Great video, but I think I'll stick with CD'S and streaming. But you're right, I remember my dad always tinkering with his turntable. I think he enjoyed the tinkering as much as he did the music.
I can't really explain my addiction, but I think it was from the joy I got from records at a very young age! It just sticks with you, plus, us guys are all hunter mentality! Going to a record store satisfies that primal urge! Thanks for watching!!!
A word for newbies looking for speakers at thrift stores and garage sales. If you’re looking for speakers this route but have no idea of what’s good or how to know especially if you can’t audition them, a basic rule of thumb I have used is the size to weight ratio. If they are small to medium size speakers but seem unusually heavy…chances are they are decent sounding speakers. If they’re small and light, or medium to large and relatively light…chances are they’re junk. I’ve discovered some great sounding vintage speakers at thrift stores this way. Also, if the cabinets are particle board and crumbling or have a vinyl coating that’s peeling…probably junk. If they have a real wood veneer, like Realistic, Advents, etc…they’re probably pretty good.
Austin Texas is way too hip to find anything halfway cool at a thrift store!!! The hipster pickers have already ravaged the place to line their pockets with cash! Shame! Thanks for your insightful comments!
Real good stuff. IF a t'table does NOT have an easilly replaceable H'Shell ( SME / technics design, about $ 30, ). do NOT buy. IF one of those tiny wires into back of cartridge - or the brass clips - breaks, Your expensive t'table becomes worth about 2 cents. good electronic repair shops nowadays, more rare than stereo shops at the mall.
I recently bought a little suitcase record player. I like the process of handling the record and dropping the needle. Something is lost when it's just streamed.
That’s a nice looking turntable! I’ve had my Mk2s for 30 years, so great that they are still making the special editions. You did a great job of explaining setting up the anti skate, a one sided record with no grooves on one side is also perfect for the job.
The Goldring E3 is another good cartridge for rock and roll. The M110 is a little warmer or darker. The Ortofon Blue has a little more detail and slightly less bass.
I have the ortofon blue. Also have the Fosi X4 box phono preamp which has bass and treble controls. I boost the bass a bit. Sounds pretty good for vinyl.
I agree with all of your observations! I just don't have any experience yet with Goldring, so I didn't give them a nod! Thanks for the suggestion and the support of USofA!
Wish you’d made this video before I jumped (mostly) blinded into the vinyl end of the hifi pool! If I had, I might’ve bought myself a nice direct drive turntable with a removable headshell (probably an SL1200) instead of an “audiophile” belt drive table with a fixed headshell. The belt is all fiddly and you have to move it to play 45s - and changing cartridges is a real PITA! You’re doing the lords work with this series and will undoubtedly save some poor sap a tremendous amount of money and frustration.
I hope so! Just try to enjoy the table you've got. Those seem like small inconveniences. In my reference room I too have an audiophile belt drive with a belt I have to move for 45 rpm. Use gloves! You'll thank me later!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog I actually wondered whether the Technics had supplanted the MoFi in your reference system. Sounds like inconvenience still wins out! Love love love what you’re doing with this channel and truly appreciated the Daniel Johnston tribute. Ordered two hats - one for me, one for my son!
be VERY careful changing cartridges. those 4 tiny wires are very fragile and IF the t'table design doesn't include an easilly replaceable SME / technics H'shell design ( $30. ). your expensive t'table with fixed H'shell can become instantly worth about 2 cents. I know because....
@@rickc661 You’re exactly right. I am extremely careful, but this is precisely why I am actively looking at selling it and buying a Technics SL1200 GR. It’s “audiophile” enough and provides the flexibility of swapping out cartridges with no hassle and virtually no risk of damage. My current turntable has a Clearaudio Satisfy Black tonearm and the leads are attached all the way through the tonearm and out through the back terminating in RCAs, so one false move and I’m totally hosed.
The cartridge tracking force is specified as a range. You do the fine tuning of the weight by ear, so the most accurate digital scale is not really needed. The arm is being “dragged” by the record so effectively it is trying to move in the direction from which it is being dragged. In other words towards a line joining the spindle to the arm pivot. Anti-skate counteracts the force. Your means of setting it is spot on, although again you can set it by ear using a record with a strong centre image. If the image is off to the left, increase the tracking force and vice versa.
Lucky enough to own a black Linn Sondek LP12 with an Ittok arm so collecting vinyl has to be a must. However, I still buy CD's at an alarming rate so I have truly been bitten by the music collecting bug!
My ATLP120usb that I had for 7 or 8 years the Anti skate never worked. It works on my fairly new MoFi Studiodeck (love MoFi TT by the way) I had a AT540ML on the AT120, took that off and put the AT95E on (I set the VTF and VTA) when i gave it to my Niece who was using a Crosly. haven't tried it on the MoFi yet, still using the Studiotracker that came with it. Love your Chanel brother!!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog How are you liking the Mastertracker??!!!! FYI Mofi is running a sale on there Ultra Low Noise Feet for $75.00! I just ordered a set.
I'm an airline mechanic so I really enjoy all of the fine tuning, trial and error and different adjustments required to properly set up a tt, to get the best sound possible. Most people probably wouldn't go through all of the hassle, lol. Also, being a Marine, all of the attention to detail and small margins for error appeal to my meticulous nature, as well. That being said, I have set up my Rega P3 50th edition to be spot on in every way. VTA, VTF, Azimuth, stylus rake angle, you name it, I have it dialed in...FINALLY! I'm running a Nagaoka MP-300 cart and maaaaaannnn is it one sweet cartridge. I'm getting the best sound I've ever had from my tt. Once you find that sweet spot, there is no substitute. Pioneer SX-1080 receiver, Elac Solano speakers, Elac Varro Reference Series 10" sub, Mani 2 phono stage.
Inspirational!!! Thanks so much for you description of your killer system! And thank you for your service! I'm happy that you are part of our community!
The cartridge body is mounted (on the tonearm headshell) in a direction offset from the tonearm pivot.... The friction of the record/stylus interface causes the cantilever to pull in line with the offset pivot..... (The cantilever assembly resists this from actually happening. But the "skating" force is still present.) This causes greater stylus force on the inner groove wall than on the outer groove wall.... Anti-skate provides an outward side force to make the friction pull the stylus in line with the cartridge body (when adjusted to the correct setting), to balance out the force caused by the pivot offset..... The stylus forces on the two groove walls are made equal.
Oh my. Yeah, naah, you got me convinced: I'll keep well clear of that field of meddling, fussing and touchy-touchy stuff. I'll stay with streaming on Tidal 🙂
Let’s not forget, RCA cables. Some turntables have detachable cables. I had sound issues and found out it was my cheap RCA cables I bought on Amazon. Don’t buy the cheap ones! Lesson learned.
First you entice me in and tantalize me with vinyl goodness, and then you kick me to the curb!? If I were still 35 and earning a 6 figure salary, I would be vinyl collecting and spinning like a fiend, but my friend I will continue to love vinyl, vicariously through your passion, equipment and collection. I hope you're doing well, Sir and thank you for your time, efforts, and passion. They make each day more enjoyable. Stay well, my friend.
Another trip on the United States of Awesome train! I remember when our ship was in Japan and guys were buying stereo gear like crazy. We would play records while the ship was tossing about on the ocean and I wonder if the turntables were ever level. Of course for harsh seas the chance of skipping was very high. LOL
I am 55, I had my time with turntables, reel to reel and cassette. Also got into HiFi VCR recordings for audio in the mid 80ties, it was better than any cassette deck for sound quality and easier to work with over reel to reel… HOWEVER, the best decision I ever made was selling my 300+ records, my turntable and my tape players and embracing modern tech and good DAC’s. If you have money to burn and love antique ways of music playback, god bless and enjoy! At the end of the day, only you know what sounds best to your own ears.
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog I appreciate yours as well, it reminded me of the way it was. My dad taught me how to set up a turntable, and how to record tapes, music listening then was more 0f an art, like tuning your own car was. Ironically, I spend money making my digital music sound more analog…. The vinyl community is already there. 😀 you gained a new sub.
I hear what you're saying...vinyl is def.a labor of love. I just turned 58 so we're in the same boat, agewise. I do still enjoy both vinyl and digitaal, just depends on what I'm feeling at the time. I stream using Spotify, Tidal or my new favorite, Qobuz. Sounds damn good too. Pioneer SX-1080 receiver and Wiim Pro Plus streamer.
@@tima.478 I did the hybrid model for a few years myself. It came down to the wife really wanting me to downsize, not only the record collection, the cd collection and the amount of equipment I had. I converted it all to FLAC, put it on a NAS, set up a Plex server. Because of Plex, I only have Tidal but very happy with it. Plex also allowed me to place all my movies on the NAS too, now that all that work is done, I spend more time enjoying it..... Focusing my efforts into my growing headphone collection now. 😁
Love your video. Setting up a turntable is certainly not rocket science. I was setting up tables when I was 12yo in 1977. lol. Radio Shack Shure cartridges were the rage back then. Fitted well on JCPenny MCS turntables (Technics). However, a perfectly set up table will never be perfect. There are too many variables. A turntable cartridge is extremely sensitive. I found many records I recorded contained room noise. Including conversations in the room. YES, really! They can be that sensitive.
You are a great teacher my friend. We will have to start calling you Dr. Bob PHD (press here dummy) Only kidding. It is great to see your channel growing. Thx.
Years back (30 ISH) I loved vinyl, however this gradually faded with cd, then networking . Mostly left it behind because it's time consuming, and not been able to eliminate static and cleaning drove me nuts . To me now vinyl is a romantic platform, and been much older now and fingers that don't work with age, I will pass . CD and networking for me . For people getting into vinyl go for it, why should you not suffer also : ) Great review .
$300 Audio Technica turntable really sounds good. Out of the box. A really good tube phone preamp makes it amazing. All with their $40 Stylus. The grove goes from the rim to the center, the tone arm has to be moved by the grove towards the center..
To get into vinyl one needs to pass a mechanical aptitude test. If you get below 50 then stick with streaming. If you get below 10 then you probably don't care either way and that's fine too. :)
Agreed. The more yobs that get into records the more it keeps putting the price up for everyone else. But then again, these are probably some of those yobs that are happy to pay to watch content on CZcams so I don’t know damned if you do damned if you don’t.
@@TrueAudio a YOBO it’s an Aussie although would have hailed from merry old land of the poms ha ha ha a slang word for rude or young offensive person I usually call them plonkers some may call them a w-anchor or in the states a douche bag maybe. Anyway all cool. Stay safe.
@@TrueAudio a YOBO it's an Aussie although would have hailed from merry old land of the poms ha ha ha a slang word for rude or young offensive person I usually call them plonkers some may call them a w-anchor or in the states a douche bag maybe. Anyway all cool. Stay safe.
I'm coming up on five decades of vinyl deejayin and solid recommendations for the most part. I look forward to part 3 with cleaning, doubtlessly you'll also go into stylus cleaning with products such as the Onzow Zerodust. I'd say, avoid Amazon entirely but I get it, you're probably doing the whole affiliate link grift.
My advice to save money is: dont buy just any vinyl. Research and ONLY THEN buy. There is really nothing worse then spitting 35 bucks on a record just to come home and realise someone pressed mp3 file on a record.
@@UnitedStatesofAnalogI have every UHQR that chad has put out and they are all perfect and sound miles better than the originals… ya know acoustic sounds has a return policy to call it “hot garbage” is just a flat out lie.
Love your content, Bob! I agree, turntables are a PITA. I do the usual stuff. I’m running my VM95ML at 1.8. Whether I’m really on the money, who knows! I haven’t got a force tracker. I use a RT-85 when I play records. I have about 50 beat to crap records I rebought and about 5 or 6 new ones. I know I’ll get booed off the page but I’m really a streamer and CD guy now. If I’m honest, CDs sound best to me. Now, please say what that tube amp is behind you?
The way I adjust antiskate is by placing an old dvd or cd shiny side up in the platter. Do not turn the turntable on! Place the tonearm on the cd or DVD. If it moves left or right adjust antiskate moving the nylon string in the right or left notch or dial the knob until the arm stays still. Lift the tonearm while doing this then lower. You can also adjust antiskate by resting the tonearm on the tonearm lifter and see if it moves left or right.Voila.
@@markcarrington8565The stylus has to move in the groove. The idea of an antiskate is balance of left and right force. The tonearm must stand still and not drift by itself.
@@markcarrington8565 So you think the stylus should stay in one spot? Go ahead. Good luck with that. Think before you comment. How can you make a stylus stop moving left and right while it's moving towards the center in the grooves?
The only reason a belt would slip is it is too loose, you would have to have very oily fingers to cause slipping. When the belt slips you don't get distortion, you get wow.
Hi there! I asked Randall from CheapAudioMan if he knew of any hifi shops in the Austin, Tx area, and he referred me to you. I’ve been really interested in audio / home theater the last few years but have never heard truly high end equipment before. If you know of any places I would really appreciate it!
Hi Bob, I found your CZcams channel because of my interest in the JBL Spinner BT. I thought it should be a good one, because I have some JBL products and I think they are delivering good quality by a fair price. Obviously except the Spinner BT ;-) Thanks for your review and expertise. Afterwards I watched your two videos about NOT getting into vinyl and I still want to get into vinyl. Hopefully with a little help from you, but first of all I want to answer some of your questions: Why? First of all I grew up with vinyl, because of my dad, and I always liked it a lot. Second reason. I want to listen to music more knowingly again and I think there is no better way. Setup? I have several Bluetooth options: JBL party box 310 Teufel concep E Some smaller JBL speakers Marshall headphones Chinch option: Teufel concep E Budget: Maximum 350€ I think during one of your video you said that it's possible to find something "okay" within that price range. You also wanted to know where on planet earth the people watching your videos are from. I'm from Germany close to Frankfurt. That's why my budget is in Euro. Can you recommend some players to me? Thanks a lot for your help and keep spinning!
Watch my review of the Fluance RT81+ Elite. I think it's a good budget table but I'm not sure if you can get them in Germany. I have think Pro-Ject has some budget options too. By the ay, my tongue was firmly planted in my check when I said "don't get into vinyl!" I think it's great!!!!
Hi Bob, thanks for answering. Unfortunately Fluance is not available in Germany. We are in the US this year, but I doubt that the turntable will survive a flight in my checked in luggage... I'll take a closer look into Pro-Ject turntables. Thanks for the advice. Have you ever tested the "Sony PS-LX310BT Bluetoot"? A friend of mine recommended it, but I don't like the fact, that you can not adjust the pressure of the needle. I also understood, that you love vinyl. I just wanted to let you know, why I want to get into it too. Have a nice weekend and thanks again. Manuel
Another great video! I'm jealous, though. I saw you had a special copy of Spirit Dr. Sardonicus. I saw it was from music on vinyl and that they had the first Spirit LP as well. Sadly, I couldn't figure out how to order, if they are even available still. I'm your fan from the Philippines and possibly it will be difficult to order from here. 😢 😊Anyhow, thanks again for always providing wonderful videos. I always look forward to them.
@UnitedStatesofAnalog I'm just happy that I own the basic issue of Dr. Sardonicus. I remember buying the lp when it first came out. It was different from most everything else and has proven itself timeless.
Just seems like to much work and effort involved. The bump in sound quality (if any) isn’t worth it to me at this point. But I’m still thinking about it. So there’s that .
Awesome video :) I use an EPC-205c MK3 with a new Jico SaS on Boron stylus .. and I have it tracking at 1.25gr ... but it is a low output MM so you need a great pre-amp like the mo-fi :D yeah it is a crazy when we start to go beyond the basic setup :D
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog I got the 205c mk3 in japan auctions around 100$ the stylus from jico was 390$ .. more than I could afford, but never regret :D It is still an impressive cart even by today standards :) cheers looking forward for more content,
well, $75 gets you a decent / good DVD player from a big box store that is fully capable. minimum for a good t' table + cartridge - $ 300. seems nowadays LP's have taken a big step up in price. Unless for some reason Ya WANT LP's, there is no reason. myself, ( I'm 70+ have a decent collection of LP's going way back to a new AR full Manuel T'table ) I prefer concert DVD's - be it Diana Krall, Paris. Anna Netrebko ,LaTraviatta or Grateful Dead, movie....
Buy a SL-1200 mk2 with a Shure m44-7!with a Teac PA-4 an You are done, thartbsimple. I garentee, that You are enjoy this hobbi… The rest of itbis ego game..!
Its an undiagnosed illness, i just watched a guy admit that he's got 5 copies of Blink 182s enema of the state on vinyl Now don't get me twisted, i love Blink but why anyone needs 5 copies of that album baffles me. This is what the illness does to people, so while you still can...RUN away !!!!!!!!
How is it an illness to have extra copies of something you like and paid for?? The more I play a record, the more It can degrade,just like a tape. Yeah,please do run because we need more analog enthusiasts who actually have critical thinking skills.
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog Exactly. I was responding to the nosy, impudent, clown in the comments who specifically said something about it, making it clear just because he does not comprehend, he does not matter.
@@michaels8607 Relax dude I'm trying to have a bit of fun. But in saying that, imagine having 5 copies of every album in your collection just in case you wear one out so you've got a backup copy, youd need 16 houses and have to live to you're 357. ☺️ I've got albums from the 50s that haven't worn out yet they'll outlive me!!! The other 4 copies would outlive my grandchildrens grandchildren, it's a bit of overkill don't you think? Just exercising my critical thinking skills that I don't have. 😉
@@crazyprayingmantis5596 First of all, you never will tell me nor make me do anything, and I say that unemotionally, Secondly, the only person you can give directives successfully is to yourself and that's a personal conversation. Third ,just because you might want to think you squeezed out a critical thought does not manifest it into reality. Now I am having even more fun, possibly at your expense. You might even respond again, so I can see what a real clown looks like. Let's examine why. First, I own my records, you bought none of them, so it's not even your business. If you bought 3 sets of snow tires and where you live has snow once every 5 years, that is your right. In the IT world , the prudent practice redundancy constantly, and only the uneducated or novices, make comments to the contrary. My main camera has 2 card slots not because one fails, yet because it offers me the option of a backup. In this instance I had already explained myself, since I might spin doubles, have backups of those doubles, and maybe a few I do not play during sets. Here you come with infantile statements about needing 16 houses, living till one is 357 years old, and somehow grandchildren also became part of your BS.. Let's go there, for the untrained monkey brain. For one, I do live in one house and I have well over 20-40,000 records, not including the CDs. My records are fine, not your business, and if I want to leave them for anyone, then I will. Who asked you specifically to share your thoughts about something has nothing to do with you? I do not come running and giving my opinions when you're on sites commenting on the pretty panties you collect or whatever. For example, I do not own horses, and if you had 30 of the same breed and similar color, then that's not my business/concern. Actually, that would fascinate me, because I'm a SANE person who enjoys the story of collection, as long as it harms no one. I found it interesting that BizMarkie collected Barbies. I find it interesting for someone who collects all the Akai samplers, who collects 10 copies of each Windows OS, of each ThinkPad,etc,etc. See, to you it's overkill and to the next person who makes use or collects for their personal reason, it has a purpose. It's such a toddler/ feminine trait in a man to be a nosy nag, use logical fallacies, and to think one can impose their will on someone they do not know. Let me go slow for you though. I do not care about you nor your uneducated opinions about my records. I do not take directives from you, and you will not make me do anything with my money/time/resources. Even If I was not relaxed, you will not make me relax and i am not your dude. No thank you, and if you need a dude. it's not me .I wrote what I wrote and you are the one still here trying to defend your position. That was my essay and the reality of being a DJ/crate digger/studio guy/ collector/ sound designer and someone who stays in his lane, on and offline...I think I will contact that person with some records and go practice some OVERKILL according to the holy @crazyprayingmantis5596...hehehehe..Imagine that..NOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog It's still clickbait!! The title of the video should be "Turntables lessons for beginners" I noticed that many You Tubers try to fool people into watching by using misleading titles. How much money do you make per viewing?
Great video! I’m already all in on vinyl, but this series is really well done to get people on board.
Even thought the title is a little misleading! Thats how I trick people! Thank you for all your support!
Great video, but I think I'll stick with CD'S and streaming. But you're right, I remember my dad always tinkering with his turntable. I think he enjoyed the tinkering as much as he did the music.
I can't really explain my addiction, but I think it was from the joy I got from records at a very young age! It just sticks with you, plus, us guys are all hunter mentality! Going to a record store satisfies that primal urge! Thanks for watching!!!
A word for newbies looking for speakers at thrift stores and garage sales. If you’re looking for speakers this route but have no idea of what’s good or how to know especially if you can’t audition them, a basic rule of thumb I have used is the size to weight ratio. If they are small to medium size speakers but seem unusually heavy…chances are they are decent sounding speakers. If they’re small and light, or medium to large and relatively light…chances are they’re junk. I’ve discovered some great sounding vintage speakers at thrift stores this way. Also, if the cabinets are particle board and crumbling or have a vinyl coating that’s peeling…probably junk. If they have a real wood veneer, like Realistic, Advents, etc…they’re probably pretty good.
Austin Texas is way too hip to find anything halfway cool at a thrift store!!! The hipster pickers have already ravaged the place to line their pockets with cash! Shame! Thanks for your insightful comments!
Real good stuff. IF a t'table does NOT have an easilly replaceable H'Shell ( SME / technics design, about $ 30, ). do NOT buy. IF one of those tiny wires into back of cartridge - or the brass clips - breaks, Your expensive t'table becomes worth about 2 cents. good electronic repair shops nowadays, more rare than stereo shops at the mall.
I recently bought a little suitcase record player. I like the process of handling the record and dropping the needle. Something is lost when it's just streamed.
Glad you're in the game! When you start upgrading you will be delighted with how good vinyl can sound! Thanks and good.luck!
That’s a nice looking turntable! I’ve had my Mk2s for 30 years, so great that they are still making the special editions. You did a great job of explaining setting up the anti skate, a one sided record with no grooves on one side is also perfect for the job.
Yep! Glad I could be of service!
Technics SL 1200M7L Turntable is $1,399.00CAD
I love my system, and I love my record collection
I love YOU for being a part of this community!
The Goldring E3 is another good cartridge for rock and roll. The M110 is a little warmer or darker. The Ortofon Blue has a little more detail and slightly less bass.
I have the ortofon blue. Also have the Fosi X4 box phono preamp which has bass and treble controls. I boost the bass a bit. Sounds pretty good for vinyl.
I agree with all of your observations! I just don't have any experience yet with Goldring, so I didn't give them a nod! Thanks for the suggestion and the support of USofA!
Thanks for the Hi How Are You shoutout. Love it.
No problem! My pleasure!
Very informative. Makes total sense for us relearning vinyl joy.
Wish you’d made this video before I jumped (mostly) blinded into the vinyl end of the hifi pool! If I had, I might’ve bought myself a nice direct drive turntable with a removable headshell (probably an SL1200) instead of an “audiophile” belt drive table with a fixed headshell. The belt is all fiddly and you have to move it to play 45s - and changing cartridges is a real PITA!
You’re doing the lords work with this series and will undoubtedly save some poor sap a tremendous amount of money and frustration.
I hope so! Just try to enjoy the table you've got. Those seem like small inconveniences. In my reference room I too have an audiophile belt drive with a belt I have to move for 45 rpm. Use gloves! You'll thank me later!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog I actually wondered whether the Technics had supplanted the MoFi in your reference system. Sounds like inconvenience still wins out!
Love love love what you’re doing with this channel and truly appreciated the Daniel Johnston tribute. Ordered two hats - one for me, one for my son!
@@dannyfannyfoodle true that
be VERY careful changing cartridges. those 4 tiny wires are very fragile and IF the t'table design doesn't include an easilly replaceable SME / technics H'shell design ( $30. ). your expensive t'table with fixed H'shell can become instantly worth about 2 cents. I know because....
@@rickc661 You’re exactly right. I am extremely careful, but this is precisely why I am actively looking at selling it and buying a Technics SL1200 GR. It’s “audiophile” enough and provides the flexibility of swapping out cartridges with no hassle and virtually no risk of damage. My current turntable has a Clearaudio Satisfy Black tonearm and the leads are attached all the way through the tonearm and out through the back terminating in RCAs, so one false move and I’m totally hosed.
The cartridge tracking force is specified as a range. You do the fine tuning of the weight by ear, so the most accurate digital scale is not really needed.
The arm is being “dragged” by the record so effectively it is trying to move in the direction from which it is being dragged. In other words towards a line joining the spindle to the arm pivot. Anti-skate counteracts the force. Your means of setting it is spot on, although again you can set it by ear using a record with a strong centre image. If the image is off to the left, increase the tracking force and vice versa.
Thanks for that information!!!
Lucky enough to own a black Linn Sondek LP12 with an Ittok arm so collecting vinyl has to be a must. However, I still buy CD's at an alarming rate so I have truly been bitten by the music collecting bug!
Sorry that happened to you! 😀Thanks for watching!
My ATLP120usb that I had for 7 or 8 years the Anti skate never worked. It works on my fairly new MoFi Studiodeck (love MoFi TT by the way) I had a AT540ML on the AT120, took that off and put the AT95E on (I set the VTF and VTA) when i gave it to my Niece who was using a Crosly. haven't tried it on the MoFi yet, still using the Studiotracker that came with it. Love your Chanel brother!!
Thanks!!!! I have the Studiodeck and Mastertracker cart as you probably heard!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog How are you liking the Mastertracker??!!!! FYI Mofi is running a sale on there Ultra Low Noise Feet for $75.00! I just ordered a set.
That VM95ML cart is fantastic for the price.
I thought so too!
I'm an airline mechanic so I really enjoy all of the fine tuning, trial and error and different adjustments required to properly set up a tt, to get the best sound possible. Most people probably wouldn't go through all of the hassle, lol. Also, being a Marine, all of the attention to detail and small margins for error appeal to my meticulous nature, as well. That being said, I have set up my Rega P3 50th edition to be spot on in every way. VTA, VTF, Azimuth, stylus rake angle, you name it, I have it dialed in...FINALLY! I'm running a Nagaoka MP-300 cart and maaaaaannnn is it one sweet cartridge. I'm getting the best sound I've ever had from my tt. Once you find that sweet spot, there is no substitute.
Pioneer SX-1080 receiver, Elac Solano speakers, Elac Varro Reference Series 10" sub, Mani 2 phono stage.
Inspirational!!! Thanks so much for you description of your killer system! And thank you for your service! I'm happy that you are part of our community!
You're very welcome, and thanks for the kind words, much appreciated!@@UnitedStatesofAnalog
$959.95CAD for your Nagaoka MP-300
The cartridge body is mounted (on the tonearm headshell) in a direction offset from the tonearm pivot.... The friction of the record/stylus interface causes the cantilever to pull in line with the offset pivot..... (The cantilever assembly resists this from actually happening. But the "skating" force is still present.) This causes greater stylus force on the inner groove wall than on the outer groove wall.... Anti-skate provides an outward side force to make the friction pull the stylus in line with the cartridge body (when adjusted to the correct setting), to balance out the force caused by the pivot offset..... The stylus forces on the two groove walls are made equal.
Yikes!
Been in the Vinyl mania since the 70s , Don't want to know when the End will be!
Probably when we run out of money or when we run out of 🦕 Dino 🦖 juice! Thanks and good luck on your journey!
Oh my. Yeah, naah, you got me convinced: I'll keep well clear of that field of meddling, fussing and touchy-touchy stuff. I'll stay with streaming on Tidal 🙂
Tidal rocks... but the cracking I hear when I open up a new Tone Poet gatefold jacket! It's like crack for my ears!
Never understood a word he said but he sure had some mighty fine wine.
“ hey , how high are ya”
I'm good!
Let’s not forget, RCA cables. Some turntables have detachable cables. I had sound issues and found out it was my cheap RCA cables I bought on Amazon. Don’t buy the cheap ones! Lesson learned.
Thanks! You probably know I have a Studiodeck with Mastertracker. Thanks for the support!
First you entice me in and tantalize me with vinyl goodness, and then you kick me to the curb!? If I were still 35 and earning a 6 figure salary, I would be vinyl collecting and spinning like a fiend, but my friend I will continue to love vinyl, vicariously through your passion, equipment and collection. I hope you're doing well, Sir and thank you for your time, efforts, and passion. They make each day more enjoyable. Stay well, my friend.
Another trip on the United States of Awesome train! I remember when our ship was in Japan and guys were buying stereo gear like crazy. We would play records while the ship was tossing about on the ocean and I wonder if the turntables were ever level. Of course for harsh seas the chance of skipping was very high. LOL
Love hearing these stories! Thank you for your service!
I think hi-fi was the reason a lot of guys got into the military after Vietnam ended! Thanks!
@@cuttinchopsThanks! I appreciate that.
Just got an Audio-Technica VM95ML/H and a VM95C/H and they are both excellent for the money. Much better than the Ortofon 2M Red in my mind.
Agree on that! They are sweet sounding for what you pay!
I am 55, I had my time with turntables, reel to reel and cassette. Also got into HiFi VCR recordings for audio in the mid 80ties, it was better than any cassette deck for sound quality and easier to work with over reel to reel… HOWEVER, the best decision I ever made was selling my 300+ records, my turntable and my tape players and embracing modern tech and good DAC’s. If you have money to burn and love antique ways of music playback, god bless and enjoy! At the end of the day, only you know what sounds best to your own ears.
Very well said! I don't hate your approach to audio! Happy listening, my friend!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog I appreciate yours as well, it reminded me of the way it was. My dad taught me how to set up a turntable, and how to record tapes, music listening then was more 0f an art, like tuning your own car was. Ironically, I spend money making my digital music sound more analog…. The vinyl community is already there. 😀 you gained a new sub.
I hear what you're saying...vinyl is def.a labor of love. I just turned 58 so we're in the same boat, agewise. I do still enjoy both vinyl and digitaal, just depends on what I'm feeling at the time. I stream using Spotify, Tidal or my new favorite, Qobuz. Sounds damn good too. Pioneer SX-1080 receiver and Wiim Pro Plus streamer.
@@tima.478 I did the hybrid model for a few years myself. It came down to the wife really wanting me to downsize, not only the record collection, the cd collection and the amount of equipment I had. I converted it all to FLAC, put it on a NAS, set up a Plex server. Because of Plex, I only have Tidal but very happy with it. Plex also allowed me to place all my movies on the NAS too, now that all that work is done, I spend more time enjoying it..... Focusing my efforts into my growing headphone collection now. 😁
Love your video. Setting up a turntable is certainly not rocket science. I was setting up tables when I was 12yo in 1977. lol. Radio Shack Shure cartridges were the rage back then. Fitted well on JCPenny MCS turntables (Technics). However, a perfectly set up table will never be perfect. There are too many variables. A turntable cartridge is extremely sensitive. I found many records I recorded contained room noise. Including conversations in the room. YES, really! They can be that sensitive.
You are a great teacher my friend. We will have to start calling you Dr. Bob PHD (press here dummy) Only kidding. It is great to see your channel growing. Thx.
I'd rather be Dr. Bob RtFM! Thanks again, my Chi-Town Amigo!
Years back (30 ISH) I loved vinyl, however this gradually faded with cd, then networking . Mostly left it behind because it's time consuming, and not been able to eliminate static and cleaning drove me nuts . To me now vinyl is a romantic platform, and been much older now and fingers that don't work with age, I will pass . CD and networking for me . For people getting into vinyl go for it, why should you not suffer also : )
Great review .
$300 Audio Technica turntable really sounds good. Out of the box. A really good tube phone preamp makes it amazing. All with their $40 Stylus.
The grove goes from the rim to the center, the tone arm has to be moved by the grove towards the center..
To get into vinyl one needs to pass a mechanical aptitude test. If you get below 50 then stick with streaming. If you get below 10 then you probably don't care either way and that's fine too. :)
Maybe a license should be required!
Agreed. The more yobs that get into records the more it keeps putting the price up for everyone else. But then again, these are probably some of those yobs that are happy to pay to watch content on CZcams so I don’t know damned if you do damned if you don’t.
wtf is yobs?
@@TrueAudio a YOBO it’s an Aussie although would have hailed from merry old land of the poms ha ha ha a slang word for rude or young offensive person I usually call them plonkers some may call them a w-anchor or in the states a douche bag maybe. Anyway all cool. Stay safe.
@@TrueAudio a YOBO it's an Aussie although would have hailed from merry old land of the poms ha ha ha a slang word for rude or young offensive person I usually call them plonkers some may call them a w-anchor or in the states a douche bag maybe. Anyway all cool.
Stay safe.
@@josefbuckland
Next topic: cartridge alignment. I'm surprised you didn't include it here.
So much to get too. I shot stuff about protractors... but my vid was getting long. Episode 2B on the way! Thanks! Sorry I let you down!😅
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog Fair enough, Bob. Lofgren vs. Stevenson alignment is its own rabbit hole.
I'm coming up on five decades of vinyl deejayin and solid recommendations for the most part. I look forward to part 3 with cleaning, doubtlessly you'll also go into stylus cleaning with products such as the Onzow Zerodust. I'd say, avoid Amazon entirely but I get it, you're probably doing the whole affiliate link grift.
My advice to save money is: dont buy just any vinyl. Research and ONLY THEN buy. There is really nothing worse then spitting 35 bucks on a record just to come home and realise someone pressed mp3 file on a record.
So true. No matter the source or the plant... I feel like it's always a crap shoot! I've bought $150 uhqr's that were hot trash! Thanks!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalogI have every UHQR that chad has put out and they are all perfect and sound miles better than the originals… ya know acoustic sounds has a return policy to call it “hot garbage” is just a flat out lie.
Love your content, Bob! I agree, turntables are a PITA. I do the usual stuff. I’m running my VM95ML at 1.8. Whether I’m really on the money, who knows! I haven’t got a force tracker. I use a RT-85 when I play records. I have about 50 beat to crap records I rebought and about 5 or 6 new ones. I know I’ll get booed off the page but I’m really a streamer and CD guy now. If I’m honest, CDs sound best to me. Now, please say what that tube amp is behind you?
Hey... you won't get booed off here! It's a big tent with enough room for everyone!
The way I adjust antiskate is by placing an old dvd or cd shiny side up in the platter. Do not turn the turntable on! Place the tonearm on the cd or DVD. If it moves left or right adjust antiskate moving the nylon string in the right or left notch or dial the knob until the arm stays still. Lift the tonearm while doing this then lower. You can also adjust antiskate by resting the tonearm on the tonearm lifter and see if it moves left or right.Voila.
Great techniques! I have used cds and laserdisc! They are still good for some things, I suppose!
You have to turn the turntable on to know how much anti-skate you need.
@@markcarrington8565The stylus has to move in the groove. The idea of an antiskate is balance of left and right force. The tonearm must stand still and not drift by itself.
@@artyfhartie2269 the inward force on the arm is only present when the turntable is spinning.
@@markcarrington8565 So you think the stylus should stay in one spot? Go ahead. Good luck with that. Think before you comment. How can you make a stylus stop moving left and right while it's moving towards the center in the grooves?
Yupp! it's best to listen to vinyl records and not get into them. i stay right next to them
Heard! Thanks for being here!
The only reason a belt would slip is it is too loose, you would have to have very oily fingers to cause slipping. When the belt slips you don't get distortion, you get wow.
Hi there! I asked Randall from CheapAudioMan if he knew of any hifi shops in the Austin, Tx area, and he referred me to you.
I’ve been really interested in audio / home theater the last few years but have never heard truly high end equipment before. If you know of any places I would really appreciate it!
For new... Origin HiFi. Joe and Chris. Vintage... Living in Stereo. Enzo and Robert
Whetstone audio is THE place for specialist audio in Austin.
Hi Bob,
I found your CZcams channel because of my interest in the JBL Spinner BT. I thought it should be a good one, because I have some JBL products and I think they are delivering good quality by a fair price. Obviously except the Spinner BT ;-)
Thanks for your review and expertise.
Afterwards I watched your two videos about NOT getting into vinyl and I still want to get into vinyl.
Hopefully with a little help from you, but first of all I want to answer some of your questions:
Why?
First of all I grew up with vinyl, because of my dad, and I always liked it a lot.
Second reason. I want to listen to music more knowingly again and I think there is no better way.
Setup?
I have several Bluetooth options:
JBL party box 310
Teufel concep E
Some smaller JBL speakers
Marshall headphones
Chinch option:
Teufel concep E
Budget:
Maximum 350€
I think during one of your video you said that it's possible to find something "okay" within that price range.
You also wanted to know where on planet earth the people watching your videos are from.
I'm from Germany close to Frankfurt. That's why my budget is in Euro.
Can you recommend some players to me?
Thanks a lot for your help and keep spinning!
Watch my review of the Fluance RT81+ Elite. I think it's a good budget table but I'm not sure if you can get them in Germany. I have think Pro-Ject has some budget options too. By the ay, my tongue was firmly planted in my check when I said "don't get into vinyl!" I think it's great!!!!
Hi Bob,
thanks for answering.
Unfortunately Fluance is not available in Germany.
We are in the US this year, but I doubt that the turntable will survive a flight in my checked in luggage...
I'll take a closer look into Pro-Ject turntables. Thanks for the advice.
Have you ever tested the "Sony PS-LX310BT Bluetoot"? A friend of mine recommended it, but I don't like the fact, that you can not adjust the pressure of the needle.
I also understood, that you love vinyl. I just wanted to let you know, why I want to get into it too.
Have a nice weekend and thanks again.
Manuel
Another great video! I'm jealous, though. I saw you had a special copy of Spirit Dr. Sardonicus. I saw it was from music on vinyl and that they had the first Spirit LP as well. Sadly, I couldn't figure out how to order, if they are even available still. I'm your fan from the Philippines and possibly it will be difficult to order from here. 😢 😊Anyhow, thanks again for always providing wonderful videos. I always look forward to them.
One of my favorite "concept" albums of all time. You probably won't find that album! Good albums like that will find YOU! Good luck!
@UnitedStatesofAnalog I'm just happy that I own the basic issue of Dr. Sardonicus. I remember buying the lp when it first came out. It was different from most everything else and has proven itself timeless.
Just seems like to much work and effort involved. The bump in sound quality (if any) isn’t worth it to me at this point. But I’m still thinking about it. So there’s that .
I get it! No judgement. Absolutely do what is right for you! Thanks!
Awesome video :) I use an EPC-205c MK3 with a new Jico SaS on Boron stylus .. and I have it tracking at 1.25gr ... but it is a low output MM so you need a great pre-amp like the mo-fi :D
yeah it is a crazy when we start to go beyond the basic setup :D
Crazy and expensive!!! I need to look that gear up! I've been interested in in Jico! Thanks for the support of my channel!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog I got the 205c mk3 in japan auctions around 100$ the stylus from jico was 390$ .. more than I could afford, but never regret :D It is still an impressive cart even by today standards :) cheers looking forward for more content,
Very good recommendations. Is that at a Klipsch Heresy above your KEF LS50?
Heresy III's
Hi Bob. How do you like that new Dylan book? Ed from Chicago.
Only flipped thru it. It's got a ton of data and info inside. I'll need to consume it in small bites!
well, $75 gets you a decent / good DVD player from a big box store that is fully capable. minimum for a good t' table + cartridge - $ 300. seems nowadays LP's have taken a big step up in price. Unless for some reason Ya WANT LP's, there is no reason. myself, ( I'm 70+ have a decent collection of LP's going way back to a new AR full Manuel T'table ) I prefer concert DVD's - be it Diana Krall, Paris. Anna Netrebko ,LaTraviatta or Grateful Dead, movie....
Yo anal og , loved your video, i have the sylvania portable similar to the burger , what type of needle does that have , shared n subbed
Thanks for the sub. It comes with that base AT3600L I believe. Thanks for showing up!
Anal og lol
Is that the YES first album repress on blue vinyl in the background? What do you think of the processing?
It is the 2024 Rhino SYYOR reissue! Sounds like hot trash!
I’m on the fence for new cartridge. Looking at the AT Red (can’t recall the part number) or the Ortofon Blue. Any help on which I should go with?
Save up for the blue... you won't regret it!
Michael Fremer Jr!
I will assume that is a compliment! But he is MUCH more knowledgeable! Thanks... I think?
Buy a SL-1200 mk2 with a Shure m44-7!with a Teac PA-4 an You are done, thartbsimple. I garentee, that You are enjoy this hobbi… The rest of itbis ego game..!
Someday!
that's all old shit man
@@TrueAudio it doesn’t mattee the sound matrers rest is bullshit!
I have vinyl in the kitchen and in the bathroom but it doesn't sound that good
Okay! That's a flex! Both rooms can have lots of echo, so...
try a little extra wax your next vinyl cleaning
I’m gonna be buried with my turntable. Ya never know
It’s all worth it record sound better🎶👌
Its an undiagnosed illness, i just watched a guy admit that he's got 5 copies of Blink 182s enema of the state on vinyl
Now don't get me twisted, i love Blink but why anyone needs 5 copies of that album baffles me.
This is what the illness does to people, so while you still can...RUN away !!!!!!!!
How is it an illness to have extra copies of something you like and paid for?? The more I play a record, the more It can degrade,just like a tape. Yeah,please do run because we need more analog enthusiasts who actually have critical thinking skills.
I have multiple copies of several albums... I don't know why! The White Album and Thin Lizzy's Jailbreak are my weakness! Thanks. Please return!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog Exactly. I was responding to the nosy, impudent, clown in the comments who specifically said something about it, making it clear just because he does not comprehend, he does not matter.
@@michaels8607
Relax dude I'm trying to have a bit of fun.
But in saying that, imagine having 5 copies of every album in your collection just in case you wear one out so you've got a backup copy, youd need 16 houses and have to live to you're 357. ☺️
I've got albums from the 50s that haven't worn out yet they'll outlive me!!!
The other 4 copies would outlive my grandchildrens grandchildren, it's a bit of overkill don't you think?
Just exercising my critical thinking skills that I don't have. 😉
@@crazyprayingmantis5596
First of all, you never will tell me nor make me do anything, and I say that unemotionally, Secondly, the only person you can give directives successfully is to yourself and that's a personal conversation. Third ,just because you might want to think you squeezed out a critical thought does not manifest it into reality. Now I am having even more fun, possibly at your expense. You might even respond again, so I can see what a real clown looks like. Let's examine why.
First, I own my records, you bought none of them, so it's not even your business. If you bought 3 sets of snow tires and where you live has snow once every 5 years, that is your right. In the IT world , the prudent practice redundancy constantly, and only the uneducated or novices, make comments to the contrary. My main camera has 2 card slots not because one fails, yet because it offers me the option of a backup. In this instance I had already explained myself, since I might spin doubles, have backups of those doubles, and maybe a few I do not play during sets.
Here you come with infantile statements about needing 16 houses, living till one is 357 years old, and somehow grandchildren also became part of your BS.. Let's go there, for the untrained monkey brain. For one, I do live in one house and I have well over 20-40,000 records, not including the CDs. My records are fine, not your business, and if I want to leave them for anyone, then I will. Who asked you specifically to share your thoughts about something has nothing to do with you? I do not come running and giving my opinions when you're on sites commenting on the pretty panties you collect or whatever.
For example, I do not own horses, and if you had 30 of the same breed and similar color, then that's not my business/concern. Actually, that would fascinate me, because I'm a SANE person who enjoys the story of collection, as long as it harms no one. I found it interesting that BizMarkie collected Barbies. I find it interesting for someone who collects all the Akai samplers, who collects 10 copies of each Windows OS, of each ThinkPad,etc,etc. See, to you it's overkill and to the next person who makes use or collects for their personal reason, it has a purpose.
It's such a toddler/ feminine trait in a man to be a nosy nag, use logical fallacies, and to think one can impose their will on someone they do not know. Let me go slow for you though. I do not care about you nor your uneducated opinions about my records. I do not take directives from you, and you will not make me do anything with my money/time/resources. Even If I was not relaxed, you will not make me relax and i am not your dude. No thank you, and if you need a dude. it's not me .I wrote what I wrote and you are the one still here trying to defend your position. That was my essay and the reality of being a DJ/crate digger/studio guy/ collector/ sound designer and someone who stays in his lane, on and offline...I think I will contact that person with some records and go practice some OVERKILL according to the holy @crazyprayingmantis5596...hehehehe..Imagine that..NOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
too late
What happened to part 3? disappeared
Saw a small typo on playback. Reposting shortly
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog I was worried that there was a coup
If you don’t have a stack of vinyl then don’t bother…..waste of time
This is clickbait!!! I thought it would be anti vinyl talk!!!
Depends on how you look at it. These details have scared many vinyl adopters away! Thats the point!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog It's still clickbait!! The title of the video should be "Turntables lessons for beginners" I noticed that many You Tubers try to fool people into watching by using misleading titles. How much money do you make per viewing?
@@dennisschnobrich9288cheap audio man is the worst at this and his knowledge and “reviewing” which he has no idea how to do it, is HOT GARBAGE