Given its continued recognition, can we nonetheless name vinyl tradition a “renaissance”? A era of digital natives rediscovered the analog medium years in the past in what was initially a pattern and affection for nostalgia, however as we speak it is clear that the trade, its vinyl listeners and early obsessions have matured. The established area of interest work of as we speak’s listeners has most likely spent a number of years constructing their document collections, with many now trying to up their listening recreation from “adequate” to aspiring to elements classed as high-end investments. The Marantz TT-15S1 The turntable is a strong case, as such a element worthy of constructing a system round… and displaying off with satisfaction.
I discovered within the minimalist design of the turntable the form of object able to piqued the curiosity of audiophiles and these often proof against craving instruments of equal efficiency. Credit score to the Marantz workforce for hanging a stability between designing a turntable that emphasizes stability by way of its weight, but in addition presents a surprisingly discreet presence in on a regular basis use. Photograph: Gregory Han
Even earlier than turning on the handbook transmission Marantz TT-15S1 turntable – permitting its completely machined anodized aluminum tonearm and ClearAudio Virtuoso Wooden Ebony shifting magnet cartridge to softly slide down an album – it is simple to get caught up within the sheer magnificence of the turntable with frosted acrylic plinth suits into any room. It is a form of auditory analogue apparition that pulls all eyes to its milky presence.
Three very substantial ft, together with the indifferent motor design, be certain that the TT-15S1 is not going to wobble and permit undesirable vibrations to enter throughout playback. Photograph: Gregory Han
Whereas it could make some audiophiles cringe, let’s be trustworthy, a sure stage of vinyl’s enchantment and appreciation revolves round a multi-sensory expertise, one that features aesthetics. And a superbly designed turntable just like the TT-15S1 could make recordings seem to sound even higher than a mannequin with related specs however an easier design. Photograph: Gregory Han
Pair the TT-15S1 with Marantz’s Mannequin 40n built-in stereo amplifier and Bowers & Willkins 606 S3 audio system and you have got a triumvirate of concise readability – a persona that emerged just some periods earlier than the brand new audio system we have been equipped with . We discovered that whereas listening to streaming sources utilizing the 606 S3 it may often tire the ears, relying on style and quantity, however the TT-15S1’s pleasingly impartial dynamic vary made listening periods span 2- three. the albums a delight. Neoclassical, ambient and jazz instrumentals created for notably straightforward listening.
Marantz’s motive behind the TT-15S1’s acrylic stand design is not purely aesthetic. The continual matte end and matching 1.2″ turntable sitting on a suspended spindle appears wonderful, however its primary objective is to offer your complete turntable with important weight and stability to successfully dampen the introduction of vibrations throughout playback.
I additionally paired the TT-15S1 with our private set of Wharfdale Lintons, noting that the sides across the turntable softened a bit on vocals-emphasis tracks, pleasantly warmed by the Wharfdale’s extra natural attribute. It is one thing to notice should you favor a livelier, retro sound and need to assist alleviate the turntable’s tendency to generally intensify the excessive finish with an excessive amount of noticeable presence. However whether or not paired with 606s, Lintons, or different audio system I had available, the turntable at all times conjured up a soundscape of texture and element price listening to together with your eyes closed.
The TT-15S1 comes with a caveat: there isn’t any mud cap, so maintain an air air purifier close by and the needle coated. Photograph: Gregory Han
Photograph: Courtesy of Marantz
At a single groove beneath $1,800, the Marantz TT-15S1 the turntable is a sizeable buy for many audiophiles trying to step up from an entry-level package deal that many people begin with. Even so, the TT-15S1 is an audio element that gives the uncommon satisfaction of a considerable improve that may one way or the other persuade you that you’ve got discovered a steal. We are able to attest, it is frighteningly straightforward to get used to the satisfying constancy and pleasant spectral presence of the Marantz turntable, worth be damned.
To seek for this product and different Marantz merchandise, go to marantz.com.
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