Audio-Technica’s two new record players are the epitome of retro cool
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Audio-Technica has announced the welcome return of one of the company’s most notable devices, after unveiling a revamped version of the ’80s-tastic Sound Burger portable turntable.
The AT770 Sound Burger (also known as the Mister Disc in the US) was first released in 1983 at the height of the portable audio boom. 2 batteries.
It had a belt-driven DC motor and could play 33 1/3 and 45 RPM records.
Released to commemorate the Japanese company’s 60th anniversary, this new 2022 version retains the same unique design, but brings with it a few 21st-century updates.
There’s now Bluetooth connectivity and a more convenient built-in lithium-ion battery with USB-C charging capability for 12 hours of continuous playback. There’s no pull-out cord hanger for your headphones this time around, and the resurrected Sound Burger doesn’t include foldable headphones either.
However, you can connect it to a sound system via an RCA cable, while the new model comes with Audio-Technica’s ATN3600L stylus pre-installed.
In addition to the Sound Burger, Audio-Technica has also unveiled a new high-end, manual belt-drive turntable with a unique clear housing.
Limited to just 3,000 units worldwide, the AT-LP2022 features a black AT-VM95E cartridge mounted alongside a clear AT-VMN95SH Shibata stylus, while the 30mm thick acrylic chassis rests on height-adjustable isolation feet, eliminating unwanted resonances. reduced. To complete the look. there is a matching clear saucer which further helps to reveal the innards of the deck.
The 2022 Sound Burger and the AT-LP2022 are both on sale now, the former costing $199/£200/€229 and the latter costing US$1200/£999/€1199.
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While the original Sound Burger may not have quite achieved its goal of being the Sony Walkman for vinyl records, it remains an A/V design classic coveted by collectors.
This new model will have retro gearheads that will jump for joy, while its surprisingly reasonable price tag is likely to have antique audiophile dealers shaking hands in the air, which with the original 1980s model regularly changes hands for a whopping £ 500 on eBay these days.
The more conventional, but no less eye-catching AT-VMN95SH will also be a big hit with nostalgic types thanks to its classic design, while that Shibata stylus should make sure it’s a deck to be reckoned with.