Turntable of the Year
Clearaudio Concept Signature
$6000
Clearaudio created this special edition turntable exclusively for the U.S. market, and yes, it’s a home run. Think of it as a bells
and whistles-equipped Concept table sporting the AiR 12v DC coreless motor with newly developed “Tacho-Speed-Control”—speed-control circuitry derived from the Reference Jubilee turntable and bundled with the Professional Power 12v PSU transform-er-based linear power supply. And if that isn’t enough, two tonearm options are offered, the Tracer Black as reviewed or the new Signature Black Satisfy Carbon Fiber. Both feature black carbon-fiber arm tubes, are exceptionally lightweight and rigid, and sport a buttery-smooth cueing mechanism. Sonics are a leap and a bound over the original entry-level Concept NG reviewed. The Signature tracks with precision; its image focus is unwavering. Belying its physically small footprint are weighty dynamics and superb bass re-production. Elegant but not ostentatious, it lets the music take the stage. Plus, its speed stability and groove-tracking prowess allow it to play “big,” putting up a grand and dimensional soundstage. Its rock-solid stability, timing accuracy, and resolving power under-score what makes the Concept Signature a no-brainer. Plus, for those new(er) to the hobby, its no-drama ease of setup demonstrates that ownership of an LP rig needn’t be intimidating or time-consuming. The affordable and musically rewarding analog rig you were waiting for and TAS’s Turntable of the Year. (Review forthcoming)
