JBL TT350 is one of the high-end turntables you need to look at, and for good reason. Its performance will definitely wow you. And if you are wondering what more to expect from the deck, I showcase its features and functionalities in this article.
JBL TT350 Classic Turntable Overview
JBL TT350 is a direct-drive turntable that lets you get intimate with your record collection. It comes with an aluminum platter, walnut plinth, and a curved tonearm that extracts details from your genre of music for a happy listening experience. Users generally appreciate the turntable’s solid performance, usually comparing it favorably to more costly models.
Technical Specifications
The turntable boasts these features:
- 2-speed (33 1/3 and 45 RPM).
- Die-cast Aluminum platter.
- Direct Drive motor drive.
- Aluminum S-shaped tonearm with removable headshell.
- Natural Walnut veneered plinth with JBL Classic Style.
- Pre-fitted Audio Technica VM95E Moving Magnet Cartridge.
Looking at the specifications, what’s not to like about this turntable? There’s a solidly built tonearm, so you don’t have to worry about wobbling and accidental damage to your records. The headshell is removable, meaning you can upgrade it whenever necessary.
A high-quality cartridge is also featured, ensuring good sound. However, the unit only supports two speeds, so playing older 78 RPM records isn’t possible.
JBL TT350 Classic Turntable Drive Mechanism
The deck employs the direct-drive motor system. This means the platter is attached to the motor, so there is no belt or other go-between components. The motor rotates the platter directly, leading to a more consistent rotational speed compared to the belt-driven mechanism.
Is JBL TT350 Classic Turntable Automatic or Manual?
The unit is manual, so you are required to cue the tonearm by hand. To start playback, you gently lift the tonearm and place it on the record. Once the music stops playing, you lift it off and return it to the resting position.
Unlike their automatic counterparts that handle these tasks for you, JBL TT350 provides more control over the playback process. Like many advanced audiophiles, I prefer this manual mechanism since it means connecting more deeply with my music.
Usability and Portability of JBL TT350 Classic Turntable
If you are not new to vinyl, using JBL TT350 should be easy. However, that doesn’t mean novices will have a steep learning curve. The turntable is generally user-friendly, with clearly labeled controls and an easy-to-understand setup manual.
At a glance, JBL TT350 doesn’t seem to be one of those units that apply the ‘sheer mass’ approach to vinyl playback, but it’s not overly light either. Weighing about 5kgs, it’s easy to carry around.
However, going by the general design, I don’t think it’s a good idea to use the turntable on the go. It lacks portability features like carry handles, an enclosed case, and rechargeable batteries, which would make it easier to transport and more immune from damage.
JBL TT350 Classic Turntable Design & Build
The JBL TT350 design looks sleekly modern, with a touch of vintage. Its overall appearance is nice but lacks the ‘wow’ factor, in my opinion.
The build is pretty basic, with nothing out of the ordinary. We are talking about a solid walnut-clad plinth that dampens resonance and ensures overall stability for optimal audio performance.
Not to mention an aluminum die-cast platter that complements the plinth’s function by offering additional vibration control. The rubber mat doesn’t extend all the way to the edge of the record, which is a bonus. It makes removing the LP hassle-free, preventing accidental scratches or pulling.
Meanwhile, the front part has a nice centimeter-thick slab of aluminum with a huge exclamation mark logo to the far left. It lights up orange when the turntable is running and red when it’s on standby. Next to the logo, towards the right, you have two electronically switchable speed buttons (33 and 45 rpm). There are four nice-looking adjustable feet, which do an effective work of isolating the unit.
Connectivity & Sound Performance of JBL TT350 Classic Turntable: Great, and…
Bluetooth? USB? Built-in phono preamp? You wouldn’t find these on JBL TT350. It even applies a thick, detachable power cable as opposed to the usual wall wart. The main reason is that TT350 is a direct drive, so a robust onboard power supply is necessary. This contrasts with the simple-to-use belt drive setup used by many lifestyle tables, which is a significant advantage.
With TT350, you can expect good sound quality and detailed audio, thanks to the Audio-Technica cartridge. Having a low tracking force and high-frequency response also means you enjoy a more accurate playback. Whether you are playing classical, dance, rock, or jazz music, a neat sound is guaranteed every time.
Main Technology Perks of JBL TT350 Classic Turntable
The most obvious technological advantage is the robust direct-drive motor mechanism, which offers consistent platter rotation for enhanced performance.
Next, you have a walnut plinth and an aluminum platter that effectively dampen vibrations.
Last but not least is the cartridge from Audio-Technica. It provides precise audio playback for an unforgettable music experience.
Pricing
This table’s price varies from platform to platform, but the starting price may be $800.
How to Setup & Use JBL TT350 Classic Turntable?
Installing and using the turntable involves these steps:
- Connect the turntable’s phono outputs to your amplifier’s phono input, and connect the ground cable.
- Carefully put the platter on the spindle, followed by the mat.
- Attach the headshell onto the tonearm and tighten the collar.
- Balance the tonearm by rotating the counterweight clockwise. Once the arm floats horizontally, gently reseat it on the armrest and close the arm lock. This protects the tonearm from damage when not in use.
- Set the anti-skate to 2g by turning the entire counterweight anti-clockwise until it shows 2 at the top of the loading dial.
- Place your record on the platter and set the speed.
- Raise the tonearm and slowly move it to the record or track you want to play. Lower the arm lift, and the tonearm will lower down onto the record.
- Relax and enjoy your music!
To achieve a better experience with the turntable, there are certain measures you need to take. One is to place it away from noise sources and vibrations. This prevents stylus misalignment and sound distortion, ensuring a cleaner listening experience.
Also, handle records properly to prevent scratches and damage. Dust can interfere with the proper tracking of music on records, leading to distorted sound. So, remember to clean the stylus and records regularly.
Overall Impression About JBL TT350 Classic Turntable?
JBL TT350 classic turntable excels in sound quality, meeting all expectations with its precise audio performance. Its minimalist design is a plus, offering a sleek aesthetic that complements different décor styles.
Pros
The advantages include:
- User-friendly
- Good sound quality
- A removable headshell
- Manual cueing
Cons
The disadvantages are summarized below:
- Costly
- Lacks Bluetooth and USB features
- No phono input
Who Is It For?
TT350 is ideal for advanced audiophiles who appreciate good and detailed sound from their music records.
Final Verdict
JBL TT350 is a good turntable to buy. That’s if you don’t mind the expensive pricing. The materials used are high-quality and work cohesively to produce superb sound from your tracks. Nonetheless, you’ll have to be satisfied with the absence of modern features like Bluetooth and USB.
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