record player - any recommendations?

TensandUnits

I am not sure which is the right board to ask this, perhaps somebody wouldn't mind moving the thread if I'm in the wrong place?

I wanted to ask people's opinions about where to buy a record player and is there one you can recommend? Any pitfalls to look out for?

I would like to start playing vinyl again (I always much preferred it) but I haven't had a record player for years. There appear to be some on amazon and I think HMV do a few. I am on a bit of a tight budget.

Pikeyp

How much is a tight budget? A nice starter deck would be around £200 -£250!

Probably the best two makes around are Rega and Audio Technica, there's also Fluance. ( I use a Rega RP6 for example)

Don't forget you'll need a suitable amplifier and speakers too!

If there are any dealers nearby, perhaps a visit to one would be a good idea?

TensandUnits

Thankyou, yes I was thinking more of a record player that doesn't need an extra amplifier but which has speakers and/or a socket for headphones. Perhaps the quality of these isn't too good, I'd be interested to know, if anybody has one.

At the moment I just have a little Sony hi-fi which has an input socket round the back so I suppose I could plug a lead into it and play through those speakers.

Pikeyp

Maybe swing for this Audio Technica AT-LP3 from Amazon ...

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B06X6HL2D3/

Seems to get good reviews ... What Hi-Fi for example!

https://www.whathifi.com/audio-technica/lp3/review

agrinnall

TensandUnits wrote: »

At the moment I just have a little Sony hi-fi which has an input socket round the back so I suppose I could plug a lead into it and play through those speakers.

If you do that then you will probably need a pre-amp to sit in between the deck and the hi-fi to boost the signal to a high enough level to make the sound audible. I bought one of these, you might find it cheaper elsewhere.


https://www.amazon.co.uk/B-TECH-BT26-Phono-Stage-Microphone/dp/B000BFXJ34

[Deleted User]

What exactly is your total budget since it's difficult to advise without knowing?

Tiexen

How about this: @£160 + you'll need a preamp (or amp with phono sockets)

"The Elemental is yet another top-class budget deck from Pro-Ject. It's a fine first step on the vinyl ladder." What Hi-Fi Sound & Vision magazine."

very simple sounds good and looks really cool.

But with new records at £20 each unless you spend on a good amp and speakers you'd be better of sticking with CD or MP3's

discat11

Tiexens choice is a good one _ I recently sold 2 of these as I've bought DJ decks (reloop 2000m's at £200 each).
Avoid the retro vinyl deck in a case sort of offering -utter rubbish-they don't even play at the right speed.

Norman_Castle

These appear to have a built in phono stage but check before buying they will connect where you want.
https://www.richersounds.com/hi-fi/separates/turntables.html?built_in_phono_stage_filter=2185

robin58

You can get second hand decks in some charity shops around my way for about £15 to £25.

But one word of advice, do find out if you can get new needle cartridges for these old decks or even new ones for that matter as they do wear out.

TensandUnits

Thanks everyone for taking the time to reply

discat11 wrote: »

Avoid the retro vinyl deck in a case sort of offering -utter rubbish-they don't even play at the right speed.

Ah, now this was what I'd had in mind. I saw one on amazon marked down from about £80 to £40, and reviews were generally good. I will bear in mind what you have said and maybe save up for something better.