Vinyl and Turntable Glossary | Darkside Vinyl

Short definitions we use in reviews. Shopping hubs: buying guides.

Turntable vs record player

A turntable is usually a deck that needs speakers and often a phono preamp. “Record player” often means an all-in-one suitcase unit with built-in speakers.

Phono preamp

A small amplifier that applies RIAA equalization so a cartridge signal can feed a line-level input. Some decks include one; some receivers include a PHONO jack.

Cartridge and stylus

The cartridge holds the generator; the stylus (needle) traces the groove. MM (moving magnet) is common on consumer decks; MC (moving coil) is usually pricier and needs more gain.

Belt drive vs direct drive

Belt drive isolates the motor with a belt. Direct drive puts the platter on the motor. Neither is automatically “more hi-fi.”

Tracking force (VTF)

Downward force of the stylus, set with a gauge or counterweight. Too light skips; too heavy wears records.

Anti-skate

A small outward force that counters the groove pulling the arm inward.