The Ultimate Christmas Gift Guide for Vinyl Lovers: From Your Local Turntable Store Near Canterbury
As the festive season approaches, many of us are searching for meaningful gifts that go beyond the usual gadgets and gift cards. If you know someone who loves vinyl, or is interested in it, a well-chosen turntable or accessory can make Christmas truly unforgettable.
At Soundcraft in Ashford, Kent, we’ve spent over 70 years helping our customers rediscover the joy of music.
Whether you’re just starting your vinyl journey or you’re buying for a seasoned audiophile, we’re proud to be the go-to turntable store near Canterbury, offering expert advice, demonstrations, and a huge range of products from some of the world’s leading hi-fi manufacturers.
Here’s our guide to choosing the perfect Christmas present for the vinyl enthusiast in your life. All are available to demonstrate at our store in Ashford.
For the Beginner: Rega Planar 1
If someone you know is just beginning their love affair with vinyl, the Rega Planar 1 is one of the best entry-level turntables available. Built in the UK, it offers exceptional value for money and superb sound quality straight out of the box.
The Planar 1 comes pre-fitted with a Rega Carbon cartridge and features a new, more powerful motor to reduce vibration. It’s easy to set up, stylish, and reliable – perfect for anyone just starting to build their record collection.
It’s a favourite among our customers looking for their first proper deck, and one of the most popular choices we demonstrate in-store. If you’re looking for a turntable store near Canterbury that can walk you through the basics and let you hear the difference for yourself, come and visit us in Ashford.
For the Next Step-Up: Rega Planar 2 or Planar 3
For vinyl fans who are ready to upgrade, the Rega Planar 2 and Planar 3 offer noticeable improvements in performance.
The Planar 2 features a unique RB220 tonearm, a 24V low-noise motor, and a float-glass platter that adds extra stability and reduces distortion.
The Planar 3, meanwhile, is a true hi-fi classic – reengineered and refined over decades, with its award-winning RB330 tonearm and a stiffer, more resonance-resistant plinth. It’s the sweet spot for those looking to experience real high-fidelity without stepping into reference-level pricing.
These models are ideal for music lovers who already own a modest setup and want to experience the next level of audio quality. We offer side-by-side comparisons in-store, so if you’re based near Canterbury and searching for a turntable store near Canterbury that offers proper demos – you’re in the right place.
For the Serious Collector: Linn LP12 Servicing and Upgrades
Some gifts are about adding value to what someone already treasures. If your loved one owns a Linn Sondek LP12, it may be time for a service or upgrade – and what better time than Christmas?
We are proud to be a Linn LP12 Service Station, offering full servicing, repairs and upgrades to bring this iconic turntable back to peak performance. Whether it’s a simple cartridge replacement or a complete overhaul, our in-house expert Geoff Mathews, who has decades of experience, is ready to breathe new life into this much-loved deck.
Don’t Forget the Extras
Sometimes, it’s the small things that make all the difference. A high-quality record cleaning brush, an upgraded cartridge, or even a better interconnect cable can take someone’s listening experience to the next level.
We carry a wide selection of carefully chosen accessories from respected UK and international manufacturers. If you’re not sure what to choose, our team is happy to advise based on your system and budget.
Why Choose Soundcraft This Christmas?
We’ve been serving the hi-fi community from our shop in Ashford for over seven decades. We’ve seen trends come and go – from cassette to Minidisc, VHS to Laserdisc – but vinyl has never truly gone away. In fact, it’s stronger than ever.
As one of the leading specialist audio shops in the UK, we don’t just sell boxes – we offer demonstration, installation, advice, servicing, and full configuration of your hi-fi system. Our passion for sound is matched by our commitment to personal service.
So, if you’re on the hunt for a turntable store near Canterbury that actually knows what they’re talking about, with real products you can try before you buy, come and see us. We promise to make your Christmas gift hunt feel a lot more exciting – and a lot more musical.
Visit Us in Ashford
We’re just a short drive from Canterbury and offer free parking outside the shop. If you’d like to book a demonstration, discuss a Linn LP12 service, or simply pop in for a browse, we’d love to welcome you.
Make this Christmas unforgettable with the gift of sound – from your trusted turntable store near Canterbury.
For more information on any of our products, simply contact us today.