Two-Speed vs Three-Speed Turntables: What You Miss

The standard turntable speeds

Almost every turntable you can buy today offers two playback speeds: 33 1/3 RPM (for full-length albums) and 45 RPM (for singles). These speeds emerged after the mid-20th century and remain the standard for vinyl records pressed today. The Library of Congress, which preserves sound recordings, groups 45s and LPs alongside 78s as grooved discs that need careful handling.

A third speed, 78 RPM, predates the others. It was the dominant speed for shellac records from the late 1800s through the 1950s. If your turntable only has two speeds, you cannot play these older discs correctly, and even if you force them to spin at 33 or 45, the pitch and timing will be wrong. To play 78s, you need a three-speed turntable that includes 78 RPM.

• 33 1/3 RPM: standard LP speed, introduced in 1948.
• 45 RPM: standard single speed, introduced in 1949.
• 78 RPM: older shellac disc speed, common from the 1890s to the 1950s.

What 78 RPM records are

78 RPM records are made of shellac, a brittle material that breaks more easily than vinyl. They were the primary format for recorded music before the LP and single revolution. The Library of Congress describes them as grooved discs and advises handling them by the edge and label only, because the playing surface is fragile.

These records are typically 10 inches or 12 inches in diameter, but the speed is the key distinction. A three-speed turntable can spin them at the correct 78 RPM, which is required to hear the original pitch and tempo. Without that option, you miss a vast catalog of jazz, blues, early rock, classical, and spoken-word recordings.

If you are curious about the technical details of playing 78s, see our guide on playing 78 RPM records.

What a two-speed turntable offers

The vast majority of records pressed after the 1950s are at 33 1/3 or 45 RPM. Modern LPs, most reissues, and new singles all use these speeds. A two-speed turntable covers your collection if you are buying new records or represses of classic albums.

Two-speed models are common, simpler to manufacture, and often less expensive than three-speed versions. They are also more than adequate for the typical listener who streams, owns a modest vinyl collection, or wants to start with a reliable entry-level turntable. You can focus on other features like a good cartridge, adjustable tracking force, or a built-in phono preamp.

For speed accuracy and stability, see our explanation of turntable speed accuracy and wow and flutter.

What a three-speed turntable adds

A three-speed turntable adds 78 RPM to the usual 33 and 45. This gives you the ability to play shellac discs from early recordings without altering pitch. It is a practical need if you inherit a collection of old records, are interested in historical performances, or want to digitize family heirlooms.

The extra speed does not change how the turntable handles modern vinyl. It is an additional motor speed setting, typically selected with a switch. Some three-speed models also let you choose between sizes (7, 10, 12 inches) but that is unrelated to speed selection.

If you already have a two-speed turntable, you cannot add 78 RPM later; the motor is designed for only two speeds. Upgrading to a three-speed model is the only way to get that capability. Read more about changing turntable speed.

What you miss without 78 support

If your turntable only plays 33 and 45 RPM, you miss the entire era of 78 RPM recordings. These discs contain some of the most important performances in recorded music: early jazz, blues, country, and classical recordings that predate the LP. For collectors of historical audio, a three-speed turntable is essential.

Even if you do not plan to play 78s today, the option can be valuable. You might inherit a few shellac discs from a relative or discover them at a flea market. Without 78 RPM, those records are unplayable at the correct speed, and using the wrong speed distorts the listening experience.

The Library of Congress notes that grooved discs like 78s require proper storage and handling, but they are still part of the cultural record. A three-speed turntable lets you engage with that heritage directly.

How to choose: matching speed to your collection

Start by looking at the records you already own or plan to buy. If your collection is entirely modern vinyl, a two-speed turntable is sufficient. If you have any shellac discs, or you want to be ready for them, choose a three-speed model.

Consider the rest of the turntable's specs as well. Speed support is one factor among many: belt drive vs direct drive, cartridge type, connectivity options, and whether you need automatic features. A three-speed turntable that lacks good speed stability or has a poor cartridge may not serve you better than a two-speed model that excels in those areas.

If you are just starting out, a two-speed turntable from a reputable brand will give you the best value for new records. For historical recordings, a three-speed model opens the door to a different world. Use the table below to match your situation to a recommended guide.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Can I play a 78 RPM record on a two-speed turntable?

No. A two-speed turntable only offers 33 1/3 and 45 RPM. Playing a 78 RPM disc at a lower speed produces incorrect pitch and can damage the stylus and record due to different groove dimensions.

Do all three-speed turntables play shellac records well?

Most three-speed turntables include 78 RPM, but not all have a stylus suited for shellac. Shellac records are harder than vinyl and typically require a special stylus, often with a larger tip radius. Check the cartridge and stylus specifications before playing 78s.

Are there records that require speeds other than 33, 45, or 78?

Those three speeds cover the standard commercial releases. Some audiophile pressings use 45 RPM for extended range, but that is still 45. A few very old discs used other speeds, but they are rare and not supported by most turntables.

Does a three-speed turntable cost more than a two-speed model?

Three-speed turntables can be slightly more expensive because they require a motor that can switch between three speeds. However, price differences are not always large, and many mid-range models include 78 RPM as a standard feature.

Can I upgrade a two-speed turntable to play 78s later?

No. The motor and speed control are fixed at the factory. You would need to replace the entire turntable to add 78 RPM support.