Audio-Techica AT-LPW50PB - Belt-Drive Turntable Manual

Package contents

Make sure that you have all the included items listed below before using this product. If some items are missing or damaged, contact your local Audio-Technica dealer.

• AC adapter (Approx. 1.5 m (4.9'))
• Quick start guide
• Caution guide

After purchase, we suggest that you save all packaging materials for possible future storage, moving, or shipping.

Part names and functions

Overall diagram

1. Platter
2. Drive belt
3. Motor pulley (brass-colored)
4. Spindle
5. Rubber mat
6. Control knob
   Use to start and stop, as well as select the platter's speed.
7. Tonearm
   For details, refer to "Tonearm".
8. Feet
   Adjust the level of the product.
9. Ground (earth) terminal
   Connect the amplifier's ground (earth) terminal to this terminal using the RCA audio cable's ground conductor.
10. Stereo output terminals
    Connect the RCA audio cable. Connect it to either the amplifier's PHONO input jack or its LINE input jack. The red terminal is the right channel and the white terminal is the left channel.
11. Output selector switch
    If connecting to an amplifier's PHONO input jack, set this switch to the PHONO position. If connecting to the AUX jack of an amplifier, set this switch to the LINE position.
12. Power input jack
    Connect the AC adapter.
13. Power switch
    Switch ON/OFF.
14. Dust cover hinge holder
    Attachment points for dust cover hinges.

Tonearm

1. Counterweight
   Balances the tonearm and adjusts to provide the proper tracking force.
2. Tracking force gauge ring
   Use to adjust and set the tracking force.
3. Tonearm lift
   Moves the tonearm vertically to and from the face of the record.
4. Tonearm rest with clamp
   Use the clamp to secure the tonearm so that it does not move.
5. Anti-skate control dial
   While the record is playing, a force acts on the stylus tip to pull it inward. This force can be counteracted by setting the same values for anti-skate and the tracking force.
6. Tonearm lift control lever
   Operates the tonearm lift.
7. Tonearm
8. Locking ring
   Rotate the ring to the left (counterclockwise) to secure the headshell. To remove the headshell, rotate the ring to the right.
9. Headshell and cartridge
   The cartridge is attached to the headshell.

Preparation for use

Placing the platter

This product requires some assembly before using it for the first time. Do not connect the AC adapter until assembly is complete.

1. Set the platter on the spindle.
   • Make sure that the control knob is in the "STOP" position.
   • To avoid damaging the spindle when seating the platter, align the position of the spindle and the platter's hole, and then slowly seat the platter.
   • Make certain that the platter is fully seated on the spindle.
     
2. Install the belt to the platter drive ring under the platter making sure the belt is flat when seated, and then attach the belt to the motor pulley (brass-colored).
   • Make sure that the belt does not get twisted.
     
3. Place the rubber mat on top of the platter.
   

Setting up the turntable

• Position the product on a level surface.
• To avoid the effects of vibrations and acoustic pressure, do not mount the product next to such items as speakers.
• The product may pick up radio static if placed next to a radio. Therefore, try to keep the product away from radios.
• If the product is near equipment (cell phone, etc.) that emits strong radio waves, noise may occur.

Leveling the turntable

1. After positioning the product where you want to use it, adjust the feet so that the product is level.
   • Use a level (sold separately) as needed to ensure that the product is level.
     

Assembling the tonearm

1. Remove the cable tie used to secure the tonearm at the time of delivery.
   • Use the clamp to temporarily secure the tonearm to the tonearm rest.
2. Insert the headshell into the tonearm.
   • Hold the right and left edges of the headshell so that you do not damage the stylus or cut the cartridge's wires.
     
3. With the headshell inserted, turn the locking ring counterclockwise (to the left).
   
4. With the tracking force gauge ring facing forward, attach the counterweight to the back of the tonearm, and slowly turn it counterclockwise (to the left).
   

Tonearm balance and tracking force

In order for the cartridge to pick up sound correctly from the record's grooves, the tonearm's balance and tracking force must be adjusted to fit the specifications of the cartridge. If the tonearm's balance and tracking force are not properly adjusted, the record or the cartridge's stylus may become damaged.

• Do not drag the cartridge's stylus across the record or rubber mat when adjusting the tonearm's balance or tracking force. Doing so may damage the stylus.

Setting tonearm balance

1. Remove the cartridge's protector.
   
2. Unlock the tonearm and lift the tonearm lift control lever.
   • The tonearm is tilted because the balance has yet to be adjusted.
     
3. Place the tonearm over the rubber mat. Hold the headshell and lower the tonearm lift control lever completely.
   • Protect the stylus from touching the rubber mat.
     
4. While still lightly holding the headshell, turn the counterweight to adjust the tonearm's balance.
   • Adjust the balance so that the tonearm is level when you release the headshell.
     
5. Return the tonearm to the tonearm rest.

Setting tracking force

1. While supporting the counterweight so that it does not move, turn the tracking force gauge ring so that its "0" position lines up with the centerline on the back of the tonearm.
   • The tracking force is not adjusted simply by turning the tracking force gauge ring.
     
2. Turn the counterweight and the tracking force gauge ring together counterclockwise (to the left) until the centerline value matches the recommended tracking force value for the cartridge you are using.
   • Refer to the cartridge maker's specifications for the recommended tracking force value.
   • The tracking force value for the cartridge provided with the product is 2.0 g.
     

Setting the anti-skate adjustment

While the record is playing, a force acts on the stylus tip to pull it inward. This force can be counteracted by setting the same values for anti-skate and the tracking force.

1. Adjust the anti-skate control dial to have the same value as the tracking force value.
   • The tracking force value for the cartridge provided with the product is 2.0 g.
     

Installing/removing the dust cover

The dust cover is designed to protect the product's sensitive components when the product is not in use.
When attaching the dust cover, insert the dust cover hinges into the two dust cover hinge holders on the back of the body. When removing the dust cover, open the dust cover first, and then slowly pull the dust cover out from the dust cover hinge holders.
For best performance, remove the dust cover when playing records.

Setting output selector switch

This product has a built-in phono equalizer function. You can use the product, even if you do not have a phono amplifier or connectable equipment with a built-in phono amplifier, by connecting an active speaker, etc.
Use the output selector switch to set the output, as shown below.

* An audio adapter (sold separately) may be required to connect the RCA audio cable to the PC sound card's LINE input jack.

Connecting to connectable equipment (active speakers, amplifiers, etc.)

Align the settings for the output selector switch and connect the RCA audio cable to a compatible input jack on the connectable equipment you are using (amplifier, receiver, active speakers, sound card, etc.).

• The RCA audio cable's red jack is for the right (R) channel, and the white jack is for the left (L) channel.
  
  * Depending on the equipment you are connecting, a ground (earth) terminal may exist near the phono input jack. If this is the case, connect to it using the ground line from the RCA audio cable. This may help prevent a low humming noise that might otherwise be heard during playback.

Connecting the AC adapter

1. Connect the AC adapter's cord to the power input jack.
2. Plug the AC adapter into an outlet.
   • Make sure that the power switch is in the "OFF" position and the control knob is in the "STOP" position. If the power switch is in the "ON" position with the AC adapter connected to the outlet, a standby current will always run through the product even when it is not being used.
   • If you play a record immediately after plugging the AC adapter into an outlet, the sound that is played may be garbled. Wait a short time (about 30 seconds) after plugging the AC adapter into the outlet before playing a record.

Playing a record

Before playing a record

1. Remove the cartridge's protector.
   • If the tonearm is fixed to the tonearm rest, remove the clamp.
     
2. Place the record on the rubber mat so that the center hole aligns with the spindle.
   • If playing a 45 RPM record, attach the 45 RPM adapter (see the diagram below).
     

Playing a record

Lower the volume of the amplifier, speakers, etc. sufficiently.

1. Turn the power switch on.
2. Use the control knob to select the speed.
   • Select "33" for a 33-1/3 RPM record, or "45" for a 45 RPM record.
   • The platter begins to rotate.
3. Raise the tonearm by lifting the tonearm lift control lever to the UP position.
   
4. Position the tonearm over the desired location (groove) on the record.
   
5. Lower the tonearm by moving the tonearm lift control lever to the DOWN position. The tonearm descends slowly onto the record and play begins.
   • Alternatively, you can skip steps 2 to 4, and use your fingers to lift the headshell, move the tonearm over the desired location on the record, and then place the headshell down to begin playing the record.
   • Do not subject the product to strong impact during playback.
     

Pausing the record

1. After lowering the volume of the amplifier, speakers, etc. sufficiently, lift the tonearm with the tonearm lift control lever.

Stopping the record

1. Lower the volume of the amplifier, speakers, etc. sufficiently.
   
2. Lift the tonearm lift control lever.
   
3. Return the tonearm to the tonearm rest and fix it with the clamp.
   
4. Turn the control knob to the "STOP" position.
   • The platter slows down and rotation stops.
     
5. Remove the record after the platter has come to a complete stop.

• To prevent the record from becoming scratched or warped, remove it after use.
• Do not use a platter other than the one provided.
• The product is not intended for DJs. Do not touch the record or the rubber mat while the record is playing.

Care

Turntable body

• When the turntable body is dirty or dusty, first disconnect the AC adapter from the outlet and then wipe off the dirt and dust with a soft, dry cloth.
• If the rubber mat gets dirty, it can easily scratch the record, so remove the rubber mat periodically and wipe off any dust.
• Do not use benzenes, thinners, etc.
• When storing the product for a long time, disconnect the AC adapter from the outlet and wrap the equipment in plastic; do not allow it to become damp.

Stylus tip

• If dirt and grime are stuck to the stylus tip, clean it before each use.
• We recommend using a stylus cleaner (sold separately) if the stylus tip is considerably dirty. Clean the stylus tip by moving the brush from the rear to the front of the stylus tip.
  

Replacing the stylus

Removing the stylus

• In addition to the deterioration of sound quality, records may also be damaged as the cartridge's stylus tip wears down.
• As a rule of thumb, replace the stylus after 300 hours of use.
• Be sure to disconnect the product's AC adapter from the outlet.
• When replacing the stylus, hold the headshell and the cartridge body tightly.

1. Release the headshell from the tonearm.
   • Fix the tonearm with the clamp and then remove the headshell gently.
2. After removing the cartridge's protector, remove the stylus by pulling in the direction of the arrow without touching the cantilever, stylus tip, and magnets.
   

Installing a new replacement stylus

1. Mount the new replacement stylus to the cartridge.
   
2. Mount the headshell onto the tonearm.

Replacing a cartridge

Refer to the user manual for the cartridge that you will be using if you are replacing the cartridge included with this product with another, commercially available cartridge. After you replace the old cartridge with a new one, you must readjust the overhang and the tonearm's balance and tracking force.

1. Release the headshell from the tonearm.
   • Use the clamp to secure the tonearm and then remove the headshell gently.
2. Remove the stylus from the cartridge.
3. Remove the lead tips.
   • Be careful not to damage the lead tips.
4. Using a commercially sold, non-metallic slotted screwdriver, remove the installation screws, and then remove the cartridge from the headshell.
5. Refer to the user manual for the new cartridge for mounting instructions and connecting to the lead tips.
   
6. Using a commercially sold, non-metallic slotted screwdriver, tighten the screws in both places, and then adjust the overhang.
   • Refer to "Adjusting the overhang".
   • After the adjustments are complete, tighten the screws securely.
7. Attach the headshell to the tonearm.
8. Adjust the tonearm balance and tracking force.
   • Refer to "Setting tonearm balance" and "Setting tracking force".

Replacing the belt

• The belt is a consumable part. Replace the belt if the speed of playback slows down or irregular rotation occurs. As a rule of thumb, we suggest replacing the belt once a year.
• Before replacing the belt, be sure to disconnect the product's AC adapter from the outlet.

1. Remove the rubber mat.
   
2. Remove the platter, turn the platter over, and then remove the old belt.
   • Place your thumbs in the openings and pull up strongly.
     
3. Place the new belt around the inner circle.
   • Be careful not to twist the belt while doing this.
     
4. Attach the platter.
   • Align one of the openings with the position of the motor pulley (brass-colored).
     
5. Place the belt on the motor pulley (brass-colored).
   • Grasp the belt that was attached in step 3 and, while pulling it, place it on the brass motor pulley.
     

Adjusting the overhang

The position of the cartridge must be accurately determined (adjusting the overhang) when mounting a cartridge or headshell other than the one provided.

1. Mount the cartridge so it is parallel to the headshell.
   • Match up the positions of the cartridge and headshell to the figure below and mount the cartridge so it is parallel to the headshell.
     
     Overhang adjustment guide
     This illustration represents the actual size. Place the headshell on the figure below, and then adjust the stylus tip of the new cartridge along the lines for the "Stylus tip" of the cartridge.
     
2. Mount the cartridge so it is perpendicular to the top of the headshell.
   

When the turntable is moved

Using the product's original packing materials, wrap the turntable in the reverse order from when you unwrapped it. If you do not have the packaging materials, take the following measures:

• After unplugging the AC adapter from the outlet, remove the rubber mat and platter, and then wrap them so that they do not get damaged. If the product is moved while the platter is still seated, it may damage the spindle.
• Fix the tonearm with the clamp.
• Remove the counterweight.
• Remove the headshell from the tonearm with the cartridge's protector attached, and then wrap the entire headshell assembly so that it does not get damaged.
• Wrap the turntable body with a soft cloth so that it does not get damaged.

Troubleshooting

Dimensions

Specifications

Turntable specifications

Tonearm specifications

Cartridge and headshell specifications

General specifications

Specifications are subject to change without notice due to improvements.

Safety precautions

Although this product was designed to be used safely, failing to use it correctly may result in an accident. To ensure safety, observe all warnings and cautions while using the product.

Important information

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

• Do not expose this apparatus to drips or splashes.
• To avoid electric shock, do not open the cabinet.
• Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.
• Do not expose this apparatus to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire or the like.
• Do not subject this apparatus to strong impact.
• This apparatus should be located close enough to the AC outlet so that you can easily grasp the AC adapter at any time.
• In case of emergency, disconnect the AC adapter quickly.
• Do not place any objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on this apparatus.
• To prevent fire, do not place any naked flame sources (such as lighted candles) on this apparatus.
• Do not install this apparatus in a confined space such as a bookcase or similar unit.
• Install this apparatus only in the place where ventilation is good.
• The rating label is put on the bottom of this apparatus.

Notes on use

Turntable body

• Do not set and use the product in locations that are considerably hot or humid, dirty, or subject to extreme vibrations.
• The product should be positioned on a flat, level surface.
• When closing the dust cover, close it completely.

Cartridge

• Attach the provided protector to the cartridge when the product is not in use.
• Do not touch the stylus of the cartridge with your finger.
• Do not allow the stylus to bump against the platter, rubber mat, or edge of the record.

Global Support Contact: www.at-globalsupport.com

Documents / Resources

References

• Audio-Technica Corporation：株式会社オーディオテクニカ

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