TN 300 is a well-packaged turntable, easily drawing the attention of any vinyl fan with its elegant design and promising features. But before we go any further, I would like to emphasize the phrase, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” Let’s review it in detail before you press that purchase button.
TEAC TN 300 Turntable Overview
The TEAC TN 300 turntable comes with great features, including a built-in phono equalizer, a high-torque DC motor, USB output, and an AT95SE cartridge, among others.
The device is budget-friendly, seeking to balance affordability with quality. Users send mixed signals regarding this turntable’s efficiency. Though some say the overall build and sound are good, others say the opposite.
Technical Specifications
The deck’s specifications are highlighted below:
- Audio-Technica MM type phonograph cartridge AT95SE
- Built-in Phono Equalizer (LINE/PHONO switchable)
- USB output
- Supports 2 speed options (33 1/3 and 45 RPM)
- Aluminum die-cast platter
- Elliptical stylus
The TN-300 includes a straight tonearm intended to provide “optimum tracking accuracy,” which is commendable. An elliptical stylus is also added to ensure superior tracking.
Unfortunately, there are concerns that some units come with a defective platter that interferes with sound reproduction. Not to mention issues of skipping and an ineffective motor have been reported
TEAC TN 300 Turntable Drive Mechanism
A belt-driven mechanism runs this turntable. The belt is attached to the platter and then the motor pulley to help spin the platter for playback.
The setup decreases motor vibrations and ensures the platter rotates smoothly. Unfortunately, we are wary that several users complain about the inability of this unit to maintain a consistent speed, casting doubt on the efficiency of the belt-drive system.
Is TEAC TN 300 Turntable Automatic or Manual?
This deck is manual; it doesn’t come with an automatic start/stop feature for cueing the tonearm. It means you have to control the playback process manually, which is good if you want to have the purist experience associated with turntables. However, if you prefer the convenience of the automatic mode, then you’ll be disappointed.
Usability and Portability of TEAC TN 300 Turntable
You can use this turntable with ease. The controls are straightforward, and cueing the tonearm is hassle-free. The setup process is uncomplicated unless it’s your first time interacting with a turntable. While balancing the tonearm might initially present a challenge, with some practice, you’ll master it easily.
The entire turntable weighs approximately 10.8 lbs (4.9 kg), which should make it easy to carry around. However, I recommend using it on a stationary setup to avoid messing up with cartridge alignment and tonearm balance.
TEAC TN 300 Design & Build
This turntable is a beauty and is available in red, natural wood, black, cherry, and white colors. It features a heavy MDF plinth to help minimize unwanted resonances. On top of this base, you have an aluminum platter (protected by a rubber mat) and driven by a DC motor.
You can change speeds electronically using the button located just near the tonearm. Speaking of, the arm is relatively light and features a phonograph cartridge from Audio-Technica.
Connectivity & Sound Performance of TEAC TN 300 Turntable: Good, but…
TN 300 includes phono and line outputs, meaning you can play your records with a stereo, hi-fi system, or speaker that lacks a phono input. The turntable even provides an equalizer to ensure no sharp screams of noise can interfere with your listening experience. A USB port is also available to help digitize your vinyl and save it on a computer or other digital devices.
There are different reports about this unit’s sound quality from users. While some acknowledge the audio quality to be good, others disagree. I would expect the deck to produce amazing sound, given it comes with a high-quality cartridge. However, it’s a shame that the unit has many reported cases of speed issues, which often spoil its sound rendering vinyl painfully unlistenable. The lack of a grounding wire can lead to unwanted hums, further worsening the audio quality.
Main Technology Perks of TEAC TN 300 Turntable
The deck includes a heavy MDF plinth and aluminum platter to eliminate unwanted resonance and reduce vibrations. A USB port is present for those who would want to listen to their collection on digital devices. Last but not least, the DC motor is equipped with high torque to decrease speed fluctuations and help the platter rotate consistently.
Pricing
TN 300 is sold for $339.90 on Amazon, positioning it in the mid-range category when it comes to turntable pricing. Also available on eBay
How to Setup & Use TEAC TN 300 Turntable?
Setting this turntable should be easy, even for a beginner. These are the steps involved as indicated by the manual:
- Place the device on a level surface.
- Align the turntable with the center shaft and install it.
- Using your finger, pull the belt wrapped around the sub-platter via the round opening and place it around the motor pulley. Be sure to rotate the platter several times to secure it.
- Put the rubber mat on the platter.
- Install the counterweight on the tonearm’s rear end and tighten it. The headshell should be inserted and secured on the front end.
- To balance the tonearm, first set the anti-skating dial to zero. Release the tonearm, lift the cue lever and move the arm to the left a little. Lower the cue lever.
- Rotate the counterweight until the tonearm floats horizontally.
- Return the tonearm to its resting position and lock it.
- Turn the stylus pressure adjustment ring so that the center line aligns with “0” on the scale. Be careful not to turn the counterweight while doing so. Turn the ring again to align it with the number “2,” given that the cartridge’s stylus pressure is 2.0g.
- Adjust the anti-skating dial to 2.
- Connect the RCA and power cables using the outputs provided.
If you want the deck to work or perform better, ensure you install everything correctly and keep the entire unit clean. Don’t place anything on the dust cover, as they can cause vibrations during playback. The deck should be placed in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or any other heat source, to prevent the platter from warping and interfering with playback.
Overall Impression About TEAC TN 300 Turntable?
The TN 300 turntable is a beautiful model that’s easy to use and set up. However, I doubt the quality of the overall build. Some components could be defective or of low quality, contributing to the speed and sound issues reported.
Pros
Check the pros below:
- User-friendly
- Budget-friendly
- Looks beautiful
- Multiple connectivity options
Cons
The cons include:
- Speed issues
- Unsatisfactory sound performance
Who Is It For?
The deck is ideal for newbies who want to experience vinyl before moving to high-quality, expensive models.
Final Verdict
A good number of TN 300 owners have confirmed having a nice experience with this turntable, which could be the case for you, too. The cartridge is great and has the potential of producing decent sound from your records. However, you shouldn’t ignore the quality issues raised.
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