Huw Baines

Huw Baines

 Huw Baines is a freelance music writer with a particular interest in all things punk, hardcore and vinyl. Alongside Louder, he has written for Long Live Vinyl magazine, the Guardian, Kerrang!, Huck, Guitar Magazine, Vice, Clash, and elsewhere.

Latest articles by Huw Baines

Best headphones for vinyl

Best headphones for vinyl 2026: Do justice to your records with my selection of headphones from AKG, Beyerdynamic & more

By Huw Baines Last updated

Buying guide Get intimate with your record collection all over again – and spare the neighbours – with the best headphones for vinyl

Buying guide
House Of Marley Revolution

Best Bluetooth turntables 2026: Wireless record-playing wonders that'll elevate your listening pleasure

By Huw Baines Last updated

Buying guide Analogue meets digital with these full-featured Bluetooth turntables from the likes of Sony, Audio-Technica, Pro-Ject, House Of Marley and more

Buying guide
Elevated view of a record player

Direct-drive vs belt-drive turntables: What's the difference?

By Huw Baines Published

Buying guide Get the inside track on whether a belt-drive or direct-drive turntable is right for you

Buying guide
How to buy your first record player: how to buy your first turntable

How to buy your first vinyl record player: wax on, not off

By Huw Baines Last updated

If you're looking to buy your first record player, we have you covered with our beginner-friendly turntable buying advice

Record Players & Turntables
How to clean vinyl records, deal with scratches, and store LP records properly

How to clean vinyl records, deal with scratches, and store LP records properly

By Huw Baines Last updated

How to All you need to know about caring for your LP collection, including how to clean vinyl records properly, and where NOT to store them

How to
Record players vs Bluetooth turntables

Record players vs Bluetooth turntables: do you need the extra tech?

By Huw Baines Published

Buying guide When it comes to record players vs Bluetooth turntables, there are obvious pros and cons to consider, including whether all that extra - and expensive - tech is really needed for what you want

Buying guide
Do I need a phono preamp for my record player?

Do I need a phono preamp for my record player?

By Huw Baines Published

Buying guide Looking to get the best sound from your vinyl records and brand new turntable? A phono preamp will be just the ticket. Here's everything you need to know

Buying guide