Part 1: Iconic turntables (which one makes it to our listening room?)

Recent questions

• Why are vinyl and turntables making a comeback?

  Due to a resurgence in analog technology, vinyl and turntables are gaining popularity. Many people worldwide are purchasing records, LPs, and vinyl for their unique sound quality and nostalgic appeal. Professional recording studios are also incorporating studio tape recorders, recording at high speeds, to capture the warmth and richness of analog sound. This renewed interest has led to the creation of videos discussing iconic turntables and their impact on music reproduction, highlighting the versatility and innovative designs of classic models like the Garrard 301, Thorens TD160, and Acoustic Research XA. The focus on analog technology in music and photography has sparked a renewed appreciation for the quality construction and performance of vintage turntables, driving the resurgence in vinyl and turntable culture.

• What are some iconic turntables in history?

  Several iconic turntables have left a lasting impact on the music industry. The Garrard 301, known for its versatility in playing different record speeds, was popular among radio broadcasters. The Thorens TD160 revolutionized turntable design with its three-point suspension system, while the Acoustic Research XA set new standards for music reproduction with its innovative design. The Lenco L75 gained popularity for its quality construction and performance, and the Pioneer PL-12D from the 1970s was user-friendly with speed adjustment and queuing features. The Transcriptor Hydraulic Reference influenced turntable design with its advanced features, and the Sondek LP12 emphasized the importance of the source for sound quality. The Riga P3 defied industry norms by focusing on reducing mass and vibrations for enhanced performance at an affordable price, becoming an iconic turntable in the process.

• How did the Riga P10 revolutionize turntable design?

  The Riga P10 revolutionized turntable design by eliminating unnecessary components to focus on exceptional music reproduction. By reducing mass and unwanted vibrations, the Riga P10 enhanced performance at an affordable price, defying industry norms and setting a new standard for turntable engineering. This approach prioritized sound quality and clarity, leading to the recognition of the Riga P10 as one of the best turntables available. The emphasis on simplicity and precision in design allowed the Riga P10 to stand out in a market where massive constructions were becoming popular, appealing to those seeking high-quality engineering and unique designs in their turntables.

• What is the significance of the three-point suspension system in turntables?

  The three-point suspension system in turntables, featured in models like the Thorens TD160, Acoustic Research XA, and Sondek LP12, plays a crucial role in enhancing sound quality and performance. By isolating the turntable from external vibrations and disturbances, the three-point suspension system minimizes interference and resonance, allowing for more accurate music reproduction. This design innovation ensures that the stylus can track the record grooves with precision, resulting in a clearer, more detailed sound output. The three-point suspension system has become a hallmark of high-end turntables, emphasizing the importance of stability and isolation in achieving optimal sound quality.

• How did the focus on analog technology impact the music industry?

  The renewed focus on analog technology, particularly in the form of vinyl records and turntables, has had a significant impact on the music industry. This resurgence has led to a growing appreciation for the warm, rich sound quality of analog recordings, prompting many people worldwide to purchase records and vinyl for their nostalgic appeal. Professional recording studios are incorporating analog equipment like studio tape recorders to capture the unique characteristics of analog sound. The emphasis on analog technology has also sparked discussions about the differences between analog and digital sound quality, with many enthusiasts praising the authenticity and depth of analog recordings. Overall, the resurgence of analog technology has revitalized interest in vintage audio equipment and highlighted the enduring appeal of classic turntables in the modern music landscape.