As a brand, Music Hall isn’t as hyped as others I know in the turntable space. But that does not mean it makes lesser turntables? Probably not. Today, I assess one of its products –the MMF-1.3 turntable– to see what to expect before you buy it.

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Music Hall MMF-1.3 Turntable Overview

The Music Hall MMF-1.3 turntable offers the analog vinyl experience at an affordable cost.  It’s basically a plug-and-play unit, and you can use it almost immediately, right out of the box. The turntable has a built-in phono preamp and a removable headshell, providing convenience and flexibility for vinyl fans. The general reception is good, with many users satisfied with the turntable’s simplicity, sleek look, and quality sound. Still, some note issues with the phono stage and durability.  

Technical Specifications

Here are the features the turntable offers:

  • 3-speed (33 1/3, 45, and 78 rpm)
  • Aluminum tonearm with removable headshell 
  • Pre-mounted Audio Technica AT3600L cartridge 
  • Built-in phono pre-amp
  • Removable RCA cables 
  • Vibration damping feet
  • Dust cover
  • Piano black MDF plinth

Among the many features that this turntable offers, I think the Audio Technica AT3600L cartridge stands out. It’s renowned for quality, durability, and fine sound. Three speed options (33, 45, and 78 RPM) are available, and the better part—you can select whichever you want by dialing the control right on top of the plinth. This is unlike some turntables that force you to lift the platter to change the playback.

Music Hall MMF-1.3 Turntable Drive Mechanism

Unsurprisingly, this turntable has a belt drive design. As the name suggests, the motor rotates the platter through an elastic belt attached to it. Belt drives are believed to be quieter than direct drives since the motor in direct drives runs the platter directly. If anything, experience has taught me that this is not always the case. A direct drive can be dead silent and, on top of that, offer a faster start-up time than the belt mechanism.

Is Music Hall MMF-1.3 Turntable Automatic or Manual?

MMF-1.3 is a manual turntable. It lacks the auto start/stop features that control the movement of the tonearm during playback. So, it’s up to you to move the tonearm at the start and at the end of the music. While this may be inconvenient for some, purists like me love every bit of the process.

Usability and Portability of Music Hall MMF-1.3 Turntable

Using this turntable is a breeze. Some components are already preset and aligned, simplifying the installation process. Although setting the tracking force may be challenging at first, if you are a newbie, you will get the hang of it with practice and time.

Speaking of portability, I am convinced MMF-1.3 is best used in stationary environments, such as homes, offices, event spaces, libraries, etc. Regularly transporting it is ill-advised and could reduce its lifespan.

Music Hall MMF-1.3 Turntable Design & Build

The MMF-1.3 turntable has a nice appearance thanks to the plinth made of a Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF) coated with a glossy black piano finish. However, I am uncomfortable with the piano finish as it’s prone to fingerprints and scratches. A matte finish would be nicer. There are 4 dampening feet on the bottom of the turntable. They help solve 2 problems: offer stability and prevent the plinth from absorbing vibrations, ensuring purer sound. The platter is aluminum, but it’s nothing out of the ordinary.

Connectivity & Sound Performance of Music Hall MMF-1.3 Turntable: Okay, but…

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The turntable features a built-in phono stage, meaning you can plug it into any compatible amplifier, powered speakers, or receiver. There’s a chance that the phono stage doesn’t produce adequate sound if we are to go with what some users say. But I don’t think it’s the end of the world, considering the turntable’s price. You are free to upgrade to an external phono preamp for better sound.   

Sound performance is generally okay. It’s clear, neutral, and can extract details from your records. It can also deliver plenty of powerful bass cleanly and nicely. However, you can still hear some noise, especially from the LPs and not the turntable itself.

Main Technology Perks of Music Hall MMF-1.3 Turntable

MMF-1.3 features an adjustable counterweight and anti-skate that enable users to balance the tonearm properly to reduce tracking errors for accurate playback. The MDF plinth helps minimize unwanted resonance by dampening vibrations. This way, you can have an improved sound experience.

Pricing

You can get this unit for $349 only, which is fair, looking at the high-quality features integrated.

How to Setup & Use Music Hall MMF-1.3 Turntable?

Here is a detailed guide to help you install the turntable as directed by the manufacturer:

  1. Place the unit on a stable surface and fit the platter onto the spindle.
  2. Attach the rubber belt around the motor and set the slip mat on the platter.
  3. Fix the headshell with the preset cartridge into the tonearm’s front end and turn the lock nut counterclockwise with the headshell firmly held in a horizontal position.
  4. Put the balance weight at the back of the tonearm.
  5. Remove the stylus guard from the headshell and lower the cueing lever.
  6. Release the tonearm clamp and rotate the balance weight until the tonearm floats freely horizontally.
  7. Refasten the tonearm with the clamp.
  8. Hold the counterweight stationary utilizing one hand and rotate the stylus-pressure ring until the number “0” aligns with the center line on the tonearm back shaft.
  9. Turn the counterweight and the stylus pressure in the counterclockwise direction until the scale displays the appropriate pressure for the stylus being utilized.  
  10. The tracking force for the cartridge is 3.0g. Adjust the anti-skating control knob to match the stylus pressure value.
  11. Place your record and hit the play button.

Maintaining the cleanliness of the stylus and records is one of the ways to achieve a better music experience with this turntable. You can also place it on vibration-resistant furniture and use a grounding cable if necessary to eliminate any low-frequency hum that might creep in.

Overall Impression About Music Hall MMF-1.3 Turntable?

MMF-1.3 is a decent turntable. By delivering good sound, it ensures you have a satisfactory vinyl experience at a cheap cost.

Pros

Easy setup, built-in phono stage, quality sound, removable headshell, and price-friendly.

Cons

No USB port/Bluetooth connectivity.

Who Is It For?

The MMF-1.3 turntable is an ideal choice for newbies and audiophiles.

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Final Verdict

For the price, I think this turntable might be what you have been looking for if you are tight on budget. It can give you what you want—good sound and quality features. The nice look is a plus. However, you will have to be content with the lack of wireless connectivity.