Are you a music lover looking to understand the anatomy of your record player turntable? If so, you’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive breakdown of the various parts of a record player turntable, including their functions and how they work together to produce the rich and vibrant sound that vinyl enthusiasts know and love.
Without further ado, let’s dive right in and take a closer look at the anatomy of a record player turntable.
Record player parts explained
Plinth
The plinth is the base of the turntable that supports all of the other components. It is typically made of wood, MDF, or acrylic and is designed to provide a sturdy and stable foundation for the turntable. Some turntables have adjustable feet that allow you to level the plinth for optimal performance.
Motor
The motor is responsible for turning the platter, which in turn rotates the record. There are two main types of motors found in turntables: belt drive and direct drive. Belt drive motors are quieter and provide smoother playback, while direct drive motors offer more precise speed control and are typically found in DJ turntables.
Platter
The platter is the circular platform that the record sits on. It is typically made of metal, acrylic, or glass and is designed to rotate smoothly and consistently. The platter’s weight, shape, and material can all affect the sound quality of the turntable.
Tonearm
The tonearm is the long, thin arm that holds the cartridge and stylus and guides them along the grooves of the record. It is typically made of metal or carbon fiber and is designed to be lightweight and rigid for optimal performance. The tonearm’s shape and length can affect the tracking angle and the amount of pressure applied to the record.
Cartridge
The cartridge is the small device that holds the stylus and converts the vibrations from the stylus into an electrical signal that can be amplified and played through speakers. There are two main types of cartridges: moving magnet and moving coil. Moving magnet cartridges are more common and less expensive, while moving coil cartridges offer superior sound quality but are more expensive.
Stylus
The stylus, also known as the needle, is the small diamond-tipped device that makes contact with the grooves of the record and vibrates as it traces the grooves. The stylus’s shape and size can affect the sound quality and tracking ability of the turntable.
Counterweight
The counterweight is the small weight at the back of the tonearm that balances the weight of the cartridge and stylus. It is designed to provide the optimal amount of tracking force to the record and prevent excessive wear and tear on the stylus
Anti-Skate
The anti-skate mechanism is a small device that helps to keep the tonearm from skating or sliding across the record surface. It is typically adjusted to match the tracking force and helps to prevent distortion and skipping.
Headshell
The headshell is the small device that connects the cartridge to the tonearm. It is typically made of metal or plastic and is designed to be lightweight and rigid for optimal performance.
Dust Cover
The dust cover is the protective cover that sits over the turntable and helps to keep dust, debris, and other contaminants from getting on the record or inside the turntable. It is typically made of plastic and can be removed when the turntable is in use.
Turntable parts FAQs
What is a turntable platter?
The turntable platter is the circular platform that rotates when the record is played. The platter provides a stable and level surface for the record to sit on while it rotates, allowing the stylus to accurately track the grooves of the record.
What are the different types of turntable cartridges?
There are two main types of turntable cartridges: moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC). MM cartridges are the most common and affordable type of cartridge and are suitable for most turntables. MC cartridges, on the other hand, are more expensive but provide better sound quality due to their lower moving mass and higher output voltage.
Can I upgrade the tonearm on my turntable?
Yes, in most cases, you can upgrade the tonearm on your turntable. However, it is important to ensure that the tonearm you choose is compatible with your turntable and that it is properly installed and calibrated to achieve optimal sound quality.
What is anti-skate and why is it important?
Anti-skate is a feature on turntables that helps to balance the force exerted on the stylus by the record groove. It prevents the stylus from being pulled inward or outward, which can cause distortion or damage to the record. Proper anti-skate adjustment is important for accurate tracking and to ensure the longevity of both the stylus and the record.
How often should I replace my turntable belt?
The frequency of belt replacement depends on the usage and condition of the turntable belt. As a general guideline, it is recommended to replace the belt every 2-3 years for moderate use. However, if you notice any slipping or irregular playback, it may be time to replace the belt sooner.
What is the most important part of a record player?
The most important part of a record player is the stylus, also known as the needle. The stylus is responsible for reading the grooves on the record and translating them into an electrical signal that is amplified and played through the speakers.
What is the circle thing on my record player?
The circle thing on your record player is the turntable platter. It is the circular platform that rotates when the record is played. The platter provides a stable and level surface for the record to sit on while it rotates, allowing the stylus to accurately track the grooves of the record.
What is the plastic piece on a record player for?
The plastic piece on a record player is called a dust cover or a turntable cover. It is designed to protect the turntable and the record from dust, dirt, and other debris when the turntable is not in use. Some dust covers are also designed to reduce vibrations and resonance, which can improve the sound quality.
What is a record Puck?
A record puck is a device that is used to hold the record firmly in place on the turntable platter. It is typically made of metal or plastic and is designed to improve the contact between the record and the turntable platter, which can help to reduce vibrations and improve sound quality. Pucks are especially useful for warped or uneven records.
