A high-performance belt-drive analog turntable with XLR outputs, the TEAC TN-5BB turntable delivers precision sound for your favorite records.
Are you ready to experience recordings the way the artists and engineers intended?
This analog turntable, which supports MC balanced output, features a hybrid chassis that combines synthetic marble, washi paper, and MDF materials along with a 9-inch S-shaped universal arm that utilizes a knife-edge bearing.
TEAC high-performance turntables are the gateway to experiencing the true magic artists and recording engineers put into every note of their creations.
With jet black synthetic marble and MDF finished in piano black, the TN-5BB is a truly worthy stage that achieves both functional suppressions of unwanted vibrations as well a stately and modern design.
Using the built-in XLR jacks to team up with a phono amplifier that supports a balanced connection, the slightest signals transmitted by the cartridge can be re-created with even greater intensity.
The knife-edge tonearm, which is a SAEC×TEAC collaboration, is another component that further enhances the soundstage. The 20mm thick acrylic platter is driven by our original Platter Rotation Sensing Servo System (PRS3).
Hybrid chassis with multi-material makeup suppresses unwanted vibrations
The chassis has a multilayer structure combining a heavy 36mm MDF baseplate with high internal loss and a 12mm synthetic marble with outstanding rigidity. (The weight of the cabinet is 8.8kg.) Great feedback resistance has been realized with this excellent rigidity and vibration suppression. The tonearm and platter are mounted on the synthetic marble top plate while the motor, which causes vibration, is mounted to the MDF base plate. These separate structures using these materials as dampers isolate the tonearm and motor from each other. An overall structure with outstanding stillness has been realized that reduces the transmission of vibrations from the motor to the tonearm.
Based on our experience using Japanese washi paper turntable sheets and after repeated listening tests; we determined that the appropriate thickness, washi paper is the best material to use as a washer between the synthetic marble and the MDF for achieving optimal sound balance. By using washi rather than rubber or metal, the original vitality of the sound can be drawn out when records are played back.
PRS3 belt drive structure supports accurate and stable platter rotation
Ideally, once started, platter rotation would continue by its own weight and inertia, but this is impossible, of course. The TN-5BB uses the belt drive method with a flat belt that transmits the power of the DC motor to the outer circumference of the platter. An optical sensor in the bottom of the platter detects the platter rotation speed, and an automatic rotation adjustment mechanism applies a servo to the motor in response. This Platter Rotation Sensing Servo System (PRS3) realizes high rotation precision that would be difficult to achieve with just inertia and a motor. Supporting three speeds, 33-⅓, 45, and 78 rpm, this turntable can playback old records as well as 78rpm records with high audio quality.
20mm thick acrylic platter
Acrylic with excellent levelness and internal loss is used for the platter. The 20mm-thick acrylic has 1.7kg weight and realizes high inertial momentum. The polyvinyl material used in records easily takes on negative electrical charges. Acrylic has this same property, but these materials are relatively close in triboelectric series*. This provides the advantage of making electrification difficult even if they directly rub against each other. Records can be placed directly on the platter without using a turntable sheet, allowing enjoyment of their clear sound.
*A triboelectric series is a list of materials ordered according to the ease that they develop positive and negative charges. Materials that are close in a triboelectric series do not easily develop electric charges even when directly rubbing together. In contrast, they develop charges more easily the farther they are from each other.
Reliable tracking realized with knife-edge tonearm
This knife-edge tonearm was created in collaboration with SAEC, a Japanese brand with 40 years of tonearm design experience. Using a stainless-steel knife-edge bearing for the vertical movable part, we have revolutionized record tracking so your sound experience is clearer.
Furthermore, for the lateral movable part, a conventional structure that has a ball bearing at one point for support has been replaced with a structure that uses Japanese-made high-precision ball bearings at two points for support. The height of the tonearm base can be adjusted. The Vertical Tracking Angle (VTA) can be adjusted in a 6mm range and optimized for cartridges of various heights. The tonearm geometry adheres to the Baerwald alignment recommended by the IEC.
Automatic arm lifting when playback ends
Using a powered arm lifter enables raising and lowering the arm with a single button and also employs a function that automatically lifts the arm by a contact-less optical sensor after playback ends. The automatic arm lifting function can be canceled when playing records that do not conform to standards.
3-speed turntable for 33-⅓ and 45 rpm
The TN-5BB supports 33-⅓ and 45 rpm for LP and EP records. Our insistence on quality engineering can even be seen in the construction of the rotary control for start-up/speed selection, formed of machined aluminum.
Arm lead wire uses PC-Triple C material made by SAEC
Lead wire that uses PC-Triple C conductor made by SAEC is employed for the wiring inside the tone arm. With outstanding conductive performance, this conductor transmits even weak signals from analog records.
Ortofon 2M RED included as standard MM cartridge
Ortofon 2M RED MM cartridges included with this model have an established reputation. Since it is already installed and aligned with the head-shell, records can be enjoyed soon after getting the turntable out and setting it up.
XLR balanced output connectors
In addition to ordinary RCA connectors, XLR connectors are also available for analog output. A variety of commercially available cables can be used to connect with a PE-505 or other external phono equalizer that supports balanced XLR input.
Attractive design - pearl black and piano black with silver parts
The fundamental theme of this design is the contrast between black and silver. The MDF used in the cabinet has a piano black finish with a beautiful luster. In addition, the synthetic marble that comprises the top panel appears to be jet black when viewed from a distance, but it sparkles at points in pearl black when seen closer up. This appearance also changes depending on the viewing angle. Although simple, this design inspires aesthetic joy to the eye. Moreover, we incorporated extruded aluminum components with a luxurious feel for the operation knobs and the arm lift switch, as well as the feet.
