The Wockoder record player first appeared on the market around 2008, and it’s still attracting customers almost two decades later. What features does it offer? Is it affordable? What do users say about it? These are just a few questions among many I am going to answer through this review. Let’s get started.
Wockoder Record Player Overview
The Wockoder Record Player is a unit that combines modern and vintage features with the goal of enhancing the user experience. It is designed to play 7-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch record sizes at different speeds (33 1/3, 45, or 78 rpm). By integrating the built-in Bluetooth connectivity, the player ensures you can effortlessly stream music from your smartphone or other compatible devices.
Wockoder is cheap, costing around $59.99 on Amazon. This makes it easily accessible to individuals starting the vinyl journey. Reviews from customers on a platform like Amazon generally express satisfaction with the unit’s appearance, user-friendliness, and performance for the price. However, there are several complaints about sound quality, ineffectiveness of the built-in speakers, and poor construction.
Technical Specifications
These are the technical specs of the player:
- 3-speed: 33 1/3, 45 or 78 RPM
- Vinyl-to-mp3 recording
- Built-in stereo speakers
- RCA output
- Headphone jack and Auxiliary input
- LP music: Support with 7,”10,” 12” size record
- 45RPM adaptor & external power adaptor
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Portable suitcase design
There are several things I love about this record player. One is its flexibility which enables it to play records of all sizes. The vinyl to mp3 recording capability is another fantastic addition. It means you can convert your vinyl music to a digital format of MP3 files and even store or transfer them onto compatible devices for playback. Not to mention, the Bluetooth connectivity that ensures you can listen to music wirelessly without the inconvenience of messy cords.
Unfortunately, I agree with users who have highlighted concerns about the unit’s poor construction. The components are really cheap and not built to last. While this may be expected given the unit’s low price, it’s disappointing that the vendor undermined the issue of durability. You will be lucky if the record player survives beyond 6 months without encountering any major issues. On the brighter side, there’s a 12-month warranty that can help you address the challenges you may encounter while using the product.
Wockoder Record Player Drive Mechanism
Wockoder essentially uses the belt-drive mechanism. This is where a belt connected to the motor helps spin the platter to play the record. The belt prevents the motor from coming into direct contact with the platter to minimize the amount of motor noise and vibrations that reach your record when playing. As a result, you can have cleaner and smoother sounds. One of the main setbacks of this mechanism is that the belt may wear out over time, leading to speed variations during playback or increased noise and vibration.
Is the Wockoder Record Player Automatic or Manual?
This record player provides a semi-automatic experience, blending the best of both manual and automatic features. To start playback, you must lift and place the tonearm onto the record. However, when the music ends, the unit seamlessly engages its auto-stop function, stopping playback. I love this combo as it gives users a chance to actively participate in the playback process and also enjoy the convenience of automatic operation.
Usability and Portability of Wockoder Record Player
If anything, Wockoder is one of the most user-friendly record players around. With almost every component already preset in the factory, it will take you less than 5 minutes to install and run it. The controls featured on the body are also pretty basic, so you can master and navigate them hassle-free. Features like vinyl-to-MP3 recording and Bluetooth connectivity improve convenience, while the auto-stop function adds ease of use.
Portability is one of the features that define this unit. It boasts a suitcase design with an easy-to-carry handle to facilitate easy transportation between various locations within the home setup or at small gatherings and events. However, I find the player to be a bit heavier (20lbs or 9.1kgs) than most models I know, which weigh as little as 11lbs or 5kgs. I also think that the manufacturer may have included built-in batteries to ensure that you can still listen to your favorite collection even if a power source isn’t nearby.
Wockoder Record Player Design & Build
I must say that the record player is aesthetically pleasing with its vintage yet elegant style. The base is typically wood, with a rich brown finish reminiscent of the good old times when vinyl music was the in-thing. At the front, a spacious grille houses the stereo speakers, with a control knob just beside it.
The surface is quite compact, with the record taking up most of the space, while the tonearm and related components gracefully align near the edge. The lid is clear and made of plastic, so you can see the player’s components even when the cover is shut. This feature serves an important purpose: protecting the unit from dust that might interfere with its functionality. Moreover, you have feet at the base to help to stabilize the unit.
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Connectivity & Sound Performance of Wockoder Record Player: Average, but…
Wockoder offers various connection options. First, we have the usual aux connection that uses a jack to transmit audio signals. You can use RCA cables to connect the unit to external speakers for bigger sound. Wireless connectivity is supported by the Bluetooth function. This provides so much versatility as it enables you to access a vast music library beyond your vinyl collection and digitally stream the most current tracks from compatible devices, such as iPads, smartphones, etc.
The sound produced by Wockoder can be described as normal and nothing out of the ordinary. I doubt it can generate adequate details from your record with the cheap stylus. The good news is that it’s replaceable, and you can exchange it with a higher-quality one for richer sound quality. The built-in speakers are relatively audible but not loud enough to compete with a full audio setup. However, it’s worth noting that some users have complained about the speakers not working, which is disappointing. In this case, it may be necessary to hook up external speakers through the RCA outs.
Main Technology Perks of Wockoder Record Player
There are several cutting-edge technological features provided by Wockoder. The most obvious one is Bluetooth connectivity which enables you to connect your devices wirelessly to the player for convenient playback and music streaming.
Another technological advantage is that it supports vinyl-to-MP3 recording. As a result, you can digitize your vinyl by changing it into digital MP3 files and preserving your tracks for modern playback. Wockoder boasts an automatic stop function that ensures it stops playing once the stylus finishes tracking the grooves, safeguarding your records from being damaged. Moreover, versatile connection options allow you to enjoy flexibility when connecting external speakers and devices.
Pricing
You can become the latest owner of this record player at a low cost of $59.99. However, you will have to manage your expectations at this price range since the unit is as basic as it comes.
How to Setup & Use Wockoder Record Player?
Setting up the record player is pretty straightforward and involves these steps:
- Place the player on a flat surface and plug it into a power source.
- Turn on the power knob.
- If you want to use external speakers, connect them to the unit using the RCA audio cable.
- Remove the stylus guard and place your record at the center of the spindle. Use the 45 rpm adaptor if necessary.
- Select the speed, depending on the record you want to play.
- Release the tonearm from the armrest by pushing the lift lever up. Gently move it towards the record side.
- Drop the tone arm on the record by putting down the lift lever. The record player will start playing.
- Enjoy your music!
The stylus is sensitive and susceptible to vibrations, so even the tiniest jolt can interfere with its ability to track grooves efficiently. In light of this, it’s essential you place the record player on an even and stable surface if you want to achieve good quality sound. Dirt and dust can also affect the stylus, wreaking havoc on sound quality. So, always keep the records and the unit clean for better sound performance.
Consider using a cork record mat to separate the record from the platter, which can transfer rumble from the motor. Your record player must be well-grounded to eradicate an irritating hum that can creep in. A high-quality ground cable may be necessary to help you with this.
Overall Impression About Wockoder Record Player?
Wockoder is an elegant record player that can provide aesthetic value. It’s also designed for portability, so you can move it around at your convenience. However, the sound performance can disappoint advanced vinyl enthusiasts looking for depth in music.
Pros
These are some of the benefits associated with the unit:
- Ease of use.
- Portability.
- Supports Bluetooth connectivity.
- Stylish and elegant look.
- Plays records of all sizes.
- Price-friendly.
Cons
The disadvantages include the following:
- Built-in speakers may not produce satisfactory sound.
- Average sound performance.
- Poor construction.
- Cheap components.
Who Is It For?
The record player is ideal for beginner audiophiles. Not only is it budget-friendly, but also offers basic functionality that can help a newbie enjoy the vinyl experience.
Final Verdict
In my opinion, Wockoder is a record player that a new audiophile or casual listener can appreciate. It’s easy to use and affordable, so it won’t hurt your pocket. The sound is also pretty decent if you are not looking for depth. However, you may have to contend with a few issues related to its cheap and poor construction, including ineffective tracking.
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