4 Disadvantages of Using a Cheap Record Player

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Record players have stood the test of time for music lovers and media collectors. That’s because vinyl records sound better than digital audio for discerning listeners. Additionally, vinyl records can last longer than CDs if stored properly. There is one major caveat, however: the quality and longevity of a vinyl record largely depends on the quality of the record player. There are some distinct disadvantages to using a cheap record player.

It all depends on how record players actually produce sound. A stylus reads the grooves of the record to create vibrations, which are then converted into amplified electrical signals and turned into sound. It is an analog process that relies on moving physical parts. So each component is important when it comes to producing high-quality music.

Cheap record players may compromise on materials or build quality in order to achieve an affordable price. These are typically “all-in-one” systems that combine the turntable, amplifier, speakers, and sometimes even a portable box, all into one economical machine. The disadvantages often appear as soon as we start listening. Using a cheap player can dampen your listening experience and potentially harm your collection. Here are four specific disadvantages you may notice when using a cheap record player.

Cartridges, tonearms and platters: these are the parts of a record player that are essential for extracting beautiful sound from vinyl. In a cheap turntable, these parts may be unstable or inaccurate, leading to sound distortion. Some players use a belt drive that offsets the motor platter, preventing motor vibrations from affecting the final audio. This is why some audiophiles prefer belt-drive turntables over direct-drive turntables; The belt design can help overcome some flaws in the player’s build.

But another problem can be encountered in the form of cheap turntable speakers. Poor quality speakers in an all-in-one system will result in muffled sound, distortion, and a narrow soundstage. Additionally, built-in speakers are often deliberately designed with low bass. This is because speaker vibrations can cause recordings to skip during playback. That being said, it is possible to find record players with good speakers. The Wirecutter review team recommended the Angels Horn H019 and compared it to other all-in-one players, saying it “sounds much clearer and fuller than most.”

Not everyone is an audiophile; it’s entirely possible to enjoy a cheap record player even if it doesn’t provide impeccable sound. But one thing that cannot be overlooked by any listener is inconsistent reading. Some cheap players are guilty of frequent skipping, skipping, or poor tracking. When the music stops or advances, it becomes obviously jarring and disruptive, even to casual listeners.

This inconsistency comes from the use of fragile parts or other cost-cutting measures. Some manufacturers save money by using a smaller platter, but you need a full-sized platter to provide proper support for the spinning disc. A cheap tonearm can be an even bigger problem. The tonearm and cartridge must be meticulously designed and weighted, otherwise the stylus will not follow the grooves of the record correctly. And when the tracking force is not correct, the stylus can damage the record by bouncing or crashing into the vinyl.

Using a cheap record player is definitely one of the most common ways to ruin your vinyl records. The main problem, as noted above, is that cheap players use poorly balanced tonearms and cartridges. Too much weight on the tonearm causes the stylus to dig into the vinyl, while too little weight causes the stylus to bounce around and scratch the record surface.

The stylus itself can also be problematic. The best modern turntables you can buy feature a diamond stylus, while budget models use cheap stylus materials that wear out after just 200 hours or less. A damaged stylus needle is more likely to jump and damage the record. It’s worth noting that vinyl records wear out slowly with use, but given that vinyl records are much more expensive than CDs, it makes sense to invest more in a turntable that will help your records last longer.

Many of the best turntables for audiophiles come with built-in quality-of-life features that significantly improve the listening experience. The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X is an example of what to look for in terms of feature offerings. It’s been called the “best budget turntable” by expert reviewers, and despite its reasonable price of $189, it’s capable of fully automatic operation and compatibility with the phono preamp of your choice. These are the kinds of conveniences you won’t find in a cheap all-in-one record player.

Cheap record players also skimp on connectivity options. All-in-one units often only output audio through their built-in speakers. Not being able to use your own headphones, external speakers, or Bluetooth accessories is a huge inconvenience. It’s also worth choosing a record player with upgradeable components. Some notable upgrades will instantly improve the audio quality of your turntable and can transform a low-level player into an audiophile-approved player.