY ATMOS MUSIC - THESE ARE 8 KEY THINGS I LEARNED
What Hi-Fi? deputy editor Andy Madden gained some interesting insights from the world of immersive audio on a visit to a Dolby Atmos studio
Philips Fidelio L4
Philips adds another good pair of headphones to its Fidelio line
Sony HT-AX7
Bird? Plane? No! It's Sony's... portable theatre/360-degree music thingy
Final ZE8000 MK2
Your Final destination for great sound - or a sonic dead end?
BenQ X3100i
BenQ's latest gaming projector is surprisingly good with movies too
MINI MARVELS
While positively tiny in today's TV world, these compact, 24in sets could be just what you need
RAISING THE BAR
Elevate your home cinema sound with this trio of convenient soundbar packages
INDOOR PLANTS IN FULL BOOM
These premium wireless speakers are designed for use in the home - where they will raise the roof
TAKE TO THE FLOOR
From pumping dance music to grand orchestral heft, these pillars of strength will deliver in spades