There is a common belief that speakers should not be placed next to a turntable, as the vibrations from the speakers can damage the turntable’s stylus. However, this is not always the case.
The main concern with placing speakers next to a turntable is that the vibrations from the speakers can cause the stylus to jump out of the record groove. This can damage the stylus and the record.
However, the amount of vibration that is produced by speakers varies depending on the size and type of speakers.
- Small speakers: Small speakers typically produce less vibration than larger speakers. This is because they have smaller drivers, which move less air.
- Bookshelf speakers: Bookshelf speakers are a good compromise between size and sound quality. They produce less vibration than floorstanding speakers, but they still offer good sound quality.
- Floorstanding speakers: Floorstanding speakers are the largest type of speakers and they produce the most vibration. If you are using floorstanding speakers, it is important to place them at least 3 feet away from the turntable.
You can also place isolation pads under the speakers to help reduce the amount of vibration that is transmitted to the turntable.
If you are still concerned about placing speakers next to your turntable, you can always place the turntable on a separate surface, such as a shelf or cabinet.
Here are some additional tips for placing speakers near a turntable:
- Place the speakers at least 3 feet away from the turntable.
- Place the speakers on isolation pads to help reduce vibration.
- Do not place the speakers directly in front of the turntable. This can cause feedback.
- If you are using floorstanding speakers, you may need to place them further away from the turntable.
By following these tips, you can help to prevent damage to your turntable and enjoy your records to the fullest.
In addition to the vibration issue, there is also the issue of feedback. Feedback occurs when the sound from the speakers is picked up by the turntable’s cartridge and amplified, which can create a squealing sound. To avoid feedback, it is important to place the speakers away from the turntable and to make sure that the speakers are not pointed directly at the turntable.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to put speakers next to a turntable is up to you. If you are concerned about the potential for damage, it is best to err on the side of caution and place the speakers away from the turntable. However, if you are not concerned about the potential for damage, you can place the speakers closer to the turntable.