This is a truly unique time for turntables. The demand is very low and yet there are still numerous models available from very small and obscure firms. Most of them are expensive because of the high costs associated with tiny production runs. Sadly, there are no credible reviews by the established audio press that would distinguish them by performance. Most of them are just ignored by the audio press, because these small manufacturers can't afford either large advertising budgets or "loans" of indefinite length to the 'reviewers'.If you are new to vinyl or returning after a long while it is useful to know what you need. Get this wrong and you could wind up buying a setup which won't work well with the system you intend to use or which doesn't meet your requirements. This FAQ is designed for those who are unsure about what they need and what to consider when buying a turntable I want to play vinyl records - what do I need? In order to play vinyl you need: a turntable with an arm a phono cartridge - the device which attachs to the arm and holds the stylus or needle a sound system of some sort with an input to attach a turntable to a phono preamp - you may have one of these built into your system already, if you are unsure, reading our phono preamp FAQ will help The first two are pretty obvious. Something which confuses the issue is the existence of all in one record players which are a complete package with speakers, amp and phono preamp built in (and maybe a radio and a CD player too). These can be very convenient ... and often very cheap ... but they are also usually of very poor sound quality and the quality of arm and stylus such that they could actually harm your records. We wouldn't recommend these if sound quality and keeping your records in good condition are a consideration.