Glossary term
Automatic Operation
Automatic operation controls part of a turntable’s tonearm movement, such as starting playback or returning the arm afterwards.
The exact actions matter. Automatic start can move and lower the arm for playback, while automatic return brings it back after the record finishes. A design that only lifts the arm or stops the platter at the end provides a different set of functions.
Compare the specific start, lift, return and stop actions instead of relying on the word “automatic” alone. Check which actions remain manual and whether the system supports the record sizes you use. Electronic speed selection is a separate convenience feature; it does not establish automatic tonearm operation.