Acoustic Research ES 1

The Acoustic Research ES-1 is a high-quality, 2-speed belt-drive turntable introduced around 1984, positioned as an improved and refined model in AR’s lineup, often compared closely with "The AR Turntable" but featuring notable enhancements.

Technical Overview

Drive and Motor:

• Uses a 24-pole AC synchronous motor (Hurst motor, approx. 3 watts).

• One-step belt drive system.

• Motor speed approximately 300 rpm to achieve 33⅓ and 45 rpm speeds by repositioning the belt.

Speeds:

• Supports standard 33⅓ and 45 rpm speeds.

• Wow and flutter rated at 0.04% (DIN 45507), indicating excellent speed stability.

• Rumble rated at -78 dB (DIN 45539B weighted), reflecting very low background noise.

Platter and Suspension:

• Platter weight of 1.8 kg (3.9 lbs).

• Features a sapphire thrust bearing with a concave tip fitting over a loose ball bearing, enhancing smooth rotation and durability.

• Suspension is a damped 3-point sprung system, providing effective isolation from external vibrations and minimizing resonance.

• The sub-chassis design contributes to stable playback and reduced noise.

Tonearm:

• The ES-1 was often sold with an OEM Japanese tonearm similar in design to the Sumiko but not identical.

• Tonearm effective length: 229 mm (9 inches).

• Overhang: approximately 15 mm (19/32 inch).

• Low friction (<20 mg horizontal and vertical).

• Effective mass around 13 grams.

• Cartridge weight range supported: 3 to 9 grams.

• Stylus tracking force range: 0 to 3 grams.

• Headshell is carbon fiber reinforced with a clamping screw.

• The tonearm is designed for minimal resonance and precise tracking.

Construction and Dimensions:

• Cabinet made with solid wood sides, available in cherry or walnut finishes.

• Dimensions: approximately 462 mm (W) x 179 mm (H) x 387 mm (D) (18.2" x 7" x 15.2").

• Weight: about 8.2 kg (18 lb 1 oz).

• Power consumption: 9 watts.

• Comes with a hinged dust cover.

Additional Features and Notes:

• The ES-1 includes a sapphire bearing and a high-quality motor (Hurst motor), both contributing to its smooth, quiet operation.

• It is fully manual, with speed changes made by moving the belt.

• The ES-1 was available with or without a tonearm, allowing users to fit their preferred arm.

• The turntable has a reputation for durable construction, excellent sound quality, and remains competitive even decades after its release.

• Users have noted that upgrading the tonearm cables can further improve sound quality.

• The ES-1 is praised for its natural, clear, and tuneful sound reproduction, making it a favorite among audiophiles who appreciate vintage analog playback.