In a recent issue of Hi-Fi News, the spotlight shines on the Garrard 301 Advanced Turntable, a true testament to the fusion of classic design and modern engineering. This review by Adam Smith delves into this high-end audio device's intricate details and superb craftsmanship, providing an in-depth look at why this turntable is turning heads in the audiophile community.
A Legendary Revival
The Garrard 301 transcription motor has a storied history dating back to its release in 1954. It was celebrated for its robust build and high-quality sound, making it a favorite among high-fidelity enthusiasts and professional broadcasters. Fast-forward to today, and the Garrard 301 Advanced is bringing this iconic turntable into the 21st century. Hi-Fi News highlights how SME, Garrard's parent company known for precision analog and even aerospace manufacturing, has meticulously restored and upgraded the original design to create a turntable that honors its heritage and surpasses modern performance expectations.
Engineering Excellence
One of the standout aspects of the Hi-Fi News review is the detailed examination of the engineering behind the 301 Advanced. The turntable's components have been either restored or replaced by higher-precision variants, which were impossible at the time of Garrard's golden era, ensuring top-tier performance. The review emphasizes the accuracy of the re-machined platter and the innovative use of a polymer resin plinth, a proprietary and acoustically inert material sourced from the aerospace industry and never before used in audio except for SME's Model 6. The plinth material and SME's precision manufacturing contribute to the turntable's exceptional sound quality, rivaling even contemporary flagship tables from other brands. The inclusion of the SME Series V-12 tonearm is particularly praised for its contribution to the overall sonic purity and detail.
Performance and Sound Quality
Adam Smith's review doesn't just focus on the technical specifications; it also delves into the listening experience. The Garrard 301 Advanced is lauded for its ability to handle a wide range of sounds, from deep bass lines to delicate treble notes, with remarkable clarity and precision. Hi-Fi News describes the turntable's performance as both powerful and nuanced, making it a versatile choice for any vinyl enthusiast. The review notes how the 301 Advanced maintains low background noise and delivers a stable playback, setting it apart from many of its contemporaries. Smith notes, "This turntable locks onto rhythms and basslines with scarcely believable precision. Low-end elements simply arrive, stun you with their impact, and leave." He adds, "The 301 Advanced can be soft, subtle, and beautifully restrained when the occasion demands. It can reveal everything on the record and has an impressively wide dynamic range."
Nostalgia Meets Modernity
The review in Hi-Fi News also touches on the nostalgic appeal of the Garrard 301 Advanced. It highlights how this turntable manages to evoke a sense of history while incorporating modern enhancements that make it relevant today. This blend of old and new is perfectly encapsulated in the meticulous restoration process described in the review, where even the smallest details, like the original paint and chassis rivets, have been faithfully recreated using modern materials and techniques.
Conclusion
Hi-Fi News' review of the Garrard 301 Advanced Turntable paints a picture of a device that is both a piece of history and a modern marvel. The review commends SME for their obsessive attention to detail and their ability to elevate the performance of the classic 301 design. For audiophiles, the Garrard 301 Advanced represents a unique opportunity to experience the best of both worlds: vintage charm and contemporary excellence.
The Garrard 301 Advanced, priced at $54,900 USD with the SME V-12 tonearm, delivers a performance and unique sound character unmatched by other flagship turntables, even those costing significantly more.
This glowing review solidifies the Garrard 301 Advanced's position as a must-have for serious vinyl collectors and audiophiles who appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind their equipment. The Garrard 301 Advanced is not just a turntable; it's a celebration of audio heritage, meticulously crafted to offer an unparalleled listening experience.
Click HERE to download a pdf of the Hi-Fi News review of the Garrard 301 Advanced turntable.
