Teac TN-4D - Analog Turntable Manual

Before use

Included items

Check to be sure the box includes all the supplied accessories shown below. Please contact the store where you purchased this unit if any of these accessories are missing or have been damaged during transportation.

Felt mat × 1
45 RPM adapter × 1
Counterweight × 1
Headshell × 1

Sumiko MM type stereo cartridge (Oyster) preinstalled

Turntable (platter) × 1
Dust cover × 1
Dust cover hinges × 2
RCA audio cable with grounding terminal × 1
AC adapter (GPE036W-240150) × 1
Owner's manual (this document, including warranty) × 1

Precautions for use

• Do not place anything on the dust cover. Objects on the cover might cause noise due to vibrations or fall off, especially during playback.
• Avoid placing the unit in direct sunlight, close to a source of heat or in other similar conditions. Do not place the unit on top of an amplifier or other equipment that might generate heat that exceeds the operating temperature range of this unit. Doing so could cause discoloration, deformation or malfunction.
• As the unit could become warm during operation, always leave sufficient space around it for ventilation. When installing this unit, leave a little space (at least 20 cm (8")) between it and other devices and walls to allow good heat dissipation.
  When placing it in a rack, for example, leave at least 35 cm (13 3/4") open above it and 10 cm (4") open behind it. Failure to provide these gaps could cause heat to build up inside and result in fire.
• DO NOT MOVE THE UNIT DURING PLAYBACK. During playback, the record rotates. Do not lift or move the unit during playback. Doing so may damage the record, the stylus, the cartridge or the unit.
• Always remove the record before relocating or moving this unit. Moving the unit with a record on the turntable (platter) could damage the record, the stylus and the cartridge or could cause a malfunction.
• The voltage supplied to the unit should match the voltage as printed on the rear panel. If you are in any doubt regarding this matter, consult an electrician.

Maintenance

If the surface of the unit gets dirty, wipe it with a soft cloth or use diluted mild liquid soap. Allow the surface of the unit to dry completely before using. o Do not use chemical cleaning cloths, thinner or similar substances as they could damage the surface of the unit.

For safety, disconnect the power cord from the socket before cleaning.

Preparing the record player

Keep the unit in standby while setting it up ( F in "Connections").

1. Cushions are attached to the tone arm for use during transportation. Remove them in the directions of the arrows.
   
2. Place the unit on a flat surface.
   Place it on a flat surface so that the record can be accurately traced.
3. Install the turntable (platter).
   Align the turntable (platter) with the center shaft and install it.
   • Place the large side of the hole down.
     
4. Place the felt mat on the turntable (platter).
   Place the included felt mat on the turntable (platter) before using it.
   
5. Install the counterweight.
   Place the counterweight over the end of the tone arm, and press it gently as you turn it right to attach it.
   • When the counterweight can be moved toward the bearing, installation is complete.
     
6. Install the headshell.
   Insert the headshell on the end of the tone arm and turn the nut to secure it in place.
   

Balancing the tone arm and adjusting the tracking force

1. Set the anti-skating dial to zero.
2. Move the tone arm clasp to the right to release the tone arm.
   

3. Raise the arm lifter lever and shift the tone arm to the left slightly.
4. Lower the arm lifter lever.
5. Turn the counterweight and adjust so that the tone arm is level.
   
   • Remove the protective cap from the cartridge stylus before adjusting.
   • Be careful not to let the cartridge stylus touch the unit.

6. Return the tone arm to its original position, and use the clasp to lock it.
7. Turn the tracking force adjustment ring so that the center line aligns with 0 on the scale.
   
   • Only turn the ring. Be careful not to let the counterweight turn.
8. Turn the counterweight so that the tracking force adjustment ring scale matches the tracking force specified for the cartridge.
   • The tracking force of the included cartridge is 2.3 g. So, turn it to 2.3 on the counterweight scale when using the included cartridge.
     
   • Turn it right from 0 in the direction of 0.5 and 1.0.
9. Adjust the anti-skating dial.
   Start with it set at 2.3 and adjust it during record playback to the position where the left and right volumes are balanced.
   
   ATTENTION
   Depending on the condition of a record, the left-right volume balance could become uneven and skipping could occur.
   In such cases, try making the following adjustments.

If the sound jumps backward (stylus skips backward)
Slightly lower the anti-skating dial setting.

If the sound jumps forward (stylus skips forward)
Slightly increase the anti-skating dial setting.

Notes about record styluses

• If the stylus becomes bent (damaged), it will no longer be able to accurately trace the groove. Since a bent stylus could also damage records and cause malfunction, handle styluses carefully.
• Always use a commercially-available stylus cleaner to clean a stylus. Use of anything other than a stylus cleaner could damage the stylus.

Replacing the stylus

If the tip of the stylus becomes worn, not only will it worsen the sound quality, it could also damage records. After about 300 hours of playback time, replace the stylus with one that we specify.

Please use a Sumiko Oyster replacement stylus.

• Follow the replacement instructions in the manual of the replacement stylus.

ATTENTION

• Since loud noises could suddenly occur, put the unit into standby before changing the stylus.
• Be careful not to hurt your hand or the equipment.
• Be careful not to allow small children to accidentally swallow styluses.
• Be aware that bent styluses, for example, that result from insufficient customer caution or an outside cause are not covered by the warranty.

Connections

Precautions when making connections

• Do not plug the unit in until after making all connections.
• Carefully read the manuals of the devices that you are connecting and follow their instructions when making connections.

Connect to line input connectors of amplifier, etc.
Set the PHONO EQ switch to ON.

Connect to phono input connectors of amplifier, etc.
Set the PHONO EQ switch to THRU.

1. Grounding terminal ()
   Use the grounding wire of the included RCA audio cable to connect this connector to the grounding terminal of the amplifier, for example.
   • This is NOT an electrical safety ground.
     
     If noise from speakers is conspicuous
     If connecting the grounding wire of the audio cable to the grounding terminal of this unit does not reduce noise, disconnect the grounding wire and check the sound again. Use the method (connected/disconnected) that has the least noise.
2. Analog audio output connectors (L/R)
   These output analog audio signals. The PHONO EQ switch setting changes the type of output signal.
   Use the included audio cable (or commercially-available ones) to connect other equipment to the output connectors of this unit.
3. PHONO EQ (audio output setting) switch
   ON
   Signals that have been amplified by the built-in equalizer amp are output from the analog audio output connectors (L/R).
   THRU
   The MC or MM cartridge signal is output directly through the analog audio output connectors (L/R). Connect to a device with phono inputs, such as a phono equalization preamplifier or an amplifier with phono input connectors.
   • When shipped new from the factory, this is set to ON.
   • Set this to ON if a device is connected to the USB port.
     
     When set to ON, if connected to the PHONO inputs of an amplifier, for example, the output from speakers and headphones will be very loud, which could damage equipment or harm hearing.

4. USB port (USB B type)
   The sound of the record is converted to digital (resolution up to 48 kHz/16-bit) and output. Recording on a computer is possible by connecting this to a USB port on the computer using a USB cable.
5. DC input connector
   After completing all other connections, connect the included AC adapter to this connector. Confirm that the power plug of the AC adapter is plugged into a power outlet.
   • Do not use any AC adapter other than the one included.
     Be sure to connect the power cord to an AC outlet that supplies the correct voltage. Connection to an outlet that supplies incorrect voltage could cause fire or electric shock.
     Hold the power plug when plugging it into an outlet or unplugging it. Never pull or yank on the power cord.
     Unplug the power cord from the outlet when you are not planning to use the unit for an extended period of time.
6. STANDBY/ON button
   Press the STANDBY/ON button to turn the unit on or put it in standby.

Names and functions of parts

1. Turntable (platter)
   Place records centered on the turntable (platter).
2. Counterweight
3. Tracking force adjustment ring
4. Anti-skating dial
5. Arm lifter lever
   Use to raise and lower the tone arm. We recommend using the arm lifter lever to avoid damaging records and styluses, because it is safer and more certain than using a finger to do so.
6. Tone arm holder
   This is a rest for the tone arm. Move the clasp to the right to release the tone arm before playing a record.
7. Tone arm
8. Rotation speed setting knob
   Select the rotation speed indicated on the record to be played.
   Rotation will stop when this is set to 0.
9. Headshell
   This is a universal type that allows the cartridge to be changed easily.

Dust cover

Attaching the dust cover

1. Insert the hinges completely into the hinge holders at the left and right ends of the back of the main unit.
2. Align the tops of the hinges with the dust cover hinge holders and insert them.

• Close the dust cover during playback. Since doing this prevents skipping caused by unintended contact and blocks external sound pressure, it makes noise less likely to occur.
• Do not open or close it when a record is playing. Doing so could, for example, cause the stylus to skip.
• Keep it closed whenever possible to keep dust out.

Removing the dust cover

Hold both edges of the dust cover and lift it slowly to remove it along with the hinges from the unit. Then, remove the hinges from the dust cover.

Opening and closing the dust cover

Opening

Hold the front edge of the dust cover and gently lift it open completely until it stops.
The dust cover will stay open in this position.

Closing

Gently lower the dust cover until it is closed.

Be careful not to pinch your fingers, for example, when opening and closing the dust cover.

Changing the cartridge

To change the cartridge, first remove the headshell from the tone arm.

• A Sumiko Oyster MM type cartridge is installed in the unit.
• When using an Oyster, always remove the cartridge stylus before detaching the cartridge itself from the head shell and before attaching the cartridge to the head shell. Pull the stylus knob down at a slight angle from the front of the cartridge to remove the cartridge stylus. Be careful not to touch the cantilever or stylus itself.
  

1. Disconnect the shell lead terminals from the cartridge.
2. Loosen the screws and remove the cartridge.
3. Attach the new cartridge and tighten the screws.
   See the illustration below for the position of the screws when attached.
   
4. Connect the shell lead terminals to the cartridge.
   • The signals and colors of the shell leads are shown below.

Signal	Color
Left channel +	White
Left channel −	Blue
Right channel +	Red
Right channel −	Green

5. Balance the tone arm and adjust the tracking force.
   Follow the procedures in "Balancing the tone arm and Stylus, adjusting the tracking force".

Precautions when changing the cartridge

The weight of cartridges that can be used with this unit is limited. See "Tone arm". Also check the acceptable cartridge weight (with the included head shell) shown on the same page when changing the head shell.

Using MC cartridges
The equalizer amplifier built into this unit is for MM cartridges. It does not support MC cartridges.
To use an MC cartridge, connect this unit to a phono equalizer amplifier that supports MC cartridges or an amplifier with an MC phono input connector, for example. Then, set this unit's PHONO EQ (audio output) setting switch to THRU.

Handling records

Holding records

When holding a record or removing it from its sleeve, avoid touching the grooves by holding the record by its label and edge with one hand or by holding it by its edge with both.

Cleaning

• Fingerprints and dust on a record can cause noise and the sound to skip, as well as damage the record itself and the stylus. Use a commercially-available record cleaner to clean records. Do not use thinner or anything other than a record cleaner. Such chemicals could harm the surface of the record.
• When using a record cleaner, wipe the surface of the record in a circular motion, following the grooves.
  

Precautions for use

• Do not leave records in places that are exposed to direct sunlight or are very hot or very humid. Leaving a record in such a condition for a long time could result in warping, mold growth or other damage.
• Do not stack multiple records or place heavy objects on top of them. Do not leave records at an angle for long amounts of time, either. Doing so could result in warping or other damage.
• Do not allow hard objects to directly touch the audio grooves. Doing so could cause scratches.
• After you finish playing a record, always put it back into its sleeve for storage. Leaving a record unprotected could result in warping or scratching.
• Do not use cracked records.

Basic operation

Playing records

• Remove the protective cap from the cartridge stylus before using the turntable.

1. Press the STANDBY/ON button on the back of the unit to turn it on.
   
2. Open the dust cover slowly.
   
   Be careful not to pinch your hand, for example, when opening and closing the dust cover.
3. Place a record on the turntable (platter). When playing a 45 RPM large-hole single record, use the included adapter.
   

4. Select the rotation speed indicated on the record.
   The rotation speed can be set to 33 1/3 or 45 RPM.
   
5. Move the tone arm clasp to the right to release the tone arm.
   
6. Raise the arm lifter lever. This raises the arm lifter, keeping the tone arm up, so the stylus will not contact the record even if the tone arm is moved over it.
   
   • You can also manually move the tone arm to above the record without raising the arm lifter lever and then slowly lower the tone arm to start playback.

7. Move the tone arm to the track where you want to start playback.
   
8. Lower the arm lifter lever.
   The tone arm lowers slowly until the stylus touches the record and playback begins.
   • Close the dust cover during playback. Since doing this prevents skipping caused by unintended contact and blocks external sound pressure, it makes noise less likely to occur.
     Do not place anything on the dust cover.

ATTENTION

• During playback, do not touch the tone arm or the record. Doing so could damage the stylus tip and cause scratches on the record.
• Do not forcibly stop turntable (platter) rotation during playback. Since this product is not a turntable designed for DJs (direct drive), doing something like this could cause malfunction.

During record playback, feedback could occur if the volume is too loud. If this happens, lower the volume of the amplifier.

When playback finishes

1. Raise the arm lifter lever to separate the stylus from the record, and return the tone arm to its original position.
   
2. Turn the rotation speed setting knob to 0 to stop the turntable (platter).
   

Recording with a computer

The sound of a record can be digitally recorded on a computer by using a commercially-available USB cable to connect this unit to a USB port on the computer.

• The USB port on this unit is for connecting to a computer.

Supported operating systems

Computers running the following operating systems can be connected by USB to this unit (as of January 2019).

Windows

Windows 7 (32-bit, 64-bit)
Windows 8 (32-bit, 64-bit)
Windows 8.1 (32-bit, 64-bit)
Windows 10 (32-bit, 64-bit)

Mac

OS X Lion (10.7)
OS X Mountain Lion (10.8)
OS X Mavericks (10.9)
OS X Yosemite (10.10)
OS X El Capitan (10.11)
macOS Sierra (10.12)
macOS High Sierra (10.13)
macOS Mojave (10.14)

Use with operating systems other than these is not guaranteed.

• This unit will run with the standard Windows or Mac driver, so there is no need to install a special driver.

Connecting with a computer

1. Turn the computer on. Confirm that the operating system is working correctly.
2. Use the USB cable to connect the computer and this unit.
   
   • Use a commercially-available USB cable with a ferrite core.
3. Press this unit's STANDBY/ON button to turn it on.
   The computer will automatically detect this unit's USB port and identify the unit as "USB Audio CODEC".
   • To record audio from this record player using a computer, you must first install software that can be used for audio recording on the computer. You may purchase the audio recording software that you prefer separately or download free software, such as Audacity (http://www.audacityteam.org/), from the Internet. As free software, Audacity is not supported by TEAC.
   • When recording with a computer, do not do any of the following. Doing so could cause the computer to malfunction. Always quit the computer recording software before doing the following.
     • Disconnect the USB cable
     • Put the unit into standby

Computer settings

The following example explains the settings to make using Windows 10.

1. From the Start menu, select Windows System, then Control Panel.
2. Click "Sound".
   If the Control Panel "View by" is set to "Category", select "Hardware and Sound". Then select "Sound".
3. Click the "Recording" tab, and confirm that "USB Audio CODEC" is set as the "Default Device".
4. Select "USB Audio CODEC", and click the Properties button.
5. Click the "Advanced" tab.
6. From the "Default Format" pull-down menu list, select the desired recording quality (format).
   TIP
   To record at the highest audio quality that this unit can output, select "2 channel, 16 bit, 48000 Hz". Lowering the sampling frequency setting value will relatively reduce the size of files but also decrease the audio quality.
7. Click "OK".

After making the above settings, use audio recording software to record.

Troubleshooting

If you experience a problem with this unit, please check the following items before requesting service. Something other than this unit could also be the cause of the problem. Please also check that the connected devices are also being used properly. If it still does not operate correctly, contact the retailer where you purchased the unit.

No power.

• Confirm that the AC adapter is plugged into an outlet. Then, press the STANDBY/ON button to turn the unit on.

The turntable will not rotate.

• Press the STANDBY/ON button to turn the unit on.
• Adjust the rotation speed setting knob to the rotation speed indicated on the record.

The turntable rotation speed is not right.

• Confirm that the rotation speed setting knob is set to 33 and that it rotates about 100 times in 3 minutes.

The arm does not go down even when the arm lifter lever is lowered.

• Balance the tone arm and readjust the tracking force.

Sound is odd or breaks up.

• Check the connectors connected to the amplifier, and set the PHONO EQ (audio output) setting switch.

The pitch is wrong.

• Select the rotation speed indicated on the record.

There is no sound.

• When connecting this unit's analog audio output connectors to the audio input connectors of an amplifier or other equipment, set the PHONO EQ (audio output setting) switch to ON.

Playback is not possible; there is noise.

• Remove the protective cap from the cartridge stylus before using the turntable.
• Reconnect RCA audio cables.
• Fingerprints and dust on a record can cause noise and the sound to skip. Use a commercially-available record cleaner to clean records.
• Clean the stylus.
• If the stylus is worn-out, replace it. The need for stylus replacement depends on use conditions, but we recommend replacement after about 300 hours of use.
• Place the unit as far away as possible from TVs, microwave ovens and other devices that emit electromagnetic waves.
• Plug the AC adapter into a different outlet.

Noise occurs when a record is playing.

• Noise could occur if the tracking force is higher than cartridge's specified value. Readjust the tracking force so that it is the specified value.

The sound is skipping.

• Vibrations will cause skipping. Place this unit in a stable location. e Clean the record. e Do not use scratched records.
• Balance the tone arm and readjust the tracking force. The stylus and sound might skip if the tracking force is lower than the cartridge's specified value.
• If the stylus is bent, replace it.

The unit is not recognized by the connected computer.

• Check the supported computer operating systems. Operation with unsupported operating systems is not guaranteed.
• Connect it to a different USB port.

Specifications

Turntable (platter)

Drive system: Direct drive

Motor: DC motor

Rotation speed: 33 1/3 rpm, 45 rpm

Wow and flutter: 0.1% or less

SN ratio: 67 dB or higher (A-weighted, 20kHz LPF)

Turntable (platter):
Aluminum die-cast
30cm (12") diameter

Tone arm

Arm type: Static-balanced S-shaped tone arm

Effective arm length: . 223 mm

Tracking force variation range0–5 g

Acceptable cartridge weight:
4.0–13 g
14–23 g (with the included headshell)

Cartridge

Type: MM

Output voltage: 4.0 mV (1 kHz)

Tracking force: 1.5–2.5 g (2.3 g recommended)

Cartridge weight:
5.3 g - Included headshell weight
10 g - (including screws, nuts and wires)

• The need for stylus replacement depends on use conditions, but we recommend replacement after about 300 hours of use.
• Replacement stylus model: Sumiko Oyster replacement stylus

Output voltage

PHONO EQ THRU: 4.0 mV (1 kHz)
PHONO EQ ON: . 224 mV (−13 dBV)
Output connectors.: RCA

USB port

USB port that can receive power from computer USB buses

(Full Speed): USB connector type B

USB bus power support: 5 V, 500 mA

Sampling frequency: 8 kHz, 11.025 kHz, 16 kHz, 22.05 kHz, 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz

Quantization bit depth: 16-bit

General

AC adapter power
Input: . AC 100 V – AC 240 V, 50/60 Hz
Output: DC 24 V, 1500 mA

Power consumption
Standby.: 0.5 W or less
On (33, 45): . 2.0 W or less

Weight.: 6.1 kg (13 1/2 lb)

Operating temperature range: 5°C to 35°C

Dimensions (W × H × D) (including protrusions)
When the dust cover is closed: 420 × 117 × 356 mm (16 5/8" × 4 5/8" × 14 1/8")
When the dust cover is open: 420 × 381 × 402 mm (16 5/8" × 15" × 15 7/8")
When the dust cover is removed: 420 × 102 × 356 mm (16 5/8" × 4 1/8" × 14 1/8")

• Performance data is specified at 20°C.

Included items

Felt mat × 1
45 RPM adapter × 1
Counterweight × 1
Headshell × 1

Sumiko MM type stereo cartridge (Oyster) preinstalled

Turntable (platter) × 1 Dust cover × 1
Dust cover hinges × 2
RCA audio cable with grounding terminal × 1
AC adapter (GPE036W-240150) × 1
Owner's manual (this document, including warranty) × 1

• Specifications and appearance are subject to change without notice.
• Weight and dimensions are approximate.
• Illustrations in this owner's manual might differ slightly from production models.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

The lightning flash with arrowhead in an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure that could be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point in an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

• DO NOT REMOVE THE EXTERNAL CASES OR CABINETS TO EXPOSE THE ELECTRONICS. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS ARE INSIDE.
• IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH THIS PRODUCT, CONTACT THE STORE WHERE YOU PURCHASED THE UNIT FOR A SERVICE REFERRAL. DO NOT USE THE PRODUCT UNTIL IT HAS BEEN REPAIRED.
• USE OF CONTROLS OR ADJUSTMENTS OR PERFORMANCE OF PROCEDURES OTHER THAN THOSE SPECIFIED HEREIN MAY RESULT IN HAZARDOUS RADIATION EXPOSURE.

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. 
    Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

• The apparatus draws nominal non-operating power from the AC outlet with its POWER or STANDBY/ON switch not in the ON position.
• The mains plug is used as the disconnect device, the disconnect device shall remain readily operable.
• Caution should be taken when using earphones or headphones with the product because excessive sound pressure (volume) from earphones or headphones can cause hearing loss.

IN USA/CANADA, USE ONLY ON 120V SUPPLY.

• Do not expose this apparatus to drips or splashes.
• Do not place any objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.
• Do not install this apparatus in a confined space such as a book case or similar unit.
• The apparatus should be located close enough to the AC outlet so that you can easily reach the power cord plug at any time.

Using the TEAC Global Site

You can download updates for this unit from the TEAC Global Site: http://teac-global.com/

In the TEAC Downloads section, click the desired language to open the Downloads website page for that language.

Documents / Resources

References

• TEAC - Global Site
• Audacity ® | Free Audio editor, recorder, music making and more!

Download manual

Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.

Download Teac TN-4D - Analog Turntable Manual