Best Way to Start Your Vinyl Setup

If you're looking to start your vinyl journey without the headaches of complicated equipment and tons of cables, I've got an awesome, straightforward combo for you: the SpinDeck 2 turntable paired with the SpinBase all-in-one speaker system. Whether you're a beginner or simply looking for an elegant solution to enjoy your records, this setup makes listening to vinyl super easy, with great sound to boot. Here’s why this combo rocks and how it might just be the best entry into the world of vinyl.

1. Why SpinDeck 2?

The SpinDeck 2 is a semi-automatic turntable that strikes a great balance between simplicity and quality. Here are some of its standout features:

• Semi-Automatic Operation: When your record ends, the tonearm lifts and returns to its resting place. It's a small convenience, but it makes a big difference—no more racing across the room to save your stylus!
• Built-in Switchable Preamp: The SpinDeck 2 has a built-in switchable phono preamp, which means you can connect it directly to powered speakers or systems like the SpinBase without needing an extra box.
• Vibration Isolation: Its MDF plinth (the base of the turntable) and vibration-isolating feet help keep your music clear and stable, even if you’re on a wobbly surface or have heavy bass playing.

2. Why Pair It with SpinBase?

Once you’ve got the SpinDeck 2, you’re going to need something to actually hear your music—and that’s where SpinBase comes in. SpinBase is an all-in-one powered speaker that’s specially designed for turntables, offering convenience, power, and impressive sound. Here’s why it’s a great choice:

• Space-Saving Design: SpinBase is compact and sits right beneath your turntable, saving you the hassle of having to set up separate speakers or running a ton of cables. This means less clutter and more space for your records.
• Vibration-Free Sound: Traditional speakers can cause vibrations that affect the turntable, leading to unwanted feedback and distortion. SpinBase’s IsoGroove® technology prevents vibrations from affecting playback, meaning your music will stay crystal clear.
• All-in-One Simplicity: Unlike a separate amplifier, phono preamp, and speakers, SpinBase is everything you need in one package. Just plug your SpinDeck 2 into SpinBase, and you're good to go!

3. Setting Up Your System

One of the best things about this combo is how easy it is to set up:

1. Place the SpinBase on a flat, stable surface. The SpinBase is designed to be the perfect foundation for a turntable.
2. Position the SpinDeck 2 directly on top of the SpinBase. Don’t worry about vibrations—the SpinBase was built to handle this.
3. Connect the RCA cable from the SpinDeck 2 to the SpinBase. If you’re using the built-in preamp of the SpinDeck 2, make sure it’s switched to “Line” mode.
4. Plug in and power up both units, and you’re ready to spin your favorite records.

4. Why This Combo Works for Beginners and Beyond

The SpinDeck 2 and SpinBase combo is perfect if you’re just starting out because it keeps things simple while still delivering excellent sound quality. You don’t need to worry about matching amplifiers, preamps, or finding space for bulky speakers. The streamlined setup also helps beginners get familiar with how vinyl works without getting overwhelmed by a dozen separate components.

But even if you’re more experienced, the quality of both the SpinDeck 2 and SpinBase means you won’t be compromising on sound. The SpinDeck 2’s Ortofon OM10 cartridge provides a clear, rich audio experience, and SpinBase offers the kind of warmth and depth you’d expect from a quality speaker setup.

5. Expandability

Another great thing about this setup is that you’re not locked into it forever. SpinBase has an auxiliary input if you want to add a streaming device like the Songbird HR to the mix, and the SpinDeck 2 can easily pair with other components as you upgrade your system.

6. Is This the Right Setup for You?

If you:

• Value simplicity and want to start playing records without getting bogged down by technical details.
• Need a space-saving solution that still delivers quality sound.
• Want a system that’s easy to expand as your collection and interest grow.

Then the SpinDeck 2 and SpinBase combo might just be the perfect entry point into the world of vinyl.

Would love to hear your thoughts—what was your first vinyl setup? Any tips for those just getting started? Let's help each other keep the music spinning!