Something we can’t deny is that in the world of vinyl, you will come across two main vinyl players. The turntable and record player I’ve come across many articles and videos using the terms “turntable” and “record player” interchangeably, but are they really the same? There is no exact clarification on the main differences between these two players.
Like I mentioned earlier, both terms are used indiscriminately, and if you know nothing about these two players, it’s quite easy to get confused. Before we discuss the differences, let’s get a deep understanding of these devices.
What is a turntable?
Over the years, the term “turntable” has been used to refer to a specific component but has later advanced to a standalone unit that is hooked up with other equipment. Turntables consist of a platter (to place the turntable on), a cartridge, and a tone arm.
Other components include amplifiers and speakers. To get the best quality music from your turntables, a mix-match with quality external devices is ideal.
What is a record player?
Unlike a turntable, a record player is an all-in-one unit that does not require any external components. A record player already includes all the turntable components, including preamps, speakers, and amplifiers. Modern record players can now have integrated devices like USB, Bluetooth, and MP3 players.
Understand how the turntable works
The turntable is a simple vintage device that does not require any serious professional skills to operate. After the record is placed on the platter, it’s secured with a spindle. The spindle helps prevent the record from slipping. Once the records begin to rotate the tonearm, the tonearm is then placed on the record to produce sounds. Some turntables come with preamps, but a lot of music enthusiasts prefer to use extra preamps and amplifiers to improve the sound quality.
There are two main instruments by which the tray is compelled: direct-drive or belt-drive.
Direct-drive turntables have a motor beneath the platter, which revolves the platter directly, while belt-drive turntables use a pulley method to attach the motor to the platter.
The primary distinctions between a record player and a turntable
Upgrading option
One major drawback of the record player is the lack of flexibility to upgrade sound components. Although it’s a more affordable option for music fans, stock components come factory fitted.
Unlike a turntable, you can always upgrade the external components for better sound quality.
One drawback to the turntable is the lack of an ability to fine tune the tonearm. Hence, if the tracking weight applied to the record is not correct, it can cause damage to the record.
Music player quality.
For vinyl turntables, every component of this device is vintage, and you know what they say. The older the item, the better the quality. So turntables have higher quality and are more long-lasting than record players. The majority of record players nowadays are budget-friendly (meaning a high cut in production costs). This can be reflected in the poor quality of sound.
The actual sound
Since the main point is to know which player sounds best, Well, I think we already know the answer! The turntable gives an authentic feel to every sound on every record. This is unmatched by any music player.