Turntable Details
Drive
Direct
Motor
DC
Wow & Flutter %
0.04
Rumble [dB]
-70
Speed
Dimensions [mm]
Platter Material
Platter Diameter [mm]
Total Weight [kg]
Tonearm
Year Built
5.50
S-shaped
Platter Weight [kg]
Plinth Material
Price
Additional information
The Akai AP-D30C is a semi-automatic direct-drive turntable produced between 1980 and 1982 in Japan, recognized for its stable and precise playback capabilities.
Technical Overview
Platter and Drive:
314 mm aluminum alloy die-cast platter designed for low resonance and smooth rotation.
Direct drive system with DC servo motor.
Speeds supported: 33⅓ and 45 rpm with ±5% pitch control.
Wow and flutter: 0.035%, indicating very stable speed.
Rumble: 70 dB, reflecting low background noise.
Tonearm:
Static balanced tonearm with an effective length of 220 mm.
Stylus pressure adjustable from 0 to 3 grams.
Cartridge weight range: 4 to 12 grams.
Overhang: 15 mm.
Offset angle: 22.5 degrees.
Oil-damped tonearm lift for smooth cueing.
Anti-skating mechanism included.
Operation and Features:
Semi-automatic operation with auto-return tonearm.
Built-in stroboscope lamp for speed verification.
Dynamic scanning system.
Fine pitch control ±5%.
Factory-fitted with an Akai PC-90 cartridge (or similar).
Construction and Dimensions:
Dimensions: 440 mm (W) x 140 mm (H) x 403 mm (D).
Weight: 5.5 kg.
Solid chassis with dust cover included.
Operates on 220V AC power.
Additional Notes:
Known for smooth, stable playback but not designed for DJ use due to moderate torque.
Some users report issues with pitch control potentiometer requiring cleaning.
Replacement parts such as counterweights and stylus are available.
The tonearm and cartridge setup allows for cartridge upgrades.