Turntable Details
Drive
Direct
Motor
DC
Wow & Flutter %
0.04
Rumble [dB]
-70
Speed
Dimensions [mm]
Platter Material
Platter Diameter [mm]
314
Total Weight [kg]
Tonearm
Year Built
7.40
S-shaped
Platter Weight [kg]
Plinth Material
Price
Additional information
The Akai AP-206 is a 2-speed direct-drive turntable manufactured in Japan around 1978-1979, known for its solid build quality and reliable performance.
Technical Overview
Platter and Drive:
314 mm aluminum alloy die-cast platter designed for smooth rotation and low resonance.
Direct drive system with auto-return function.
Motor: DC servo motor ensuring stable and precise speed control.
Speed and pitch control: supports 33⅓ and 45 rpm with ±2.5% adjustment range.
Performance:
Wow and flutter: 0.035%, indicating excellent speed stability.
Rumble: better than 70 dB, reflecting low background noise.
Tonearm:
Static balanced type with adjustable anti-skate.
Effective length: 220 mm.
Cartridge weight range: 4 to 12 g.
Overhang: 15 mm.
Offset angle: 22.5 degrees.
Construction and Dimensions:
Dimensions: 440 mm (W) x 158 mm (H) x 350 mm (D).
Weight: 7.4 kg.
Typically features a wood veneer top (often replaced or refinished in used units) and a sturdy base for vibration reduction.
Additional Features:
Semi-automatic operation with automatic return of the tonearm at the end of the record.
Known for quiet, stable operation and good sound quality.
Compatible with various cartridges, often fitted with the Akai PC-100 IM cartridge.
In summary, the Akai AP-206 is a well-built, direct-drive turntable with precise DC servo motor control, a heavy die-cast platter, and a static balanced tonearm with anti-skate adjustment. Its low wow and flutter, good rumble performance, and solid construction make it a reliable and musically capable vintage turntable.