Turntable Details
Drive
Belt
Motor
AC
Wow & Flutter %
0.04
Rumble [dB]
-73
Speed
33, 45
Dimensions [mm]
462 x 387 x 179
Platter Material
Platter Diameter [mm]
Total Weight [kg]
Tonearm
Year Built
8.20
Straight
1983
Platter Weight [kg]
1.80
Plinth Material
Price
£165 (1983)
Additional information
The Acoustic Research "The AR Turntable" is a precision 2-speed belt-drive turntable introduced around 1984, closely related to the AR ES-1 model, and designed for accurate and reliable analog music reproduction.
Technical Overview
Drive and Motor:
One-step belt drive system.
24-pole synchronous AC motor.
Speeds supported: 33⅓ and 45 rpm.
Power consumption approximately 9 watts.
Platter and Suspension:
Aluminum platter weighing about 1.8 kg (3.9 lbs).
Damped 3-point sprung suspension isolating the platter and tonearm from external vibrations.
Suspension design helps minimize rumble and resonance.
Performance:
Wow and flutter rated at 0.04%, indicating excellent speed stability.
Rumble rated at -73 dB, reflecting low background noise.
The turntable is noted for an airy, articulate sound with good timing, rhythm, and a pleasing sense of space and ambience.
Bass is well above average though slightly light; mids are clear and balanced; treble is well proportioned.
Tonearm:
Available with or without a fitted tonearm.
If purchased without tonearm, the turntable comes with a blank wooden mounting board allowing installation of various compatible tonearms.
The tonearm mounting board can be drilled and cut to fit alternative arms, with dealer consultation recommended to ensure compatibility.
Construction and Dimensions:
Cabinet made of wood compound with walnut finish.
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).
Comes with a hinged dust cover.
Additional Notes:
The AR Turntable shares many design features and specifications with the ES-1 but is marketed under a different name.
It emphasizes simplicity, accuracy, and reliability without unnecessary features.
The turntable was well regarded for its sound quality and build, often priced around £165 for the motor unit alone and £225 with the fitted AR tonearm (circa 1984).
Its sprung sub-chassis and belt-drive system provide excellent isolation from vibrations and motor noise, contributing to its clean sound.