In the world of vinyl enthusiasts, Clearaudio has long been synonymous with precision engineering and a relentless pursuit of sonic perfection. The Concept Edition Gold/White, a radiant addition to Clearaudio’s iconic Concept lineup, is a testament to the brand’s commitment to redefining the boundaries of turntable design and performance. Unveiled with a golden chassis and white accents, this special edition captivates the eyes and promises an auditory journey that transcends the ordinary. As we delve into the intricacies of this striking turntable, it becomes clear that the Concept Edition Gold/White is not just an audio device; it’s a sonic masterpiece poised to elevate the vinyl listening experience to new heights.
Revolutionizing Setup, Elevating Sound: The Clearaudio “Concept Concept”
When Clearaudio introduced the original Concept turntable in 2010, it revolutionized how audiophiles approached vinyl setups. The “plays practically out of the box” philosophy challenged the traditional notion of spending hours on meticulous assembly and adjustments. Now, with the Concept Edition Gold/White, this innovative spirit continues to redefine turntable setup and usage. Beyond its aesthetic allure, the turntable arrives pre-assembled and factory-adjusted, inviting users to indulge in the world of vinyl with unprecedented ease. Join us as we explore the design intricacies, material mastery, and sonic brilliance that set the Concept Edition Gold/White apart in high-fidelity audio.
Clearaudio: Pioneering Sonic Excellence for Decades
Clearaudio has stood at the forefront of audiophile innovation for over four decades, consistently pushing the boundaries of what’s achievable in high-fidelity audio. Founded in 1978 by Peter Suchy, this German analog specialist has become a revered name among audio enthusiasts globally. Renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship and commitment to sonic purity, Clearaudio has crafted a diverse range of turntables, tonearms, cartridges, and accessories, each bearing the hallmark of precision engineering. The company’s unwavering dedication to delivering a transcendental listening experience is evident in its iconic Concept lineup, with the Concept Edition Gold/White standing as a testament to Clearaudio’s legacy of sonic excellence and design innovation.
Specifications
| CONSTRUCTION DETAILS: | 30mm / 1.18 inch main platter, made out of synthetic material with high-density and excellent dimension / precision CNC machined surface aluminum subplatter |
| SPEED OPTIONS: | 33 ⅓, 45, 78rpm |
| DRIVE UNIT: | Decoupled and resonance-damped 12V DC motor, flat belt-drive, and plug-in power supply unit designed for worldwide use with all networks and power frequencies. |
| BEARING: | Polished and tempered steel spindle in a sintered bronze housing, running on a Teflon thrust pad. |
| PLATTER: | 30mm / 1.18 inch main platter, made out of synthetic material with high-density and excellent dimension / precision CNC machined surface aluminium sub platter |
| SPEED ACCURACY (MEASURED): | ± 0.05% |
| POWER CONSUMPTION: | Max. consumption: 2.5 watts Consumption in operation: 0.5 watts Off mode: 0.0 watts |
| TOTAL WEIGHT: | Approx. 7.5kg (incl. tonearm and cartridge) |
| DIMENSIONS (W/D/H): | Approx. 16.54 × 13.78 × 4.92 inches (with tonearm) |
| DIMENSIONS (W/D/H): | Approx. 420 × 350 × 125mm (with tonearm) |
| MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY: | 2 years* |
Aesthetics and Material Mastery: A Golden Symphony
The Clearaudio Concept Edition Gold/White transcends the conventional boundaries of turntable aesthetics, presenting itself as a visual masterpiece that captivates from every angle. The golden chassis, akin to a work of art, is meticulously crafted to be an aesthetic marvel, evoking a sense of luxury and timeless elegance. Its surrounding silver-painted strip adds a touch of sophistication, creating a harmonious contrast that further elevates the turntable’s visual appeal. The limited-edition nature of the Concept Edition Gold/White, with only 250 units worldwide, underscores its exclusivity, inviting audiophiles to experience superior sound and own a piece of audio craftsmanship that is as rare as it is stunning.
Material Mastery: Elevating the Sonic Canvas: Beneath its glorious exterior, the Concept Edition Gold/White is committed to material mastery beyond its golden allure. The use of an additional insert plate made of an undisclosed “artificial stone” strategically enhances the overall mass of the turntable, contributing to a more composed and nuanced sonic performance. The decision to employ an acrylic plate on the axle, pre-oiled at the factory, exemplifies Clearaudio’s dedication to functionality and aesthetic finesse. The bronze bushing with a Teflon mirror in the plate bearing ensures durability. It facilitates a smooth, backlash-free rotation, underscoring the meticulous engineering that defines the Concept Edition Gold/White. In the hands of Clearaudio, the turntable becomes a symphony of materials, where each element plays a crucial role in orchestrating an unparalleled auditory experience.
Craftsmanship Excellence: The Artistry of Design and Build Quality
In audio engineering, the Clearaudio Concept Edition Gold/White is a testament to the marriage of design ingenuity and impeccable build quality. Crafted with precision and meticulous attention to detail, this turntable transforms functionality into a true work of art. The design philosophy revolves around a harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality, offering an audio experience as visually captivating as sonically enchanting.
The Concept Edition’s chassis, adorned with a golden painted surface and a unique insert plate made of an undisclosed “artificial stone,” elevates its aesthetic appeal and enhances mass, promoting stability and minimizing unwanted vibrations. The choice of materials reflects a commitment to sonic purity, ensuring that the turntable becomes a conduit for unadulterated musical expression.
Beyond aesthetics, the build quality of the Concept Edition is a testament to Clearaudio’s dedication to engineering excellence. The acrylic plate, pre-oiled at the factory, rests on a bronze bushing with a Teflon mirror, showcasing a marriage of robust construction and friction-free operation. Incorporating the Satisfy Kardan tonearm, suspended on gimbals in sapphire bearings, exemplifies a commitment to precision engineering, providing a stable foundation for the delicate nuances of musical playback.
The Clearaudio Concept Edition Gold/White craftsmanship extends beyond the functional components, manifesting as a visual and tactile masterpiece. It redefines the design and build quality standard, setting a new benchmark for turntables that aspire to be both technological marvels and artistic expressions.
Sonic Brilliance Unleashed: Musical Exploration with Concept Edition
The Clearaudio Concept Edition Gold/White is not merely a turntable but a portal to a sonic realm where every note, beat, and melody is unveiled with unparalleled brilliance. As the stylus delicately caresses the grooves of a vinyl record, it becomes apparent that this audio masterpiece is engineered to unleash sonic excellence. The Concept Edition’s prowess lies in its ability to reproduce music with an exquisite balance of clarity, depth, and richness. Whether navigating the intricate arrangements of classical compositions or immersing the listener in the raw energy of rock anthems, this turntable transforms each listening session into a captivating musical odyssey.
Musical Exploration Redefined: Versatility and Precision: The Concept Edition’s sonic brilliance is not confined to a specific genre but thrives in the diverse landscapes of musical expression. Its versatility becomes evident as it traverses through the complex layers of jazz, the pulsating rhythms of electronic beats, and the soul-stirring melodies of acoustic ballads. The precision with which it unravels each musical layer showcases a commitment to authenticity, allowing audiophiles to explore the intricacies of their favorite albums with newfound clarity. With its impeccable sonic brilliance, the Concept Edition Gold/White redefines the boundaries of musical exploration, inviting enthusiasts to embark on a journey where every note is heard and felt, and every musical genre is a pathway to sonic perfection.
Dynamic Finesse and Subtle Nuances: Concept Edition’s Versatility
The Clearaudio Concept Edition Gold/White transcends the realm of traditional turntables by introducing a dynamic finesse that breathes life into every note and rhythm. This sonic marvel isn’t just a playback device but a musical energy conduit. With unparalleled precision, the turntable navigates the intricacies of various genres, from the thunderous beats of rock to the delicate nuances of classical compositions. Its ability to handle dynamic shifts with unwavering accuracy ensures that each instrument, whether a thundering drum or a subtle piano key, finds its distinct place in the auditory landscape. The Concept Edition Gold/White doesn’t just reproduce sound; it orchestrates a symphony of sonic dynamism, offering an immersive experience that resonates with the true essence of music.
Subtle Nuances: Elevating Musical Interpretation to Artistry: Beyond its prowess in delivering powerful sonic landscapes, the Concept Edition Gold/White unravels the subtle nuances that define musical artistry. In quieter moments and softer tones, this turntable reveals the finesse of a virtuoso, allowing the listener to discern the delicate caress of strings, the breathy intonations of vocals, or the nuanced resonance of acoustic instruments. The turntable’s versatility becomes apparent as it effortlessly transitions between bold crescendos and delicate whispers, making it a versatile companion for audiophiles with a penchant for the full spectrum of musical expression. The Concept Edition Gold/White, with its meticulous attention to dynamic finesse and subtle nuances, emerges as an audio device and a conduit for the artistic interpretation of music in its purest form.
Sound Test: Unveiling the Sonic Tapestry of the Concept Edition Gold/White
In the pursuit of audio excellence, the Clearaudio Concept Edition Gold/White undergoes a comprehensive sound test that unveils the intricate layers of its sonic tapestry. As the stylus delicately engages with the vinyl grooves, the initial impression is unparalleled clarity. The Concept Edition meticulously reproduces each musical nuance, from the subtlest whisper to the thunderous crescendo, with a level of detail that captivates the most discerning audiophile.
The bass frequencies emanate with a controlled authority, resonating with a depth that adds a tactile dimension to the listening experience. Whether it’s the sinewy plucking of an electric bass or the thunderous kick drums, the Concept Edition maintains a perfect equilibrium, delivering an impactful and articulate bass response. The dynamic finesse of this turntable becomes apparent in its ability to handle quiet-loud passages with precision, creating a nuanced and engaging sonic landscape.
Moving to the midrange, the Concept Edition reveals its true prowess in capturing the emotional core of vocal performances and natural instruments. From the gravelly depths of a rock vocalist to the nuanced inflections of a jazz saxophone, the midrange is characterized by a delicate warmth that enhances the emotional connection to the music. This turntable’s versatility shines as it effortlessly transitions between musical genres, offering a vivid and lifelike portrayal of the human voice and instrumental timbres.
Ascending to the high-frequency spectrum, the Concept Edition perfectly balances clarity and naturalness. The upper frequencies are rendered elegantly, providing a spacious and realistic representation of the acoustic space. There’s an unmistakable airiness that permeates through the soundstage, allowing instruments to breathe and creating a three-dimensional sonic panorama. The high frequencies, crisp and pure, never succumb to harshness, ensuring a listening experience that is both detailed and fatigue-free.
The Clearaudio Concept Edition Gold/White excels in its sound quality, offering a sonic journey that transcends traditional listening boundaries. Its ability to articulate the nuances of each musical element, coupled with a dynamic and engaging presentation, establishes it as a paragon of audio excellence in turntables.
User-Friendly Excellence: Navigating the Concept Edition Gold/White
The usability of the Clearaudio Concept Edition Gold/White is a testament to thoughtful engineering, ensuring that audiophiles of all levels can effortlessly integrate this turntable into their musical sanctuaries. The “plays practically out of the box” philosophy remains a hallmark, making the setup process a breeze. From the moment it emerges from the packaging, the Concept Edition is a model of user-friendly design.
One notable feature contributing to its ease of use is the pre-assembled and factory-adjusted nature of the turntable. Unpacking involves a straightforward removal of transport locks, placing the belt around the sub-plate and pulley, and seating the platter on the axle. Even the tracking force for the included pickup system and anti-skating are pre-adjusted, eliminating the need for extensive post-purchase assembly. Including a circular level to ensure a level surface, the setup becomes a 10 to 15-minute endeavor, catering to novice and seasoned vinyl enthusiasts.
The Concept Edition’s functionality extends beyond its user-friendly setup to include various features. The turntable supports three speeds—33 1/3, 45, and 78 rpm, showcasing its adaptability to various vinyl formats. The inclusion of a decoupled DC motor, located next to the sub-platter, contributes to stable and reliable speed control. This motor mastery ensures that the Concept Edition meets the standard vinyl speeds and accommodates the unique tempo of shellac records at 78 rpm, showcasing its flexibility for those delving into vintage musical treasures.
One unique function that sets the Concept Edition apart is its compatibility with various Clearaudio tonearms and pickups. This modularity allows audiophiles to tailor the turntable to their preferences and budget, creating a customizable audio experience. The option of the “Satisfy Kardan” tonearm and the “Performer V2” pickup in the Concept Edition Gold/White elevates its equipment to a higher echelon, delivering a premium sonic experience straight from the factory.
The Clearaudio Concept Edition Gold/White seamlessly combines user-friendly usability, versatile functionality, and unique customization options. Its design philosophy revolves around ensuring that the joy of vinyl playback remains accessible without compromising on the advanced features that audiophiles crave.
Connectivity Elegance: Seamless Integration for Audiophile Pleasure
The Clearaudio Concept Edition Gold/White excels in sonic prowess. It showcases a commitment to seamless connectivity, offering audiophiles a hassle-free experience integrating this turntable into their audio systems. With a keen eye for modern audio setups, the Concept Edition ensures versatile connectivity options that cater to various amplifiers, receivers, and audio systems.
The turntable features high-quality gold-plated RCA connectors, ensuring optimal signal transfer and minimizing signal loss. The use of gold plating not only enhances conductivity but also provides corrosion resistance, contributing to the longevity and reliability of the connections. This attention to detail is a testament to Clearaudio’s commitment to delivering a premium audio experience.
The RCA connectors facilitate a straightforward connection to the phono stage or integrated amplifier, forming a crucial link in the analog audio chain. The plug-and-play nature of these connectors aligns with the overall ethos of the Concept Edition, allowing users to focus on the joy of music rather than grappling with intricate setup procedures.
Beyond traditional analog connections, the Concept Edition Gold/White caters to the evolving needs of audiophiles by incorporating a USB output. This addition opens up possibilities for digital archiving and provides a convenient option for those who wish to digitize their vinyl collection. The USB connectivity adds a layer of versatility to the turntable, allowing it to integrate into modern, digital-centric audio environments seamlessly.
In essence, the Clearaudio Concept Edition Gold/White goes beyond being a mere turntable; it bridges the analog and digital realms, embracing connectivity with finesse. Whether you prefer the warmth of analog playback or seek the convenience of digital archiving, the Concept Edition ensures that your connection to the world of music remains sophisticated and effortless.
Conclusion: Concept Edition Gold/White – A Sonic Marvel:
In the symphony of audiophile excellence, the Clearaudio Concept Edition Gold/White stands as a virtuoso performer, seamlessly blending aesthetics, material mastery, and dynamic finesse. Its golden exterior, crafted with meticulous attention to detail, encapsulates not just a turntable but an embodiment of sonic luxury. The innovative design choices, from the golden chassis to the acrylic plate, contribute to its visual allure and the enhancement of its sonic capabilities. The Concept Edition is not merely an audio device but a work of art that elevates listening to a transcendental experience.
The Concept Edition whispers a narrative of precision, versatility, and unparalleled craftsmanship as the needle gracefully glides across the vinyl grooves. Its user-friendly nature, versatile connectivity, and modular design make it a turntable beacon. Whether you revel in the analog warmth or embrace the digital age, the Concept Edition adapts, delivering a symphony of sounds that resonates with audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike. Clearaudio’s Concept Edition Gold/White is not just a turntable; it’s an invitation to embark on an immersive journey through the rich tapestry of musical expression, where each note and nuance is unveiled with unparalleled clarity and elegance.
Why You Should Invest in the Clearaudio Concept Edition Gold/White:
- Sonic Brilliance: The Concept Edition Gold/White is a sonic marvel, offering a lively, powerful, and colorful sound. Its dynamic finesse captures the nuances of your favorite music, providing an emotionally gripping listening experience. Whether it’s the gripping bass of rock anthems or the delicate tones of acoustic melodies, this turntable delivers a symphony of sounds with unmatched clarity and precision.
- Aesthetics and Craftsmanship: Beyond its sonic capabilities, the turntable is a visual masterpiece. The golden chassis, acrylic plate, and meticulous design choices showcase a level of craftsmanship that goes beyond ordinary turntables. It’s not just an audio device; it’s a statement piece that adds an aesthetic flourish to your audio setup.
- Versatile Connectivity: The Concept Edition seamlessly integrates into various audio setups, offering gold-plated RCA connectors for analog purity and a USB output for digital archiving. Its user-friendly design ensures a hassle-free setup, making it accessible to both seasoned audiophiles and those new to high-end turntables.
Considerations Before Purchase:
- Premium Price: The Concept Edition Gold/White has a premium price tag, reflecting its high-end features and craftsmanship. If you’re on a tight budget, this turntable might be an investment that requires careful consideration.
- Space and Preference: The Concept Edition, while versatile, might be better suited for those with a dedicated audio space. If you’re limited in space or prefer a more compact setup, alternatives with a smaller footprint might be more suitable.
- Digital-Only Enthusiasts: If you lean heavily towards a digital-only audio setup and don’t anticipate delving into the analog world of vinyl, the Concept Edition’s analog-centric features might be more than what you need.
In conclusion, the Clearaudio Concept Edition Gold/White is a worthwhile investment for audiophiles seeking a perfect blend of sonic excellence and aesthetic appeal. If you value craftsmanship, versatility, and an immersive audio experience, this turntable stands as a golden ticket to musical bliss.
