Buying your first turntable? A free Japanese guide compares 28 models

Choosing a first turntable means comparing more than its appearance. Ongen Publishing’s free Japanese-language booklet, Hajimete no Analog Player vol.3, brings together a 28-model catalog and advice on getting records playing, with a free PDF planned for tomorrow, October 29.

Phono stages and cartridge options at a glance

The catalog uses icons to show whether each featured turntable has a built-in phono equalizer, also called a phono stage, and whether its cartridge can be replaced. These give first-time buyers specific features to compare before choosing a player. Online-only models are excluded from the selection.

Setup, cleaning and a CHAPPO cover story

The 36-page booklet covers playback equipment, stylus pressure, stylus and cartridge replacement, record and stylus cleaning, and record-shop information. Instrumental band CHAPPO appears on the cover and in the opening feature, where Fukuhara introduces Hosono to records.

Where to get the PDF or paper booklet

Paper copies will be distributed progressively from Thursday, October 29, 2026, at record and electronics shops in Japan, including Disk Union, Tower Records and Yodobashi Camera. This is a gradual rollout, not a promise of availability at every branch on the first day.

The free PDF is planned for the same day through PHILE WEB.shop. The shop will also begin accepting delivery orders for paper copies, with shipping and handling payable by the customer.