LP Tunes

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The function of any turntable is simply to rotate a record at a precise speed with a total absence of extraneous vibration and noise. However, during the record playing process, every part of a turntable is subject to a variety of internally and externally caused vibrations. To deal effectively with the distortions caused by these vibrations, each distortion-generating  mechanism must be addressed and resolved if it is to achieve the goal of bringing you closest to the musical experience. 

At SOTA, turntable design has been carried to its logical conclusion with the most comprehensive, scientific approach to identifying all the universal variables that undermine pure signal retrieval. By acknowledging and resolving these issues, SOTA turntables achieve unmatched level of neutrality and accuracy and have rightly garnered their position as one of the world's best.

What sets the SOTA Moonbeam apart from other turntables?

Almost every other turntable in production today uses an aluminum or aluminum-alloy platter.  Unfortunately, aluminum lacks internal damping.  SOTA has taken an entirely different approach to the MOONBEAM platter design. The platter utilized on the MOONBEAM is made of special high-density polymers.  The MOONBEAM utilizes a heavy, 3/8" thick Plexiglas platter.  An interface mat is added for the best possible record-to-mat interface.

And because of the energy-dissipative property of polymers, various types of polymer materials are used throughout the MOONBEAM, not only for the main platter, but also for the sub-platter and bearing cup assembly.  The Spindle/Bearing Assembly of the MOONBEAM is a state-of-the-art design, and one of the keys to its outstanding performance.  Once again, SOTA has turned to the performance advantage of polymers.  The bearing cup is manufactured of a high-tech material called Turcite®.  Turcite® is a Teflon-impregnated, self-lubricating polymer designed specifically for ultra-precise bearing applications, and is ideally suited to the turntable spindle/bearing function.

The Drive System of the MOONBEAM consists of a high-density polymer sub-platter driven by a 24-pole AC synchronous motor originally designed for ultra-precise computer use.  The motor drives a precision-ground, low-tension belt which provides a vibration-free drive system for the rotating assembly of the turntable.  The MOONBEAM and COMET are equipped for both 33 and 45 RPM.

The Chassis and Cabinet Damping System of the MOONBEAM continue the design theme of isolation from noise and spurious vibrations.  Environmental isolation means isolating the moving platter from all the physical and mechanical disturbances (footfalls, room resonances, air-borne waves) that ultimately disrupt the retrieval of groove information. The MOONBEAM accomplished this task by way of a monolithic, massive internally dampened cabinet, which effectively isolates the turntable system.  Additionally, special energy-absorbing leveling feet are utilized and incorporate a proprietary visco-elastic polymer pad to damp vibrations.

Easy Set-up and Versatility

Each SOTA turntable is designed to be set-up quickly and simply so that it can perform at levels achieved in the lab or reviewer  tests. The MOONBEAM turntable includes SOTA's VLMT tonearm, a static-balance, straight-tube, fixed head design utilizing internal damping and precision cone and ball race bearings.  The tonearm offers adjustable anti-skating, damped cueing, and can accommodate a wide range of cartridges.

To complete the turntable system, LP Tunes will include for FREE an Audio-Technica AT95E cartridge, a moving magnet phono carridge renowned for its superb musicality and fine detailing. This is a $79.00 additional value yours free exclusively from LP Tunes.

Each Sota turntable employs the same concept of comprehensive design and handcrafted excellence. It is manufactured to provide years of dependable musical enjoyment from the treasures in your LP collection.

Specifications