Record Players

Record Players The phonograph(record player) is a device invented in 1877 by Thomas Edison for the reproduction of recorded sound. There have been several upgrades to the technology since its first incarnation, but the concept behind vinyl sound has remained much the same.
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Record Players are a device for reproducing the sounds stored on a record, consisting of a turntable, usually electrically driven, that rotates the record at a fixed speed of 33, 45, or 78 revolutions a minute. A stylus vibrates in accordance with undulations in the groove in the record: these vibrations are converted into electric currents, which, after amplification, are recreated in the form of sound by one or more loudspeakers. See also monophonic, quadraphonics, stereophonic. A surprisingly dynamic duo. Music Hall’s USB-1 Record Players and Audioengine’s A2+ powered speakers (shown with the optional DS1 desktop speaker stands).

For our simple desktop “system”, we chose the Music Hall USB-1 turntable and Audioengine’s A2+ powered speakers. Virtually ready to go right out of the box, the Music Hall is an easy setup even for a novice. Simply plug the headshell with its pre-mounted cartridge into the tone arm, drop the platter onto the spindle and attach the belt, set the tracking force, plug it in, and you’re ready to go.

The USB-1’s built-in phono preamp means you can plug it straight into the A2+ speakers using the included patch cords. That’s it. Nothing else needed.

The combination of these two components delivers impressively rich and robust sound. And even when placed side by side on a desktop and played at high volumes, the USB-1’s vibration-damping feet prevented any acoustic feedback — a problem that creates distorted noise when Record Players are placed near speakers picks up their vibrations. For good measure, we placed a pair of the Audioengine DS1 desktop stands under the speakers to angle them upward for greater clarity and vibration damping.

While the mighty little A2+ speakers are formidable in their own right, they don’t go exceptionally low in the bottom end. If you’re a fan of deep bass, you might consider adding Audioengine’s S8 powered subwoofer. The A2+’s line output jacks make it easy. And if your room is large, or your listening position is far away, stepping up to Audioengine’s larger A5+ speakers could make sense.