Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- Solid and heavy MDF plinth
- Good quality built-in phono amplifier for MM cartridges
- VTA adjustment and tonearm height adjustments, useful for cartridge upgrades
- Smooth, dynamic, and plentiful in the bottom end, with a midrange that doesn't present resonance or colorations
- Stable aluminum platter
Product Considerations
- Knob to switch between 33 and 45 rpm is positioned too close to the cartridge, requiring caution during operation
- Reviewed TT4 was slightly fast, which could affect the pitch of the music, and the speed is adjustable, but the adjustment trimmers are located in an uncomfortable position behind the bottom plate
- Manual doesn't include information about speed adjustment or VTA adjustment
- Standard felt mat that comes with TT4 leaves some dust residuals on records
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- TT-4 SE (Special Edition) and Rega Planar 3 50th Anniversary are similarly priced, and the TT-4 SE has similar wow & flutter
Takeaway: The TT-4 is an affordable turntable with some high-end features that provides pleasing listening sessions. It has a balanced and clean tone, making it suitable for many music genres.
Compared to their other products
We think it's helpful to understand how this product fits into the brand's full lineup (below). To learn more about these products, visit the brand's page.
Fenris A4
- Positioning: Entry-level active speaker designed for approachable quality and simplicity.
- Description: Offers solid digital amplification with driver tuning aimed at clear sound in smaller rooms. Compared to other models in the lineup, it lacks some advanced connectivity and premium driver enhancements, making it ideal for buyers with basic functionality needs and a tighter budget.
Forte A55 WiFi
- Positioning: Mid-range active speaker with built-in WiFi streaming for modern connectivity.
- Description: Integrates wireless connectivity with reliable digital amplification to deliver clear audio while enabling smart-device streaming. When compared to the standard Forte and Fenris models, its added WiFi feature sets it apart, though it offers fewer high-end driver refinements than the flagship option.
Forte A55 MK2
- Positioning: Mid-tier active speaker blending robust performance with multiple connectivity options.
- Description: Features fully digital amplification with separate channels for tweeters and woofers to provide crisp, detailed sound. Relative to the Fenris series and the WiFi variant, it offers greater wired connectivity and refined driver technology, while still positioning below the flagship in overall technical sophistication.
Fenris A55
- Positioning: Upper mid-range active speaker focused on acoustic clarity and refined sound performance.
- Description: Delivers enhanced digital amplification with carefully tuned drivers to create a richer sound stage. In contrast to the Forte series, it emphasizes pure sound quality over extensive connectivity options.
Forte A5 MK2
- Positioning: Flagship bookshelf active speaker offering premium technology and high-end audio performance.
- Description: Provides exceptional digital amplification paired with advanced custom drivers for a superior dynamic range and sound fidelity. Compared to the lower-tier models, it delivers the most refined acoustic performance and connectivity features.
Read the reviews
TT-4 Special Edition
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Manufacturer's notes
- Speeds: 33/45 rpm
- Pickup: Moving Magnet (Ortofon 2M Bronze)
- Plate: Aluminium
- Drive: Belt
- Plinth: MDF
- Platter Weight: 1.73 kg
- Wow And Flutter: 0.2%
- Built-in RIAA: Yes
- Tone Arm: 8.8" Tone Arm in Carbon Fiber / Aluminium
- Effective Arm Mass: 16.2 grams
- Rotation Speed Variation: ±2%
- Finish: Black High-Gloss Lacquer
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 42.0 x 14.2 x 35.5 cm
- Weight: 7.2 kg
Our take on the brand
Used
Argon Audio
What if you spend a bit more?
In 1965, the Thorens TD 150, an inconspicuous little turntable, came on the market and thus started a technical revolution in record player manufacturing. For the first time, a spring-suspended sub-chassis with an inner platter driven by a flat belt was used in a mass-produced unit. The principle proved to be very successful and found many imitators in the years since.
Like its famous predecessor, the new Thorens TD 1500, which will be operated purely manually, features a sub-chassis that decouples the turntable and tonearm shelf from the motor and frame by means of three conical springs. In contrast to the TD 150, these springs can be adjusted from above through corresponding holes in the platter, which makes correct adjustment much easier.
The speed of the DC motor is electronically monitored by an incremental encoder and deviations, e.g. caused by a broom, are automatically corrected. This also enables very good wow and flutter values. As a real unique selling point in its class, the TD 1500 has XLR outputs in addition to the usual pair of RCA jacks, thus enabling true balanced operation with a suitable MC cartridge.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Improved clarity and detail retrieval...
- Superior TP 150 tonearm with better build quality and adjustability...
- Easy to set up and adjust, with user-friendly features like the adjustable springs...
- Superior speed stability compared to older Thorens models...
- Includes both RCA and balanced XLR outputs, providing connectivity options...
Product Considerations
- Sensitive to footfall, requiring a stable placement or additional support...
- The stock power cord is considered underwhelming...
- Some reviewers felt that the bass wasn't as tight as it could be, though still solid...
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the TD 150 (Original), the TD 1500 offers superior build quality and a much better tonearm...
- Compared to the Rega Planar 8, the TD 1500 does not move music along with the speed of a Rega Planar 8...
Takeaway: The Thorens TD 1500 is a well-built and refined turntable that pays homage to its classic predecessor while offering modern improvements in sound and functionality. It is a great choice for audiophiles who appreciate the Thorens legacy and want a high-performing turntable with a touch of vintage appeal.
Video review
Our take on the brand
The X8 - Xtension 9 and 10 within reach
The X8 is our most affordable mass-loaded turntable yet. Positioned neatly between the X2 and Xtension 9, the X8 adopts and breaks down its bigger siblings' features to make mass-loaded high-end design principles as accessible as never before.
Massive 5.1kg platter
The X8 offers a heavy, TPE damped mass-loaded platter precision lathed from a single aluminium block and finely balanced. On the Xtension 9 and 10 you cannot really play around with using different mats due to the glued on vinyl top. The X8 comes with a standard felt mat, also allowing you to experiment with different material mats in the future and tailor the sound to your taste.
Ceramic tipped, magnetically supported inverted bearing
A neodymium magnet decreases the load on the ceramic tipped bearing. Considering the massively heavy platter, this leads to a smoothly rotating base for your vinyl records and perfect speed stability.
The X8 inherited the massive MDF chassis and the top-of-the-line Pro-Ject 9cc EVO carbon tonearm from its larger siblings. The height-adjustable X8 features machined aluminium feet. The TPE damping technology in the feet effectively decouples the X8 from the surface it is placed on. The feet are a great choice for a more budget orientated turntable as they are faster and easier to set up than magnetic feet on the X9/10, and also require less maintenance.
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality with a heavy MDF plinth, a machined aluminum platter, and a quality finish
- The 9cc EVO carbon tonearm is known for its stiffness, adjustability (VTA, azimuth), and performance
- Mass loading (heavy plinth and platter), TPE damping, and adjustable aluminum feet minimize vibration and resonance
- The inverted ceramic ball bearing with magnetic support ensures smooth and stable platter rotation
- The X8 allows for a balanced connection to a phono preamplifier, which can reduce noise and improve sound quality
Product Considerations
- The included cartridge may be a limiting factor for some users, and upgrading is often recommended
- To take full advantage of the balanced connection capabilities, a separate balanced phono stage and a DIN to XLR cable need to be purchased
- The X8 is a completely manual turntable, lacking auto-return or auto-stop functions
- Some reviewers found the location of the power button underneath the plinth slightly clunky
- Some users found the finger lift on the tonearm uncomfortable or insecure to use
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The X8 uses the same tonearm and bearing assembly as the more expensive Pro-Ject Extension 9, with differences primarily in the feet (TPE damped vs magnetic levitation) and platter (bare aluminum vs recycled vinyl mat)
- The X8 has a superior platter, bearing and tonearm compared to the Pro-Ject X2
Takeaway: The Pro-Ject X8 is a well-built turntable that offers high-end features and performance. Its solid construction and quality components make it a great choice for vinyl enthusiasts looking to upgrade their listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Giglio sums up the history and ideas of Gold Note, in what is to all intents and purposes considered one of the company’s best creations: it reinterprets the classic turntable shape using high-quality materials and technical solutions that combine respect for tradition and cutting-edge technology. The plinth design is inspired by the catenary curve, one of the great inventions of the Renaissance, giving it greater structural rigidity and offering a surprisingly precise musical experience.
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Gorgeous looks and solid build, reminiscent of great belt-driven decks from the 1980s
- Stability akin to a direct-drive unit
- The plinth structure adds mass and rigidity without introducing excessive resonance
- Delivers exceptional performance that translates to remarkable sonic accuracy (low wow and flutter, rumble)
- Melodious nature, with excellent control and musical depth
Product Considerations
- Limited anti-skate adjustment
- Stubby tonearm finger lift
- Careful setup is required for optimal performance
- Size may require substantial shelf space
- Some cartridges require a higher amount of anti-skate
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Recalled an old Linn Sondek LP12 from the 1980s in tonally rich and melodious signature, the focus is on the rhythm rather than the drama
Takeaway: The Giglio turntable is a great choice for people who love music and want a beautiful, well-made piece of equipment that sounds amazing and brings out the best in their record collection. It's an investment in excellent music listening that will bring enjoyment for years.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Striving for perfection is one of the guiding principles at Clearaudio. All products from the high-end manufacturer in Erlangen embody this DNA. This includes the concept, which was introduced in 2009 and has since been very successful with over 20,000 units sold. As an entry-level package, the concept already created a revolutionary sound package with an undisputed price, design, and performance ratio, featuring a specially developed tonearm and cartridge. After more than 10 years of consistency, the best gets even better, and the concept undergoes several updates under the new name concept Signature. The fundamental idea behind concept Signature remains as purposeful and user-friendly as its predecessor, as all parameters of the individual components are already perfectly set at the factory.
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Ready-made turntable that is perfectly adjusted at the factory and ready to play at a high level
- Features Tacho Speed Control (TSC) that monitors and corrects the platter speed, recalibrating itself to account for temperature and belt tension
- Offers various customization options for tonearms and phono cartridges
- The new model has a coreless design, with a flat belt transmitting power to a sub-platter made of solid aluminum, whose spindle is mounted in a sintered bronze bearing
- Opens up an almost gigantic soundstage, pushing the lower registers with almost regal sovereignty
Product Considerations
- The hard power switch is located on the back, right next to the 12-volt input
- The reviewer suggests that the Signature plays a little too tidy and is missing "snottiness of Gallagher"
- The reviewer suggests ordering the larger power supply unit at the same time as buying the turntable, because it is a good investment
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Clearaudio Innovation Basic: The Innovation Basic distinguishes itself with slightly more space, definition, and clarity in complex passages
- Vs Concept active: The new Concept had the upper hand, because it had more to offer in terms of fine dynamics, worked with significantly more precision and reproduced the music with more "air" overall
Takeaway:
The Clearaudio Concept Signature is a well-crafted, German-engineered turntable that offers precise speed control and a high level of sonic detail. It is suitable for those seeking a complete, customizable package that is easy to set up and delivers high-end performance.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What else competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Adjustable metal feet, a heavier damped aluminum platter, and VTA adjustment for cartridge upgrades.
- Upgraded tonearm with carbon fiber and aluminum for better damping and higher effective mass.
- Well-built, and parts feel sturdy.
- A mildly warm and smooth midrange presentation that complements vocals, acoustic guitars, and string instruments.
- A well-balanced-sounding turntable.
Product Considerations
- Does not have a built-in phono preamp.
- As a belt-driven turntable, the belt may need occasional replacement.
- Lacks convenience features like auto start/stop and tone arm return.
- The anti-skate weight installation was kind of a pain.
- Bass response is not as agile, detailed, or dynamic as some other cartridges, like the Ortofon 2M Blue.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs U-Turn Audio Orbit: Better built and uses more robust materials.
- Vs Fluance RT85: The Pro may use nicer components and have a more upscale finish, but the RT85 performs better.
- Vs Pro-Ject Debut EVO: The midrange is more relaxed, where the EVO sounds like it's trying too hard to perform.
- Vs Rega RP3: A wider soundstage and is sweeter in the upper mids.
- Vs Roksan Attessa: The midrange and treble don't reach the heights of the Roksan, but the bass has more weight.
Takeaway: The Debut Pro is a well-built turntable that offers an audiophile-grade experience, making it a great option for enjoying a record collection. Its design allows for future upgrades.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Smooth and easy to use, making listening to records very accessible
- Delivers a rich and rhythmic performance
- Comprehensive set of features including built-in phono stage and Bluetooth connectivity
- Impressive sound quality, particularly with vocals and detail retrieval
- Classy and solid build quality
- Built-in phono stage makes it more versatile and easier to integrate into a wider range of systems
- Excellent pitch stability thanks to the direct-drive motor
- Easy setup
- High-quality cartridge included (Alva MC)
Product Considerations
- Bluetooth operation can be erratic or offer a lower quality sound compared to wired connections
- Some rivals offer more excitement and dynamic expression
- Limited upgrade scope
- The detachable headshell has slight free-play in the arm bearings
- Performance is better with a wired connection
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rega Planar 6: The Rega Planar 6 offers more rhythmic drive and dynamic expression, while the ALVA TT V2 offers convenience
- Vs Pro-Ject Xtension 10: The Alva matches the more expensive Pro-Ject deck for precision and focus, but the Pro-Ject gives a bigger, more voluminous sound that's slightly more open and less constrained
- Vs Technics SL1200GR: The Alva TT V2 is less effortlessly propulsive than the Technics
- Vs Pro-Ject Classic Evo: The Alva TT V2 has a more flowing presentation
Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2 is a thoughtfully designed and well-made turntable, offering a great balance of convenience and performance, thanks to its built-in features like a phono stage and Bluetooth connectivity, making it easy to enjoy vinyl records without fuss. It is a great option for those new to vinyl or wanting a high-quality, user-friendly experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Easy to setup and use
- Has auto-stop with auto-tonearm lift capability
- Features a rumble-free, quartz-stabilized direct-drive motor
- Solid build quality
- Comes pre-mounted with an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge from the factory
Product Considerations
- The arm does not lift up very high
- Some reviewers wished the finish was more matte than gloss
- The included phono stage is merely okay, an external one is recommended for better sound quality
- The lead-out grooves on some records were too far from the spindle to trigger the auto-stop feature
- The dynamics are more safe than engaging
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Reviewers preferred the Dual over the Pro-Ject Debut Pro because of the 2M Blue cartridge and direct-drive convenience
- A reviewer preferred the Dual over the Fluance RT85 for its built-in phono preamp, better speed control, direct-drive, and auto-stop
- Both the Dual and the Technics SL-1500C are direct drive tables, but the Dual gives you more for your money because of the cartridge
- Rega Planar 3/Elys 2 rivals offer greater subtlety and more engaging dynamics and rhythmic drive
Takeaway: The Dual CS618Q is a well-rounded turntable that is easy to use and offers good features like direct drive and auto-lift. The sound is balanced and clear.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The SL-1500C is easy to set up and use, making it a no-fuss option for beginners.
- Features a robust, well-engineered build quality and hefty, inert aluminum platter that rejects resonance.
- Includes a built-in phono stage that's considered very good and switchable, offering flexibility with different audio systems.
- It has precise timing and dynamics, sounding alive and expressive with sharp focus and energetic delivery.
- Features an auto-lift function that can be switched on or off for user convenience.
Product Considerations
- The tonearm lifting mechanism isn't as sturdy as the SL-1200, and could be improved.
- Some reviewers feel the stock Ortofon 2M Red cartridge may not be the best match, and recommend upgrades.
- While the built-in phono stage is good, dedicated outboard phono preamps can provide a significant improvement in sound quality.
- Some reviewers feel that the look isn't audiophile enough, because it retains the look of a DJ table.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rega Planar 3: The Rega is subtler and more insightful, but the SL-1500C is crisper with better-defined leading edges and better bass.
- Vs MoFi StudioDeck: The SL-1500C offers a slight sonic shift in focus to upper register details and feels faster, while the MoFi has greater weight and richer timbre.
Takeaway: The Technics SL-1500C is a well-built, easy-to-use turntable that provides a great vinyl listening experience thanks to its robust design and precise sound. It's a great option for those wanting a fuss-free turntable with a built-in phono stage, with room for upgrades in the future.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The basic X2 belt driven design offers three speeds, including a round belt supplied specifically for 78rpm play
- Electronic speed control at 33.3, 45, and 78 RPM is provided
- A 9-inch carbon/aluminum tonearm, which allows for VTA and azimuth adjustments, and an almost 5 pound, 1.18-inch thick acrylic platter are included
- A magnetically fixed tonearm cradle ensures the security of the arm
- Options and choices are offered with both single-ended and mini-XLR balanced sockets
Product Considerations
- Partial disassembly is required to change the rubber drive belt in order to use the 78rpm speed
- The acrylic platter means you should not place a mat on top of it, otherwise you are fighting what the platter does best—draining vibration to lower the noise floor
- Potential buyers won't necessarily use it with the Darlington Labs S3 B, as it is not included when purchasing the product, only the X2 B turntable
- It ships with a moving-magnet cartridge that is intended for a single-ended connection
- Some have noted that you may want to consider an external stylus downforce gauge due to the difficulty in achieving the zero balance of the arm
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The X2 B's tonearm tube is a touch wider than the X1
- Compared to the Thorens TD 160 HD, the Pro-Ject had a more powerful motor
- The X2 B offers an excellent package for a consumer looking for a mid-tier 'table, compared to the Roksan Attessa turntable
- The Pro-Ject X2 B goes from being a very good turntable to a rather exceptional table that can compete with some tables in the $2,000 to $3,000 range, compared to the Debut PRO
Takeaway: The X2 is a versatile turntable that gives you options for balanced or unbalanced connections, plus it's made with good quality parts. The X2 offers upgrade options and choices over time.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- Solid and heavy MDF plinth
- Good quality built-in phono amplifier for MM cartridges
- VTA adjustment and tonearm height adjustments, useful for cartridge upgrades
- Smooth, dynamic, and plentiful in the bottom end, with a midrange that doesn't present resonance or colorations
- Stable aluminum platter
Product Considerations
- Knob to switch between 33 and 45 rpm is positioned too close to the cartridge, requiring caution during operation
- Reviewed TT4 was slightly fast, which could affect the pitch of the music, and the speed is adjustable, but the adjustment trimmers are located in an uncomfortable position behind the bottom plate
- Manual doesn't include information about speed adjustment or VTA adjustment
- Standard felt mat that comes with TT4 leaves some dust residuals on records
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- TT-4 SE (Special Edition) and Rega Planar 3 50th Anniversary are similarly priced, and the TT-4 SE has similar wow & flutter
Takeaway: The TT-4 is an affordable turntable with some high-end features that provides pleasing listening sessions. It has a balanced and clean tone, making it suitable for many music genres.
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