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
- The C-Major's design looks much more expensive than its retail price, with carbon fiber elements
- According to Vana Ltd, the tonearm combines the advantages of a uni-pivot arm with a Cardan design
- The C-Major offers enough resolution to work with more expensive cartridges
Product Considerations
- Changing speeds from 33 to 45 RPM requires removing the platter and moving the belt to a different pulley
- The 'clamp' is a stabilizer and should not be tightened during playback, or it can cause instability in the midrange
- Out of the box, the C-Major exhibits a varying upper midrange glare
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The EAT C-Major provides a major increase in fidelity, compared to Music Hall, Rega and Pro-Ject models in the $700-$1200 range
Takeaway: The EAT C-Major turntable is a sophisticated and elegant option for playing vinyl records. It is a well-built turntable that can reveal more details from records.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
C-Major
reviews
[{"title":"C-Major Turntable Super Pack From EAT","link":"https://theaudiophileman.com/eat-c-major-tuntable-review","source":"The Audiophile Man","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"The EAT C-Major Turntable","link":"https://www.tonepublications.com/review/the-eat-c-major-turntable","source":"TONEAudio MAGAZINE","datePublished":""},{"title":"European Audio Team C-Major Turntable","link":"https://www.soundstagehifi.com/index.php/equipment-reviews/1013-european-audio-team-c-major-turntable","source":"SoundStage! Hi-Fi","datePublished":"2016"},{"title":"EAT C-Sharp vs EAT C-Major Turntable Comparison","link":"https://www.audioadvice.com/blogs/expert-advice/eat-c-sharp-vs-eat-c-major-turntable-comparison?srsltid=AfmBOoriQKBin8YBmgylnWiEbLTIA1Dk8_ML9Xr6jPsfU7MZq1C93mj2","source":"Audio Advice","datePublished":""},{"title":"EAT C-Major Turntable & Jo No.5 MC Cartridge Review","link":"https://novohighend.com/eat-c-major-turntable-jo-no-5-mc-cartridge-review","source":"novohighend","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"E.A.T. C-Major Turntable, E.A.T. E-Glo Petit Phono Preamplifier, and E.A.T. Jo No 5 Phono Cartridge Review","link":"https://hometheaterhifi.com/reviews/amplifier/preamplifier/e-t-c-major-turntable-e-t-e-glo-petit-phono-preamplifier-e-t-jo-no-5-phono-cartridge-review","source":"Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"EAT C-Major Turntable & Jo No.5 MC Cartridge Review","link":"http://novohighend.com/eat-c-major-turntable-jo-no-5-mc-cartridge-review","source":"novohighend.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"EAT C-Sharp vs EAT C-Major Turntable","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LEmtjzcgWgQ","source":"Audio Advice","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Is Vinyl just better? Not so fast! Feat. EAT C Major Project P2 PS Audio M700 Stellar Monoblocks","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nA9M6uGeUvU","source":"Digital Trends","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"EAT E GLO Petit + EAT C Major TT with Ortofon Quintet Black Cart","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-oq5yiXI9W8","source":"Home Theater Geeks","datePublished":"2024"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Nominal speed: 33/45 rpm, manual speed change
- Speed Variance: 33rpm: ± < 0.09%, 45rpm: ± < 0.10%
- Wow and flutter: 33rpm: ± < 0.05%, 45rpm: ± < 0.05%
- Signal to noise ratio (mechanical): -40 dB
- Signal to noise ratio (electrical): -68 dB
- Downforce range: 0-30 mN
- Effective tonearm mass: 14.5 g
- Effective tonearm length: 230 mm
- Overhang: 18 mm
- Power consumption: 5 W max / 0.5W standby
- Voltage: Universal switch mode power supply 15 V DC/1.6 A, 90-264 V AC
- Dimensions (W × H × D): 460 × 352 × 125mm without dustcover, 460 × 352 × 142mm (closed dustcover), 460 × 380 × 435mm (opened dustcover)
- Weight: 9 kg (turntable)
Description
E.A.T. is proud to announce the availability of its most important turntable to date: the C-Major. Why "important"? Because it represents a completely new price point, an entry level offering from E.A.T. that will satisfy all seasoned music lovers who require a high-value-for-money turntable, and a perfect solution for those new to the delights of the vinyl LP.
E.A.T. is proud to announce the availability of its most important turntable to date: the C-Major. Why “important”? Because it represents a completely new price point, an entry level offering from E.A.T. that will satisfy all seasoned music lovers who require a high-value-for-money turntable, and a perfect solution for those new to the delights of the vinyl LP. We at E.A.T. have identified a segment of the hi-fi market where those who would like to purchase turntables with greater performance and sophistication than that which is available in the budget sector, but with a price point below the widely-acclaimed C-Sharp – our most successful turntable to date. And it is the technology of C-Sharp that enabled us to develop the C-Major.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
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:
- EAT offers a hybrid tonearm design that combines the stability of a Cardan bearing with the low friction of a uni-pivot, offering a balance of performance and ease of use.
- They manufacture their own high-quality vacuum tubes, imbuing their tube-based audio components with a unique sonic signature and ensuring component synergy.
- EAT emphasizes an aesthetic that is sleek, modern, and visually striking, using materials like carbon fiber, polished metals, and high-gloss finishes to create elegant designs.
Select products
Select product comparisons
E.A.T. Prelude Turntable
- Positioning: The entry-level high-end turntable offering neutral sound at an affordable price.
- Description: Features a rigid MDF chassis and a heavy aluminum platter, providing excellent speed stability and sound neutrality. Compared to the B-Sharp, it uses a carbon tonearm and a 2M Red cartridge, making it ideal for those starting their audiophile journey with a focus on value and simplicity.
E.A.T. C-Major Turntable
- Positioning: Bridges the gap between budget and high-end turntables.
- Description: Features a 9-inch C-Note tonearm and a compact chassis, providing a high-value option for vinyl enthusiasts. It offers a more sophisticated build than the B-Sharp, with a focus on reducing costs without sacrificing performance.
E.A.T. C-Sharp Turntable
- Positioning: A high-end model known for its elegant design and advanced technology.
- Description: Uses carbon fiber and thermoplastic elastomer materials for a superflat design, ensuring low noise and high rigidity. It surpasses the C-Major with its microprocessor-driven speed control and superior damping.
E.A.T. Forte Turntable
- Positioning: A premium model that combines mass-loaded design with a separate sub-chassis for optimal performance.
- Description: Features a massive 20 kg platter with magnetic suspension, providing exceptional kinetic energy and resonance control. It offers more advanced isolation and energy absorption than the C-Sharp.
E.A.T. Fortissimo Turntable
- Positioning: The groundbreaking flagship model, offering the most advanced features and performance in the lineup.
- Description: Includes a 22 kg platter with brass inserts and a new bearing design for unmatched speed stability and low friction. It outperforms the Forte with its optional F-Note tonearm and Fortissimo Base, delivering the highest level of sound isolation and customization.
See All Products
Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
4
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
164
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
23
Founding Year
1998
Our take on the brand
European Audio Team specializes in hifi turntables and vacuum tube components, delivering a pure analog experience that emphasizes precision and clarity for audio enthusiasts.
Look inside the brand
Brand Page
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?
From our interview with
.
Brand Page
Used
European Audio Team
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
.png){kind=small}
European Audio Team
Fortissimo S
/
1
Reviews
-
European Audio Team specializes in hifi turntables and vacuum tube components, delivering a pure analog experience that emphasizes precision and clarity for audio enthusiasts.
Expand Details
.svg)
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Well-constructed and handsome
- Provides a stable base that concentrates all of the groove's energy into the stylus
- A neutral tonal balance does a real favor to the low and mid-bass
- Minimalist control panel resides underneath the headshell
- Magnetically damped feet are preinstalled
Product Considerations
- The Fortissimo S will dominate many standard audio racks, and may well not fit on some, due to its large footprint
- The platter alone weighs more than 22kg, making it a two-person job to set up
- The polish on the F-Note wasn't an absolute mirror finish, with a slight haze
- The bubble level in the tonearm base didn't seem accurate
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Fortissimo S edges out the VPI Prime Signature in its control of transients and isolation from vibration
Takeaway: The Fortissimo S turntable is a statement piece that offers a near-perfect blend of beauty, function, and sound quality. It provides a stable and unflappable platform for extracting information from records.
Video review
Our take on the brand
European Audio Team specializes in hifi turntables and vacuum tube components, delivering a pure analog experience that emphasizes precision and clarity for audio enthusiasts.
Product Page
Product Page
Linn
Majik LP12
5130
5130
/
10
Reviews
Take your first step into high-fidelity vinyl playback. And close the door behind you, you won't be turning back. Experience the legendary Sondek LP12 in its most affordable guise – powered by carefully curated Linn-engineered components. Majik LP12 includes our sandwich-construction aluminium sub-chassis, patented single point Karousel bearing, internally mounted low noise power supply, and low-friction Krane tonearm. Beyond this lies your first choice: will you commence your Linn journey with a moving magnet (MM) or a moving coil (MC) cartridge?
Linn is a hifi brand known for its modular designs, particularly the Sondek LP12 turntable where users can upgrade virtually every component over time to maintain performance across decades. The brand stands out for developing its own technologies in-house, including the Organik DAC with FPGA processing and Space Optimisation, which models room acoustics without needing microphone measurements.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Shares the plinth, bearing and suspension design with higher-end LP12 models
- Great build quality and finish, made with precision aluminum and stainless-steel components
- Offers upgrade paths with higher quality phono cartridges, arms, chassis, and power supplies
- Known for its musicality and ability to make listeners forget about typical audio criteria and focus on enjoying the music
- Great value package bringing LP12 ownership to a wider audience without major compromise
Product Considerations
- Requires professional setup and adjustment
- Speed change to 45rpm requires fitting a pulley adaptor, which may be annoying for some users
- Footfall and external vibrations can affect performance, requiring a lightweight and rigid support
- Some reviewers found the bundled Adikt moving magnet cartridge to be the weakest link in the system
- Lid is an optional extra, which may come as a surprise
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Technics SL-1200G: Majik LP12 offers a more relaxed and beguiling sound, while the Technics is crisper and tighter
- Vs Origin Live Calypso Multilayer/Silver: Majik LP12 sits in the middle, more relaxed than the Technics SL-1200G—but not as expansive and tonally natural as the Origin Live Calypso Multilayer/Silver
- Vs Thorens TD160 HD or Michell's Gyrodec SE: Majik LP12 has a relaxed warmth and fluidity that the others do not
Takeaway: The Majik LP12 is a well-built, musically engaging turntable that brings the classic Linn sound to a more accessible price point. It's a great way to get into vinyl and enjoy records without being distracted by technicalities and has plenty of upgrade options available.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Linn is a hifi brand known for its modular designs, particularly the Sondek LP12 turntable where users can upgrade virtually every component over time to maintain performance across decades. The brand stands out for developing its own technologies in-house, including the Organik DAC with FPGA processing and Space Optimisation, which models room acoustics without needing microphone measurements.
Product Page
Product Page
Cyrus
TTP
5800
5800
/
5
Reviews
The Cyrus TTP Turntable is the perfect complement to our award-winning Classic PHONO preamplifier, unless Moving Magnet is your choice of cartridge, and then any of the Cyrus Classic or XR pre-amplifiers or integrated amplifiers can also be considered as a suitable partner. Precision machined from solid aluminium blocks, the plinth and platter are extremely stable for superb vinyl playback capability, while the lightweight arm provides an excellent mounting point for your choice of cartridge. The synchronous motor has a custom-designed digital control circuit, ensuring very low wow and flutter with exceptional speed stability.
Cyrus Audio is known for its compact half-width designs and proprietary Servo Evolution technology that optimizes CD transport performance beyond basic readability. The brand stands out for being the first to implement voice-assist technology in hifi through their ONE Cast amplifier, which features a hybrid Class D design and high-end DAC, while their PSU-XR power supply employs five independent power supplies to minimize electrical noise.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Heavy weight and high mass design combats resonant frequencies and provides a stable platform for playing vinyl records
- Delivers a clean, dynamic sound with superb imaging and soundstage
- The motor is integrated into the chassis giving the turntable a very clean look
Product Considerations
- No dust cover/lid is included
- No ground/earth cable included with the RCA's
- RB330 tonearm is not known for its easy adjustment and cartridge matching
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- TTP has similar solidity of image and body to the Thorens TD-124 and Garrard 301 idler-wheel turntables
Takeaway: The Cyrus Audio TTP is a well-engineered turntable that delivers engaging music from a stable platform and a clean background. It offers a blend of modern technology, thoughtful design, and flexible upgrade options.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Cyrus Audio is known for its compact half-width designs and proprietary Servo Evolution technology that optimizes CD transport performance beyond basic readability. The brand stands out for being the first to implement voice-assist technology in hifi through their ONE Cast amplifier, which features a hybrid Class D design and high-end DAC, while their PSU-XR power supply employs five independent power supplies to minimize electrical noise.
Product Page
Product Page
Musical Fidelity
M8xTT
8999
8999
/
4
Reviews
Antony Michaelson‘s idea of music was big scale, warm and mighty with details in colours. His amplifier creations are a rare expression of this sound character. In 2002 Antony asked Mr. Lichtenegger to help with a design with all these attributes. Also, the design was very important and should match the mechanically stunning amplifiers. The Musical Fidelity M1 was born and a great success. The base idea was to combine the inert mass of metal alloys with zero resonating acrylic. The motor was effectively decoupled from the tonearm and platter with the dual chassis construction. The new M8xTT is following the same design philosophies with even more expressive technical features.
Musical Fidelity is known for its unique amplifier designs, particularly the A1 integrated amplifier that uses its top plate as a heatsink and features a distinctive current-mode phono stage. The brand stands out for its innovative dual-monoblock approach in integrated amplifiers, where separate power transformers and dedicated power supplies are housed in a single chassis, as seen in their M8xi and M6i models that deliver exceptional power output.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Sleek acrylic construction that is visually appealing and acoustically excellent
- A beautifully open window onto the performance, achieved in a commandingly authoritative manner
- Muscular sounding, exhibiting a solid grip on the music, especially through the bass and into the lower midrange
- Utterly coherent, with an uncanny ability to untangle complex music
- Precision opened up the record, presenting sometimes-busy albums as if they were giant paintings
Product Considerations
- Consistency of speed was not what was expected from a turntable of this pedigree
- The headshell lacks sufficient offset angle, so rotation of an MM or MC slightly inwards may be needed
- If a cartridge is less than about 17mm tall, spacers may be needed to use it with the M8xTT's arm
- Acrylic scratches easily and shows dust, so care must be taken when cleaning
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The M1 was always a little soft at the low end, but the Musical Fidelity's new model couldn't be more different
Takeaway: The M8xTT is a wonderful turntable with exceptional sound quality and outstanding construction. The crystalline chrome-and-acrylic chassis and visual effect of the spinning platter make it a thrilling machine to use.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Musical Fidelity is known for its unique amplifier designs, particularly the A1 integrated amplifier that uses its top plate as a heatsink and features a distinctive current-mode phono stage. The brand stands out for its innovative dual-monoblock approach in integrated amplifiers, where separate power transformers and dedicated power supplies are housed in a single chassis, as seen in their M8xi and M6i models that deliver exceptional power output.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
Thorens
TD 1500
2999
/
Released
2021
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.
Thorens is renowned for pioneering the suspended subchassis turntable design in 1966 with their TD 150 model, which provides superior vibration isolation and has become a standard in turntable engineering. Their latest innovation is seen in the New Reference turntable, which features an active vibration isolation system developed with Seismion that uses piezoelectric sensors and electronic control, along with a German-made 3-phase synchronous motor driven by three linear power amplifiers.
Expand Details
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
Thorens is renowned for pioneering the suspended subchassis turntable design in 1966 with their TD 150 model, which provides superior vibration isolation and has become a standard in turntable engineering. Their latest innovation is seen in the New Reference turntable, which features an active vibration isolation system developed with Seismion that uses piezoelectric sensors and electronic control, along with a German-made 3-phase synchronous motor driven by three linear power amplifiers.
Product Page
Product Page
Pro-Ject
X8
4000
/
Released
2022
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.
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Expand Details
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
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Product Page
Product Page
Gold Note
Giglio
3839
/
Released
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.
Gold Note is an Italian hifi brand that manufactures all components in-house, with their DS-10 DAC offering 192 setup options to adapt to different music genres and listener preferences. Their products, including the IS-10 and IS-1000 integrated amplifiers, combine multiple functions like streaming, DAC, and phono stages in single units, delivering a rich, tube-like sound signature.
Expand Details
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
Gold Note is an Italian hifi brand that manufactures all components in-house, with their DS-10 DAC offering 192 setup options to adapt to different music genres and listener preferences. Their products, including the IS-10 and IS-1000 integrated amplifiers, combine multiple functions like streaming, DAC, and phono stages in single units, delivering a rich, tube-like sound signature.
Product Page
Product Page
clearaudio
Concept Signature
4000
/
Released
2024
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.
Clearaudio stands out for its magnetic levitation technology in turntables and tonearms, which reduces friction and wear while enhancing tonal accuracy. The brand caters to both novices and audiophiles with features like their Optical Speed Control system that uses infrared sensors to maintain precise speed, and pre-adjusted parameters for easy setup.
Expand Details
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
Clearaudio stands out for its magnetic levitation technology in turntables and tonearms, which reduces friction and wear while enhancing tonal accuracy. The brand caters to both novices and audiophiles with features like their Optical Speed Control system that uses infrared sensors to maintain precise speed, and pre-adjusted parameters for easy setup.
Product Page
Product Page
VPI
Prime 21
4675
/
Released
2021
The Prime 21 takes the greatest aspects of the Prime turntable and upgrades and refence them with finer details from the customers, reviewers and more. Availablabe in black and walnut.
VPI is known for its high-end, American-made turntables. They stand out for their use of 3D printing in tonearm design, creating one-piece structures that enhance sound quality, and their unique unipivot tonearm design that balances on a single point for precise sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent build quality and meticulous design, featuring a vinyl-coated MDF and steel plinth
- The Gimbal 10-3D tonearm offers precise control, flexibility, and improved performance compared to earlier Prime designs
- Improved overall fit and finish compared to the original Prime, with a richer finish and machined top plate for additional bracing and isolation
- The Prime 21+ version is a carefully assembled set of products, including the Shyla cartridge and Weisline cable, that work together exceptionally well, offering a turnkey high-end turntable experience
- Delivers music with authority—digging out huge amounts of information and offering genre-agnostic performance
Product Considerations
- Assembly and initial setup can be challenging, especially for beginners, requiring some expertise and patience
- The Prime 21 is delivered without a cartridge or phono cables, unless purchasing the Prime 21+ package, requiring additional purchases
- Speed change between 33 and 45 RPM requires manually moving the belt
- Some reviewers noted a subtle upper bass bloom, which may be considered a touch of character rather than an imposition, but persists with different mat and clamp configurations
- Cueing lever might drop a touch too abruptly, and additional cue damping could be an improvement
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Prime 21 has improved fit and finish, a new machined top plate, better feet, and a gimbal tonearm instead of a unipivot, compared to the VPI Prime
- The Prime 21 slots in between the Prime and Prime Signature in terms of price, design, and sonic performance, compared to the VPI Prime Signature
- The feet of the Prime 21 are replaced by the ones first seen on the HW-40
- The soundstage of the Prime 21+ is not dissimilar to the HW-40 limited edition deck, but not to the same extent
Takeaway:
The VPI Prime 21 is a solid turntable that can bring out the best from records, and every detail has been carefully considered to give great sound. If one wants a high-end turntable that's easy to set up, especially the Prime 21+ package, this could be a good choice.
Video review
Our take on the brand
VPI is known for its high-end, American-made turntables. They stand out for their use of 3D printing in tonearm design, creating one-piece structures that enhance sound quality, and their unique unipivot tonearm design that balances on a single point for precise sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
How to buy
Turntables
Search all hifi products
Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.
