The beloved social media music site Turntable.fm is back in surprise almost eight years after it closed in 2013. In fact, there are two new versions: the original Turntable.fm, recently resurrected by founder Billy Chasen, and a focus on mobile devices Turntable.org, created by several Turntable.fm alumni.
While both services allow users to create personalized avatars and host or participate in online listening groups, they differ in their business models, features and availability.
Turntable.fm
Turntable.fm maintains the original experience of the site. Usage is free and you can create playlists of the songs available on YouTube. (SoundCloud too, once the integration is active.) But there is a critical problem. Turntable.fm is now available, but only for those who know the password.
You can request the password by sending your email and your favorite song. If the song is “good”, you will receive the password by email. We have no idea what Turntable.fm considers a “good” song – otherwise, we offer suggestions to increase your chances of entering.
G / O Media can receive a commission
I have not yet received a response regarding my application. (I hope anyone who is distributing codes will like The “Dopesmoker” of sleep.)
Turntable.org
Unlike the free Turntable.fm, Turntable.org requires a subscription to use. Although you are not yet able to sign up for the service, there are also special reward packages available for purchase that will earn you exclusive items and discounts for your subscription when Turntable.org goes live. The money goes towards development costs.
The other big difference with Turntable.org is that users can upload and play their own MP3 tracks – they won’t be limited to music hosted on other sites. This will help independent artists to organize parties to listen to their own music.
Join the beta
A beta version of Turntable.org will be released in April. Interested users can subscribe to the waiting list on the official website. There is also a special application form for artists who wish to host digital programs through Turntable.org.