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Akai AP-D33C

Turntable Details

Drive

Direct

Motor

DC

Wow & Flutter %

0.05

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-D33C is a direct-drive, auto-return turntable produced in the early 1980s, known for its solid construction, precise speed control, and reliable performance.


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: 0.05% (DIN), 0.035% (JIS), indicating very stable speed.

  • Rumble: 70 dB (DIN B), reflecting low background noise.

Tonearm:

  • S-shaped static balanced tonearm.

  • Effective length: 220 mm.

  • Overhang: 15 mm.

  • Offset angle: approximately 22.5 degrees.

  • Shell weight: 8.2 grams.

  • Cartridge weight range: 4 to 12 grams.

  • Oil-damped arm lifter for smooth stylus placement.

  • Anti-skating mechanism included.

Cartridge:

  • Factory-fitted with a VM (dual magnet) type cartridge.

  • Recommended stylus pressure: 2 grams.

  • Output voltage: approximately 5 mV (DIN).

  • Channel separation: more than 20 dB (DIN).

Operation and Features:

  • Semi-automatic operation with auto-return tonearm.

  • Built-in stroboscope lamp for speed verification.

  • Fine pitch control ±5%.

  • Compatible with a wide range of cartridges due to adjustable tonearm parameters.

Construction and Dimensions:

  • Dimensions: 440 mm (W) x 140 mm (H) x 403 mm (D).

  • Weight: approximately 5.5 kg.

  • Solid chassis with dust cover included.

  • Power supply options vary by region: 100V (Japan), 120V (USA/Canada), 220V (Europe), 240V (UK/Australia), with some models switchable between 110–120V and 220–240V.

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