This turntable mat comes from Hudson, a New York-based company that makes multiple types of mats, along with a wide array of products for Hi-Fi enthusiasts, for cleaning, stabilizing, measuring and better sound isolation. Choosing the best mat for you can depend on the type of turntable you have. Belt-drive, direct-drive, brass or aluminum materials, and even the weight of the platter itself all contribute to the sound you’ll get. With so many mat materials available, it’s possible to choose a specific style to get some control over the desired sound you’re aiming for. At just 1.44 ounces, this excessively light wool mat is soft while greatly reducing bumps and vibration. Another great option from Hudson Hi-Fi here, the cork overlaps with some of the other mats in terms of what it provides, but also brings its own benefits to the turntable. Cork is a naturally non-conductive material that’s airy and light, soft to the touch yet still pretty tough. It also doesn’t attract dust as much as other mats can, and is still easy to clean. It’ll greatly reduce static buildup for a cleaner sound, and is infused with rubber for extra durability.

Resonance is noticeably dampened too, especially on metal platters. The leather helps to get a better grip on the record, isolating vibration, and producing a clearer and cleaner effect that can even have bass boosting results. This mat will fit any 12-inch table. If left out in the open air, it can build up with dust and debris, so best to keep it (and your turntable) covered when not in use. Since cork is non-resonant, this works especially well on steel and lightweight platters, acting to reduce friction and absorb vibrations without over-dampening it, or under-delivering on sound like felt can. For a first-time upgrade, the cork is a great place to start,” advises Liberov. “It offers the most consistent sonic enhancement across all musical styles and turntables. [And] for those looking to add some ‘color’, the acrylic mats are absolutely awesome.” 1. Hudson Hi-Fi Premium Acrylic Turntable Mat It may look pretty simple, but a turntable mat provides a bunch of benefits like record protection, steadying your vinyl during play, friction reduction, and overall improvement of sound quality with a higher-def listening experience. Simply placing one of these disc-shaped mats between your platter and the vinyl can make a big difference.

This works on both 33 1/3 and 45 RPMs, and the difference is noticeable from the first listen. Sound is less “splashy,” and at only 6.4 ounces, it won’t weigh down your platter either. At just ten ounces, this 3mm, acrylic mat is not just classy looking, it also significantly reduces unwanted noise and static.