Start Here: First Turntable Setup | Darkside Vinyl

To play records you need a turntable, a phono stage (built into the deck or a separate box), and speakers or headphones. Suitcase players bundle those parts; hi-fi decks usually do not.

Pick a path

Most people — under $500

A real belt- or direct-drive deck plus powered speakers beats a suitcase for daily listening. Start with turntables under $500 and speakers for turntables.

Stretch — under $1000

More cartridge and motor quality. See turntables under $1000 and best turntables.

Portable / gift suitcase

Know the tradeoffs first: suitcase record players.

Then set it up

Record player setup guide · How to clean vinyl · Phono preamp guide

FAQ

Turntable vs record player?

People say “record player” for all-in-one suitcase units. A “turntable” usually means a deck that needs speakers and often a preamp. See the glossary.

Do I need a receiver?

Only if your speakers are passive. Powered speakers can skip it. Receivers for turntables.