Audio-Technica has introduced a new selection of turntable accessories, including the AT-CAP4 multi-function cartridge alignment and stroboscope disc, AT-TC300/1.2 high-performance phono cable, and the AT6112x and A6104x headshell lead wires. The new accessories are designed to optimize cartridge alignment, calibrate turntable speed and maximize sound quality, says the company.
The AT-CAP4 (MSRP US$40) enables you to set the correct cartridge geometry and ensure proper tracking with minimum distortion and minimize record wear. Side one of the disc includes null points for Baerwald, Stevenson, Löfgren B and UNI-DIN alignments, to accommodate the most-used calibration geometries, tonearm effective lengths from 200 to 250 mm, and user playback preferences.
Baerwald is effective for a wide range of musical styles, says Audio-Technica, and minimizes distortion throughout the record. Stevenson is good for classical, jazz and music where distortion should be reduced closer to the inner grooves. Löfgren B is ideal for those who want superior sound quality across most of the record but can accept slightly more distortion towards the inner grooves. UNI-DIN prioritizes clarity in the middle and inner grooves, which works well for rock and pop.
Side two of the disc features a stroboscope that enables users to precisely calibrate 33-1/3, 45 and 78 RPM turntable platter speeds at 50 Hz and 60 Hz.
Audio-Technica’s AT-TC300/1.2 phono cable (US$99) is an effective upgrade from stock phono cables. It uses low-capacitance, HYPER OFC (oxygen-free copper) wiring to maintain the sonic purity and frequency range of the delicate signals coming off the phono cartridge. It features a PVC jacket with mica filler to dampen unwanted vibrations. The AT-TC300/1.2 cable is double-shielded with a central ground wire, for good signal-to-noise performance and resolution.
The Audio-Technica AT6112x and AT6104x (US$59 and US$29, respectively) ensure that subtle musical nuances are clearly reproduced. Both feature 29 strands of 0.12 mm 7N-class Dia Ultra Crystallized Copper and Pure Copper Ultra High Drawability wire, respectively, along with a PVC sheath with mica filler for vibration control and triangular gold-plated cartridge clips for maximum signal transmission and durability.