Turntable Buyers Guide

The Turntable: The Revival of Vinyl Records and Analog Recording

The resurgence in the popularity of vinyl records is undeniable. In 2023, vinyl record sales reached their highest level since 1988, with over 19 million records sold in the US alone. This trend has been attributed to various factors, including the rise of streaming services and the desire for a more tangible music experience. And why there is a renewed interest in the turntable.

Analog recording is considered superior to digital recording because it captures sound waves naturally without compression or alteration. It also provides a warmer sound that many people prefer to digital recordings. Our ears hear in analog; shouldn’t our music playback match that? Besides, albums provide a unique richness in the form of cover art, with some albums even including sheet music, photographs, and lyrics.

Listening to records requires a turntable. A quality turntable has several components, including a platter, motor, tonearm, cartridge, and stylus. The motor drives the platter, which rotates the record, while the tonearm holds the cartridge and stylus above it. The cartridge converts mechanical energy from the stylus into electrical signals, amplified and sent to speakers or headphones.

Where did the turntable begin?

The invention of the turntable can be attributed to Thomas Edison, who invented the phonograph in 1877. The phonograph was the first device capable of recording and reproducing sound, and it used a rotating cylinder wrapped with tinfoil to capture and playback audio. This invention laid the foundation for the development of the turntable.

Over time, various inventors and companies improved Edison’s original design. In 1887, Emile Berliner introduced the gramophone, which used flat disc records instead of cylinders. The gramophone is considered the direct predecessor of the modern turntable.

Throughout the years, many innovations have been introduced to enhance the turntable’s performance, such as the introduction of electrical recording and playback, the development of the stylus, and improvements in turntable drive systems. These advancements have shaped the turntable into the form we know today.

Evaluating a Turntable

When evaluating a turntable, there are several factors to consider, such as speed accuracy, build quality, noise isolation capabilities, and ease of use. Additionally, it would be best to look for features such as auto-stop/start and adjustable anti-skate controls that can help improve your listening experience.

There are two types of turntables: belt drive and direct drive. Belt drive and direct drive turntables differ primarily in how they transmit power from the motor to the platter, affecting their performance characteristics and suitability for different applications.

Belt Drive Turntables: In a belt drive turntable, the motor is located away from the platter, and a rubber belt connects the motor’s spindle to the platter’s outer edge. This design has a few advantages:

• Reduced vibration: The belt acts as a buffer between the motor and the platter, minimizing the transfer of motor vibrations to the platter and affecting sound quality.
• Lower noise: Since the motor is not directly connected to the platter, less mechanical noise is generated during operation.
• Easier maintenance: Belts can be replaced relatively quickly if they wear out or stretch over time.

However, belt drive turntables may have some drawbacks:

• Less accurate speed: The belt can introduce slight variations in speed, which may impact pitch stability.
• Slower start-up: Belt drive turntables typically take longer than direct drive models to reach their target speed.

Direct Drive Turntables: In a direct drive turntable, the motor is located directly beneath the platter, and the platter is mounted directly onto the motor’s spindle. This design offers some benefits:

• Greater speed accuracy: Direct drive systems maintain consistent platter speeds, ensuring better pitch stability.
• Faster start-up: These turntables reach their target speed almost instantly, particularly useful for DJing and cueing records.
• Higher torque: Direct drive turntables generally have higher torque, allowing quicker speed changes and better control during DJ performances.

On the downside, direct-drive turntables can have some issues:

• Increased vibration: With the motor directly connected to the platter, vibrations can be more readily transferred, potentially affecting sound quality.
• Higher noise levels: Mechanical noise from the motor can be more noticeable in direct drive systems.

Audiophiles often prefer belt-drive turntables for their lower noise and vibration levels, while direct-drive turntables are popular among DJs for their quick start-up times, speed accuracy, and higher torque.

Can’t I plug my turntable in and play?

While it’s possible to plug in a turntable and start listening to an album, several factors may prevent you from getting the best audio experience or potentially damage your equipment. Here are some reasons why setting up a turntable properly is essential.

Most modern receivers have built-in phono stages (also referred to as a phono pre-amp), but you will need an external one to listen to vinyl records properly if yours doesn’t. A phono stage is an electronic device to amplify audio signals from a turntable before reaching an amplifier or receiver. It helps reduce hum and other unwanted noises caused by electromagnetic interference while boosting low-level signals so they can be heard clearly through speakers or headphones.

However, investing in a dedicated external phono preamp could be beneficial if you are an audiophile seeking more accurate sound reproduction and improved sonic performance. External phono preamps often provide better shielding from interference, lower noise levels, and customizable settings to match your turntable and cartridge specifications.

To determine if an external phono preamp is worth the upgrade, consider the following factors:

• Your current integrated amp quality: If you have a budget or entry-level integrated amp, there may be better quality than the built-in phono-stage. In that case, upgrading to an external phono preamp could significantly improve.
• Turntable and cartridge: If you have a high-quality turntable and cartridge, a dedicated phono preamp can help you get the most out of your investment, as it will be better optimized for your specific setup.
• Listening preferences: If you prioritize sound quality and are willing to invest in improving your vinyl playback experience, an external phono preamp could be a worthwhile addition.

Ultimately, whether you should upgrade to an external phono preamp depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the quality of your current integrated amp. It’s always a good idea to test different options and compare the sound quality before deciding.

No Ice Necessary

Anti-skating is a turntable feature for those with tonearms and vinyl records. It is a counterbalance mechanism that helps to maintain the stylus’s proper tracking force on the record grooves and prevents it from being pulled toward the center of the record due to the natural inward force generated by the spinning motion.

Anti-skating ensures that the stylus remains appropriately aligned within the groove and applies equal pressure on both sides of the groove wall. This results in better sound quality, reduced distortion, and increased lifespan for both the stylus and the vinyl record.

To achieve this balance, turntables may employ various anti-skating techniques such as spring tension, magnetic force, or a weight suspended on a thread. The optimal setting for anti-skating varies depending on the specific turntable and cartridge combination, and it usually requires some fine-tuning to achieve the best performance. A reputable audio/stereo dealer will assist in setting up your new turntable.

Some Other Considerations When Evaluating a Turntable

• Proper grounding: Turntables often require grounding to eliminate hum and electrical noise. This usually involves connecting a ground wire from the turntable to the phono preamp or receiver.
• Speaker compatibility: Turntables must be connected to speakers or amplifiers for sound output. Passive speakers require an amplifier, while active (powered) speakers have a built-in amplifier.
• Cartridge alignment and tracking force: Properly aligning the cartridge and setting the correct tracking force for the stylus ensures optimal sound quality and minimizes record and stylus wear. A reputable dealer will assist you with this.
• Balancing the tonearm and setting anti-skating: Adjusting the tonearm balance and anti-skating helps maintain consistent pressure on the record grooves, reducing distortion and preventing damage to the stylus and vinyl.
• Turntable isolation: Turntables are sensitive to vibrations that can affect sound quality. Placing the turntable on a stable, level surface and using isolation pads or feet can help minimize these vibrations.

By taking the time to set up your turntable correctly, you’ll not only protect your equipment but also achieve the best possible sound quality from your vinyl records.

Are there wireless turntables available in the market?

Wireless turntables typically feature Bluetooth connectivity, which allows them to transmit audio wirelessly to compatible Bluetooth speakers, headphones, or receivers. This can be a convenient option for those who want to enjoy their vinyl collection without dealing with the hassle of connecting cables.

However, it’s important to note that Bluetooth audio transmission may introduce latency and reduce audio quality due to data compression. Not all Bluetooth speakers or headphones may be suitable for reproducing the full range of frequencies and nuances in vinyl records. Very few audiophiles will opt for wireless speakers, as it takes away from the logic of listening to albums on a turntable.

For the best possible audio experience, a wired connection between the turntable and speakers or amplifier is still recommended. Nevertheless, wireless turntables can be a practical and convenient solution for casual listening or when running cables is not feasible.

Don’t Forget About the Cartridge

A cartridge is an electromechanical transducer responsible for converting vibrations from the stylus (needle) into electrical signals. This is a crucial turntable component. Your audio system amplifies and processes these electrical signals to produce sound through speakers.

The cartridge is mounted on the tonearm of the turntable and consists of several parts, including:

• Stylus: The stylus, sometimes referred to as the needle, is the part that makes direct contact with the vinyl record’s grooves. It picks up the mechanical vibrations created by the record’s grooves and transfers them to the cantilever.
• Cantilever: The cantilever is a thin, rigid rod that holds the stylus and transfers its vibrations to the cartridge’s internal generator system.
• Generator system: The generator system within the cartridge converts the mechanical vibrations from the stylus and cantilever into electrical signals. There are two primary types of generator systems: moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC). In MM cartridges, a small magnet is attached to the cantilever and moves relative to fixed coils. In contrast, in MC cartridges, tiny coils are connected to the cantilever and move relative to fixed magnets.
• Cartridge body: The cartridge body houses all the components mentioned above and attaches to the tonearm’s headshell. The body’s design and materials can affect the cartridge’s overall performance and sound quality.

Several factors contribute to the differences in quality between various turntable cartridges. These factors can affect sound reproduction, tracking ability, and overall performance. Here are some key aspects that make one cartridge better than another:

• Cartridge type: There are two main types of cartridges – moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC). MM cartridges are generally more affordable and easier to maintain, while MC cartridges tend to offer superior sound quality but are more expensive and harder to find replacement parts for. The choice between these two types depends on your budget and personal preferences.
• Stylus shape: The stylus shape plays a significant role in the cartridge’s sound quality and tracking ability. Common stylus shapes include conical, elliptical, line contact, and Shibata. Elliptical and more advanced stylus shapes like line contact and Shibata provide better contact with the record groove, resulting in improved detail retrieval, lower distortion, and better tracking.
• Cantilever material: The cantilever is the part that holds the stylus and transfers its vibrations to the cartridge’s generator system. Cantilever materials can range from aluminum and boron to sapphire or even diamond. Stiffer and lighter materials generally provide better responsiveness and accuracy in sound reproduction.
• Cartridge body and construction: The build quality, materials used, and overall design of the cartridge body can impact its performance. Higher-quality cartridges often use more robust, lightweight, and resonance-resistant materials, improving sound quality and durability.
• Output level and compatibility: Different cartridges have varying output levels, affecting their compatibility with phono preamps and amplifiers. A higher-quality cartridge will generally have a consistent and suitable output level for your audio setup.
• Brand reputation and quality control: Well-established brands with a reputation for producing high-quality cartridges are more likely to offer better performance and reliability. These brands usually have stricter quality control measures, ensuring their products meet high standards.

A better cartridge will improve sound quality, tracking ability, and durability. When choosing a cartridge, consider the above factors and your budget and personal preferences to find the best option for your turntable setup.

How do I choose between a moving magnet or a moving coil cartridge? And does my amplifier care?

Choosing between a moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridge depends on various factors, including a budget, personal preferences, and audio equipment compatibility. Here are some key considerations to help you decide between the two types of cartridges:

• Budget: MM cartridges are more affordable than MC cartridges. If you’re on a tight budget or just starting with vinyl playback, an MM cartridge might be more suitable.
• Sound quality: MC cartridges typically offer superior sound quality to MM cartridges, with better detail retrieval, lower distortion, and a more refined soundstage. If sound quality is your top priority and you’re willing to invest in a higher-end cartridge, an MC cartridge could be worth considering.
• Maintenance and replacement: MM cartridges have replaceable styli, making them easier and more cost-effective to maintain. In contrast, with MC cartridges, you usually need to replace the entire cartridge when the stylus wears out, which can be more expensive and time-consuming.
• Compatibility with your audio equipment: Your amplifier or phono preamp must be compatible with your chosen cartridge. MM and MC cartridges have different output levels and load requirements. Most phono preamps or integrated amplifiers with a built-in phono stage support MM cartridges; only some support MC cartridges – often requiring a separate MC input or switch.

To determine if your amplifier cares about the cartridge type, check its specifications or user manual for information on phono stage compatibility. If your amplifier only supports MM cartridges, you must either stick with an MM cartridge or invest in a separate phono preamp compatible with MC cartridges.

When choosing between an MM or MC cartridge, consider your budget, sound quality preferences, maintenance requirements, and compatibility with your existing audio equipment. Both cartridges have advantages, so weighing these factors and choosing the one that best suits your needs is essential.

What are Recommended Turntable Brands and Models?

Music Hall turntables are a line of high-quality record players designed and developed by Music Hall Audio. Founded by Roy Hall in 1985, Music Hall Audio is an American-based company specializing in manufacturing audiophile-grade components, including turntables, amplifiers, and speakers.

Music Hall turntables are known for their exceptional build quality, performance, and value for money. They offer various models to cater to different budgets and preferences, ranging from entry-level to high-end turntables. Some popular Music Hall turntable models include:

MMF-1.3: An entry-level, three-speed turntable with a built-in phono preamp and a pre-mounted cartridge. It’s a great option for those new to vinyl or seeking an affordable yet high-quality turntable.

MMF-2.3: A step up from the MMF-1.3, this two-speed turntable features a more refined design, improved components, and better isolation. It also has a pre-mounted cartridge and an external power supply for reduced noise interference.

MMF-5.3: A higher-end model offering enhanced performance and build quality. The MMF-5.3 boasts a two-speed belt-driven system, dual-plinth construction for superior isolation, and a high-quality Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge.

MMF-7.3: This premium turntable features a triple-plinth design, carbon-fiber tonearm, and an upgraded Ortofon 2M Bronze cartridge. Its sophisticated engineering ensures minimal resonance and excellent sound quality.

Their models feature precision machined aluminum platters that provide superior speed stability and low resonance feet that help isolate vibrations from other components in your system for improved clarity and detail retrieval. Additionally, all Music Hall turntables come with adjustable counterweights that make it easy to set up different cartridges depending on your preferences or budget constraints.

Music Hall turntables have earned a reputation among vinyl enthusiasts and audiophiles for their attention to detail, solid construction, and impressive audio performance. Whether you’re a casual listener or a seasoned collector, Music Hall offers a range of turntables to suit your needs and enhance your vinyl experience. These turntables appeal to both value seekers and audiophiles alike thanks to their combination of high-quality components and affordable prices.

Pro-Ject turntables are popular among vinyl enthusiasts due to their high-quality design, performance, and wide range of models catering to various budgets and preferences. Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian company founded by Heinz Lichtenegger in 1991, is renowned for producing audiophile-grade turntables and audio components.

Here are some reasons why you should consider buying a Pro-Ject turntable:

• Quality and Performance: Pro-Ject turntables are known for their excellent build quality, using premium materials and components to ensure durability and optimal sound reproduction. They offer a range of models, from entry-level to high-end, each designed to provide a great listening experience.
• Design: Pro-Ject turntables are visually appealing, featuring minimalist designs that blend seamlessly with various home decor. Many of their models come in different color options, allowing you to pick one that suits your style.
• Upgradeability: Pro-Ject turntables are designed with upgradeability in mind. You can easily replace or upgrade various components, such as the cartridge, tonearm, platter, or cables, to enhance the performance of your turntable over time.
• Value for Money: Pro-Ject offers turntables at various price points, ensuring there’s a model suitable for your budget. Their turntables deliver exceptional performance for the price, making them a popular choice among both beginners and experienced vinyl collectors.

Some popular Pro-Ject turntable models include:

• Debut Carbon: A highly-regarded entry-level turntable featuring a carbon fiber tonearm, Ortofon 2M Red cartridge, and precision belt drive system.
• X1: A mid-range model offering enhanced performance with an acrylic platter, carbon/aluminum sandwich tonearm, and adjustable isolation feet.
• Xtension 9: A high-end turntable with a heavy mass-loaded plinth, magnetic feet, precision motor control, and a top-tier Ortofon Quintet Black S cartridge.

In summary, Pro-Ject turntables are an excellent choice for anyone investing in a high-quality vinyl playback system. With their reputation for performance, design, and value for money, you can confidently consider purchasing a Pro-Ject turntable to enhance your listening experience.

McIntosh Labs is highly respected and heralded audio brand for several reasons, contributing to its strong reputation in high-end audio equipment. Founded in 1949, McIntosh has a long history of producing top-quality audio equipment, especially low-distortion, high-powered amplifiers. Over the years, they have become synonymous with excellence in the field, earning a loyal following among audiophiles and music enthusiasts.

McIntosh has consistently pushed the boundaries of audio technology, introduced groundbreaking innovations, and set industry standards. Their commitment to research and development ensures that their products are always at the cutting edge of performance and design.

But the primary reason McIntosh is so well-regarded is the exceptional sound quality of their products. They use proprietary technologies and designs to create audio equipment that delivers unrivaled clarity, accuracy, and fidelity, allowing listeners to experience music as the artist intended.

McIntosh products are known for their robust construction and use of high-quality components. This ensures that their equipment is reliable and built to last, providing consistent performance over time.

McIntosh Labs makes some incredible turntables. Here are a few reasons why you should consider buying a McIntosh turntable:

• Superior Sound Quality: McIntosh turntables are designed to deliver exceptional sound quality that audiophiles have come to expect from the brand. Their turntables feature advanced engineering and components to ensure accurate playback and minimal distortion.
• Elegant Design: McIntosh turntables are functional and visually stunning. They often feature a sleek, classic design with a touch of modern aesthetics, making them an attractive addition to any home audio setup.
• Durability and Build Quality: Built with high-quality materials, McIntosh turntables are designed to last for years. Their robust construction ensures that your investment will stand the test of time and continue to provide excellent performance.
• Ease of Use: McIntosh turntables are designed with user-friendly features, making them easy to set up and operate. Many models come with adjustable tonearms, allowing you to fine-tune the tracking force and anti-skate settings for optimal performance.
• Brand Reputation: McIntosh Labs has been a trusted name in high-end audio equipment since 1949. By choosing a McIntosh turntable, you can be confident that you’re investing in a reliable product from a reputable company.

If you’re in the market for a high-quality turntable that combines excellent sound performance, elegant design, and durability, a McIntosh turntable is definitely worth considering. Here are a few of our recommended models:

MT2 Precision Turntable: The McIntosh MT2 Precision Turntable is a high-quality, belt-driven turntable designed and manufactured by McIntosh Labs. Known for its exceptional performance and elegant design, the MT2 is popular among audiophiles and vinyl enthusiasts. Key features include:

• Design: The MT2 features a sleek, polished black plinth with a green McIntosh logo, which complements the brand’s signature aesthetic. Its compact size allows it to fit seamlessly into any audio system setup.
• High-performance Tonearm: The custom-designed tonearm on the MT2 is made from dural-aluminum, providing excellent rigidity and low resonance. It also features an anti-skate mechanism and adjustable counterweight to ensure optimal tracking of the record grooves.
• Cartridge Compatibility: The MT2 comes with a factory-installed Sumiko Olympia moving magnet (MM) cartridge known for its detailed and dynamic sound reproduction. However, the turntable is also compatible with other MM and moving coil (MC) cartridges, allowing users to customize their listening experience.
• Speed Control: The MT2 supports both 33-1/3 and 45 RPM records, catering to a wide range of vinyl collections. Users can easily switch between these speeds using the front-panel button.
• Low-noise Motor: The turntable houses a DC motor with a low-noise design, ensuring that any potential interference with the audio signal is minimized.
• Platter & Bearing: The MT2 features a 1-inch thick black outer platter made from a unique damping material, reducing vibrations and maintaining playback stability. The precision stainless steel center spindle and sapphire bearing provide a smooth, frictionless rotation.
• Suspension System: The turntable has adjustable feet and a built-in bubble level, allowing users to quickly level the unit for optimal performance.

Overall, the McIntosh MT2 Precision Turntable offers an excellent combination of advanced technology, high-quality materials, and elegant design. It is perfect for those looking to elevate their vinyl listening experience and enjoy the warm, rich sound that only a premium turntable can deliver.

MTI1000 All-in-One Turntable: The McIntosh MTI100 Integrated Turntable is a unique, all-in-one audio system designed and manufactured by this prestigious brand. Combining a high-quality turntable with a built-in amplifier, preamplifier, and other essential components, the MTI100 provides a convenient and stylish solution for vinyl enthusiasts who value performance and simplicity. Key Features include:

• Design: The MTI100 features McIntosh’s iconic design elements, including a polished black chassis, an illuminated logo, and a glass front panel with blue LED indicators. Its compact size and visually striking appearance make it an attractive addition to any living space.
• Integrated Amplifier: The MTI100 houses a Class D amplifier that delivers 80 watts per channel into 4 ohms or 50 watts per channel into 8 ohms. This powerful amplifier ensures a dynamic and engaging listening experience.
• Built-in Preamplifier: The turntable includes a built-in phono preamplifier, allowing direct connection to a pair of speakers without additional components. The preamplifier is compatible with both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges, offering flexibility in cartridge choice.
• High-performance Tonearm & Cartridge: The MTI100 features a custom-designed 9-inch tonearm made from aluminum and magnesium, providing rigidity and low resonance for accurate tracking. It comes with a factory-installed Sumiko Olympia MM cartridge known for its detailed and dynamic sound reproduction.
• Belt-driven System: The turntable utilizes a belt-driven system to ensure smooth and accurate playback of vinyl records while minimizing vibrations and maintaining a consistent speed.
• Platter & Bearing: The MTI100 has a machined aluminum platter and a matching aluminum record clamp, which helps to reduce vibrations and maintain stability during playback. The precision stainless steel center spindle and advanced bearing provide smooth, frictionless rotation.
• Additional Inputs & Outputs: The MTI100 has multiple inputs and outputs, including a dedicated phono input, a 3.5mm auxiliary input, a digital coaxial input, an optical input, and a subwoofer output. This allows users to connect various audio sources and expand their system.
• Bluetooth Connectivity: The turntable also features Bluetooth 4.2 technology, enabling wireless streaming from smartphones, tablets, and other compatible devices.
• Headphone Output: A high-quality headphone output with dedicated volume control allows private listening without disturbing others.

The McIntosh MTI100 Integrated Turntable offers a versatile and stylish all-in-one solution for vinyl enthusiasts seeking a high-performance audio system without needing multiple components. Its combination of advanced technology, premium materials, and iconic design makes it a standout choice in the world of turntables.

MT10 Precision Turntable: The McIntosh MT10 Precision Turntable is a high-end, audiophile-grade turntable designed and manufactured by McIntosh. Known for its exceptional performance, precision engineering, and distinctive design, the MT10 is a top choice for discerning vinyl enthusiasts who demand the best in sound quality and craftsmanship. Key Features that make the MT10 special include:

• Design: The MT10 features McIntosh’s iconic design elements, including a polished stainless steel chassis, a black anodized aluminum plinth, an illuminated logo, and a glass front panel with blue LED indicators. Its visually striking appearance and attention to detail make it an attractive centerpiece in any high-end audio system.
• Magnetic Direct Drive System: Unlike most turntables that use a belt-driven or traditional direct drive system, the MT10 employs a unique magnetic direct drive motor. This innovative design eliminates the need for mechanical gears and belts, resulting in lower noise and minimal vibration, ultimately improving sound quality.
• High-performance Tonearm & Cartridge: The MT10 features a custom-designed 10-inch tonearm made from lightweight, rigid duralumin. The tonearm is equipped with a magnetic anti-skate mechanism and adjustable counterweight to ensure precise tracking of the record grooves. It comes with a factory-installed Sumiko Blue Point No. 2 MC cartridge known for its excellent resolution and dynamic range.
• Precision Speed Control: The MT10 supports 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM records, catering to various vinyl collections. The turntable uses an advanced electronic speed control system, which ensures accurate and consistent rotational speed for optimal playback.
• Platter & Bearing: The MT10 has a massive 12-pound machined aluminum platter that provides excellent stability and minimizes vibrations during playback. The precision stainless steel center spindle and ceramic bearing assembly ensure smooth, frictionless rotation.
• Suspension System: The turntable has three adjustable feet that provide excellent isolation from external vibrations, ensuring a stable and interference-free listening experience.
• Real-time Speed Display: A unique feature of the MT10 is its front-panel stroboscopic speed display, which allows users to monitor the turntable’s speed in real-time. This ensures precise speed adjustments and optimal playback performance.

The McIntosh MT10 Precision Turntable stands out for its innovative magnetic direct drive system, exceptional build quality, and iconic design. It offers a truly high-end listening experience for discerning audiophiles who demand the utmost in precision and performance from their turntable.

The Best Way to Get Started

If you have decided to explore adding a turntable to your music listening system, or want to upgrade your present setup, we encourage you to stop into Audio Video Synergy. Let us play a few for you, help you compare features and models, and understand what and how you like to play your music. Our selection of turntables offers something for almost any budget, plus we can recommend the correct cartridge and accessories to make your turntable purchase a fabulous addition.