Merrill-Williams R.E.A.L. 101

The Merrill-Williams R.E.A.L. 101 turntable is a high-performance analog playback system designed with innovative energy management techniques to minimize vibrations and optimize sound quality. 

Design and Build

• Base and Plinth: The R.E.A.L. 101 features a plinth made from a Rubber Elastomeric Acoustic Laminate (R.E.A.L.), which consists of a rubber elastomer sandwiched between phenolic plates. This design helps in absorbing and dissipating energy from the motor, platter, bearing, and tonearm, ensuring that each component operates independently without transmitting vibrations to the others.

• Dimensions: Measures 17 inches (43.18 cm) in width, 10 inches (25.4 cm) in height, and 14.5 inches (36.83 cm) in depth. It weighs approximately 42 lbs (19 kg).

• Support-Truss System: The plinth includes a support-truss system with seven struts to maintain rigidity and stability.

Motor and Drive System

• Motor Type: Fixed AC synchronous motor, which provides stable and precise speed control.

• Drive Type: Belt-driven system for smooth operation and reduced motor vibrations.

• Motor Controller: The motor drive control unit is designed by Ron Sutherland, featuring a microprocessor-controlled system with crystal-controlled dual oscillators. This setup allows for precise speed adjustments and maintains pitch stability despite AC line variations.

Platter and Bearing

• Platter Material: Made from a high-density Bakelite, cellulose, and resin compound, providing dimensional stability and a broad Q factor.

• Bearing System: Features a low-noise bearing with a hardened thrust ball on a precision-ground stainless steel shaft gliding over a hardened surface in an MDS-impregnated nylon oil-well bearing.

Tonearm and Cartridge

• Tonearm Compatibility: The R.E.A.L. 101 is designed to accommodate various high-quality tonearms, though specific models are not detailed.

• Cartridge: While specific cartridge details are not provided, it is compatible with a range of moving coil and moving magnet cartridges.

Connectivity and Features

• Outputs: Unbalanced RCA output for connection to a phono preamplifier.

• Record Clamping System: Optional clamping system includes a center weight and periphery ring, designed to absorb energy and provide even down-force on the record. This system enhances transparency, clarity, and the ability to handle warped records.

• Speed Control: Supports playback speeds of 33 1/3 RPM and 45 RPM with precise speed adjustments using a strobe light and markings on the periphery ring.

Additional Features

• Energy Management: The R.E.A.L. design addresses four types of energy: self-generated, mechanically coupled via the feet, airborne, and conducted stylus energy. The elastomer feet help shield against external vibrations.

• Sound Quality: Renowned for delivering precise and detailed sound reproduction with minimal noise and resonance.