If you have only recently jumped head first and bought yourself a lovely new record player, well done! However, I have to say that not only the main device itself is important, but also the record player accessories you need to enhance your experience. It’s like cool wheels for your car or, for example, great speakers for your home theater system. The right gears used to upgrade your setup can completely transform the whole listening experience in addition to prolonging the life of precious records. Trust me, after trying this, once you understand the magic of a well-curated accessory collection, there’s no going back.
Therefore, if you want to know how to take your turntable setup a further step ahead, let’s begin!
Cleaning and maintenance accessories
If you want to keep your beginner vinyl setup clean and well-maintained, purchasing the right cleaning and maintenance accessories is a must. These instruments will not only help you to maintain your records and turntable in ideal condition but also guarantee that the listening process is always of a high level.
Start with the basics: a good record cleaning brush and cleaner. They will assist in eliminating dust, dirt, and static from your vinyl, thus avoiding pops and crackles during playback. Anti-static brushes are also essential to ensure the static charge is neutralized to prevent dust from attracting.
A stylus brush is a game-changer for your turntable. Gently scrape it on the needle to clean off any buildup that can cause distortion of sound. Remember also turntable mats that make a flat surface for records to spin and help reduce vibrations, resulting in clearer sound.
Storage is equally crucial. Invest in good-quality inner and outer sleeves to keep your records from scratches, warping, etc. Also, keep your vinyl collection upright and away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures when not in use.
Injecting these vinyl maintenance accessories into your regular cleaning will not only make sure that the life of records and turntables is increased but also provide an unequaled listening experience.
Storage and organization solutions
Being a vinyl enthusiast for many years, I cannot overemphasize the importance of vinyl organization solutions. Based on my own experience, I learned that a neat collection makes it easier to find the precise record you’re looking for and preserves your investment.
First, think about record cases or storage boxes. These not only safeguard your precious vinyl from dust, moisture, and warping but also ensure easy collection and transportation. Search for durable, roomy units and have dividers to organize your records in an orderly manner.
If you prefer to showcase your collection, I would recommend shelving units. I have tried several alternatives over the years, but my preferred one is an elegant contemporary model with adjustable shelves. This helps me stylishly highlight my collection and gives me the space to accommodate my ever-increasing vinyl library.
And let’s not forget about turntable protection. I’ve learned the hard way that investing in a high-quality dust cover is an absolute must. It’s not just about keeping your turntable clean – it’s also about preserving its integrity for years to come.
Enhancing sound quality accessories
Many of the most effective methods to improve sound quality are achieved by reducing vibration and resonance. Here, accessories such as insulating pads, record clamps, and vibration-damping feet come into play.
Insulating pads are placed under the turntable to isolate it from any external vibrations, producing clearer sound with more details. I employ a top-quality pad composed of rubber and cork, which works as the absorber for any undesirable resonance.
For instance, record clamps assist in flattening the record against the platter, thus minimizing any possible warping or wobbling. This helps in tracking, reduces distortion, improves clarity, and adds depth to the music.
Lastly, vibration-damping feet are technologically devised to insulate your turntable from any outside oscillatory energy. These can come in handy when setting up your vinyl rig on a sub-par surface, such as an empty cabinet or shared wall.