Acoustic Signature Challenger MKIII

The Acoustic Signature Challenger MkIII is a high-mass, precision-engineered belt-drive turntable positioned as a statement-level entry in Acoustic Signature’s lineup, combining advanced materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and modern electronic control for outstanding analog playback.

Technical Overview

Platter and Chassis:

• The platter is a solid 50 mm thick piece of soft aluminum alloy weighing approximately 9 to 11 kg, designed to optimize periodic resonance and coated on the underside with damping material to reduce vibrations.

• The chassis is CNC-milled from a single 40 mm thick solid aluminum block, providing exceptional rigidity and low resonance.

• The overall turntable weight is about 23 kg (50 lbs), contributing to stability and vibration control.

Bearing:

• Features a proprietary Tidorfolon bearing system (a composite of vanadium, ferrite, Teflon, and titanium) that is roller-brushed and paired with a hardened steel axle.

• The bearing is engineered for extremely low friction, very low noise, exact fit, and long-term stability.

• Acoustic Signature offers a remarkable 10-year warranty on the bearing.

Drive and Motor:

• Uses a European-made synchronous motor controlled by the Beta DIG digital motor controller.

• The motor is fully mains-decoupled and electronically regulated for precise and stable speeds.

• Speeds supported: 33⅓ and 45 rpm, selectable via a simple pushbutton interface on the external controller.

• The motor controller includes speed stabilization indicators (LED lights) for user feedback.

Suspension and Feet:

• The turntable rests on three constrained-layer-damped, height-adjustable feet with embedded spikes for leveling and vibration isolation.

• The chassis and platter design inherently minimize resonance without the need for a traditional sprung suspension.

Tonearm Compatibility:

• The Challenger MkIII can accommodate up to three tonearms simultaneously, offering exceptional flexibility for audiophiles.

• It is commonly paired with Acoustic Signature’s own tonearms (e.g., TA-1000 or TA-2000) but also compatible with other high-end arms.

Dimensions:

• Approximately 440 mm (W) x 180 mm (H) x 350 mm (D).

• Compact footprint suitable for smaller listening spaces despite the heavy build.

User Experience and Performance:

• The turntable is praised for remarkable purity, focus, elegance, and musicality.

• It delivers outstanding timing, dynamic range, and transient attack with a clear, natural, and well-focused sound.

• Setup and operation are straightforward, with a minimalist control interface.

• The Challenger MkIII is noted for its reliability and consistency, akin to a “Steadicam” in playback stability.

• The design balances high mass and precision engineering to outperform many turntables costing significantly more.

Additional Features:

• Includes a black leather platter cover.

• External power supply and motor controller reduce interference and noise.

• The chassis and platter are machined in-house with meticulous quality control.

• The bearing and motor system are designed for long-term durability and low maintenance.