Contrary to almost all predictions, vinyl record sales just keep on growing: up 9 percent in 2017 versus 2016, capping 12 years of sales growth for a format that was once declared dead. Not only has this growth inspired the production of countless new vinyl records, turntables, and cartridges, but it’s also spawned a whole new generation of accessories to help make your records cleaner, longer-lasting, and better-sounding. And thanks to efficient overseas manufacturing, many of them cost no more now than they might have when vinyl sales peaked in 1978.
Here are some of the coolest new vinyl accessories, all as suitable for newbies as they are for veteran enthusiasts—and a couple of them priced about as low as a typical new 180-gram record.
Pangea Audio Vulcan TT turntable stand/rack
You pretty much have to have a traditional stereo system to use a turntable, because few wireless speakers and headphone amps offer the necessary connections for one. The Vulcan TT is the perfect home for a vinyl-focused stereo. The top is 27.5 inches off the ground, ideal height for a turntable. There’s a shelf below to hold an integrated amp or stereo receiver, and room at the bottom for more than 100 records. It is available in black and in wood or carbon-fiber finish, and comes in at a price that neophytes will especially appreciate.
