No, not all record players fit all vinyls. There are a few factors that determine whether a record player can play a particular vinyl, including the size of the record, the speed of the record, and the type of cartridge and stylus used.
Size
Vinyl records come in three standard sizes: 7-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch. Most record players can play 12-inch and 7-inch records, but not all can play 10-inch records. This is because 10-inch records have a smaller diameter than 12-inch records, and some record players have a spindle that is too large to accommodate them.
Speed
Vinyl records are also recorded at three standard speeds: 33⅓ RPM, 45 RPM, and 78 RPM. Most record players can play 33⅓ RPM and 45 RPM records, but not all can play 78 RPM records. This is because 78 RPM records have wider grooves than 33⅓ RPM and 45 RPM records, and some record players do not have a stylus that can track them properly.
Cartridge and Stylus
The cartridge and stylus are the parts of the record player that actually read the grooves in the record. The cartridge contains the needle, which is what makes contact with the record. The stylus is the needle’s tip, and it is made of a material that is designed to track the grooves without damaging them.
Some record players come with a cartridge and stylus that are designed for playing all three standard speeds. However, other record players may only come with a cartridge and stylus that are designed for playing one or two speeds. If you want to play records at different speeds, you may need to purchase a cartridge and stylus that is compatible with all three speeds.
Conclusion
Not all record players fit all vinyls. When choosing a record player, it is important to consider the size of the records you want to play, the speeds they are recorded at, and the type of cartridge and stylus you need. By doing your research, you can find a record player that will fit all of your vinyls and give you the best possible listening experience.
Here are some additional tips for choosing a record player:
- Consider your budget. Record players can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
- Think about the features you want. Some record players have features like built-in speakers, a phono preamp, and a USB output.
- Read reviews. Read reviews of different record players to see what other people have to say about them.
- Buy from a reputable dealer. This will help ensure that you get a quality record player that is in good condition.
