Turntable Details
Drive
Belt
Motor
AC
Wow & Flutter %
0.05
Rumble [dB]
-65
Speed
Dimensions [mm]
Platter Material
Platter Diameter [mm]
300
Total Weight [kg]
Tonearm
Year Built
5.90
J-shaped
Platter Weight [kg]
Plinth Material
Price
Additional information
The Akai AP-B20C is a semi-automatic, 2-speed belt-drive turntable produced in Japan around 1980–1981. It is a reliable and well-built model known for smooth operation and solid sound quality.
Technical Overview
Platter and Drive:
300 mm aluminum alloy die-cast platter for low resonance and smooth rotation.
Belt drive system powered by a 4-pole synchronous motor.
Speeds supported: 33⅓ and 45 rpm.
Wow and flutter: 0.05%.
Rumble: 65 dB.
Tonearm:
Static balanced tonearm with inside force canceller (anti-skating).
Effective length: 220 mm.
Overhang: 15 mm.
Oil-damped arm lifter for smooth stylus placement.
Removable headshell allowing cartridge upgrades.
Construction and Dimensions:
Dimensions: 440 mm (W) x 135 mm (H) x 355 mm (D).
Weight: 5.9 kg.
Solid plinth construction designed to reduce vibrations.
Typically finished in silver.
Includes a dust cover.
Additional Features:
Semi-automatic operation with auto-return tonearm.
Known for clear and reliable sound, especially when fitted with quality cartridges like Audio-Technica AT series.
Pitch adjustment is possible via internal potentiometer for fine speed tuning.
Replacement parts such as belts, stylus, and headshells are readily available.
The removable headshell supports a wide range of cartridge upgrades.
Often praised for its robust build and musical sound quality in vintage turntable circles.