Akai AP-004

The Akai AP-004 is a fully automatic belt-drive turntable manufactured in Japan between 1973 and 1976. It is part of Akai’s mid-1970s series of turntables known for solid build quality and reliable performance.

Technical Overview

Drive and Motor:

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

• Speeds supported: 33⅓ and 45 rpm.

• Motor designed for stable, low-noise operation.

Platter:

• 300 mm (approximately 11.8 inches) die-cast aluminum alloy platter.

• Designed for low resonance and smooth rotation.

Tonearm:

• Fully automatic tonearm with lift and return functions.

• Static balanced tubular tonearm.

• Equipped with anti-skating mechanism.

• Headshell designed for easy cartridge mounting.

Operation:

• Fully automatic start, stop, and return of the tonearm at the end of the record.

• Automatic speed change between 33⅓ and 45 rpm.

• Cueing system with oil damping for smooth lowering of the stylus.

Construction and Dimensions:

• Plinth made of wood or wood veneer with a solid build.

• Dust cover included.

• Typical dimensions approximately 440 mm (W) x 140 mm (H) x 360 mm (D).

• Weight around 6.5 to 7 kg.

Performance:

• Wow and flutter and rumble specifications are consistent with other Akai models of the era, typically around 0.05% wow and flutter.

• Signal-to-noise ratio approximately 50 dB or better.

• Known for quiet operation and reliable speed stability.

Additional Notes:

• The AP-004 was available in variants such as AP-004D and AP-004X with minor differences.

• It shares many design elements with other Akai models like the AP-003 but adds full automatic operation.

• The turntable is respected for its solid mechanical design and ease of use.

• Replacement parts such as belts are available and compatible with other Akai models like AP-003.