Record Player Recommendations

[Lindsey]

I'm buying a record player for the first time (yep), can anyone recommend some brands that are cheap but have good sound quality and won't destroy my records?

Thanks!

[kopper]

No, don't get a Numark. They suck! I had two and could never get rid of the buzz... it was a grounding issue. I took them in to a shop to get repaired/rewired and nothing was ever resolved... but every fucking time I tried to DJ with them I had this irritating buzz under the music... pissed me off! Sold them, got the Technics and never had that issue again.

Recordgrooves said:

You might consider a digital Numark TTUSB from Musiciansfriend.com http://xrl.in/3qnz
a nice little player that has good sound for the price, you can find deals on these if you want. (I know you'll know where to look)
If you are patient, then you should hit up some garage (no pun) or estate sales. Most peeps will tell you that is where the gold is.

Technics, Bang & Olufsen, Marantz, made some good stuff Teac, Sony, Pioneer made good things too, but look out for a player with too many features as they may cause more problems. Direct drives have some advantages but if you get a belt drive make sure you find a replacement belt as they become stretched or worn.

Most importantly if you buy an older model make sure you buy a player with cartridge you can replace, as many models have a one piece plastic arm and are only capable of replacing a needle that are usually plastic. (not recommended)

On another note.

[Bryan West]

Check thrift stores! I got my Technics SL-1900 from good will for 15 bucks! Look for turntables that have replaceable needles, intact dust covers, strobe tuners, and don't buy anything with a plastic arm. Good luck!