7 Beginner Checklists Before Buying Your First Turntable

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Got vinyl but no turntable? Here’s a guide to help you choose the right setup, covering the key features and additional components you should know before buying one.

If you’re looking for your first turntable, this guide is for you! With many components and connections to consider, we’ll walk you through the basics with tips to confidently choose the perfect option.

1. Set your budget

Start by setting your budget. An entry-level turntable typically costs around $100 to $300. Keep in mind that there are additional costs to consider, such as speakers, an amp with RCA cables (if needed), and accessories like a cleaning kit or slipmat.

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2. Does It Have Built-In Speakers?

An all-in-one turntable with built-in speakers is a great choice for those on a budget and is perfect for small rooms. It’s simple and portable. We recommend this option for beginners to avoid worrying about external components, just plug in, place the vinyl and play.

Explore the Cosmo Solar Edition — available in 3 vibrant colors. Play vinyl, listen to radio, stream digitally, all in one turntable.

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3. Speaker Wattage matters

The wattage affects how loud your speakers can get. Built-in turntable speakers usually range from 10–20 watts RMS, which is enough for a small room studio or bedroom. However, for larger rooms, you’ll need more power—30 watts RMS or more is recommended. In that case, you may want to connect your turntable to external speakers for louder volume and upgraded sound quality.

4. Does It Have a Preamp?

Some turntables come with built-in preamp meaning you don’t need to buy an external one to connect with your turntable and speaker. At Gadhouse, every model is thoughtfully designed with a built-in preamp, so you can skip the extra gear and go straight to enjoying your vinyl

Why does Preamp matter? Without a preamp, the signal from the turntable’s needle is too weak to be heard clearly through speakers. A preamp amplifies that signal, so you can hear the music properly. 

If not, you’ll need external Preamp or an amplifier with a phono input. If you already have an amplifier or speakers you like and don’t want to replace them, an external preamp is an affordable option.

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5. Playback Speeds 33/45 RPM?

Most records play at 33⅓ RPM (for 12-inch LPs) or 45 RPM (for 7-inch singles/EPs). Most entry-level turntables support both. Just make sure yours can switch between the two.

Fun fact: There’s also 78 RPM, which is only needed for playing vintage records.

6. Does It Have Auto Start/Stop Features?

The auto start/stop feature is perfect for beginners, automatically lifting or moving the tonearm at the start or end of a record. This helps prevent scratches and enhances the lifespan of both your vinyl and needle. If the turntable only has auto start meaning when you lift the tonearm, the platter will spin automatically. As well as auto stop, it means the platter will stop spinning once the song ends.

Dean Turntable Stereo System — a perfect beginner set that includes all the essential features: Auto Start/Stop, Built-In Bluetooth Input, Bass & Treble Adjustment, 3-Speeds Turntable (33 ⅓, 45 and 78 RPM), and 50 Watt JOAN Bookshelf Speakers.

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7. Does It Have Bluetooth Connectivity?

Bluetooth connectivity is an added feature that makes your listening experience more flexible. But what is Bluetooth In and Out? Some turntables support Bluetooth In, allowing you to stream digital music from your phone directly to the built-in speaker. On the other hand, Bluetooth Out lets you play vinyl music wirelessly through Bluetooth speakers or headphones. Moreover, this wireless function adds convenience and helps create a clean, minimalist setup in your space.


Discover Mathis Turntable — the perfect blend of sleek design and high-end quality, featuring a Bluetooth transmitter for high-definition streaming to speakers, built-in phono pre-amp, USB encoding, and superior sound powered by an Audio Technica cartridge and upgradeable headshell, all wrapped in minimalist matte black aesthetics.

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This is the essential info you should know before finalizing your decision.

Confused by too many models? Try the Gadhouse Turntable Comparison tool—designed to help you find your perfect record player.
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