Buying Guide for the Best Fluance Turntable
When choosing a turntable, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. A turntable is a device designed to play vinyl records, and the quality of its components can significantly impact your listening experience. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and enjoy your vinyl collection to the fullest.Drive TypeThe drive type refers to how the turntable's platter is powered. There are two main types: belt drive and direct drive. Belt drive turntables use an elastic belt to spin the platter, which helps reduce motor noise and vibration, making them ideal for home listening. Direct drive turntables have the motor directly connected to the platter, providing more consistent speed and torque, which is preferred by DJs for scratching and mixing. Choose a belt drive if you prioritize sound quality and a direct drive if you need durability and precision for DJing.
Platter MaterialThe platter is the part of the turntable that the record sits on. Platter materials can vary, with common options including plastic, aluminum, and acrylic. Plastic platters are lightweight and affordable but may not provide the best sound quality. Aluminum platters are more durable and offer better sound isolation. Acrylic platters are considered high-end, providing excellent sound quality and reducing vibrations. If you are an audiophile seeking the best sound, opt for an acrylic platter. For general use, an aluminum platter offers a good balance of quality and cost.
Cartridge TypeThe cartridge is the component that holds the stylus (needle) and converts the grooves in the vinyl into an audio signal. There are two main types: moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC). MM cartridges are more common, easier to replace, and generally more affordable, making them suitable for most users. MC cartridges offer superior sound quality but are more expensive and require a compatible phono preamp. If you are new to vinyl or want a hassle-free experience, an MM cartridge is a good choice. If you are an experienced listener seeking the highest fidelity, consider an MC cartridge.
TonearmThe tonearm is the part of the turntable that holds the cartridge and stylus. It plays a crucial role in tracking the grooves of the record accurately. Tonearms can be straight or S-shaped, with straight tonearms generally providing better tracking accuracy and S-shaped tonearms offering better balance and reduced wear on records. Additionally, tonearms can be manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic. Manual tonearms require you to place the stylus on the record and lift it off, while automatic tonearms do this for you. Choose a tonearm type based on your preference for convenience and sound quality.
Speed SettingsTurntables typically offer different speed settings to accommodate various types of records. The most common speeds are 33 1/3 RPM (revolutions per minute) for LPs and 45 RPM for singles. Some turntables also support 78 RPM for older records. It's important to choose a turntable that supports the speeds of the records you own. If you have a diverse collection, look for a turntable with multiple speed settings. If you primarily listen to modern LPs, a turntable with just 33 1/3 and 45 RPM settings will suffice.
Built-in PreampA built-in preamp amplifies the signal from the turntable to a level that can be used by standard audio equipment. Some turntables come with a built-in preamp, while others require an external preamp. A built-in preamp is convenient and simplifies setup, making it a good choice for beginners or those with limited space. However, external preamps often provide better sound quality and more customization options. If you are looking for simplicity, choose a turntable with a built-in preamp. If you want to optimize your sound system, consider a turntable without a preamp and invest in a high-quality external preamp.