Turntable Details
Drive
Belt
Motor
DC
Wow & Flutter %
Rumble [dB]
Speed
33, 45
Dimensions [mm]
Platter Material
Platter Diameter [mm]
Total Weight [kg]
Tonearm
Year Built
12.50
S-shaped
1991
Platter Weight [kg]
Plinth Material
Price
£160
Additional information
The Ariston Pro 1200 is a vintage high-quality belt-drive turntable from Ariston Audio, a Scottish manufacturer known for producing audiophile-grade decks in the 1970s and 1980s. It is part of Ariston’s professional line, designed to offer precise speed stability, low noise, and excellent vibration isolation.
Key Technical Features
Drive System:
Belt drive powered by a synchronous AC motor, known for stable and quiet operation. The motor is typically mounted with vibration isolation to minimize mechanical noise and interference.Speeds:
Supports standard 33⅓ and 45 rpm playback speeds. Speed changes are manual, done by repositioning the belt on different motor pulleys.Platter:
Heavy, precision-machined aluminum platter designed to provide high rotational inertia, reducing wow and flutter and improving speed stability.Bearing:
Precision main bearing with low friction and oil lubrication for smooth platter rotation and minimal noise.Suspension and Chassis:
Multi-layered plinth construction with vibration-damping materials. The suspension system often includes adjustable springs or isolating feet to reduce external vibrations and feedback.Tonearm Compatibility:
Compatible with high-quality tonearms, including Ariston’s own models or Jelco-like arms, allowing precise cartridge alignment and tracking.Operation:
Fully manual operation without automatic features; the user manually places the tonearm and changes speeds.Additional Accessories:
Optional accessories may include isolating bases, heavy platters, adjustable feet, heavy springs, mass rings for tonearm balancing, and dust covers, many of which can be retrofitted.
Performance and Reputation
The Ariston Pro 1200 is regarded as a reliable and precise audiophile turntable offering excellent sound clarity, low noise floor, and stable speed control. It is comparable to other respected 1970s audiophile decks and remains sought after by collectors and vinyl enthusiasts for its musicality and engineering quality.