The TEAC TN-400BT-X turntable replaces the TN-400BT-SE with some internal updates. The latest version of this excellent and hugely popular model, updated for even better performance. This model also features a Bluetooth transmitter that allows you to listen to your records via Bluetooth headphones or active speakers with Bluetooth.
The built-in phono preamp can also be connected to amplifiers via a wired connection without the need for a separate phono stage. The Bluetooth connection uses the hi-res Qualcomm® aptX™ algorithm. Additionally, a smooth, belt driven mechanism ensures low motor noise. Unusually at this level, this is 3-speed deck with 78rpm available, in addition to 33rpm and 45rpm (although you would need a different stylus to play shellac 78rpm records).
Belt driven aluminium plater
The TN-400BT-X has a diecast aluminium platter that is belt driven. This turntable is also unusual in that it is a 3-speed unit, with 331/3, 45 and 78 Rpm speeds. This makes it the perfect turntable for record collectors. Additionally, the S-shaped static-balanced aluminium tonearm provides accurate tracking. The headshell is easily removable so that you can easily change the cartridge.
Why belt drive?
Belt drive turntables use a rubber belt to directly drive the platter. The platter itself runs on a low friction bearing. Belts have the advantage of being elastic so they absorb any motor vibration. This should result in less motor noise getting to the cartridge, for a cleaner sound. Direct drive turntables have the motor driving the platter directly which can benefit pitch for DJ use, but motor noise can be a problem. They can also suffer from cogging with minor speed variations due to how the motor is driven.
Built in phono preamp
A phono preamp is essential, as the output from a moving magnet cartridge is only a few millivolts. The audio signal is also not flat across the frequency range. When an LP is mastered the low frequencies are reduced to avoid over-modulating the groove. Additionally high frequencies are boosted. Without equalization the sound would be very thin, with low bass.
As a result the preamp cuts the treble and boosts the bass. This also tends to reduce any surface noise. To get a flat response the equalization must conform to the RIAA standard. Moving coil cartridges have an even lower output and will need further amplification. The build-in phono stage takes care of this so you can connect the turntable to any standard line-level audio input.
Good build quality
The TN-400BT-SE turntable has a strong high-density MDF plinth for good vibration isolation. It also looks good in a sleek walnut finis. The platter runs on a low resistance bearing for good speed stability. Additionally, there is a pre-installed MM-type AT95E cartridge from Audio Technica. There is a floating chassis with decoupled aluminium feet that provide a high feedback resistance. The output RCA sockets and tonearm contacts are gold plated for the best possible contact quality.
About TEAC
TEAC was founded in 1953 and became renowned for tape recorders. They have developed several innovations over the years, with the world’s first slow motion video recorder in 1964. By the 1980’s they had developed a portable recording studio using cassettes. Today they make a range of high-end components such as amplifiers, DAC’s and turntables. At the time of writing, they are also still one of the few companies still making cassette decks.
Tech Specs
Turntable section
– Type: Belt Drive
– Motor: DC Motor
– Rotation Speeds: 33-⅓, 45, 78 rpm
– Wow-and-Flutters: 0.2%
– S/N Ratio: more than 67dB (A-weighted), 60dB (unweighted, 20kHz, LPF)
-Turntable (Platter): Material: Aluminum Die-cast Diameter: 30cm
Tone-arm section
– Type: S-shaped, Static-balanced
– Effective Length: 223mm
– Needle Pressure Range: 0g to 5g
– Compatible Cartridge Weight: 4g to 8g, 14g to 18g (including Head-shell)
Head-shell and Cartridge sections
– Model of Cartridge: audio-technica AT95E
– Type of Cartridge: MM-type (VM-type)
– Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20,000Hz
– Output Voltage: 3.5mV (1kHz, 5cm/sec.)
– Channel Separation: 20dB (1kHz)
– Output Balance: 2.0 dB (1kHz)
– Needle Pressure: 1.5g to 2.5g (appropriate value: 2.0g)
– Needle Life: approx. 300 hours (depends on conditions)
– Coil Impedance: 2.8kohms (1kHz)
– DC Resistance: 410ohms
– Loading Resistance: 47kohms
– Loading Capacity: 100 to 200pF
– Coil Inductance: 400mH (1kHz)
– Static Compliance: 20 x 10-6cm/dyne
– Dynamic Compliance: 6.5 x 10-6cm/dyne (100Hz)
– Needle Shape: Joint-oval 0.3 x 0.7mil
– Cantilever: Aluminum Pipe
– Vertical Tracking Degree: 20 degrees
– Overall Dimensions: 17.0(W) x 17.2(H) x 30.5(D) mm
– Weight: 5.7g
– Head-shell Weight: 10g (including nuts, screws, and wires)
Analogue Output section
– Connectors: RCA jack x 1 pair (Gold-plated)
– Output Voltage: PHONO: 3.5mV +/-3dB, LINE: 155mV (-16dBV)
Bluetooth® section
– Bluetooth version: 4.0 (DUAL MODE)
– Output class: Class 2
– Codecs: SBC, AAC, Qualcomm® aptX™
– Maximum number of stored pairings: 8
Operation Power
– AC Adapter Input: AC 100 – 240V, 50/60Hz
– AC Adapter Output: DC 12V 500mA
General
– Power Consumption: 1.5W or less
– Standby Power: 0.5W or less
– Dimensions (including protrusions) : 420(W) x 117(H) x 356(D) mm / 16.5″(W) x 4.6″(H) x 14.0″(D)
– Weight: 4.9kg / 10.8lbs
– Operating temperature range: 5°C to 35°C
– Included Accessories: Felt Mat, EP Adapter, Counter Weight, Headshell (audio-technica AT95E installed), Platter, Dust Cover, Dust Cover Hinges x 2, RCA Audio Cable with GND wiring, AC Adapter (GPE053A-V120050-Z), Owner’s Manual (including Warranty Card)