Akai AP-001C

The Akai AP-001C is a 2-speed belt-drive turntable produced in Japan around 1977–1978, essentially an upgraded version of the AP-001 with a factory-fitted cartridge.

Technical Overview

Platter and Drive:

• 300 mm die-cast aluminum platter for stable rotation and low resonance.

• Belt drive system powered by a 4-pole synchronous motor.

• Speeds supported: 33⅓ and 45 rpm.

• Wow and flutter: 0.06% WRMS, indicating good speed stability.

• Signal-to-noise ratio better than 50 dB.

Tonearm:

• Static balanced stainless steel tubular tonearm with inside force canceller and lateral balance weight.

• Arm length: 220 mm.

• Overhang: 15 mm.

• Cartridge weight range: 4 to 10 g (can extend to 10 to 15 g with sub-weight).

• Oil-damped arm lifter for smooth cueing.

• Headshell weight: approximately 8 g.

Cartridge:

• Equipped with an Audio-Technica AT-11 moving magnet cartridge.

• Cartridge output voltage: approximately 4 mV.

• Cartridge impedance: 47 kΩ.

• Frequency response: 15 Hz to 25 kHz.

• Optimal tracking force around 2.5 g.

• Cartridge weight about 5.5 g.

Construction and Dimensions:

• Dimensions: 440 mm (W) x 140 mm (H) x 350 mm (D).

• Weight: approximately 6.3 kg.

• Finished typically in silver or black.

• Includes a removable dust cover.

Additional Features:

• Semi-automatic operation: the turntable automatically stops at the end of the record.

• Dynamic anti-skating system that self-adjusts without manual control.

• Durable mechanical design with minimal plastic parts.

• Supplied accessories often include a 45 rpm adapter and stylus pressure gauge.