Quick Guide: Mistakes To Avoid When Buying Turntables And Vinyl Records

Who says turntables and vinyl records are only a thing of the past? Exhibiting a strong market comeback, did you know that the demand for these items has been steadily increasing since a decade ago? Different companies like Linn audio continue to increase their production of these products (e.g. Linn record player) in order to satisfy the growing intergenerational populace of vinylheads.

Vinyl Revival: By The Numbers

In 2017, vinyl record sales reached its peak since the ‘90s, accounting for 8.5 percent of all album sales. And in terms of all music consumed (from digital to physical releases), vinyl takes up around three percent. That’s a significant statistic considering the relatively more expensive price of these old-school records (an average of £20 vs. Physical/digital album’s £8). In the United Kingdom alone, approximately 4.1 million vinyl albums were sold during the said year.

Top Mistakes to Avoid

If you’re just discovering the magic of vinyl and turntables like the Linn record player, we’ve woven some words to make sure your foray into the analog world will be smooth-sailing.

Failing to prepare a space for your player and your records

The place where a record player or any other music-playing gear like Linn Audio’s plays a crucial role in the sound they will be producing.

Take note that turntables create sound through vibration -- if there are any excessive, external vibrations around, they will have an impact on the sound you will hear. They can even make your player’s needle skip. The resolution for this is to put your player atop a flat surface that isn’t subject to too much vibration. There are also available isolation platforms and feet upgrades for your turntable for your optimal listening pleasure.

As for your record collection, it’s also important to invest in a record storage cube or shelf. Remember: never stack your records, or else the will get warped over time.

Setting up your player poorly

If you’re a vinyl newbie, setting up or using a turntable like the Linn record player might seem a little complicated at first. The key is to always ask. The folks at the store where you’ve bought your player will be more than willing to explain and demonstrate things for you -- how do you play a record, how to ensure everything’s hooked up and plugged properly. If you’ve got questions, don’t hesitate to ask them.

Not knowing how to keep your collection and old-school sound system clean

Buying and setting up is one thing. Maintaining your player and your collection is another.

For records, bear in mind that you shouldn’t ever touch the playing surface; always hold a record by the outer edge. To dry-clean your albums, use a special record cleaning brush.

For players, always make sure to leave the dust cover down whenever you’re not using them. Dust is a primary enemy of a turntable. Make use of an anti-static brush to keep your player’s pristine condition.

Above all, keep in mind is to collect only what you love. As mentioned above, vinyl is a rather pricey music format. Make every penny count and invest your hard-earned pay to something that you will actually listen to and indulge in.