GLOSSARY

CARTRIDGE

A small box that holds the stylus (needle) and connects to the headshell.

HEADSHELL

Sits on the end of the tonearm and holds the cartridge, which in turn holds the stylus.

TONEARM

The straight or curved lever that moves across the record as the stylus follows the groove.

PLATTER

The round plate that spins round and holds the record.

PLINTH

The body of the turntable on which the platter sits.

SLIPMAT

A round piece of felt or similar material that’s placed on the platter to protect the record.

PHONO STAGE

A preamp that boosts a weaker, phono-level signal to line-level. Can be built into your amp or the turntable itself, or a separate offboard unit.