Vintage Turntable Review – Ariston RD11S

Ariston RD11S

Spending some time with the vintage Ariston RD11S turntable has been a fascinating journey into the golden era of British analog design. This 1970s classic, often overshadowed by its more famous sibling the Linn LP12, proved to be a remarkably refined and capable machine that deserves serious attention from audiophiles seeking vintage charm combined with technical excellence.

Build and Engineering

The RD11S is a belt-drive turntable featuring a 24-pole hysteresis synchronous motor mounted on a silicone isolation subframe. This design minimizes motor vibration and mechanical noise, contributing to the table’s ultra-low rumble and excellent speed stability. The two-piece precision-ground platter weighs about 9.5 pounds (approximately 4.3 kg), providing substantial rotational inertia for steady playback.

One of the most impressive engineering feats is the main bearing, which uses a precision PTFE (Teflon) cushioned shaft. This self-lubricating, ultra-low friction bearing is a key factor in the RD11S’s exceptionally low rumble figures and smooth operation. The entire sub-chassis, including the low-mass circular tonearm board and platter, is suspended on steel coil springs with polyurethane dampers. This free-floating suspension system effectively isolates the turntable from floor vibrations and feedback, resulting in minimal stylus bounce even on less-than-ideal surfaces.

The base is crafted from teak wood, complemented by a plexiglass dust cover with friction hinges, lending the RD11S a warm, vintage aesthetic that fits beautifully in any audiophile’s listening room.

Tonearm and Cartridge Options

The RD11S was typically offered with either SME or Grace tonearms, or a blank armboard for custom fitting. My example came fitted with the SME 3009 Series 2 Improved tonearm paired with a Shure V15 Type 3 MM cartridge. This combination is legendary for its tracking precision and musicality. The SME arm’s geometry and the smooth, slow dashpot arm-lowering mechanism add to the overall refinement and ease of use.

Performance and Sound Quality

From the moment I dropped the stylus on a well-loved vinyl, the RD11S revealed its strengths. The soundstage is expansive and detailed, with a natural tonal balance that avoids the pitfalls of excessive brightness or muddiness. The low rumble floor and tight speed control (wow and flutter rated at 0.03%) allow the music to breathe, revealing subtle nuances and textures often lost on lesser turntables.

Bass is well-defined and controlled, thanks to the heavy platter and stable suspension, while mids and highs come through with clarity and warmth. The isolation system’s effectiveness in reducing feedback means that even during louder passages, the stylus remains firmly in the groove without unwanted resonance or distortion.

Speed changes between 33⅓ and 45 rpm are smooth and accurate, aided by the motor’s design and the slip-clutch belt drive that prevents belt stretching. The motor is notably quiet, allowing the music to take centre stage without mechanical distractions.

Comparisons and Legacy

It’s impossible to discuss the RD11S without acknowledging its close relationship to the Linn LP12. The RD11 was designed by Hamish Robertson and manufactured by Castle Precision Engineering, the same company that produced early LP12s. The two share many design elements, and numerous LP12 upgrades are compatible with the RD11, making it a versatile platform for those interested in vintage turntable restoration or modification.

Conclusion

Owning and listening to the Ariston RD11S has been a rewarding experience. It combines thoughtful engineering, elegant design, and musical performance that still impresses decades after its debut. For audiophiles who appreciate the tactile and sonic pleasures of analog playback, the RD11S offers a compelling blend of vintage character and technical sophistication.

If you find one in good condition, especially with a quality tonearm like the SME 3009, it’s a turntable that can hold its own against many modern competitors. The RD11S is not just a piece of hi-fi history—it’s a living, breathing musical instrument that continues to deliver joy and insight with every spin.