Here's what to look for when buying speakers for a turntable

Photo: Sidetrackedworkshop

Have you just bought a record player or are you planning to buy one? Then you naturally want your favorite records to sound as good as possible. An important factor for this are the speakers. But what exactly should you pay attention to when buying speakers for your turntable? In this guide we take you step by step, so that you make the right choice.

1. Active or passive speakers?

The first choice you need to make is whether you want to use active or passive speakers.

• Active speakers have a built-in amplifier, which means that you can connect them directly to your turntable (provided your turntable has a built-in preamp). This is a simple and compact solution, especially useful for beginners.

• Passive speakers require a separate amplifier or receiver. This gives more control over the sound and offers the possibility to expand your setup later, but also requires a bit more knowledge and extra equipment.

2. Does your turntable have a built-in preamplifier?

Not all turntables have a built-in preamp (also called a phono stage). If your turntable doesn’t have one, you’ll need a separate phono stage to get the signal up to the right level before it goes to the speakers. Check this before you buy speakers to make sure your setup is working properly.

3. Size and power of the speakers

The size and power of your speakers determine how powerful and full the sound will be. Larger speakers often deliver deeper bass, while smaller speakers are more compact and easier to place. Pay attention to the following aspects:

• Power (wattage): The higher the power, the louder and more powerful the speakers can play.

• Frequency response: This indicates which tones the speakers can reproduce. A wide frequency response provides a richer sound.

• Room size: In a small room, compact speakers may suffice, while a larger room will require more powerful speakers.

4. Sound quality and timbre

Each speaker has its own timbre. Some speakers have a neutral reproduction, while others put extra emphasis on the bass or treble. Think about your music preference:

• For warm, natural sound: Choose speakers that have a balanced reproduction, ideal for jazz, soul and classical music.

• For powerful bass: Look for speakers with good low frequency response, perfect for rock, hip-hop and electronic music.

• For clarity in highs: Some speakers place more emphasis on details in vocals and instruments, which works well for acoustic music and vocals.

5. Connections and connectors

Check which connections your speakers and your turntable have. The most common options are:

• RCA (tulip plugs): Widely used in record players and amplifiers.

• Bluetooth: Useful if you want to play music wirelessly, although this can sometimes be at the expense of sound quality.

• Optical or USB connection: Not often necessary for a turntable, but some modern active speakers offer this option.

6. Budget and value for money

Speakers come in different price ranges, from budget-friendly models to high-end speakers. Cheap speakers can sound great, but they usually provide less detail and dynamics than more expensive models. Set a budget and look for the best value for money within your price range. A good set of speakers will last for years, so it may be worth investing a little more.

7. Design and installation

In addition to the sound, design also plays a role. Do you want speakers that stand out as eye-catchers in your interior, or do you prefer subtle models that blend into the space? Also think about the placement:

• Bookshelf speakers: Compact and easy to place.

• Floorstanding speakers: Bigger and more powerful, but take up more space.

• Wall mounting or stands: For optimal placement and sound reproduction.

Conclusion

Choosing the right speakers for your turntable depends on several factors: active or passive, the presence of a preamplifier, sound quality, connections, budget and design. By paying close attention to these aspects, you ensure that your record collection comes to life with the sound that you like best.

Found your ideal speakers? Then it's time to put on your favorite LP and enjoy that warm, analog sound!