The main parts of a record player are the base (plinth), the spinning platter, the tonearm, the cartridge and stylus (needle), plus the drive system and audio connections that get sound to your speakers.

Quick Scoop

1. The Plinth (Base)

This is the foundation of the record player, the large base everything sits on.

  • Provides stability and support.
  • Helps reduce vibration so the needle tracks the grooves cleanly.

2. The Platter

The platter is the round disc the vinyl record actually sits on and spins on.

  • Usually metal, acrylic, or glass, sometimes covered with a mat for grip and vibration control.
  • Connects to the drive system that controls speed (33⅓, 45 RPM, etc.).

3. The Drive System

This is how the platter is made to spin.

  • Belt‑drive: A rubber belt connects a motor to the platter; often quieter, popular for home listening.
  • Direct‑drive: Motor sits under the platter and spins it directly; common for DJs because it starts and stops quickly.

4. The Tonearm

The tonearm is the long arm that swings over the record.

  • Holds the cartridge and stylus at the correct angle and weight.
  • Includes counterweight and (often) anti‑skate adjustment to keep tracking pressure just right.

5. Headshell (On Many Turntables)

The headshell is the small piece at the end of the tonearm that the cartridge bolts onto.

  • Lets you swap cartridges more easily.
  • Helps fine‑tune alignment so the needle sits correctly in the grooves.

6. Cartridge

The cartridge is the small body that holds the stylus and turns its movement into an electrical signal.

  • Bolts to the headshell or directly to the tonearm.
  • Contains tiny coils or magnets that generate the signal that later becomes music.

7. Stylus (Needle)

The stylus is the tiny tip (usually diamond) that actually sits in the record’s groove.

  • Vibrates as it traces the groove, carrying the musical information.
  • Wears over time and is normally the first part you replace.

8. Cueing Lever and Lift

This is the small lever that gently raises and lowers the tonearm.

  • Helps you lower the needle smoothly without scratching the record.

9. Speed and Start/Stop Controls

Buttons or switches that select your record speed and start or stop the platter.

  • Common speeds: 33⅓ RPM for albums, 45 RPM for singles.

10. Built‑in Preamp / Audio Outputs

The electrical signal from the cartridge is very small, so many modern players include a phono preamp.

  • Phono preamp boosts and equalizes the signal so it sounds right into an amp or powered speakers.
  • Outputs can be RCA jacks, USB on newer models, or speaker outputs on all‑in‑one units.

11. Dust Cover

A hinged lid that closes over the player to protect it from dust.

  • Usually acrylic, often left open during play to reduce resonance.

Mini Example: Following the Signal

  1. Record spins on the platter.
  1. Stylus rides the grooves and vibrates.
  1. Cartridge turns those vibrations into an electrical signal.
  1. Preamp boosts it, amp powers it, speakers play the music.

SEO Bits

  • Focus phrase used: “what are the parts of a record player”.
  • This topic keeps popping up in vinyl revival forums and blogs through 2024–2025, as more people get into turntables again.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.