Andover Audio has focused over the past 3 years on affordable vinyl playback solutions that make sense for music listeners looking for the easiest way to enjoy their growing record collections; products like the SpinBase Max, One E Turntable Music System, SpinDeck Max, and the new SpinStage MM/MC Phono Preamplifier that we just reviewed appeal to a wide range of consumers. Andover has announced the successor to its original SpinDeck — the SpinDeck 2 Turntable and there are some rather distinct changes from the original design.
Priced at $299, the SpinDeck 2 is designed to strike a balance between good performance and operational convenience at a modest price.
Three updates that have been added to the SpinDeck 2 include:
- Electronic Speed Control – This allows users to easily change turntable speeds.
- Auto Tonearm lift and return with Auto-Off function – This means users don’t have to get up to lift the tonearm back to its arm rest once record side playback ends.
- Built-in Phono Preamp with Bypass – This feature makes it more convenient to connect the SpinDeck 2 to any audio system. If your audio system doesn’t have a dedicated phono input with ground connection, no problem, you can connect the SpinDeck 2 using just RCA audio line-in connections. However, if your audio system has a dedicated phono input with the ground, you can bypass the SpinDeck 2’s internal preamp and connect just like any other traditional turntable.
Tip: When using the SpinDeck 2 with the SpinBase, SpinBase MAX, SpinStage, or any audio system with a dedicated phono input, set the “Phono EQ” switch to the THRU position.
Feature Summary
In addition to the Electronic Speed Control and Built-in Phono preamp, here are the other core features of the SpinDeck 2.
- The SpinDeck 2 is a belt-drive turntable that is paired with a low-vibration DC motor with internal electronic servo regulation for accurate speed.
- The turntable plinth is made of MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) and is available in a black or white finish.
- Anti-vibration soft rubber feet are also included for stability.
- The SpinDeck 2 also comes with a pre-mounted Audio-Technica AT3600 cartridge with great performance out of the box, with minimal setup.
Tip: You can upgrade the cartridge if desired. The SpinDeck 2 has an adjustable counterweight and a standard 1/2-inch cartridge mount.
- Adapter for 7”, 45 RPM singles
- .5m Dual RCA signal cable with integral ground wire
- Machined aluminum platter with damped silicone rubber mat.
- Electronically stabilized DC motor.
- 12V/1A, 100-240V AC power supply with international plug adapters.
Turntable Specifications
- Nominal Speeds: 33.33 / 45 RPM +/-2%
- Wow and Flutter: 0.20% (33 RPM); 0.20% (45 RPM)
- Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR): -67dB A-Weighted
- Effective Tonearm Length: 8.5”, (214.5mm)
- Overhang: 22mm
- Weight: 10 lbs/4.5 kg
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 420 x 119 x 340 mm (16.5 x 4.7 x 13.4-inches)
- Power consumption: 1.5w
- Power adapter: Universal 100-240 VAC/50-60Hz
Audio Technica AT3600 Cartridge Specifications
- Frequency range: 20-20kHz
- Channel separation: 24dB/1kHz
- Channel Balance: 1.5dB
- Output Voltage: 4.2mV @ 1kHz, 5cm/sec
- Recommended Load Impedance: 47kohms/200-300pF – MM-input
- Stylus Type: .0006” Conical bonded diamond
- Recommended Tracking Force: 2.5 – 3.5 grams
- Weight: 5.7g
- Replacement Stylus: ATN3600L
Availability & Pricing
SpinDeck 2 is now available in black or white for $299 at Andover Audio or Amazon.com. A clear acrylic lid is also included.
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