For those among you who have yet to make the jump to Hi-Fi, or who are looking for a second table, we are proud to present this Audio Technica turntable ($129)

paired with these fantastic Harman Kardon Speakers ($119).

It's not the normal way to do things, and many Hi-Fi enthusiasts would probably scoff at the idea, but this is a great way to get a really nice sounding system without spending an arm and a leg.  We're working on putting together a few more budget systems, so check back often, I'm sure you'll find something that fits your wallet and your ears.

Synthgear has some photos up of what records look like under intense magnification.  Each little curve represents a tiny vibration in your needle, which gets translated into a larger vibration in your speakers. Each little spot is actually a clump of dust. This is why dust is bad for records.

 If you have some old school red and blue 3d glasses, they've even got a 3D image of the grooves! 

(thanks http://www.synthgear.com/2010/audio-gear/record-grooves-electron-microscope/) 

What follows is an open letter from OK go, an indie rock band signed with EMI/capitol.