How To Make A Turntable
A turntable features a circular rotating platform that includes the platter that spins the record. It also has a cartridge that picks up the music fixed into the record. In order to play sound recordings, a turntable requires an amplifier and separate speakers. Knowing its mechanics, is it possible to make a DIY turntable? Read on to learn how to make a turntable that can compete with ones available on the market.
How to Make a DIY Turntable
It's quite easy and simple to make a homemade turntable as long as you have the complete materials and supplies. You might not expect it, but it's a pretty low-cost project to do. The materials are also available online and in-home improvement stores near you. To get started on how to make a turntable, you will need to gather the following materials and do the following step-by-step instructions:
Materials needed:
- Circular disc
- Wire and Rods
- Batteries and Magnets
- Plywood
- Wood Glue
- Speakers
- Motor
- Amplifier
- Potentiometer
- Clamps
- Needle
- Drill
Instructions:
- Step 1. Construct the Box. The first step on how to make a turntable is to construct the box of your own design. You will need clamps and wood glue in constructing the box. When doing the craft for the first time, it is best to keep your design simple. It is much better to pour your creative ideas on your turntable's output quality and the quality of wiring rather than its physical box.
The standard box measurement is 2 feet long, 5 inches tall, and 16 inches wide. Also, make sure that the box has enough space and deep enough to accommodate the needle, tonearm, and a record, which needs to be contained inside the box. - Step 2. Install the Turntable. The next step is to mount the motor to the bottom of the box; use a dowel road and attach it to the motor. Avoid using higher voltage to avoid overloading the motor. A potentiometer needs to be installed to control and adjust your turntable's speed. Proceed by cutting out a 12-inch circular plate and drill a hole into the center of the plate for the dowel. You will be able to rotate it easily by using additional support such as a Lazy Susan.
- Step 3. Speakers and Tonearm. The next step on how to make a turntable is to build a tonearm. Simply connect one dowel to another one that is placed upright to the first. To allow the arm to move freely, you can use ring-shaped magnets. Once done, place the record player's needle on the tonearm's end. Attach the positive right wire to the amp on the right side, and attach the left wire to the amp on the left. Then attach both negatives to the ground for the amp. The amp then needs to be connected to a power source for the speakers.
- Step 4. Finishing Touches. The final steps involve using two separate circuits. One circuit should connect the needle to the amp and speakers; the other is for the turntable. To accommodate the speakers, you will need to make holes in the front part of the box. Drill another hole on top for the wires from the needle. At this point, your homemade turntable is almost done. You can finally enhance the exterior part of your project and try to test its performance.
Ideal Position of a Turntable
Your turntable needs excellent support to perform better. It needs to be perfectly leveled and placed far from vibration sources as much as possible. To ensure its perfect performance, you must also place it away from speakers. Providing good support on your turntable will also provide you convenience when using it.
It is recommended to invest in a dedicated wall shelf for your turntable. It's a way to avoid footfall issues. When making a wall shelf, make sure as well to use quality mounting screws and fixings. With careful placement and enough support for your turntable, you can assure that it will perform better and last longer.
Conclusion
It only takes a bit of DIY skills to accomplish the simple task of making a turntable. By following the step-by-step guide on how to make a turntable, you can make your own turntable and customize it without spending much.
It's fun learning new things that you can do at home using simple materials. You can do a simple turntable for yourself, especially if you're unsure which turntable sold in the market will best suit you. Enjoy doing this project with your friends and family and enjoy playing your favorite music recordings as you take pride in the turntable you've proudly made.
