TEAC TN-5BB Belt Drive Turntable - Black
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Product Information
Full details
For the discerning audiophile seeking pristine vinyl playback, the TEAC TN-5BB Belt Drive Turntable offers exceptional sound quality and elegant design. Its advanced hybrid chassis and precision belt drive ensure stable rotation and minimal vibration for a pure listening experience. However, its premium features and manual operation mean it requires a dedicated setup and may not be the most beginner-friendly option.
All features
| Colour | Black |
|---|---|
| Model Part Number | TN5BBMB |
| Brand | Teac |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
Do I need a phono preamplifier with this turntable?
Yes, the TEAC TN-5BB is a component turntable and requires an external phono preamplifier (or one built into your amplifier/receiver) to boost the low-level signal from the cartridge to a line-level signal that your amplifier can process.
What speeds does this turntable support?
It supports three playback speeds: 33 1/3 RPM, 45 RPM, and 78 RPM, allowing you to play most vinyl records in your collection.
Can I use a different cartridge with this turntable?
Yes, the turntable comes with a standard headshell and is compatible with many other Moving Magnet (MM) or Moving Coil (MC) cartridges, provided they fit the headshell and are within the tonearm's tracking weight capabilities. You will need to perform alignment and set tracking force.
How do I connect this turntable to my speakers?
The turntable connects to a phono preamplifier via RCA or XLR cables. The phono preamplifier then connects to your amplifier or active speakers. The turntable itself does not have built-in speakers.
What is the purpose of the automatic arm lift function?
The automatic arm lift uses a sensor to detect the end of a record and gently lifts the tonearm, preventing the stylus from being dragged across the run-out groove, which can cause wear and noise. This function can be turned on or off.
How do I adjust the VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle)?
VTA is adjusted by changing the height of the tonearm base. Use the provided L wrench to loosen the locking screw on the tonearm base and raise or lower the base to your desired height within the 6mm range, then re-tighten the screw.
Is assembly difficult?
The turntable comes with the headshell and cartridge pre-installed. Basic setup involves placing the platter, connecting cables, and setting the tonearm balance and anti-skate. While not overly complex, precision is key for optimal sound, so referring to the manual is recommended.
Troubleshooting
No sound or low volume
Ensure the turntable is connected to a phono input (not a line-in) on your amplifier or preamplifier. Verify the ground wire is properly connected. Check that the tonearm and cartridge are correctly seated and the stylus is clean.
Humming or buzzing noise
Ensure the ground wire from the turntable is securely connected to the ground terminal on your amplifier or preamplifier. Try a different RCA or XLR cable. Ensure the turntable is not placed too close to other electronic devices that might cause interference.
Distorted sound or skipping
Check the tracking force and anti-skating settings are correctly applied according to the cartridge's specifications. Ensure the stylus is clean. Verify the tonearm is properly balanced and tracking freely. Make sure the turntable is on a stable, level surface.
Platter speed seems inconsistent
Ensure the drive belt is correctly seated on the motor pulley and the platter rim. Check if the belt shows signs of wear or stretching and replace if necessary. Clean the platter rim and motor pulley where the belt makes contact.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional build quality with a sophisticated hybrid chassis.
- High precision and stability in platter rotation due to the PRS3 system.
- Superior tracking performance thanks to the SAEC-designed knife-edge tonearm.
- Includes a high-quality Ortofon 2M RED cartridge out of the box.
- Versatile connectivity with both RCA and XLR balanced outputs.
- Elegant aesthetic with contrasting piano black, synthetic marble, and aluminum finishes.
Cons
- Requires a separate phono preamplifier and active speakers or an amplifier with phono input.
- Manual operation means no automatic start/stop for records.
- The sophisticated features may present a steeper learning curve for absolute beginners.
- Higher price point compared to entry-level turntables.
- Requires careful setup and alignment for optimal performance.
Setup, Compatibility & Care Instructions
Setup:
- Carefully unpack all components, ensuring all protective materials are removed.
- Place the turntable on a stable, level surface away from vibrations.
- Install the platter, belt, and slip mat (if using one, though the acrylic platter is designed for direct use).
- Mount the headshell with the pre-installed Ortofon 2M RED cartridge onto the tonearm, ensuring it is securely attached.
- Adjust the tonearm height (VTA) using the provided L wrench to match your cartridge and desired alignment.
- Set the tracking force and anti-skating according to the cartridge manufacturer's recommendations (typically 1.6-1.8g tracking force for the 2M RED).
- Connect the RCA or XLR cables from the turntable to your phono preamplifier or amplifier's phono input.
- Connect the ground wire to prevent hum.
- Plug in the AC adapter.
Compatibility:
- Requires a phono preamplifier (either built into your amplifier or a separate unit) with appropriate MM (Moving Magnet) input. If using XLR outputs with a balanced phono preamp, ensure compatibility.
- Requires active speakers or an amplifier to produce sound.
- Supports playback of records at 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM.
Care:
- Keep the acrylic dust cover closed when not in use to protect the platter and tonearm from dust.
- Clean the dust cover and turntable body with a soft, dry, or slightly damp microfiber cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Periodically inspect the drive belt for signs of wear or stretching. Replace if necessary.
- Gently clean the stylus with a dedicated stylus brush or cleaning fluid as recommended by the cartridge manufacturer.