Forget about spending tens of thousands of euros on a record player. If you’re truly serious about starting a vinyl collection, you don’t need a fortune—you just need to understand the basics. The beauty of vinyl is not just in the music, but in the ritual, the nostalgia, and the community you slowly join. And yes, you can get started today without draining your bank account.
Why Vinyl Records Refuse to Die
Vinyl records are like stubborn warriors who never surrender. No matter how many streaming services appear—Apple Music, Spotify, or Tidal—vinyl continues to stand its ground. Walk through the streets of Madrid or Barcelona and you’ll notice something remarkable: vinyl records are resurfacing even in old kiosks, once filled with newspapers and magazines.
Take Morrison, for example. Once just a newsstand, it’s now transformed into a dedicated vinyl shop. Why? Because vinyl offers something streaming cannot: a potion mixed with charm, nostalgia, and the irresistible thirst for collecting.
From a practical point of view, streaming is easier. But here’s the truth: coming home, selecting a record, and lowering the needle is a far richer experience than scrolling on your phone. That experience is exactly what makes people buy turntables again.
And yet, many beginners hesitate. They peek into online audiophile forums and see intimidating advice: “Spend €1,000 or more, or don’t bother.” Some even argue that vinyl is only for the wealthy. This myth scares off newcomers who simply want to enjoy their favorite music in a new way. But the truth is kinder—you don’t need to start with a luxury setup.
Starting Small: Your First Turntable Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank
Let’s clear one misconception. A turntable doesn’t need to cost a fortune. Sure, if you spend thousands, the sound will be exquisite. But if your budget is €200, you can still get great sound and a fulfilling experience.
Now, let’s talk about what not to buy first: suitcase turntables. You’ve probably seen Crosley or Victrola models in trendy stores. They look stylish and portable, but their sound quality is underwhelming. Worse, their heavier tonearms may wear down records over time. Yes, they’re cheap, but in the long run, you’ll regret the purchase.
So what’s a smarter option? Go for an entry-level turntable from brands like Audio-Technica or Pro-Ject. These offer a balance of quality, affordability, and durability. For example, the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X is under €200 and delivers far better sound than any suitcase-style player.
This is where the conversion begins: instead of spending on something flashy that underperforms, you can invest in a turntable that respects your music and your wallet. And here’s the magic—you’ll instantly notice the difference once the needle touches the groove.
Amplifiers and Speakers: Completing Your Setup
Here’s another truth about vinyl: the turntable alone won’t give you music. You’ll need an amplifier and speakers. At first, this might sound complicated, but it doesn’t have to be.
There are two main paths:
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Speakers with built-in amplifiers. Affordable, simple, and beginner-friendly. Brands like Edifier or Audioengine provide models that connect directly to your turntable. They sound clean enough for anyone starting out, and they won’t empty your bank account.
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Separate amplifier and speakers. This path is for when you want to grow. A dedicated amp like the Sony STR-DH190 (around €270) or the Dayton Audio HTA100 (around €300) paired with decent speakers can bring your listening experience to life.
Which one should you choose? If you’re just starting, go with pre-amped speakers. You’ll save money and keep your setup simple. Later, when your passion grows, you can upgrade piece by piece. Think of it as leveling up your vinyl journey, step by step.
Remember, your goal is not perfection—it’s joy. And joy can start with something modest.
How to Begin Your Vinyl Journey Today
If you’ve made it this far, you already know: vinyl is not about prestige, it’s about experience. You don’t need €3,000 equipment to feel the warmth of analog sound. All you need is a reliable entry-level turntable, a decent pair of speakers, and the curiosity to build your collection.
Here’s your action plan:
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Skip the flashy suitcase turntables.
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Invest in a trusted beginner-friendly turntable like the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X.
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Pair it with powered speakers (Edifier is a great start).
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Begin collecting records—even those found in old kiosks or secondhand shops.
That’s it. No overthinking. No unnecessary pressure. Just music, nostalgia, and the first step into a growing global community.
And if you’re ready to start, the best thing you can do is this: buy your first turntable today. Don’t wait for perfection, because perfection never comes. What matters is dropping the needle for the first time, and realizing that music has never felt so alive.