Turntable Details
Drive
Idler
Motor
Induction
Wow & Flutter %
0.2
Rumble [dB]
Speed
33, 45, 78
Dimensions [mm]
Platter Material
Platter Diameter [mm]
305.0
Total Weight [kg]
Tonearm
Year Built
7.26
Platter Weight [kg]
2.50
Plinth Material
Price
Additional information
The Garrard 301 turntable is a classic transcription turntable that was first released in 1953 and stayed in production until 1965. It is known for its robust design and high-quality construction, featuring a 4-pole Garrard Induction motor driving an idle wheel which drives the platter from inside its rim. The chassis and platter are made from diecast aluminium, and the platter is balanced and freely spins on a high precision bearing.
The Garrard 301 is capable of playing at 33 ⅓, 45, and 78 rpm speeds and is recognized for its unique sound and character, which some attribute to its idle wheel mechanism, despite it being noisier compared to belt drive and direct drive turntables.
In recent years, the Garrard 301 has seen a resurgence in popularity among audiophiles and music enthusiasts, with companies like SME reintroducing the model and offering modern enhancements such as the Garrard 301 Advanced, which is available in any RAL colour and can be equipped with an SME precision tonearm.