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.
All
MMF-5.3 SE
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Power Supply: 15V / 0-0.8mA DC Universal PSU
- Power Connection: 100 – 240 Volt 50 or 60 Hz
- Standby Power Consumption: < 1 W
- Speeds: 33 1⁄3 rpm (manual change to 45 rpm)
- Wow & Flutter: ± 0.10 %
- Speed Deviation: ± 0.80%
- Effective Tonearm Length: 9" (230 mm)
- Tonearm Weight: 250 g (without counterweight)
- Effective Tonearm Mass: 8.5 g
- Overhang: 18 mm
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 18.25" x 13.25" x 5.5"
- Weight: 24 lbs
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:
- The brand's turntables frequently feature a dual-plinth design with Sorbothane hemispheres for vibration damping, enhancing sonic clarity by isolating the platter and tonearm.
- Music Hall offers models with built-in phono preamplifiers, providing flexibility for use with various audio systems and allowing for future upgrades with external phono stages.
- They are known for incorporating user-friendly features like adjustable VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle) which lets listeners optimize stylus alignment for different record thicknesses.
Select products
Music Hall US-1 Turntable:
- Positioning: An affordable, entry-level turntable designed for ease of use and basic vinyl playback.
- Description: Features an extremely quiet belt drive with a built-in phono amp that works well in small rooms and for personal listening. Compared to the higher-priced models, it offers fewer adjustable features and less vibration isolation, making it ideal for budget-conscious buyers with simple functionality needs.
MMF-2.3 Turntable:
- Positioning: A well-crafted manual turntable that balances quality performance with affordability.
- Description: Comes with a carbon fiber tonearm, vibration damping adjustable feet, and a low noise manual belt-drive system that enhances dynamic playback. In contrast to the entry-level US-1, it offers more refined component isolation and adjustability.
MMF-3.3 SE Walnut Turntable:
- Positioning: A premium turntable built to deliver enhanced sound quality for emerging audiophiles.
- Description: Uses dual-plinth technology, a carbon fiber tonearm, and electronic speed control to raise audio performance. Compared to the US-1 and MMF-2.3, it offers improved vibration damping and tracking precision.
MMF-9.3 Turntable:
- Positioning: A high-performance turntable engineered with advanced isolation and precise control for critical listening.
- Description: Features triple-plinth construction, a full carbon fiber tonearm with adjustable VTA, and a decoupled motor design that minimizes vibrations for accurate sound reproduction. When compared to the lower-priced models, its precise isolation and enhanced adjustability cater to users with larger setups and higher sonic goals.
MMF-11.3 SE Walnut Turntable:
- Positioning: The flagship turntable showcasing cutting-edge design and state-of-the-art technology for unrivaled audio fidelity.
- Description: Integrates a quadruple-plinth design, microprocessor-controlled electronic speed control, and a one-piece carbon fiber tonearm to deliver superior acoustic performance. In comparison to all other models in the lineup, its advanced isolation, comprehensive adjustability, and premium components justify its higher price for audiophiles targeting the ultimate listening experience in spacious setups.
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Used
Music Hall
What if you spend 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 competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Easy setup makes it accessible for those new to turntables
- Direct drive motor enables quick start-up and accurate speed
- Good build quality for its price point, with a solid plinth and heavy platter
- Adjustable VTA allows for fine-tuning with different records
- Comes with a pre-mounted Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge, providing a good starting point
Product Considerations
- The all-black aesthetic may not appeal to everyone
- Stock rubber mat may not be ideal, with some suggesting aftermarket mats for improved sound
- Some felt that the included headshell is adequate but could be improved
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Technics SL-1200G: Stealth shares some qualities, but costs less, with a less clinically precise—more mature—sound
- Vs VPI Cliffwood and Pro-Ject X1: Stealth is more expensive but considered the best overall due to sound quality, features, and dynamics
- Vs Dual CS5000: Stealth offered improved clarity, dynamics, and less noise
- Vs Yamaha TT-N503 (upgraded): The Yamaha is perkier and bouncier, while the Stealth offers better depth, dimensionality, and layering
Takeaway: The Music Hall Stealth is a well-built and easy to use turntable that delivers excellent sound quality for the price. It is a good choice for a high-end experience without a large investment.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Ortofon 2M Bronze cartridge is included, which is considered a 'sweetheart of a cartridge' and a good value when bundled with the turntable
- The turntable is made in Europe, in a factory known for manufacturing high-quality turntables
- It has a dual-plinth system with sorbothane pucks for isolation, and an acrylic platter for reduced resonance
- The tonearm is made of carbon fiber and has decoupled counterweight to reduce resonance
- It comes complete with interconnect cables and a dust cover
Product Considerations
- The shiny, piano-black finish of the turntable highlights dust and fingerprints
- Setting up the MMF-7.3 can be moderately difficult, involving careful placement of the plinth and belt
- The included RCA cables are described as 'loose-fitting'
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The MMF-7.3 has a DC motor (vs AC), a carbon fiber tonearm (vs aluminum headshell), and comes with a better cartridge, compared to the Music Hall MMF-7.1
- They are competitive in price and features, in comparison to the Marantz TT-15S1
Takeaway: The MMF-7.3 is a complete turntable package that includes a well-regarded cartridge and features designed to minimize vibrations and improve sound quality. It is a good choice for those seeking a high-quality analog experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Features a multi-stage damping system that effectively isolates vibrations, resulting in very quiet operation and 'dead' pauses
- Balanced mechanical system providing transparency across the entire audible spectrum without excessive harshness or sterility
- Comes fully adjusted from the factory, eliminating the need for complicated fine-tuning
- Design allows for cartridge changes to reshape the sound character, meaning it does not color the sound
- The design is well-thought-out and efficient, focused on maximizing sound quality
Product Considerations
- The included phono cable is considered cheap and should be replaced immediately
- The felt mat slips on the platter and sticks to records
- The provided dust cover is not very useful and can transmit vibrations
- The black lacquer finish might be considered boring
Takeaway: The MMF 9.3 is a high-quality turntable that delivers excellent sound without the hassle of complex setup. It's perfect for those who want a user-friendly vinyl experience without sacrificing audio quality.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Absence of endogenous noise, which benefits signal clarity and dynamic range development
- Construction adheres to basic rules and has beautiful aesthetics, creating a memorable set of tonearms with a strong audiophile character
- The turntable is able to let different heads 'breathe' and convey their sonic identity
- The unit comes with adjustable damping legs and a built-in spirit level to help with alignment
Product Considerations
- The Ortofon 2M Blue may limit the set's performance, suggesting an upgrade might be beneficial
- The arm is very light and requires care to avoid accidents
- A decent interconnect is required
Takeaway: The Music Hall mmf-5.3 performs better than its price class, with its energy, euphonicity and vibrancy. It offers a memorable listening experience with a strong audiophile character and the ability to let different heads showcase their unique sonic identities.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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
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