What Do You Need to Buy With a Turntable

If you’re setting up a turntable for the first time, you’ll need more than just the record player itself. A turntable produces a very low‑level audio signal, so it requires a few extra components to work properly. Here’s a complete checklist of everything you need for a full vinyl setup.

1. A Phono Preamp (Built-In or External)

A turntable outputs a phono‑level signal, which must be boosted and equalised before it can be heard. You need a phono preamp unless your turntable or speakers already include one.

You may already have a preamp if:

• Your turntable has a switch labeled PHONO/LINE

• Your speakers or receiver have an input labeled PHONO

If not, you’ll need an external preamp.

2. An Amplifier or Powered Speakers

A preamp prepares the signal, but you still need something to amplify it.

You have two options:

Option A: Powered Speakers

These have built‑in amplification, so you can connect your turntable (via preamp) directly to them.

Option B: Passive Speakers + Amplifier/Receiver

If your speakers are passive, you’ll need an external amplifier or stereo receiver to power them.

3. Speakers (Powered or Passive)

Your speakers determine how your vinyl actually sounds. Choose between:

• Powered speakers (simple setup)

• Passive speakers (require an amp but offer more flexibility)

4. Cables and Wires

Most setups require:

• RCA cables (often included with the turntable)

• Ground wire (for turntables that need grounding)

• Speaker wire (if using passive speakers)

Make sure your cables are long enough for your room layout.

5. Essential Accessories

These items help protect your records and improve sound quality:

• Carbon fiber record brush

• Stylus brush or cleaning gel

• Slipmat (if your turntable doesn’t include one)

• Record inner sleeves

• Record outer sleeves

• Leveling tool (to ensure your turntable sits flat)

6. Optional Upgrades

Not required, but helpful:

• Record weight or clamp

• Isolation feet or platform

• Stylus upgrade

• Record cleaning machine

Beginner Setup Summary

To play vinyl, you need:

1. Turntable

2. Phono preamp (built‑in or external)

3. Amplifier OR powered speakers

4. Speakers

5. Cables

6. Basic accessories

Once you have these pieces, you’ll have a complete, great‑sounding vinyl setup.