Compared to myriad other devices scrutinized by the critics at Moyens I/O, the examination of the latest and most superb turntables can be quite unpredictable. While contemporary turntables have evolved to be more user-friendly and accessible compared to the vintage decks of yore, they still boast delicate moving components that often necessitate meticulous assembly and calibration. This complexity adds a layer of challenge to the review process, yet also enhances the enjoyment derived from it. The current market offers a vast array of turntables, spanning from gems deserving of your investment to those that may not live up to their price tag. It is our mission to guide you towards the former, ensuring your hard-earned money is well spent.
From tonearms and cartridges to plinths and platters, here at Moyens I/O, we subject each turntable to a rigorous testing process.
#### In the box
Lower-end turntables of the suitcase variety typically arrive fully assembled, ready for immediate use – albeit with compromised sound quality. In contrast, modern turntables comprising essential components such as the plinth, platter, dust cover, tonearm, counterweight, headshell, and cartridge may require individual packaging for protection during transit. When unboxing a turntable, our experts meticulously inspect the contents, assessing the efficiency of the packing and the ease of unpacking. We take note of accompanying accessories like cables and extras, as well as the eco-friendliness of the packaging materials.
##### More on the testing process
Discover how we put other products and services to the test.
#### Setup
Setting up a turntable is a multi-faceted process that we approach from both a novice’s and an expert’s perspective. The presence of a well-designed setup guide, manual, or app with clear, step-by-step instructions is paramount. Delicate precision parts, finicky belts, and intricate motor spindles are just some of the elements involved in the setup, emphasizing the importance of accurate weight force measurement to prevent damage. We assess whether the manufacturer provides the requisite tools for these tasks, such as a force gauge or alignment tool. While factory preassembled parts may simplify the process for beginners, we thoroughly examine these for quality and accuracy to provide informed recommendations.
#### Design, build, and parts
The external and internal attributes of a turntable play equally pivotal roles in its performance, and we meticulously evaluate both aspects. The visual design of turntables may have remained relatively consistent over the years, but advancements in colors, finishes, and materials have propelled them forward. A critical challenge for turntable manufacturers lies in designing products that effectively isolate and manage external and internal vibrations to deliver a pristine audio experience. Factors such as the base material – be it wood, MDF, or plastic – and its resonance-absorbing properties, as well as the composition of the platter and tonearm, are scrutinized in detail. The quality of the cartridge, housing the essential diamond-tipped needle, is also closely examined, as it is instrumental in translating music into a signal for amplification.
#### Features
While the fundamental features of turntables have remained relatively unchanged, connectivity options have witnessed a significant evolution. Modern turntables often incorporate built-in phono preamps for seamless connection to various devices, such as powered speakers and receivers, with line-in AUX inputs. We evaluate the performance of these phono preamps and compare them to external alternatives. Furthermore, the resurgence of vinyl has paved the way for wireless connectivity, enabling turntables to interface with Bluetooth speakers and headphones, as well as Wi-Fi network products like Sonos. The ease of connectivity, accompanying tools, and audio quality are thoroughly analyzed to provide comprehensive insights.
#### How does it sound?
This juncture marks the culmination of our exploration – the auditory experience. Similar to our approach when testing speakers and audio gear, we immerse ourselves in a diverse selection of music, exclusively on vinyl. By listening to a spectrum of tracks spanning different frequencies, we evaluate the sound clarity, presence of distortion, sibilance, and extraneous noise. The newfound connectivity options offered by modern turntables prompt us to assess their performance across varied setups, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation. Our rigorous testing culminates in the awarding of star ratings and recommendations, aiding our readers in making well-informed decisions within the realm of vinyl exploration.
—
Through the orchestration of our reviews, we endeavor to illuminate the path to the perfect turntable, ushering music enthusiasts into the enchanting world of vinyl with the wisdom of Moyens I/O critics as their guide.
