Akai AP-005

The Akai AP-005 is a fully automatic 2-speed belt-drive turntable produced in Japan between 1976 and 1978, known for its solid construction and reliable performance.

Technical Overview

Platter and Drive:

• 300 mm (11.8") die-cast aluminum alloy platter weighing approximately 1.1 kg.

• Belt drive system.

• Motors: 4-pole hysteresis synchronous motor for platter drive and a geared motor for tonearm operation.

• Speeds supported: 33⅓ and 45 rpm.

• Wow and flutter: 0.05% WRMS.

• Signal-to-noise ratio: approximately 52 dB.

Tonearm:

• Static balanced stainless steel tubular tonearm.

• Effective arm length: 220 mm.

• Overhang: 15 mm.

• Cartridge weight range: 4 to 8 g (extendable to 12.5 g with sub-weight).

• Headshell weight: 13.5 g.

• Features dynamic lateral force canceller (anti-skating) adjustable via lateral weight.

Operation:

• Fully automatic operation including auto start, stop, and return of the tonearm.

• Speed selection and cueing controlled electronically.

• Includes an automatic audio muting switch that silences output until the stylus contacts the record groove.

Construction and Dimensions:

• Dimensions: 440 mm (W) x 128 mm (H) x 358 mm (D).

• Weight: approximately 7.6 kg.

• Plinth typically finished with woodgrain veneer.

• Comes with a transparent dust cover.

Additional Features:

• Voltage selector allowing operation on 110–240 V, 50/60 Hz.

• Supplied with accessories such as 45 rpm adapter and stylus pressure gauge.

• Known for quiet operation and smooth mechanical action.

• The tonearm lateral force canceller is adjusted by a unique method involving arm balancing on a sloped surface to neutralize lateral forces.