Leak Delta Turntable

It is important that the turntable in your high-fidelity system should be specifically designed to complement in performance and appearance the other components in your system. To this end we worked with one of Switzerland's foremost turntable specialists to create the Leak Turntable.

It is a dynamically balanced turntable which weighs over half a stone, eliminating the distortions that occur in lighter turntables due to internal vibrations.

The chromium plated pick-up arm is so sensitive that it can be affected by the infinitesimally centrifugal force it creates as it moves towards the centre of the record. We compensate for this with a bias compensator utilising a minute counterbalance supported on nylon thread. The turntable also has a viscously damped pick-up cueing device. In spite of this precision the Leak turntable is, like all the finest machines, simple to operate and maintain. The speed of the turntable is infinitely variable between 30 rpm and 86 rpm.

The very silent 4-pole motor is spring mounted onto a rigid steel baseplate. The power is transmitted from the conical motor shaft to the turntable by a ruber covered idler wheel. The speed is changed by moving the idler wheel on the motor shaft.

 

Specifications:

System:  Idler drive

Turntabel Type:  Dynamically balanced turntable. Viscously damped pick-up lowering device. Speed adjustment infinitely variable between 30 and 86 rpm.

Wow and Flutter:  0,06%, according to DIN Specifications

Rumble:  -60 dB, measured in according to DIN Specifications

Speed variations:  for a 10% change in mains voltage ±0,2%.

Maximum Speed Variation:  0,3%,  when loaded by a pick-up playimg at 6 grams

Motor:  4-pole constant valocity motor with conical rotor spindle

Pick-up Arm:  Arm with counter balanced weight.

Bearings:  Knife-edge bearings

Stylus Pressure:  adjustable from 0,5 to 5 grams with calibrated sliding weight

Minimum Stylus Pressure:  0,5 grams

Headshell:  Removable lightweight pick-up headsell

Cartrdige:  Shure magnetic M75B type 2

Stylus Overhang:  17 mm (0,675")

Stylus Position Adjustment:  13 mm (0,5")

Offset Angle:  23° 12'

Tracking Error:  ±0,8

Platter:  Die-cast zinc

Truntable Platter Weight:  4 kg (8,8 lb)

Power Requirements:  AC mains 200 - 240 V, 50 Hz

Power Consumption:  14 VA

Dimensions (W x H x D):  400 x 166 x 371 mm (16" x 6,6" x 14,8")

Weight:  8,5 kg (18,7 lbs)

Finish:  Teak

Sanyo Plus Q40 turntable

Quartz-Locked PLL Direct Drive Fully Automatic Turntable

Servo system locks platter speed intosynchronization with quartz-controlled signal to maintain exact speed.

Brusheless platter motor has extra-large diameter for higher torque 20-pole, 30-slot configuration provides smooth rotation

High-density rubber platter mat damps acoustic feedback and resonance

Straight tonearm , light weight optimizes resonant frequency and improves dynamic tracking ability

Adjustable calibrated tonearm counterweight for setting stylus traking force

Precision bearing in tonearm suspension reduce friction to 10 mg

Stroboscope verifies precise platter speed. Strobe frequency automatically adjust for 33-1/2 or 45 rpm.

Start/Stop control begins the play cycle. Use to automatically return arm to rest and shut off the unit

Double-damper viscous cusing control protects record and sytlus

Three-way suspension and isolation system provides resistance to fedback

Disk size selector and  Front panel controls

 

Specifications

Motor:  brushless DC servo

Drive System:  Direct drive system

Speeds:  33-1/3 and 45 rpm

Speed Control:  Quartz PLL

Wow and Flutter:  0,03% WRMS

Signal-to-Noise Ratio:  -70 dB (DIN B)

Platter:  die-cast aluminum

Diameter :  306 mm

Weight :  1,0 kg

Disk Size Selector:  7" / 10" / 12"

Automation:  Full (ster/stop/return)

Tonearm:  Straight aluminum tube

Effective length:  220 mm

Offset Angle:  23°

Tracking Error:  ±1,5°

Usable Cartridge Weight:  4 - 10 g

Cartridge:  MG-10J

Stylus:  ST-1J

Tracking Force Range:  0 - 3 g

Headshell:  ABS

Anti-skating:  Adjustable, calibrated

Cueing:  Damped / down

Effective Mass (5 g cartridge):  14,7 g

Bearing Friction:  10 mg

Cable Capacitance:  75 pl

Power Source:  AC 120/200/220/240 V, 50/60 Hz

Dimensions (W x H x D):  440 x 152 x 372 mm (17-15/16" x 6' x 14-5/8")

Weight:  6,4 kg (14 lbs 2 oz)

Akai AP-005 turntable

Fully Automatic Turntable

Akai AP-005 enjoy 2-channel stereo, discrete 4-channel stereo, or SQ or regular Matrix 4-channel stereo with this high quality fully automatic turntable.

Independent turntable and tone arm motors, 220 mm static balanced steel piping tone arm with inside force canceller and lateral balance weight.

 

Specifications

Turntable Platter:  200 mm aluminium alloy die-cast

Platter Weight:  1,1 kg

Drive System:  Belt drive

Motors: one 4-pole hysteresis synchronous motor for turntable drive and a geared motor for tone arm drive

Speeds:  33-⅓ and 45 rpm

Wow and Flutter:  0,05% WRMS

Signal-to-Noise Ratio:  better than 52 dB

Tone arm:  Static balanced type stainless steel tubular arm with inside force canceler and lataral balance weight

Arm Length:  220 mm

Stylus Pressure Adjustment Range:  0 - 3 grams

Applicable Cartridge Weight:  4 - 8 grams (8 -12,5 using sub-weight)

Arm Lifter:  oil damped

Overhang:  15 mm

Shell Weight:  13,5 grams

Cartridge:  VM (dual magnet type) Audio Technica AT-11 with 0,7 mil spherical diamond stylus

Frequency Response:  15 - 25,000 Hz

Output Voltage:  4 mV (1 kHz, 50 mm/sec)

Channel Separation:  20 dB

Optimal Stylus Pressure:  2 grams

Required Load Impedance:  47 - 100 k Ω

Weight:  5,5 grams

General

Power Requirements:  110 - 120 V 220 - 240 V 50/60 Hz

Dimensions (W x H x D):  440 x 128 x 358 mm ( 17,4" x 5,0" x 14,1")

Weight:  7,6 kg (16,7 lbs)

Nikko NP-390 turntable

NP-390 Auto-Return Turntable features:

Belt-drive platter drive mechanism for silent operation

4-pole synchronous motor for smooth, uniform torque

Large 30 cm (12-inch) die-cast aluminum platter

Statically-balanced tonearm

Operation convenience

 

The NP-390 provides excellent value for your investment, and in its price range, feature-for-feature, it has little or no competition. Unit features automatic return, meaning as you move the tonearm to the adge of the platter, the platter begins to rotate; turntable then handles the rest, including the return of the arm at the end of play automatically. Silent operation is provided by the belt-drive platter drive mechanism.

Superlative performance is assured by a 4-pole synchronous motor, large die-cast aluminum platter, statically-balanced tonearm with direct readout tracking force control and anti-skate control. The result are audible: wow and flutter and signal-to-noise ratio.

 

Specifications

Type:  Auto-return, belt drive

Motor:  4-pole synchronous motor

Speeds:  33-1/3 and 45 rpm

Platter :  die-cast aluminum platter

Platter Diameter:  300 mm (12")

Wow and Flutter:  less than 0,08% (WRMS)

Signal-to-Noise Ratio:  45 dB

Tonearm:  Statically-balanced straight arm

Power Supply: AC 120 V, 220 - 240 V 50/60 Hz

Dimensions (W x H x D):  440 x 130 x  354 mm

Acoustic Research AR-XB

 

The new AR-XB is the latest version of the world's best-selling manual turntable. Since its introduction, the AR turntable has had a profound effect upon both design and performance standards of home record-playing equipmen, yet it remains alone in the field in the degree to which it combines broadcast equipment performance, completeness and convenience, simplicity of operation and low cost.

The stability of the AR turntable is unusual; the top-plate may even be struck by vertical hammer blows without interrupting the music being played. The AR turntable is insensitive to floor vibrations or acoustic feedback. This gives its owners maximum freedom in placing the turntable where it will be most convenient, even close to the loudspeakers, if necessary.

 

The AR turntable is guaranteed, as a condition of sale, to meet NAB (national Association of Broadcasters) specifications for broadcast equipment on wow and flutter, rumble, and  speed accuracy. In addition, the AR turntable meets the stringent requirements of the CBS standards on rumble and the IEEE standards of flutter.

The NAB stereo Standard for professional broadcast equipment calls for a number levell in each channel at least 35 dB below 1 cm/sec. In the plane of modulation at 100 Hz, with the ballistic characteristics of the meter specified and will the playback equalization specified.

The NAB Standard on flutter and wow prescribes the exact methods of measurement. The NAB Standards for broadcast playback equipment is 0,1% maximum wow and flutter combined when measured as specified.

The NAB Standard for speed accuracy of broadcast playback equipment is ±0,3%, or 21 lines per minute drift on a standard 216-line stroboscope card. All AR turntables are tested to meet this standard, and to keep within the NAB limit with an extra 5 grams of stylus force (equivalent to the drag of a dust bug). Line voltage variations have no effect on the speed of the AR turntable, since the drive motor is synchronous

 

Each AR turntable feature:

Viscous-damped cue/pause control

Ready-mounted walnut-grained base

Transparent plastic dustcover

Hysteresis - synchronous motor

Plug-in cartridge shell with mounting hardware

Precision stylus pressure gauge

Overhang adjustment guide

Lubricating oil

Screwdriver for installing cartridge and setting arm counterbalance

Color-coded connecting cable

45 rpm center hole adapter

 

Specifications

Type:  Belt drive system

Speeds: 33-13 and 45 rpm

Motor:  Hysteresis - synchronous motor

Wow and Flutter:  NAB Standards

Rumble:  NAB Standards

Power: 110 - 120 V, 50 or 60 Hz

Size (W x D x H) :  12-3/4" x 16-1/4" x 5-3/4"

Weight:  6,35 kg (14 lbs)

Kenwood KD-2055 turntable

The model KD-2055 is carefully designed and manufactured to obtain the basic characteristics that must be completaly assured by the turntable. The turntable  is constructed mainly of turntable cabinet dust cover, turntable platter, tonearm with cardridge and driving motor. Performance of each part used in KD-2055 is very important.

 

The turntable cabinet is an one of essential part for accommodating driving motor, platter, tonearm, etc., which are directly concerned with record reproduction. The most significant matter for high fidelity reprodction is to insulate the cartridge, record, record, tonearm, etc., against harmful internal and external vobrations such as vibration of the driving motor and acoustic feedback from the speaker system.

Meaning of vibration-proof property;

Periodic damping rate is high - periodic damping time is short.

Periodic damping pattern shows a smooth feature without turbulence (if any, shows that there is energy loss due to resonance)

The cabinet of KD-2055 emplys a layer construction of A.R.C.B (Anti Resonance Compression Base) so to speak resin concrete and plywood.

A.R.C.B. is a compressed and formed material, which is mixed with stone grains of 1-5 mm in diameter, calcium carbonate powder, glass powder, and polyester resin. This material is rich in processing accuracy, strength and esthetic value.

 

Specifications

Drive System:  Belt drive

Motor:  4-pole synchronous motor

Speeds:  33-⅓ and 45 rpm

Turntable Platter:  Aluminum alloy die-cast

Platter Diameter:  300 mm (12")

Wow and Flutter:  less than 0,06% (WRMS) ±0,08% (DIN)

Signal-to-Noise Ratio (Rumble): 

JIS :  better than 50 dB

DIN Unweighted :  better than 44 dB

DIN Weighted :  better than 65 dB

Tonearm

Type:  Static-balanced type, S-shaped pipe arm EIA plug-in connector

Effective Arm Length:  215 mm (8-7/16")

Overhang:  9,5 mm (3/8")

Tracking Error:  ±1,5 degree

Stylus Pressure (Variable Range):  0 - 3 grams

Usable Cartridge Weight:  4 to 13 grams (supplied head shell t grams balance weight 4 grams)

Cartridge Type

Moving magnet Type :  V-39 Mk II

Channel Separation:  better than 25 dB (1,000 Hz)

Output Voltage:  3 mV (1,000 Hz, 5cm/sec)

Output balance:  1,5 dB (1,000 Hz, 5 cm/sec)

Frequency Response: 20 - 20,000 Hz

Load Impedance:  50 k Ω

Stylus:  0,5 mil diamond

Stylus Pressure:  2 grams ±0,25

Compliance:  7 x 10¯⁶ cm/ddyne

General

Power Requirements:  AC 110 - 120 V, 220 - 240 V, 50/60 Hz

Power Consumption:  7 watts

Dimensions (W x H x D):  480 x 363 x 146 mm (18-7/8" x 14-5/16" x 5-3/4")

Weight:  11 kg (24,3 lbs)

Dual 701 turntable

The Dual 701 is the quietest turntable ever made. Not only in our judgment, but in that of the first independent test laboratory to evaluate its performance. This has been accomplished by an entirely different kind of motor, designed expressly for the 701, and by a very innovative approach to the problem of resonance.

Instead of the familiar, high-speed AC motor, the 701 has an all-electronic, low-speed Dc motor with feedback-controlled speed precision. Because this motor rotates at the record speed, 33-⅓ or 45 rpm, the need for speed-reduction systems such as friction-idler or rim-belt is eliminated. Instead, the platter is rotated directly by the motor, and the record spindle is the top of the motor shaft.

The 701 motor is so quiet and free from vibration that it does not require any isolation mounting but is mounted directly to the chassis. Dual's exclusive design of overlapping coils, a unique feature of the motor, eliminates the successive pulses common to every other existing motor, including other electronic types, high speed or low speed.

 Another Dual innovation serves to prevent interference from reaching and affecting the stylus. Two separate anti-resonance filters, each tuned to a specific resonance range, are located within the counterbalance housing.

One filter is tuned to the resonant range of the tonearm/cartridge system; the other, to the resonant range of the chassis. Each filter serves to cancel out the resonant energy that would otherwise impart spurious signal to the stylus. For those who would like to know more about the 701 motor and the anti-resonance filters.

THE Dual 701 is designed for only single play. But like other Duals, it can be operated either fully automatically, or as a manual turntable.

Because of the unique motor and anti-resonance filters, the 701 is slightly quieter than the 1229. but if you now own a 1229, or any other current Dual, you will detect only a minor difference.

Full-size twelve-inch dynamically balanced, die-cast platter

The 701 platter rests directly on the rotor and rotates with it at the selected speed. Every platter is cost from a single piece of special zinc alloy which is then individually machined and balanced while rotating at high speed. Any imbalances, however minute, are graphically revealed by computerized gauges and precisely corrected. The platter's full twelve-inch diameter, 9,7 pounds of weight (platter plus rotor) and perfect dynamic balance combine to provide optimum flywheel effect.

 

Electronically-regulated, direct-drive motor with exclusive overlapping coil system.

The EDS-1000 motor developed by Dual for the 701 is an all-electronic, low-speed, brushless, DC motor with Hall-effect feedback control, and energized by a regulated power supply. Unlike conventional DC motors, commutation (electrical switching) is not done by brushes and commutator ring. The 701 motor has electronic switching commutation and speed regulation. Two Hall-effect generators drive four switching transistors which produce a rotating magnetic field in the motor's field coils. Depending on the position of the rotor, the magnetic field causes the four magnetic pairs on the rotor to be pushed and pulled continuously. The field coil design is unique and exclusive with Dual. Two stacked coil layers, each consisting of eight bifilar-wound (coreless) coil, offset by 22,5°, achieving a gapless rotating magnetic field that eliminates the successive pulses of magnetic flux typical of all other motor designs. The absence of magnetic spring-back or other rotation irregularities can be demonstrated by turning the rotor manually, no resistance will be sensed. Also, because of the coreless field coils the motor is free of hysteresis or eddy-current losses and the disturbances of pole frequencies.

The rotational speed of the 701 motor is controlled electronically. A voltage which is a function of motor speed is fed to an electronic regulating circuit, and is compared to a constant standard voltage dreived from a regulated power supply. Any difference in these two voltages causes an immediate change in the motor current, hence the motor speed. The rotor is a barium ferrite ring magnet, magnetized in eight segments (poles) on its lower front surface. A steel plate serves as a megnetic return circuit. The regulated power supply makes the speed independent of variations in power-line voltage or frequency. Speed can be set directly to either 33-⅓ or 45 rpm. Thus, the platter is driven directly by the rotor, without need for any speed-reducing linkoge such as friction-idler or rim-belt.

Further, in contrast to the high speed (1800 rpm) vibrations of the conventional AC motor, the 701 motor is so free from vibration that it is mounted directly to the chassis without introducing any rumble. In summary, the 701 electronic direct-drive system, with its over-lapping gapless design, rotating magnetic return circuit and coreless field windings, is the most advanced drive system available for record playback today.

 

Specifications

Drive;  Electronically-controlled direct-drive system Dual EDS-1000

Platter:  Non-magnetic, dynamically-balanced, detachable

Platter Weight:  2,9 kg

Platter Diameter:  305 mm

Total Rotating Mass of Drive System (Rotor with Platter):  4,4 kg, moment of inertia 460 kp/cm²

Run-up Time:  2 - 2,5 sec on 33-1/2 rpm

Platter Speeds:  33-⅓ and 45 rpm  - Electronically switchable, automatic tonearm lowering coupled to speed change

Pitch Control:  Separate for both speed adjustable in each case with variable resistor, with setting scales, range of adjustment 8%

Speed Check:  with light stroboscope for platter speed of 33-⅓ and 45 rpm, adjustable for 50 or 60 Hz

Sensitivity Of Light Stroboscope (for 0,1% Speed Deviation):  6 graduations per minute (at 50 Hz); 7m2 graduations per minute (at 60 Hz)

Overall Speed variations:  less than ±0,03% (DIN 45 507)

 Signal-to-Noise Ratio (DIN 45 500)

Rumble Unweighted :  more than 50 dB

Rumble Weighted :  more than 70 dB

Tonearm:  Torsion resistent, extra long tubular aluminum tonearm in super flat unversal 4-point gimbal suspension, tonearm balance weight with double acting vibration damping (2 anti-resonators)

Effective Tonearm Length:  222 mm

Offset Angle:  25° 20'

Tangential Track Error Angle:  0,16°/cm

Tonearm Bearing Friction (related to stylus point)

Vertical :  < 0,007 p

Horizontal :  < 0,015 p

Tracking Force:  0 - 3 g continuously variable, with 1/10 p calibration in the range from 0 - 1,5p, reliable as from 0,25 p tracking force.

Pick-up Head:  Detachable, suitable for all pick-up cartidges with 1/2" mounting and a deadweight of 2 to 10 g (including mouting material)

Adjustable Overhang:  5 mm

Power Requirements:  110 - 130 V, 220 - 240 V, AC 50/60 Hz

Power Consumption:  2,5 watts (approx), Motor during play <50 mW

Dimensions (W x H x D):  420 x 147 x 365 mm

Weight 10,9 kg

Pioneer PL-514 turntable

Specifically Designed for High-Anti-Howling

Reliable Auto-Return and Quick-Start Convenience

Precision Synchronous Motor

High-Sensitivity Tone Arm

AS in all other new Pioneer turntables, the PL-514 offers extremely high anti-howling characteristics. The kind of feedback or acoustic resonance caused by sound pressure from high-output speaker systems, for instance, is prevented from harming your music by a number of effective features. "Floor howling" - that caused by vibrations of structure-floors, shelves, desks, etc. - from speakers, are damped before they reach the tone arm and stylus. And they can never spoll the near-perfect operation of the synchronous motor to cause speed errors in the platter. A high-sensitivity tone arm, a noiseless belt-drive system, a convenient Quick -Start mechanism and Pioneer's time-tested Auto-Return arm device. They add up to one of the highest cost/performance ratios available in today's sophisticated turntables, and all are yours to enjoy in the Pioneer PL-514.

 

Tone Arm

Precision Ground Super-Hard carbon-Chromium Bearings in Tone Arm Support

Pioneer uses precision-ground bearings of extra hard carbon-chromium steel in the vertical bearing assembly for the tone arm support in the PL-514.  You enjoy unusually high tone arm sensitivity - that all-important factor in accurate record-groove tracing - not only when your turntable is new, but after years of use. The arm itself has a long effective tracking length (221 mm ), thanks to its gentle S-curve shape.

 

Specifications

Drive System:  Belt-drive

Motor:  4-pole Synchronous

Turntable Platter:  Aluminum alloy die-cast

Platter Diameter:  320 mm

Speeds:  33-⅓ and 45 rpm

Wow and Flutter:  less than 0,055% (WRMS)

Signal-to-Noise Ratio:  more than 65 dB (DIN-B)

Tone Arm

Type:  Static-balance, S-shaped pipe arm

Effective Arm Length:  221 mm

Overhang:  15,5 mm

Tracking Error:  0,525 deg/in (0,21 deg./cm

Usable cartridge Weight:  4 g to 10 g

Power Requirements:  AC 110 - 130 V, 220 -240 V 60/60 Hz

Power Consumption:  10 W

Dimensions (W x H x D):  440 x 140 x 365 mm (17-5/16" x 5-1/2" x 14-3/8")

Weight:  7,5 kg (16 lb 8 oz)

 

Sota Sapphire turntable

Sota the belt-drive turntable.

There is no mystery about the function of the turntable. Its purpose is simplicity itself; to rotate at a fixed speed with maximum isolation from acoustic and mechanical feedback. Yet because of the extraordinary sensitivity of the stylus-groove onterference, and its position at the very source of signal creation, the simplicity of the function belies the difficulty of conception and execution.

The real mystery is why there are virtually no fully-engineered, fully-built, and musically legitimate turntables. And none is priced within the range of the majority of audiophiles.

To know how the Sota Sapphire Turntable was conceived and designed is to appreciate its integration of engineering, machanics, physics, and daily audio usage. The architect of the Sota Sapphire, responsible for the engineering and for the design, R.A. Herman, who brings his years of audio experience to the task. Armed with basic concepts and preliminary drawings, Herman collaborated with one of the country's leading audio specialists, D. Fletcher of Sumiko, Inc. With a background in experimental physics and years of intimate experience and testing of the very best cartridges and tone arms.

 

At Sota Industries , we approached the design of the Sota Sapphire Turntable not as an exercise to discover new cosmic scientific principles, but to combine known conceptions with imaginative execution in a more intimate way  than has hitherto been achieved. We claim no breakthroughs more profound or more esoteric than the idea of Dynamic Stability, the guiding principle of the Sota Sapphire … idea which dominates the creation of the Sota Sapphire Table, it is about this integity, and control of forces; the proper turntable must react in a predictable and mathematical fashion. What are called "third order resultant influences" are what cause time-domain and phase-domain irregularities and give tables of inferior quality their "colorations" and "sonic signature" . The issue is not naively to try eliminate every possible rection, but to determine the vectors of forces so that the system is prepared to deal with them so that they decay harmlessly and noiselessly.

 

The suspension

If there is one area in which the Sota Sapphire Turntable makes a fundamental contribution to the world of audio ,, it will be in the suspension/sub-assembly system. If there is one area that dramatically needs the assistance of Newtonian physics, it is here. The issue are inertia and isolation and the most beneficial distribution of inertia forces. We decided to break conventionand opt for a 4 point suspension because 4 points have greater dynamic stability  than 3 points, the Sota 4 pt. sub-assembly is much more difficult to excite mechanically. To reinforce this stability, we make the sub-assembly much more massive than normal, using more than 20 lb of lead and additional low resonant, rigid material. The enormous mass itself, unique to belt-drive turntables, maximizes inertial stability while the 4 pt. approach provides the balance of "mass loading". Mass-loading means that we have a consstantly-balanced mass system,no matter the weight of the tone arm. With a choice of variable weights, the Sota Sapphire is the only turntable to our knowledge which allows the user to maintain balance by adjusting for any specific tone arm.

 

The platter

The platter, itself a kind of mini-suspension system for the record, was designed as painstakingly as was the sub-assembly. The platter on the Sota Sapphire is a unified, integrated system. It begins with a one-piece casting made of a complex alloy selected for its mass, strength, and machining properties. Even though Q is already low, a special synthetic material makes upp the platter pad and guarantees total immunity from standing waves and ringing. We discovered that building the proper platter is only the first part. It is further necessary to make certain that each platter is optimally balanced for the particular bearing and table on which it will rotate. That is why we call our platter an "integrated" system. Each platter is individually balanced at the factory and shipped fitted to the bearing. It is not removable by the user because the platter and bearings are matched. Removal will be done only at the factory.

 

Evrything revolves around the bearing. It is the center, the heart, the very pivot of the system. As one classic table proves, if you have the bearings right, you will survive, even if the suspension, platter and motor are not of the same quality. The Sota bearing is inverted, which means that errors in machining are not multiplied by the length of the thrust shaft, which in our design doea not move. Located at the very center of gravity on th eplatter is the sapphire thrust plate. The thrust shaft ascends from the sub-assembly and is topped with the ball bearing held firmly in place. The sapphire disc balances the platter and rotates on the ball bearing. The thrust shaft becomes,, in effect, a platform for motion, not an agent of motion. "Throw-out error" practically vanishes and age takes little toll of the sapphire, second only in hardness to diamond. Unlike the commonplace steel tips, sapphire has a known crystalline structure, capable of being ground to 1 wavelength of light accuracy. It keep friction to the very minimum,it doesn't deform, it keeps the contact area extremely low and, finally,it has better wear characterictics than steel. In a word, it is the best material for the purpose.

 

Specifications

Motor;  Brushless DC Servo for high torque and extreme low noise

Suspension:  massive 20 lb, sub-assembly with 4-point system for ideal of dynamic stability and static balance. Center of gravity at the center of platter.

Platter:  heavyweight 11,2 lb, single-part cast alloy with compound damping. Designed for optimum fly-wheel effect and individually balanced

Bearing:  Thrust pad; sapphire dis accurate to 1 wavelength of light over diameter. Thrust point; hardened chrome/steel ball accurate to 1/10,000,000 inch

Transmission:  belt-drive using high-technology complex, low-tension belt.

Shaft:  Hardned steel, hand-mayched to sintered bronze sleeve.

Speeds:  33-1/3 and 45 rpm. Electronically switchable with fine tuning.

Rumble: less than -60 dB unweighted 9with ref. To 10 cm/sec, 1 kHz)

Wow and Flutter::  less than ,04% RMS

Suspension Frequency:  2,55 Hz

Dimensions (H x W x D):  7-1/2" x 20-1/2" x 16-1/2"

Weight:  20 kg (44 lbs)

 

Thorens TD-166C turntable

 

Despite its modest price, the TD-166C 2-speed transcription turntable is a Thorens in every sense of the word. It incorporates many advanced features, including: the new Thorens TP-11 Isotrack tonearm; anti-skating control; faster start-up with a new high-torque, 16-pole synchronous motor; precision damped pause/cue control; dynamically balanced 6,6 lb, 12-inch non-ferrus platter; unified suspension system ; 33-⅓ and 45 rpm speeds.

Hinged, tinted dust cover and contemporary-styled silver base, included in this Thorens unit combining price and value.

 

Specifications:

Drive System:  belt-drive

Motor:  16-pole two phase synchronous motor with slip clutch for instantaneous start

Speeds:  33-⅓ and 45 rpm, mechanical speed selection

Motor  Speed Control:  synchronized by line frequency

Tuntable Platter:  2,7 kg (6,0 lbs) zinc alloy dynamically balanced

Platter Diameter:  300 mm (12")

Wow and Flutter (DIN 45507):  less than 0,06%

Rumble

Unweighted :  -45 dB according to DIN 45539

Weighted :  -65 dB according to DIN 45539

Tone arm:  Interchangeable plug-in arm

Tonearm Length:  230 mm (9")

Effective Mass:  7,5 g

Stylus Overhang:  14,4 mm

Offset Angle:  22°

Lateral Tracking Error:  less than 0,18°/cm of radius

Skating Compensation:  by weight with nylon string

Stylus Pressure Appliance:  by counterweight offest

Horizontal Friction:  <30 mg

 Vertical Friction:  <30 mg

Fitting of Pick-up Cartridge:  for all standard 1/2" cartridge

Line Voltage:  110 - 125 V, AC 60 Hz

Power Consumption:  2,5 watts

Dimensions (W x D x H): 430 x 360 x 150 mm (17" x 14-3/16" x 6")

Weight:  9 kg (20 lbs)

BIC 960 turntable

The new BIC programmed Turntables are engineered to do things no other turntables can do. In the face of more demanding cartridge designs and critical new 4-channel discs, the BIC 960 appear at just the right moment.

The mechanism that turns your records and carries your cartridge has become an increasingly critical part of your audio system. More than ever before, today's turntable buyer is faced with a classic dilemma - Should I buy a single-play manual turntable for its playback superiority? Or - Should I buy an automatic for its superior record-handling capabilities?. Until now, he dilemma has remained.

British Industries Co., creator and builder of the new BIC turntables has been the major innovator in this field since 1936. no company has better credentials or greater experience with record plauback equipment in the components field. The best proof of that is the instruments which BIC now introduces; The 960 (and 980) unique turntables, they have been engineered to solve once and for all the "manual vs. automatic" dilemma.

They are belt-drive as opposed to all automatic changers which drive the platter via an intermediate idler wheel.

They are powered by a 24-pole, low speed (330 rpm) motor while most automatics use 4-pole, high rpm motors. In all three areas of function  - platter drive, tone arm system, and multiple play capabilities, the BIC turntables offer refinements and advances which set them apart from everything else in the market. As a matter of fact, several BIC turntable features are not be had on any other instrument at any price.

 

The BIC 960 is identical to its companion,the 980, except for the 980's electronic drive, pitch control, and lighted strobe . You have probaly alredy noticed its low profile. This is not an optical illusion or a styling trick. The 980 (and 960) are indeed as low and trim as they appear. This lack of bulk is your first clue that the BIC turntables are not merely manuals with automatic features added, that they are in fact "originals", designed from the start to be simple, as only sophisticated engineering can make them.

Moving parts found in conventional automatics have been eliminated right and left. In the process, potential sources of malfunction have disappeared. Potential sources of noise and vibration have also been eliminated.

 

Operating controls are grouped in a single program panel on the right side of the unit. To say that this panel brings new logic to the turntable and new refinement and simplicity to its operation, barely does it justice.

The tone arm incorporates several dramatic improvements which set it apart from all others.

And of course you have noticed at the bottom a cutaway drwing of the BIC platter which reveals the belt-drive mechanism. No other turntable which can play morethan a single record offers belt-drive and all its advantages. The drive system alone sets BIC turntables apart. But there's more.

 

The turntable are built entirely in the U.S.A made parts. They are built in BIC's own plant where all aspects of manufacturing are in BIC's hands. They are the first fine turntables of their type built in this country, and they meet come to expect only from imported equipment. Beyond what that means in technical terms, they do not come to you burdend with import duties or fluctuating exchange rates.

They are rugged. They are built of the best materials that can be had.

 

Specifications

Drive System

Motor:  300 rpm 24-pole synchronous , impedance protected

Drive: Long-life, precision ground, elastomer belt

Start-Up Time:  full speed in less than 1/3 of a revolution

Turntable Speeds:  33-1/3 and 45 rpm

Turntable Plater:  12-inch, non-ferrous, one-piece machined die cast, balanced turntable. Weight kinetically matched to motor and drive system

Rumble (DIN):  better than -65 dB

Wow and Flutter: (WRMS):  better than 0,05%

Tone Arm System

Construction:  Tubular aluminum tone arm,in machined gimbals, mounted on die cst platform by means of a machined brass shaft.

Pivot Arrangement: 

Vertical :  Twin needle bearings pivoting in hardened ball bearing races

Horizontal :  precision ground brass shaft moving atp a lateral ball bearing race.

Bearing Friction:  less than 5 mg (horizontal), 5 - 8 mg (vertical)

Pivot to Stylus Length:  216,2 mm

Lateral tracking Erroe (Max):  0,35°/in

Effective Tone Arm mass:  18 RMS

Tone Arm Resonance:  less than 9 Hz

Tone Arm Counterweight:  one piece machined die casting, with machined knurled band and elastomeric compliant resonance/isolation damper

Stylus Overhang:  adjustable with supplied gauge

Initial 15° Vertical Tracking Angle:  user adjustable by means of adjustment screw in cartridge shell to compensate for variation in cartridge height (gauge supplied with unit)

Manual/Auto 15° Compensator:  2-position lever in shell

Stylus Track Force Range:  0 - 4 gms in 0,25 gm , calibrated increments

Tracking Force Accuracy: within 0,1 gm from 1st to 6th record

Anti-Skating Stylus Mode Selector:  lever selector for conical or elliptical types

Anti-skating Adjustment Range:   0 - 4 gms in 0,25 gm , calibrated increments

Cueing System:  Damped both directions

Cueing Rate:  user adjustable approx. 1 - 3 seconds

Cartridge Shell:  male/female 4-pin gold-plated connectors secured by locating pin and knurled locking nut

Finger Lift:  Stainless stell professional type

Minimium Tripping Force:  less than 0,15 gms

Program System

Number of recirds programmable:  1 to 6

Playing Modes:  manual; Automatic; Single; Repeat Single up to 6 times; Multiple Play up to 6 ecords

Cycle Button: feather touch actuation of all automatic modes

Geberal

Record Size:  7 and 12 inches

Tone arm Wiring Capacities:  less than 20 pF/channel

Record Support:  Reliable 2 point system, with safety support platform for automatic record handling

Shock Mounts:  4 elastomeric mounts, computer designed for the turntable

Power Requirements:  105 - 130 VAC 60 Hz , 50 Hz adaptability

Shipping Weight:  12 lbs

BIC 980 turntable

 

The BIC 980 represent a considerable design achievement. For possibly the first time, engineers have embarked on a turntable design project unhampered by preconceived notions or existing peces of hardware. As a result, each of the turntable's three operation systems i tone arm, programmer and drive are new.

 

The Motor

The 24-pole, 300 rpm motor which power BIC turntables differs from motors used in automatic turntables. Its low rpm and smooth flow of power tends to eliminate the instability and vibration which create playback distortion in automatic turntables.

The BIC turntable motorat spdeed of 300 rpm it does not generate the heat/friction of high revving motors and its vibration frequencies fall below the audible range. With this low speed motor, a larger pulley can be used, minimizing tolerance and speed variation problems presented by smaller pulleys in conventional machines. The BIC motor is a synchronous unit which lock into the AC line frequency (or to its own electronically generated reference signal in the case of the 980). The coil are completely shielded, in order to keep dust and dirt may cause noise in other parts of the system

 

The Drive System

This mechanism reduces the speed of the motor shaft and transfers its turning force to the platter. Automatic turntables accomplish this through an intermediate idler wheel. BIC turntables use a belt-drive system which, until now, has been found only in fine manual and single play turntables.

 

Solid State Electronics

In the 980,speed accuracy is maintained and variable pitch adjustment is controlled by solid state circuitry. In conventional units, pitch control is accomplished through far less stable mechanical linkages.

The BIC turntable motor is a sophisticated, 24-pole synchronous unit which locks in to power line frequency, rather than line voltage. While line frequency is much more stable than voltage, it is still subject to variation in extreme cases. Therefore, the BIC 980 features a solid state electronic circuit which performs two stabilizing functions. It incorporates a Wien Bridge oscillator which generates an electronic signal that is more accurate and consistent than AC line frequency. It contains a variable speed control which allows the user to change the pitch electronically, with perfect accuracy. Electronic circuitry is the most reliable technology for assuring perfect speed stabilization. In the BIC 980 the solid state circuit board does away with mechanical pitch control linkages found in the majority of automatic turntables which invariably deteriorate with age.

Pitch Control

Pitch can be varied ±3% on the BIC 980. because the change is accomplished electronically, the control knob can be moved effortlessly. This eliminates the danger of jarring the machine while changing pitch and damaging the record or stylus.

Illuminated Stroboscope

The lighted strobe scale is fixed to the underside of the turntable and can be read easily through a window next to the control knob while a record is being played. Until now, the electronic circuitry which controls speed and pitch has been a feature of only the most sophisticated manual turntables. It has not ben available on any automatic turntable with multiple play capability. It is the one important feature distinguishing the BIC 980 from the 960. oterwise the two BIC turntables are identical.

 

The Tone Arm System

The tone arm and all controls are designed to provide exceptional performance rom the most sophisticated cartridges. They eliminate tracking force variations in multiple play - one of the major drawbacks of automatic units. They permit the user to adjust the cueing rate - a feature currently found on no other turntable.

Anti-Skating and Stylus Force Adjustment

Most of the leading manual, and automatic players have two separate scales to adjust anti-skating - one for conical and one for elliptical styli. Often these cales are difficult to read. The anti-skate controls are generally clumsy and difficult to grasp. The mechanism which makes the anti-skate compensation is normally a single spring, with a separate scale and adjustment for tracking force; this scale may or may not be positioned in direct relationship to the anti-skate control. Ideally, both controls should be lockated side by side for convenient and precise adjustment.

The tone arm is mounted on needle bearings in a precision gimbal. Atop the gimbal ring, a single calibrated scale "reads out" both anti-skate and stylus force adjustments.flanking the scale are two easy-to-grip, clearly legible control tabs. They are simple to manipulare, either one at a time or in tandem. The control lever establishing the correct setting for conical or elliptical styli is on the program panel.whenthis lever is moved to the position of the corresponding stylus type,the calibrated scale on the gimbal ring shows precise anti-skate setting.

Tracking Variation

When a series of records is played on a changer, tracking force may vary as much as.6grams from first record to last. To compensate, most changers are designed so that the middle record tracks with the correct force. Single play performance becomes a vicim of this averaging.

The pivotry of the BIC tone arm has been engineered to eliminate this compromise. Variation in tracking force from first to sixth record in multiple play is less than 0,1 gram.

 

The Cartridge Shell

This is a critical link in a tone arm system. The ultimate performance of sensitive new stereo and 4-channel cartridge/stylus combinations depends on it. The BIC cartridge shell can be fine-tuned for optimum tracking. No cartridge shell on any turntable has its advantages.

 

The Program System

This is a major innovation in turntable design. It gives the owner 7 possible manual and single-play automatic options. No other turntable offers such flexibility in the single play mode, yet simplifing the mechanism rather than making it more complex.

Not too long ago a single play turntable was the last word in playback performance. No changer or turntable with automatic features could stand close comparison with a quality manual unit. Today the situation has changed dramatically.

BIC programmed Turntables present the most critical high-fidelity enthusiast with systems-engineered instruments that meet (and in some cases exceed) the standard set by fine manual turntables. At the same time, without any sacrifice in performance, they include some very desirable automatic capabilities.

 

Specifications

Drive System

Motor:  300 rpm 24-pole synchronous , impedance protected

Drive: Long-life, precision ground, elastomer belt

Pitch Adjustment:  Electronically controlled approx. ±3%

Pitch Control Monitoring:  built-in neon bulb lighted strobe

Solid State Electronic Motor Power Supply:  stable Wien Bridge oscillator driving quadrature related power amplifiers

Start-Up Time:  full speed in less than 1/3 of a revolution

Turntable Speeds:  33-1/3 and 45 rpm

Turntable Plater:  12-inch, non-ferrous, one-piece machined die cast, balanced turntable. Weight kinetically matched to motor and drive system

Rumble (DIN):  better than -65 dB

Wow and Flutter: (WRMS):  better than 0,05%

Tone Arm System

Construction:  Tubular aluminum tone arm,in machined gimbals, mounted on die cst platform by means of a machined brass shaft.

Pivot Arrangement: 

Vertical :  Twin needle bearings pivoting in hardened ball bearing races

Horizontal :  precision ground brass shaft moving atp a lateral ball bearing race.

Bearing Friction:  less than 5 mg (horizontal), 5 - 8 mg (vertical)

Pivot to Stylus Length:  216,2 mm

Lateral tracking Erroe (Max):  0,35°/in

Effective Tone Arm mass:  18 RMS

Tone Arm Resonance:  less than 9 Hz

Tone Arm Counterweight:  one piece machined die casting, with machined knurled band and elastomeric compliant resonance/isolation damper

Stylus Overhang:  adjustable with supplied gauge

Initial 15° Vertical Tracking Angle:  user adjustable by means of adjustment screw in cartridge shell to compensate for variation in cartridge height (gauge supplied with unit)

Manual/Auto 15° Compensator:  2-position lever in shell

Stylus Track Force Range:  0 - 4 gms in 0,25 gm , calibrated increments

Tracking Force Accuracy: within 0,1 gm from 1st to 6th record

Anti-Skating Stylus Mode Selector:  lever selector for conical or elliptical types

Anti-skating Adjustment Range:   0 - 4 gms in 0,25 gm , calibrated increments

Cueing System:  Damped both directions

Cueing Rate:  user adjustable approx. 1 - 3 seconds

Cartridge Shell:  male/female 4-pin gold-plated connectors secured by locating pin and knurled locking nut

Finger Lift:  Stainless stell professional type

Minimium Tripping Force:  less than 0,15 gms

Program System

Number of recirds programmable:  1 to 6

Playing Modes:  manual; Automatic; Single; Repeat Single up to 6 times; Multiple Play up to 6 ecords

Cycle Button: feather touch actuation of all automatic modes

Geberal

Record Size:  7 and 12 inches

Tone arm Wiring Capacities:  less than 20 pF/channel

Record Support:  Reliable 2 point system, with safety support platform for automatic record handling

Shock Mounts:  4 elastomeric mounts, computer designed for the turntable

Power Requirements:  105 - 130 VAC 60 Hz , 50 Hz adaptability

Shipping Weight:  12 lbs