If I were to buy this turntable, the first thing I would do is replace the cartridge and maybe upgrade to an acrylic platter two very simple ways to take that sound to an entirely different level. The ATN3600L is a capable cartridge and playing records on the VINYL 500 resulted in some very enjoyable listening, but it’s the weak link in this setup. That cartridge - which typically goes for around $25 - is a popular one that often comes standard on turntables that cost far less. For $700, I would be hoping for a little more. And this is actually my primary quibble with the turntable. The VINYL 500 is equipped with an aluminum platter, felt mat and an Audio Technica ATN3600L MM cartridge. more advanced on a turntable at this price. The included Audio Technica cartridge is capable, but it would be nice to see something a little. In terms of wireless streaming of a record, MusicCast streaming to Yamaha’s wireless speakers resulted in audio that kept the warmth and detail of the analog source, which is exactly what you would hope for. If you’ve been listening to records on an entry level turntable or a record player in a suitcase portable, you’ll find this a big step up. When it comes to connectivity, this is one incredibly versatile turntable. And you also have the option of going truly old school, connecting to the PHONO input on a component stereo’s receiver or amplifier. So if you prefer a traditional wired connection, you can connect the turntable to a compact stereo system or wireless speaker’s AUX input. It has both Line and PHONO output via RCA jacks. The VINYL 500 is equipped with a built-in preamplifier. Output isn’t limited to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless (plus an Ethernet port for a wired connection to a Wi-Fi router). With Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Line and PHONO outputs, the VINYL 500 is a versatile turntable. Through the MusicCast app, the VINYL 500 is almost like a digital jukebox. Not only does this let the turntable stream music wirelessly when spinning an album, the turntable itself also supports streaming music services like Spotify, Deezer and Tidal. The additional step with the VINYL 500 is to download Yamaha’s MusicCast app to connect the turntable to your Wi-Fi network. The process in this case takes maybe 15-20 minutes and doesn’t require any technical skill or tools. Finally, the cover is slipped onto its hinges. The cartridge is attached to the tonearm and tightened, then the counterweight is attached and the tonearm gets balanced. The platter goes on the spindle, with the belt being slipped over the motor pulley. If you’ve ever set up a new turntable before, you know the drill. The VINYL 500 requires minor assembly and setup before use. The weight is good - a heavy turnable is less susceptible to resonance and vibration - but that extra width (the two reference turntables I keep in my office both measure 16.5-inches in width) is something to keep in mind if your space is limited. It has a decent heft (12.6 pounds) and measures 17.5-inches across. The VINYL 500 is an attractive turntable, with a glossy piano black finish.
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