Turntable Details
Drive
Belt
Motor
Wow & Flutter %
Rumble [dB]
Speed
Dimensions [mm]
Platter Material
Aluminium
Platter Diameter [mm]
Total Weight [kg]
Tonearm
Year Built
85
Platter Weight [kg]
26
Plinth Material
Price
Additional information
Drive System
Belt-drive system with a synchronous motor housed in a stainless steel block, located on the side of the turntable.
The motor is separated from the base to minimize vibration transmission.
Speed options: 33⅓ and 45 RPM, manually adjusted by moving the belt over a stepped pulley.
Platter and Bearing
26 kg aluminum platter made from aviation-grade aluminum, featuring a magnetic repulsion system to enhance stability and reduce bearing load.
The platter is driven by a flywheel on the motor pulley for smooth operation.
Chassis and Isolation
The base is crafted from Zimbabwe black granite, weighing approximately 60 kg.
Features three adjustable damping feet equipped with delicate helical springs to prevent imbalance and ensure optimal isolation from external vibrations.
Tonearm Compatibility
Includes two arm bases: one for the Riffaud Signature 12-inch unipivot arm and another for a user-chosen arm.
The Signature arm features a silicone bath pivot for precise tracking and includes adjustable anti-skating and VTA.
Performance Metrics
Wow and flutter: Not specified, but expected to be low due to the advanced drive and bearing system.
Signal-to-noise ratio: Enhanced by the elimination of mechanical noise sources.
Construction Features
Total weight: Approximately 85 kg.
Dimensions: Not specified, but the base is substantial, with a granite block forming the foundation.
Handcrafted to order, with a delivery time of about six months.
Design Philosophy
The Saturn represents Pierre Riffaud's approach to combining mass, kinetic inertia, and advanced materials to achieve exceptional sound quality.
Each unit is meticulously crafted, reflecting Riffaud's commitment to French excellence in audio engineering.