Engineering Excellence in Vinyl Playback

The turntable presents a significant engineering hurdle. At its core, it involves a needle traversing the microscopic grooves of a vinyl record, converting the subtlest vibrations into a highly sensitive, low-level audio signal. Even minor external disturbances can impact sound quality, prompting high-end audio manufacturers to invest heavily in mitigating these effects.

One particularly innovative approach comes from the Japanese firm TechDAS, which leverages the power of air. The Air Force range, conceived by the late engineer Hideaki Nishikawa—also known for his acclaimed Micro Seiki turntables from the 1980s—features a unique air-bearing system. The Air Force IV model boasts a substantial 9kg aluminum platter. Upon activation, this platter actually floats on a delicate cushion of air generated by a quiet electric pump, eliminating friction, vibration, and unwanted noise.

Vacuum Clamping for Sonic Purity

Beyond the floating platter, TechDAS addresses vinyl stability with vacuum technology. A dedicated “suction” button firmly bonds the record to the platter. A compelling demonstration of this system’s effectiveness involves placing the needle on a record and tapping it; a resonant boom is audible through the speakers. Engaging the vacuum eradicates this boom, showcasing the technology’s sonic benefits.

As is customary with high-end turntables, the tonearm and cartridge are sold separately. The Air Force IV, however, offers the flexibility of accommodating three tonearms simultaneously, allowing for extensive mixing and matching. The unit’s aesthetic is distinctive, with an operating panel and digital display that may not appeal to all tastes. Nevertheless, the extraordinary build quality and the resulting sonic purity are undeniable.

Integrated Audio Solutions for Modern Listening

The advent of active loudspeakers has simplified home audio, integrating amplifier and speaker components for optimal performance. The KEF Coda W takes this concept further by incorporating a phono pre-amplifier, enabling direct connection to a turntable. For those with existing pre-amplifiers they wish to use, this option remains available.

Connectivity is comprehensive, with Bluetooth, HDMI, USB-C, and optical inputs. All connections, including power, are routed to the primary speaker, with a single cable extending to the secondary unit. These speakers exhibit KEF’s signature refined finish and deliver a full, robust sound, reaching down to 41Hz without the need for a subwoofer.

Hybrid Design Merges Vinyl and CD Playback

A novel design integrates both vinyl and CD playback around a single central point. Concealing the CD player beneath the turntable spindle is a clever engineering feat, potentially revitalizing interest in dormant CD collections.

Both CD and turntable outputs are available via phono sockets or Bluetooth. A noteworthy, albeit unusual, feature is the fully automated tonearm. Instructions caution against manual operation, and track selection relies on “forward” or “back” commands via remote, which can be imprecise. Despite this, the unit includes a respectable Audio-Technica AT3600L magnetic cartridge and offers impressive sound quality for its price point.

Artisanal Cartridges and Vinyl Care

Yasushi Yurugi, founder of Analog Relax, champions an “analogue life” as a counterpoint to the perceived over-efficiency of digitization. His philosophy extends to a range of moving-coil phono cartridges craed from Italian spruce, a wood historically favored by makers of high-quality stringed instruments.

The manufacturing process involves a specialized varnishing technique that mimics the appearance of these instruments without compromising the cartridge’s exceptional tonal characteristics. This represents a confluence of artisanal skill, micro-engineering, and a distinct romantic sensibility.

Effective Vinyl Cleaning Solutions

While more sophisticated vinyl cleaning methods exist, including ultrasonic systems from HumminGuru, a hand-cranked device offers an unpretentious yet effective solution. This washer accommodates records from 7-inch to 12-inch sizes using a removable clamp. The record is inserted vertically into a tank containing goat-hair brushes.

With 950ml of water and a few capfuls of cleanser, turning the clamp handle 12 times clockwise and then counter-clockwise cleans the record. Aer removal, records air-dry in approximately 10 minutes in the provided eight-slot rack, revealing pristine grooves.