The Marantz TT-15S1 is a top-notch belt-drive turntable. Its components are crafted from specialized frosted acrylic by Clearaudio. This turntable is designed to minimize vibration interference, featuring anti-resonant materials, a decoupled floating motor mount, and oversized aluminum feet. The extra-long 9.4' aluminum tonearm ensures better tracking. It comes with a Clearaudio Virtuoso Ebony MM Cartridge, which retails for $1100 on its own. You can manually change the speed between 33 and 45 rpm. Note that some assembly is required, the cartridge is not pre-mounted, a pre-amp is needed, and the dustcover is not included. Since its launch over a decade ago, the TT-15S1 has always been one of the highly-reviewed turntables. Its striking design, unique and functional acrylic construction, and precision engineering make it stand out in its price range. In person, you'll feel it's underpriced, especially considering the high - value cartridge. The chassis and platter are made of a dense glass - cast PMMA acrylic composite, and it has three height - adjustable aluminum feet and a magnetic anti - skating system. It measures 13.68 x 17.31 x 5.43' (348 x 440 x 138mm) and weighs 19.6 lbs (8.9 kg). A recommended add - on is the Line Phono Turntable Dust Cover - Large Model, made of high - quality, crystal - clear acrylic with cutouts for handles and cables. The lack of vibration and resonance in this design results in clear and pure sound. The Clearaudio tonearm and cartridge combination is known for its accuracy and forgiveness, eliminating many annoying imperfections. It comes with a Clearaudio Virtuoso Ebony MM Cartridge, a Souther record Clamp, a felt mat, assembly instructions, tools, handling gloves, motor oil, and a spare silicone belt.
Using the Marantz TT - 15S1 is quite straightforward. First, follow the assembly instructions that come with the turntable to put it together. Make sure to mount the Clearaudio Virtuoso Ebony MM Cartridge carefully as it doesn't come pre - mounted. You'll also need to connect a pre - amp. To change the speed, simply use the manual speed change option for 33 or 45 rpm. When using the turntable, place it on a stable surface and adjust the three height - adjustable aluminum feet to ensure it's level. The magnetic anti - skating system helps keep the tonearm in place while playing records. For maintenance, use the motor oil provided to keep the motor running smoothly. The spare silicone belt can be used if the original one wears out. Also, it's a good idea to clean the platter and tonearm regularly with a soft cloth. Remember, the dustcover is not included, so if you choose to get the recommended add - on, install it properly to protect your turntable from dust and debris.
