The Teac TN-4D-SE turntable is quite popular. It’s not every day you come across a deck that’s loved by many vinyl enthusiasts. There’s clearly something unique or special that Teac has done with this model. This review explores its features to help you discover what sets it apart from the competition.
TEAC TN-4D-SE Turntable Overview
The TN-4D-SE turntable by Teac boasts some nice features, including a pre-fitted cartridge, an aluminum platter, a brushless motor, a static-balanced tonearm, and more.
Costing about $749.99, this analog deck seeks to enhance your vinyl experience. Many users appreciate its sound quality, appearance, and easy-to-understand manual.
Technical Specifications
Listed below are the unit’s specifications:
- S-shaped, static-balanced tonearm
- Pre-installed Oyster MM-type cartridge (SUMIKO)
- Dust cover
- AC adapter and EP adapter
- RCA Audio cable with GND terminal
- 2-speed (33 1/3 and 45 rpm)
- High-density MDF plinth
- Insulating feet
- Aluminum die-cast aluminum platter
Teac has decided to go with the S-shaped, static-balanced tonearm instead of the straight one, which is understandable. The S-shaped design is good for distributing weight and enhancing tracking accuracy. Combining the MDF plinth and aluminum platter is also a good idea as they work together to minimize unwanted noise and resonance.
TEAC TN-4D-SE Turntable Drive Mechanism
A direct-drive mechanism runs this turntable, meaning the motor directly rotates the platter. Of course, there’s the worry of cogging (uneven motor rotation) or motor noise reaching the records and affecting playback quality.
The vendor addresses this by using a brushless motor that ensures a smoother, quieter operation. The system also applies feedback control, which constantly monitors the plate’s speed and adjusts motor power accordingly to ensure an accurate and stable rotation.
Is TEAC TN-4D-SE Turntable Automatic or Manual?
The TEAC TN-4D-SE turntable is manual. There’s no automatic start/stop mechanism for lifting the tonearm at the beginning or end of playback. Instead, you move the tonearm by hand.
While some audiophiles may view this manual feature as inconvenient, I don’t. Manual cueing is a defining characteristic of turntables, as it allows you to interact and connect with every record you play.
Usability and Portability of TEAC TN-4D-SE Turntable
Straightforward is the term I would use to describe this deck’s usability and setup. Changing the platter speed is as easy as turning the speed button.
You don’t have to deal with the inconvenience of manual adjustments that usually involve lifting the platter to switch belts. The counterweight and anti-skate dial are well-calibrated, which should make balancing the tonearm and setting the tracking force a breeze.
Based on the overall design, I don’t think TN-4D-SE is portable. Rather, it is intended for home use, with features optimized for stability and sound fidelity. You risk reducing the unit’s shelf-life by moving it from place to place as this exposes the components to damage every time.
TEAC TN-4D-SE Turntable Design & Build
TN-4D-SE may not be the flashiest turntable on the market, but I must commend Teac for the design; it’s neat and elegant. It has two finishes—piano black and walnut veneer. Some more color options would be nice, though.
The deck’s foundation comprises a high-density MDF plinth. A die-cast aluminum platter sits above it and is protected by a felt mat. The S-shaped tonearm is positioned on the left side of the platter, with the speed button just next to it. Four solid metal feet with rubber soles give the turntable stability and dampen vibrations.
Connectivity & Sound Performance of TEAC TN-4D-SE Turntable: Good, and…
When it comes to connectivity, TN-4D-SE includes a built-in phono preamp that enables you to connect it to amplifiers without needing a dedicated phono input. RCA line-level and phono outputs are available, meaning the unit can integrate seamlessly with different audio systems. Do you want to digitize your vinyl collection? A USB port is featured just for that.
The turntable produces good sound, and most users love how it picks up music delicately. This isn’t surprising, considering the deck uses a SUMIKO Oyster cartridge. Designed with quality in mind, this cartridge is well-known for producing detailed sound and boosting the performance of turntables.
Main Technology Perks of TEAC TN-4D-SE Turntable
One of the turntable’s technological perks is the brushless direct-drive motor. Not only does it ensure the platter spins stably, but also minimizes noise so you can enjoy your music.
Next is the built-in phono preamp, which ensures you can connect the unit to various audio setups. There’s also a USB port, which allows you to listen to your vinyl records on digital devices.
Pricing
The deck is sold for $749.99 on Teac’s official page.
How to Setup & Use TEAC TN-4D-SE Turntable?
This turntable is easy to set up and you will be done within 5 minutes, at least. Here are the steps involved:
- Unpack the turntable’s components and place the plinth on a flat surface.
- Install the platter while ensuring it aligns with the center shaft. Place the felt mat.
- Put the counterweight at the rear end of the tonearm and give it a gentle push. Turn the counterweight in the right direction to lock it in position.
- Attach the headshell to the front side of the tonearm, and remember to turn the nut to secure it.
- Set the anti-skate dial to zero.
- Release the tonearm by moving its clutch to the right. Raise the lever and move the tonearm to the left a bit. Lower the lever.
- Gently rotate the counterweight clockwise until the tonearm is balanced. Return the tonearm to its resting position and lock it with the clasp.
- Revolve the tracking force adjustment ring and ensure the center matches the zero on the scale.
- Turn the counterweight so it reads 2.3 on the scale to match the cartridge’s 2.3g tracking force. The anti-skating dial should also read 2.3.
- Connect the RCA cables from the turntable to the amplifier’s phono input. Then, connect the turntable’s grounding wire to the amplifier’s ground terminal to eliminate unwanted hum.
- Your turntable is now ready for playing records!
You can optimize your experience with this deck by keeping it away from vibration sources like speakers.
Also, ensure you don’t move it during playback, as this could damage the stylus or record. You may want to place it in a well-ventilated area to enable it to dissipate heat whenever it gets warm during operation.
Overall Impression About TEAC TN-4D-SE Turntable?
The TN-4D-SE is a decent turntable with sound engineering. You are likely to love the design and the impressive sound quality. However, this may not be the ideal choice if you are looking for portability.
Pros
Here are the advantages:
- Good sound
- Elegant design
- Availability of a USB port
- User-friendly
Cons
These are the disadvantages:
- Limited portability
- Expensive
Who Is It For?
The turntable is ideal for advanced audiophiles who are willing to spend money on a quality unit with superior sound performance.
Final Verdict
The TEAC TN-4D-SE turntable is a worthy buy. It comes with some quality features that enable it to produce impressive sound and minimize motor noise. With the unit, you also have a well-rounded audio package, thanks to the built-in phono preamp and USB port.
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