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

The Audio-Technica AT-LP70XBT on a wooden shelf with two Audio-Technica speakers on either side of the Bluetooth turntable.

Best Bluetooth turntables 2025: Wireless record-playing wonders from the best in the biz

By Huw Baines last updated

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

Record Players & Turntables
Best headphones for vinyl

Best headphones for vinyl 2025: A concise collection of quality cans for your analogue hi-fi

By Huw Baines last updated

Get intimate with your record collection – and spare the neighbours – with the best headphones for vinyl

Headphones
Elevated view of a record player

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

By Huw Baines published

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

Record Players & Turntables
Record players vs Bluetooth turntables

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

By Huw Baines last updated

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

Record Players & Turntables
Do I need a phono preamp for my record player?

Do I need a phono preamp for my record player?

By Huw Baines last updated

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

Record Players & Turntables
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