Luxman PD-191A Turntable Succeeds The PD-171

The PD-191A replaces Luxman's PD-171 as the Japanese company's flagship belt-driven turntable.

Luxman's PD-191A features a 35mm-thick aluminium platter, which weighs in at a rather substantial 5.2kg. The diamond-cut platter promises "smooth and confident rotation". Furthermore, the deck uses heat and wear-resistant materials, including an engineered plastic thrust bearing to support the platter.

Powering the platter is a new, high-precision DC motor that Luxman says "achieves constant and accurate rotation control under various demands". This is partnered with a reference clock for speed correction. We are told that the new motor is designed to work alongside high-mass platters and at precise speeds while ensuring a consistent, smooth sound.

The turntable offers 33 1/3, 45 and 78 rpm playing speeds, selectable via a dial on the plinth, while three further pitch controls alongside a reflected LED stroboscope enable fine-tuning.

The PD-191A's LTA-710 static balanced tonearm is fully adjustable and sports a "concealed vertical knife-edge" bearing technology for enhanced movement sensitivity and reduced tracking errors. The LTA-710 has a quoted 256mm effective length.

Naturally, you can also install third-party tonearms with 9-inch and 10-inch models happily supported. However, 12 inchers are accommodated via an external arm base, which is a cost option.

The rather attractive base sees a rosewood-stained natural wood treated with a glossy finish that looks classily high-end against the aluminium platter and plinth. UK customers get a 4mm thick acrylic dust cover as part of the 191A bundle. This appears to be a cost option for those buying this lovely Luxman elsewhere.

The Luxman PD-191A turntable is available now for £11,000, which includes the headshell, tonearm and that dust cover. Luxman recommends its LMC-5 moving coil cartridge, which can be had for an additional £1,500 (a saving of £500 if bought separately).

Visit Luxman for more information