Collecting vinyl is all the rage among the kids, but we forgot to tell you—you’ll need a stereo. Chance are, most people won’t be compiling thousands of records, but for your new and gently used discs, you’ll want a decent sound system. Serious audiophiles spend tens of thousands on their equipment, debating the merits of turntables, receivers, tuners, amps and speakers on dozens of websites, but if you’re on a budget and simply want a quality functional stereo, you’re in luck. For about what you’d pay for a nice Mac laptop, you can own a relatively nice component system. Here’s a recommendation from hifihipster.com:
• Turntable: Pro-ject Debut III, $349, Amazon.com
• Amplifier: Cambridge Audio Topaz AM10, $349, Amazon.com
• Speakers: Klipsch B-2 Synergy, $180, Amazon.com
• Cables and other accessories: $50
Total: $928
That’s hardly pocket change. But you will spare yourself the embarrassment of spinning your LPs, 45s and 7-inchers on the ugly but cheap Crosley close-and-play (shown at right). The more adventurous can find deals on Craigslist.com and eBay.com.
— Bill Ramsey
