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
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Elegant simplicity hides engineering precision and effortless construction
- Sound has abundant authority, scads of detail and is audibly neutral
- A neutral platform allows one to hear its accompanying tone arm and cartridge
- Great build quality
- Provides long term listening pleasure
- (Connectivity Options)
Product Considerations
- Motor placement is critical to achieving the correct speed
- Speed stability issues can be noticeable on instruments with long sustains
- Doesn't come with a lid, increasing the possibility of feedback into the turntable stylus from the sound transmitted through the air
- No way to level the 'table, so the platform must be levelable
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Versus the Rega P3, the Ingenium sits far enough to make it into the mid part of the mid-priced turntable category, while Rega P3 sits a rung below with the upper level of budget spinners
- Versus the Rega RP6 (with Exact cartridge), Ingenium produces a more full and more interesting bass than the Rega RP6
Takeaway: The Ingenium is a well-built and easy to use turntable with a minimalist design. It delivers great sound and is a serious entry point into the world of audiophile listening.
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Ingenium
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Manufacturer details
Specifications
DRIVE:
BELT DRIVE
SPEEDS:
33.3 & 45.0 RPM
PLATTER MASS:
2.5KG
BEARING:
INVERTED STAINLESS STEEL
THRUST POINT:
TUNGSTEN CARBIDE/SAPPHIRE
SUSPENSION:
ELASTOMER
TONEARM:
AVID TA-1
CARTRIDGE:
AVID-CA1
MOTOR:
12mNm AC synchronous
VOLTAGE INPUT:
100-240VAC 50/60Hz 4 Watts Max.
DIMENSIONS:
370 x 305 x 130mm (WxDxH overall)
NET WEIGHT:
5.9KG (13LB)
Ingenium Plug&Play builds on its predecessor, retaining many features, making some aesthetic improvements and a more straightforward installation. Complete with quality fitted tonearm and cartridge, it is ready to use within ten minutes.... really Plug&Play
engineered quality
Sharing the same design philosophy and features from our more expensive designs, Ingenium Plug&Play has true audiophile credentials and an engineered quality.
Our unique sapphire bearing and clamping system, which efficiently channels unwanted vibrations away from the record to the chassis, reduces the background noise of the record itself, so there is clarity to the music, the performance not vailed but vivid and transparent.
Reassuringly AVID
Isolating the turntable is critical to maintain low coloration and we have employed the same optimised elastomer used in our Diva range, giving excellent mechanical isolation of the playing surface, resulting in better information retrieval and resolution.
Ingenium Plug&Play opens the door to quality audiophile reproduction, without the feeling its "just another recor...
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- AVID's design philosophy revolves around minimizing unwanted noise and vibrations by using rigid, heavily damped, proprietary materials for the body and yokes of their cartridges, turntables, and tonearms.
- Neutrality is a recurring theme, with Avid products aiming for an "utterly neutral" sonic signature to provide a blank canvas for other components and recordings to shine.
- AVID turntables and cartridges are designed to be relatively insensitive to their environment, not requiring exotic racks or dedicated supports, suggesting their designs handle vibrations effectively.
Select products
Ingenium-turntable
- Positioning: The entry-level model aimed at budget-conscious users.
- Description: Offers a reliable belt drive mechanism and basic isolation features that help deliver clear sound in smaller rooms. In comparison to the other models, it provides essential performance without advanced engineering details for those who need simple functionality at a lower cost.
Diva-II-SP-turntable
- Positioning: A mid-range model that builds on the entry-level design with enhanced mechanical features.
- Description: Introduces an improved suspension system and refined tonearm design that help boost tracking precision and stability over the Ingenium. Compared to other products in the lineup, it offers a balanced step up in engineering for medium-sized setups.
Volvere-turntable
- Positioning: A mid-to-high tier option focused on greater mechanical stability and refined performance.
- Description: Uses an upgraded motor control and enhanced isolation measures that result in steadier operation and improved sound reproduction. In contrast to the Ingenium and Diva-II-SP models, its superior build quality and technical improvements suit buyers looking for a noticeable upgrade in performance and precision.
Acutus-reference
- Positioning: A high-end reference model designed for dedicated audiophile listening environments.
- Description: Features precision machining and an innovative motor system that markedly reduce vibration and enhance accurate tracking, setting it apart from the lower-tier products. Compared to the Ingenium, Diva-II-SP, and Volvere models, it offers advanced isolation and refined control.
Acutus-reference-mono
- Positioning: The flagship model with the highest level of engineering refinement in the lineup.
- Description: Features a bespoke mono-block design that significantly improves channel separation and minimizes interference, distinguishing it from all other models. Compared to the Acutus-reference and the rest of the range, it provides the most sophisticated circuitry and tonearm system.
Our take on the brand
Look inside the brand
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
What's your approach to customer support?
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
What other products pair best with yours?
Used
AVIDHIFI
What if you spend more?
Sharing the design philosophy and key elements found in our more expensive designs, far from being hamstrung by compromise as many 'cost-down' turntables, Diva II is engineered holistically – each part designed specifically to contribute to an overall performance which is quite simply remarkable both in value and absolute terms.
Detail exposé
The foundation of the Diva II is an ultra-rigid, one piece aluminium casting. The arm and platter are mounted to this using a sapphire bearing and tight clamping system. The Diva II system of mechanical isolation, efficiently channels unwanted vibrations away from the record into the rigid chassis, keeping your favourite recordings vibrant and with every detail exposed.
Design Upgrades
Evolution of its designs is what keeps AVID at the forefront of vinyl reproduction. Upgraded from its original design, the platter is precision machined aluminium with a composite cork mat, in common with our higher models. The use of this platter coupled with the softer surface material ensures an impedance mismatch with the record and, with the aid of the clamp, reduces unwanted vibrations entering the platter. The triple-layered suspension offers exceptional isolation against unwanted acoustic feedback or ground-borne vibration. Music is open and clear without the veiling of the sound that you would associate with less capable designs.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Shares the aesthetic and many of the key elements of the more expensive Avid hifi models.
- Keeps surface noise well at bay, even with slightly worn LPs.
- Produces a vibrant sound.
- Has strong bass.
Product Considerations
- Balance may turn off some listeners.
- Lacks the dynamics to put it among the contenders in this price range.
- Timing is reasonable, if not totally enthralling.
- Imaging could be stronger.
- The coarsely threaded spindle accepts a very chunky SME-style screw-on clamp, which may be difficult to use if one is in a hurry.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Townshend: The Diva II is one of the most neutral-sounding turntables around.
- Vs SME: The Jelco tonearm may not have the integrity of the SME found on many similar turntables.
Takeaway: The Avid Hifi Diva II turntable shares the look of Avid's high-end models and keeps surface noise low, while producing a vibrant sound. It is an engaging and entertaining listen that would allow one to reacquaint themselves with their music collection.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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.
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
What 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
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