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Most beautiful turntable under $5k

Beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, but thought this might be a fun topic. Obviously the most important thing about audio gear is how it sounds, but I find some of it truly beautiful to look at too, particularly turntables, which almost by necessity are best placed somewhere on display. Some days I love the simplicity of something like the Clearaudio Concept Wood (particularly the dark wood)….other days the “audio jewelry” appearance of EAT or VPI. My personal vote, however, would go to the Gold Note Pianosa. For me it has a timeless beauty and elegance that’s never over the top. I can’t imagine ever tiring of looking at in and think it would look great with a wide array of decor.


What would be your personal choice for most beautiful turntable under $5k? What about cost-no-object options?

ethos123
jessica_severin's avatar
jessica_severin
35 posts
 

I love the elegant rosewood looks of the Denon and Victor/JVC direct drive decks of the 70s and 80s

wyoboy
244 posts
 

I realize you're probably excluding custom tables, but someone above mentioned Lenco in custom plinths so a shoutout to Jean Nantais of TJN analog who does beautiful woodwork for his custom rebuilt Lencos.  Most are under $5K--i bought one of his "Steampunk" rebuilds on A'gon a couple years back and it's pretty cool--never fails to get comments from everyone who sees it.  Here's his picture Gallery: 

 

aewarren
627 posts
 

You asked for turntables under $5K but since no one is paying attention to that, I'll submit the Avid Acutus Reference.

audioguy85's avatar
audioguy85
2,018 posts
 

Clearly it would also have to be the Linn Sondek LP-12 majik, if still available under 5k last time I looked it was about 4300 bucks, most likely now more with inflation.

sokogear
1,092 posts
 

Exposed belts look ridiculous. Rega P8 is the coolest looking modern TT design without looking like it belongs in a physics lab. Perfect minimalist design. Obviously not the choice if you are going for a furniture look. Not a fan of the white ceramic platter on the slightly better sounding P10, but I would take one for the better sound in a NY minute, except it costs almost double and exceeds the $5K limit.

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