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New to Turntable - what're involved in playing LP?

Hi, I'm building a 2-channel hifi system around my Harbeth P7ES3 and are interested in getting into the turntables. BTW, I had no prior experience with a turntable.

What steps are involved in playing back LPs? Is it a complex process?

Can someone explain to me what compoents/tools I need to get in order to setup the turntables/tonearm/cartridge properly for an excellent quality playback of LPs?

Or am I jumping too far ahead because I may need to upgrade my digital source (CD or SACD player) first and find the amps for my Harbeth?

Please share your thoughts and experience.
r0817
tbromgard
814 posts
 
Get a "plug and play" model so you dont have to spend much time with set-up. Rega, Sota and VPI very nice TTs, with used ones as an option. Then I would seek out quality used vinyl at your local record store or EBay and Agon are good too.
hifihvn
943 posts
 
Or am I jumping too far ahead because I may need to upgrade my digital source (CD or SACD player) first and find the amps for my Harbeth?
Since all of your experience is with digital, it may be better to get that setup first, since you are familiar with the format.

Doing both together can be a headache. Analog has less dynamics, but other nice things going for it. Even someone that is a veteran with both, may have a hard time starting with new gear using both formats.
czbbcl's avatar
czbbcl
1,752 posts
 
I got back into it after having been all digital for the last 20 years and I am having a blast with it. It is certainly more work than digital but the sonics are simply splendid; more life like than sacd / cd. As others have suggested buy something plug & play or buy from a dealer who will set the table up for you if you don't want to do it yourself.
rrog
1,958 posts
 
Unless you already have a record collection I would advise against it. Of course you can always find cheap records at Goodwill if you like Lawrence Welk, Andy Williams and Herb Alpert.
maineiac
649 posts
 
Come on in, it is fairly easy, you will love it, and you will get great sound. I very rarely listen to CDs anymore.

It would be good to get linked up with a good hearted local dealer that can show you the ins and outs and then help you get set-up with a good rig for your system.
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