Vinylspilleren

Vinylspilleren, commonly referred to as a turntable in English, is a device used to play vinyl records. It converts the groove modulations on a rotating disc into electrical signals through a cartridge and stylus mounted on a tonearm. The signal is then amplified and sent to speakers or a recording system. A vinyl spiller comprises several core components: the platter that holds and spins the record, the motor and drive system (which may be belt-driven, direct-drive, or idler-wheel), the tonearm and cartridge with stylus, and the phono preamplifier or line-level output that shapes the signal for playback.

Turntables differ in drive type, automation, and usage. Belt-driven models are common for home listening and emphasize isolation from motor vibration, while direct-drive models are favored for accuracy and durability in DJ settings. Speeds typically offered are 33 1/3 rpm for long-playing records, 45 rpm for singles, and 78 rpm for older shellac discs. Portable or compact models also exist but generally offer lower audio performance.

Operation and setup require attention to mechanical alignment and electrical considerations. Proper leveling, tracking force, anti-skating, and cartridge alignment help minimize wear on records and improve sound quality. Many modern turntables include built-in phono stages; if not, an external phono preamplifier or a receiver with a phono input is needed.

Historically, electric playback became standard in the mid-20th century, with the 33 1/3 rpm LP introduced in the late 1940s and the 45 rpm format following shortly after. Since the 2000s, vinyl has experienced a revival among enthusiasts and collectors, sustaining a significant niche in analog audio culture.