Akai AP-100C

The Akai AP-100C is a high-fidelity, semi-automatic belt-drive turntable manufactured in Japan around 1978–1980. It is well-regarded for its solid construction, precise engineering, and ease of use.

Technical Overview

Drive and Motor:

• Belt drive system.

• 4-pole synchronous motor.

• Speeds supported: 33⅓ and 45 rpm.

• Wow and flutter: 0.05% WRMS.

• Signal-to-noise ratio: better than 53 dB.

Platter:

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

Tonearm:

• Static balanced tonearm with inside force canceller (anti-skating).

• Effective length: 220 mm.

• Overhang: 15 mm.

• Stylus pressure adjustable from 0 to 4 grams.

• Cartridge weight range: 5 to 8.5 grams.

• Oil-damped arm lifter for smooth cueing.

• Offset angle: 22° 30'.

• Horizontal tracking error angle: ±2°.

• Shell weight: approximately 7 grams.

Cartridge:

• Typically fitted with Akai PC-100 tri-pole induced magnet cartridge with 0.65 mil diamond stylus.

• Output voltage: approximately 4 mV (1 kHz, 5 cm/s).

• Channel separation: more than 20 dB at 1 kHz.

• Recommended tracking force: 2 grams.

• Compliance: 10 x 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne (100 Hz).

Operation and Features:

• Semi-automatic operation with auto-return tonearm.

• Suitable for stereo and 4-channel SQ or CD-4 matrix 4-channel playback with appropriate cartridge and adapters.

• Power supply varies by region (100 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz).

• Dimensions: 440 mm (W) x 140–145 mm (H) x 350–355 mm (D).

• Weight: approximately 6.1 kg.

Additional Notes:

• The removable headshell allows cartridge upgrades.

• The turntable is praised for its precise speed stability and smooth tonearm operation.

• Often compared favorably to higher-end models for its price and performance.

• Replacement belts and parts are available.