Like radio, vinyl records will never go out of fashion. The recent revival of the retro audio technology is far more than nostalgic novelty. The format – still predominantly used by DJs – represents a level of quality that the cassette tape, CD, and MP3 could never replicate. Commemorating that lasting impact and its own legendary status as the go-to-brand of British rock royalty, U.K. producer Orange Amplifiers has just launched the new and improved O Turntable. The brand grew out of Orange Studios, the iconic 1960s facility that saw the likes of Stevie Wonder, The Bee Gees, Tom Jones, and Fleetwood Mac record some of their best music.
Though engineered for expert audiophiles, the new device was calibrated for an optimal ease of use. While record playing remains the same as it did half a century ago, skipping and scratching are no longer part of the equation, unless that’s the goal. The O Turntable distills from the original twin-deck Orange DJ Console founder Cliff Cooper developed out of his initial recording studio venture. It’s far more compact; includes a single deck; but is no less performative.
The pared back unit is finished in a white gloss base, emblazoned with the brand’s iconic logo. Its “Voice of the World” crest takes pride of place. The belt-driven, high-fidelity turntable is equipped with a 24V low-noise synchronous motor with a custom PCB and aluminum pulley system. All of these features work in harmony to minimize vibration and deliver rock-steady, 23mm speed on the high-mass phenolic platter. Ensuring smoother rotation and tighter stability, the flywheel is only usually found in top-rated turntables.
The integrated MM phono-stage preamplifier has a built-in moving magnet stage and a moving magnet cartridge with a replaceable carbon stylus. The icing on the cake – the auto-bias tonearm with ultra-low-friction bearings. Though true to its own autonomous form, the O Turntable is fully connectable, enabled by the Orange Pyramid System or any HiFi setup.
All of this is great, but what’s most important is its straightforward plug and play modality. It’s low profile – whether left bare or encased – allows it to seamlessly integrate into any setting. “It delivers pure, uncompromised vinyl sound with the simplicity and style our customers expect,” Cooper says.
To learn more about the O Turntable from Orange Amplifiers, visit orangeamps.com.
Photography courtesy of Orange Amplifiers.
