Turntables are simple pieces of technology, according to Crutchfield. The needle (or stylus) is attached to a phono cartridge and tone arm. The needle fits inside the grooves on the record.
The grooves in a record have tiny peaks and valleys that represent the music in digital data form. (Think of digital ones and zeros as the peaks and valleys.) The needle converts the data in the grooves of the vinyl to an electrical signal that the phono cartridge reads. You'll place the vinyl record on the platter, which spins it so the needle can read the data in the grooves as the record moves beneath the needle.
If you want a turntable with better audio quality, look for the best phono cartridge you can afford. Some turntables even allow you to swap out the phono cartridge as an upgrade. It's also important to have a turntable that resists vibrations, which can cause misreads of the peaks and valleys, according to Pro-Ject Audio.
Usually, high-end turntables aimed at those seeking the best audio quality require you to buy all the individual components of your setup separately.
Simple, inexpensive turntables are the easiest to operate, as they have all components ready to go, but they fall behind in audio quality.
Modern turntables work a lot like their counterparts from decades ago, according to Consumer Reports, although some models include newer technology like USB ports, allowing you to convert your vinyl music to digital music. Others have Bluetooth capabilities, so you can send the audio signal to a wireless speaker system.
Depending on the one you choose, you may need a few accessories to use your turntable. Some turntables are open to the air, so you may need to buy a cover to protect it from dust. You may also need a receiver to pass the sound from the turntable to the speakers.
When it comes to choosing the speakers, you'll have the option of powered and passive speakers, as we at Business Insider discussed recently. Some speakers are connected to the turntable by wires, while others are wirelessly connected over Bluetooth. If it's a wired speaker, you'll need to match the right type of wire to your turntable output and speaker input, according to Record Head.