Akai AP-006

The Akai AP-006 is a high-quality, 2-speed direct-drive turntable produced in Japan between 1976 and 1978, regarded as one of Akai's finest and most stylish models.

Technical Overview

Drive and Motor:

• Direct drive system powered by a 6-pole outer rotor AC servo-controlled motor.

• Speeds supported: 33⅓ and 45 rpm.

• Wow and flutter: less than 0.035% WRMS, indicating excellent speed stability.

• Signal-to-noise ratio: better than 69 dB.

• Speed adjustment range: ±4%, allowing fine pitch control.

• Motor and drive system are transistor-based with no integrated circuits, ensuring reliability and ease of maintenance.

Platter:

• 325 mm diameter die-cast aluminum alloy platter weighing approximately 1.15 kg.

• Designed for low resonance and smooth rotation.

• Built-in stroboscope for speed verification and adjustment.

Tonearm:

• S-shaped static balanced tubular tonearm with inside force canceller and lateral balance weight (anti-skating).

• Arm length: 230 mm.

• Cartridge weight range: 4 to 8 g (extendable to 12 g with sub-weight).

• Offset angle: 22 degrees.

• Overhang: 15 mm.

• Removable headshell allowing easy cartridge upgrades.

Construction and Dimensions:

• Anodized aluminum deck mounted on a walnut veneer plinth.

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

• Weight: approximately 9 kg.

• Includes a transparent dust cover.

Additional Features:

• Fully manual operation with precise speed control.

• Built-in pitch adjustment for fine-tuning playback speed.

• Highly regarded for its sound quality, reliability, and elegant design.

• The turntable is praised for its smooth, detailed, and musical playback.

• Compatible with a wide range of cartridges due to its versatile tonearm.