Andover Audio SpinDeck 2 Turntable Review

The SpinDeck 2 brings a surprisingly rich sound to the table, especially for a beginner-friendly model. The Audio-Technica AT-VM95E cartridge is a real step up from the no-name options you often find in this price range. It does a fantastic job of capturing detail, making your vinyl pop with clarity and warmth that is often missing in lower-tier setups.

What I appreciate is how well the belt-drive design suits home listening. It prioritizes a smooth, quiet playback that enhances the overall listening experience, making it perfect for those evenings spent lounging on the couch with a good record. If you’re coming from a suitcase player, you’ll definitely notice the difference in sound quality here.

The styling of the SpinDeck 2 is clean and modern, which makes it a great fit for most living spaces. The plinth has sleek lines, and the included dust cover adds a touch of polish that helps it blend in nicely on a TV stand or console. Plus, the compact footprint is a bonus for those of us who are short on space.

While it might not scream high-end, the build quality feels solid enough for everyday use. I appreciate that it doesn’t look out of place in a stylish room, and it doesn’t require a dedicated rack to shine. It’s a good mix of aesthetics and functionality, which is key for apartment living.

One of the standout features of the SpinDeck 2 is its built-in phono preamp, which makes setup a breeze. You can connect it directly to powered speakers or a modern amp without needing an additional phono stage. This is a game changer for those who might be intimidated by the technicalities of audio gear.

However, it’s important to note that this is a manual turntable, so you’ll need to cue the tonearm yourself. While I enjoy the hands-on aspect, it may not be for everyone, especially if you’re used to the convenience of automatic operation. But for many, the simplicity of this setup is part of its charm.

The connectivity is straightforward with RCA line outputs, allowing you to hook up to your speakers without any fuss. This is ideal for someone who just wants to enjoy music without diving deep into the complexities of hi-fi. The absence of Bluetooth or USB options might be a dealbreaker for some, but it keeps things simple and focused on the vinyl experience.

If you’re a fan of wireless listening or digitizing your records, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you’re planning to use powered speakers or a basic receiver, the SpinDeck 2 covers all the essential bases without overcomplicating things.

The upgrade potential with the SpinDeck 2 is somewhat limited, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing for its target audience. You can swap out the stylus and make some sensible cartridge improvements down the line, but it doesn’t offer the kind of modularity that more seasoned audiophiles might crave. For someone just starting out, though, this is usually enough.

It’s a sensible step up from a suitcase player without diving into the rabbit hole of high-end tweaking. If you’re looking for something that won’t overwhelm you with options but still allows for some growth, this could be a solid choice. Just keep in mind that if you’re itching for extensive upgrades, you might want to check out competitors like Fluance or consider a more modular setup.