How to Use A Crosley Record Player (Easy Guide with Video)

Time needed: 5 minutes

How to Use a Crosley Record Player – Step By Step:

1. Setting Up Your Crosley Record Player:

   Ensure your Crosley player is placed on a flat, stable surface, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
   
   The power is connected at the rear (pictured below). Note also the output for external speakers and the ability to plug in an external sound source via an Aux input – this could be a CD player or phone with a jack output, for example.
   
   

2. Preparing to Play a Record:

   Gently lift the lid of your player, ensuring it’s secure in its open position.
   
   If this is the first time you’re using the record player, you’ll notice a semi-transparent plastic guard on the red record player needle (stylus). This guard is there to protect the stylus when in transit, but it needs to be removed before we can play back records.
   
   Note: if you’re moving your Crosley Record Player, it’s wise to re-install this guard beforehand.
   
   

3. Unclip the Tonearm Guard

   Before we can spin some records, we need to remove the clip securing the tonearm in place. As pictured below, simply unclip this guard to release the tonearm.
   
   

4. Placing the Record

   Gently place your vinyl on the turntable, aligning the center hole with the spindle. Handle the record only by the edges and never by the record grooves. (Full guide on how to handle vinyl records, here).
   
   

5. Selecting the Right Speed & Checking Output Mode

   Crosley players usually offer multiple speeds (33 1/3, 45, and sometimes 78 RPM). Select the speed matching your record. In this case (as is the case with most 12-inch LPs, we’re going to select 33rpm.
   
   If in doubt, there is usually an indicator on the record or record jacket as to the correct speed.
   
   Pictured below are the controls for speed, auto-stop, and the output mode. Now is also a good time to ensure you’ve selected the right output.
   
   To use the internal speakers, choose “phono” as pictured below. If you have external speakers connected at the rear, this will disable the internal speakers.
   
   To use the Bluetooth output, move the rocker switch (again, pictured below) to the middle position and pair with your chosen Bluetooth-enabled speakers, receiver, or headphones (more specifics on this later).
   
   

6. Playing the Record

   Step 1: Switch the Crosley on using the power dial (this also controls output volume).
   
   Step 2: Lift the Tonearm: Carefully lift the tonearm using the cueing lever (if your model has one).
   
   Step 3: Position the Needle: Gently position the needle over the outer edge of the record.
   
   Step 4: Lower the Tonearm: Slowly lower the tonearm so the needle makes contact with the record, starting playback.
   
   

7. Ending Playback

   Step 1: Turn Off: Switch the power button to the ‘OFF’ position.
   
   Step 2: Lift the Tonearm using the cue lever once your record has finished playing.
   
   If you have “auto stop” switched on, the record will stop spinning automatically instead of circling in the run-out groove endlessly until you lift the arm.
   
   Note: On some occasions, this can cause the record to stop before the end. If this happens, simply use the “auto lift” switch to turn it off.
   
   Step 3: Return the tonearm to the rest position and lower it using the cue lever. (Lock the tonearm for extra security using the latch whenever you’re finished playing records).
   
   Step 4: Close the Lid: Gently lower the lid to protect your player from dust.