The Obtainer - 9/21/22, Wednesday
↦ Do You Hear That?
Wednesday,September 21st Edition
I don’t own a turntable personally, but the last two hotel rooms I’ve stayed in have had them. And I must say that it’s an enjoyable experience.
- Cory Ohlendorf, Editor ⋯ @coryohlendorf
Good/Better/Best
Turntables
Sure, there's no real need to buy a record player these days. In a world of unlimited digital music, monthly streaming services and wireless smart speakers, why go lo-fi? Well, for one thing, there’s a certain bespoke appeal to building a library of vinyl records—the kind of albums you'll never get tired of hearing—and playing them on your own turntable. And the love affair with records isn’t dying down anytime soon. I don’t know if you heard, but vinyl sales were up 28% last year (and over 360% over pre-pandemic times). So whether you’re looking to simply try it out or are ready to invest in a quality turntable, here are three solid choices.
Built-in stereo speakers deliver decent, if limited, sound
Bluetooth connectivity (with FM radio)
The acrylic dust cover is a bit flimsy and sometimes gets in the way
You can’t connect a receiver, but it does have outputs for wired speakers
Bluetooth record player,$57 / $45 by Victrola
Dollar for dollar, the best quality for such a reasonable price
Automatic mechanism plays records with the touch of a button and returns tonearm when finished
Dual magnet phono cartridge provides rich audio and easy stylus replacement
Audiophiles will say the sound is not high-fidelity quality
Automatic belt-drive stereo turntable, $149.99 by AudioTechnica
Ultra-sexy streamlined appearance with sandblasted-glass platter
One-piece aluminum tonearm features low-friction bearings for accuracy
Handmade in Europe with a solid chassis (no hollow spaces and no plastic) with vibration-absorbing feet
Features a built-in preamp and pairs seamlessly with Sonos speaker systems
T1 Reference turntable,$499 / $449 by Pro-Ject
Drops to Watch For
The 'Same Old' campaign by Red Wing is an entirely upcycled limited collection. From pre-worn styles and Red Wing memorabilia—including a neon clock and collector's embossed denim jacket—more than 50 one-of-a-kind products have been pulled from the brand's 117-year archive.
Now available
Sunspel and English singer-songwriter Paul Weller are collaborating on a range of seasonal staples with a nod to classic British style. The collection features Weller's rendition of the ideal Winter mac jacket along with a handful of natty knits.
Thursday, September 22nd
The fourth shoe in Nike's collaboration with 1017 ALYX 9SM, this slide features an entirely new silhouette that was teased at the brand's Spring 2023 Milan Fashion Week collection earlier this year. The modern looking slides feature dual-foam outsoles with a stability plate wedged in-between them allowing for use in and outside of the home.
Friday, September 23rd
The sales and discounts our team is currently watching.
The perfect shorts for any workout. A built-in boxer brief liner allows for comfortable runs, and the mesh pockets provide ample room for storage.
$54.60 / $40.95 (w/code STILLHOT) by Myles Apparel
It's never too early to score a quality beanie for Winter. This one is made of alpaca that's light and keeps your head toasty.
$55 / $44 (w/code HELLOFALL) by Tanner Goods
Lightweight yet extremely warm, this jacket is made from fleece with air pockets for thermo-regulation and breathability. And it’s now more than half off.
$325 / $130 by Norse Projects
This earthy tapered, geometric terrazzo-style planter features a drainage hole and secret separate tray to catch any excess water and prevent spills.
$129 / $89 by Unison Home
Need a loungewear set that’s handsome enough to wear all day when you’re off the clock? With a crew neck top and versatile joggers, this set is cut from an ultra-soft garment-dyed mini waffle weave cotton.
$149 / $60 by Parachute
Swedish workout brand Casall is helping you hit those fitness milestones whether you're in the garage or out at the park with a high-end jump rope at big-box prices.
$25 / $19 by Casall
Good day to throw a fit —— // 💨
August 24