Fosi Audio isn’t some no-name brand hoping to crowdfund a dream — they’re a proven player based in Hong Kong with a global footprint and a reputation for churning out affordable, high-performing HiFi gear that performs well above expectations (and sometimes above price tags).
With container-loads of DACs, amps, and speakers already in happy hands, Fosi’s move into turntables feels more like a strategic expansion than a startup gamble. But with the launch of their first-ever turntable, the Luna3, on Kickstarter July 31st, one has to wonder: is this a market test wrapped in minimalist design?
The entry-level vinyl space is crowded with legacy names like Rega, Audio-Technica, and Pro-Ject, alongside newer disruptors like Fluance, U-Turn, and Andover. So what exactly is Fosi trying to prove—and to whom?
Don’t mistake the question for a jab—Fosi Audio earned its spot on our list of affordable hi-fi brands helping usher in a new golden age of audio. We’re pulling for them. But let’s be honest: the Luna3 enters a turntable market that’s already packed tighter than a crate digger’s basement. And while the design is clean and the build looks solid, it’s hard not to ask—why this turntable, and why now?
The Luna3 isn’t undercutting the competition on price, and it doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel spec-wise—but it does follow a smart playbook. By going direct-to-consumer like U-Turn, Andover, and Fluance, Fosi cuts out the distributor and keeps tighter control over margins. And launching on Kickstarter gives them a built-in safety net: if there’s not enough interest, they don’t have to commit to full-scale production. It’s a low-risk move that tests the waters without sinking the ship.
Anyone can bolt on an Audio-Technica cart. So is this really about disrupting the space, or more about extending the Fosi brand into the vinyl ecosystem and giving their loyal fanbase a one-stop system solution? That’s smart business, but from a consumer perspective, would you genuinely choose the Luna3 over a Rega P1, U-Turn Orbit, or Pro-Ject E1.2?
Luna3: A Clean, Minimalist Deck Aimed at the Fosi Faithful
Guided by the principle of “less is more,” the Luna3 focuses on the essentials: a clean analog signal path, user-friendly operation, and a design that doesn’t scream for attention. Weighing in at 3.5kg, this belt-drive turntable features an 8.6″ aluminum tonearm with a removable headshell, a 300mm acrylic platter, and an eye-catching orange platter mat that adds just a touch of personality.
It comes pre-fitted with an Audio-Technica VM95E cartridge and supports 33-1/3 and 45 RPM playback via electronic speed control. There’s no built-in phono stage, which means this deck is aimed squarely at those who already have—or plan to add—a proper outboard phono preamp. Finished in understated matte black, the Luna3 isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel, but it’s clearly built to roll smoothly into the setups of design-conscious listeners and Fosi’s already-loyal customer base.
Want to give your Luna3 some personality? Fosi now offers custom-printed sticker skins as an optional add-on—you send the design, they print it. Whether you’re aiming for something bold, retro, or just a splash of color, it’s an easy way to make the deck your own. That said, the stock Luna3 already leans into a minimalist, modern aesthetic that’s part of its charm. Not sure we’d slap a cartoon tiger or neon flames on it—unless, of course, you’re picking one up for your kid’s first rig. In that case: go wild.
“With Luna3, we wanted to return to the essence of vinyl: pure sound, meaningful design, and zero distractions. It also marks an important step in our broader vision: building a complete, accessible HiFi ecosystem that lets users grow their system piece by piece.” Ryan Huang, Founder & CEO of Fosi Audio
The Bottom Line
The Luna3 may not rewrite the rulebook, but it’s a smartly executed entry into the budget turntable space—especially for Fosi fans already invested in the ecosystem. At 25% off during the Kickstarter launch, early adopters can grab the Luna3 for well under its eventual $349 USD retail price. For those looking to build a complete system around it, Fosi has you covered: add the ZP3 Preamplifier for $199, the Box X5 Phono Preamp for $104.95, and the ZA3 Balanced Stereo Amplifier (with upgraded power supply) for $149. That brings the total to under $800 USD—not including speakers—for a clean, modern Class D vinyl setup that offers far above typical starter rigs.
Given Fosi’s track record and fanbase, it’s almost inevitable that the Luna3 will make the jump from Kickstarter exclusive to regular catalog item—just at a higher price. The wildcard? How shifting tariffs and the looming end of the De Minimis exemption might impact pricing. For now, the early bird deal looks like a solid bet.
For more information: fosiaudio.com
Related Reading:
- Are We Hitting Peak Turntable? Pro-Ject E1.2 Aims For Audiophile Sound Quality For Under $350
- Orange Amplifiers Launches The “O” Turntable: Because What The World Really Needed Was Another Minimalist Record Player
- Pro-Ject’s AUTOMAT 1.2 Turntable Solves A Real World Problem For Vinyl Listeners
- U-Turn Audio’s Orbit Turntable Gets A Refresh
