Canadian brand Kanto Audio today introduced the second-generation Obi3, a belt-drive turntable with a platter-mounted speed sensor, adjustable setup controls, and electronic speed selection. The sensor monitors platter rotation and adjusts motor speed to help maintain consistent pitch during playback. The Obi3G2 uses a weighted aluminum platter and engineered-wood plinth. These materials add mass and help reduce vibration.
The turntable includes an adjustable counterweight, anti-skate control, and ±10% pitch control. These features let users balance the tonearm, set tracking force, and adjust playback speed manually.
Speed is regulated at the platter rather than only at the motor. The sensor measures rotation as the record plays and makes continuous corrections. Speed selection is electronic, allowing users to switch between 33-1/3 and 45 RPM without moving the belt by hand, and auto-stop halts the platter at the end of a side to help protect the stylus. The pre-installed Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge is included for playback out of the box.
The aluminum J-shaped tonearm includes an adjustable counterweight and anti-skate control, allowing users to balance the arm and set tracking force with reference marks. A manual cue lever lowers the stylus onto the groove, while ±10% pitch control lets users make small playback-speed adjustments.
For system integration, Obi3G2 includes RCA output with a selectable built-in phono preamp for use with a receiver, amplifier, or powered speakers. Bluetooth 5.3 is also included for wireless playback to compatible speakers or headphones.
The turntable has a compact 43.2 x 36.3 cm (17″ x 14.3″) footprint and is offered in Black, White, Green, Ice Blue, and Walnut. It ships with a dust cover, slip mat, 45 adapter, counterweight, and RCA and ground cables.
Obi3G2 is being released alongside Kanto turntable accessories for setup, cleaning, maintenance, and storage. “We wanted the second generation of Obi3 to be approachable for people starting a record collection, while still offering room to adjust and learn,” said Brett Smalley, Director of Marketing, Kanto Audio. “The accessories are intended to support setup and ongoing care as part of the same product line.” The accessory range includes:
TT-AKIT — Turntable Setup & Alignment Kit: stylus force gauge, cartridge alignment protractor and bubble level for a precise, dialed-in setup.
TT-SB — Record & Stylus Cleaning Brush: 2-in-1 carbon-fiber record brush with an integrated stylus brush.
TT-GKIT — Record & Stylus Gel Cleaning Kit: silicone dust roller and residue-free stylus gel for easy maintenance.
TT-AM — Anti-Static Acrylic Mat and TT-CRM — Cork & Rubber Mat: two upgrade mats for tighter, quieter playback.
TT-CS20 — Outer Cover Sleeves and TT-IS20 — Inner Sleeves: protection for jackets and records alike.
Obi3G2 is priced at $249.99 USD / CA$269.99 / £179.99 / €199.99 and is now available in North America, withworldwide availability beginning in early September. The turntable will be available in Black, White, Green, Ice Blue, and Walnut. The Kanto turntable accessories are available now.