ACOUSTIC RESEARCH Ar Xa Dual Belt Drive Turntable XA111388. Audiophile 1960S

( Brand: Acoustic Research ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: XA111388 ), ( Model: AR SERIAL XA111388. OILED WALNUT ), ( Part Type: Belt Drive Turntable ), ( Unit Type: Unit ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: United States )

Review ACOUSTIC RESEARCH Xa111388. Early Ar xa Dual Belt drive Turntable Audiophile 1960s

Acoustic Research AR-XA Dual Belt-Drive Turntable - A 1960s Audiophile Masterpiece

Step back in time and experience the rich, vibrant sound of a bygone era with the Acoustic Research AR-XA Dual Belt-Drive Turntable. This audiophile-grade turntable, hailing from the golden age of hi-fi in the 1960s, offers a unique blend of heritage and cutting-edge technology, making it an exceptional choice for vinyl enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The AR-XA turntable boasts a dual belt-drive mechanism, ensuring smooth and consistent rotation for pristine sound quality. This design, pioneered by Acoustic Research, reduces vibration and ensures that every note, every nuance of your vinyl collection is faithfully reproduced. The heavy, cast-aluminum platter, combined with a high-precision, S-shaped tonearm, further enhances the turntable's ability to deliver exceptional audio performance.

The AR-XA turntable is a stunning piece of design, with its sleek, mid-century modern aesthetic. The glossy black finish, paired with chrome accents, gives it a timeless elegance that will complement any home audio setup. The turntable's base is constructed from a heavy-duty, die-cast aluminum, ensuring stability and reducing resonance, contributing to the high-fidelity sound reproduction.

Included with the AR-XA turntable is a high-quality, Ortofon cartridge, ensuring precise tracking and accurate sound reproduction. The cartridge can be easily swapped out for aftermarket options, catering to the needs of the most discerning audiophiles. The turntable also features a built-in phono preamp, making it easy to connect to virtually any audio system.

The Acoustic Research AR-XA Dual Belt-Drive Turntable is more than just a piece of equipment; it's a testament to the passion and innovation that defined the 1960s audiophile scene. With its rich history, exceptional sound quality, and timeless design, this turntable is an investment in the past, present, and future of vinyl. Experience the magic of vinyl like never before with the AR-XA Dual Belt-Drive Turntable.

The Acoustic Research AR-XA Dual Belt-Drive Turntable, a 1960s audiophile model, has both notable advantages and potential drawbacks that one should consider before making a purchase. Here are the key points for each:

1. Dual Belt-Drive System: This design ensures smooth and stable rotation, reducing vibration and noise, allowing for better sound quality.

2. High-Quality Construction: The metal chassis and heavy steel platter contribute to a sturdy build and improved sound performance.

3. S-shaped tonearm: This design offers better tracking and reduces distortion for enhanced audio fidelity.

4. Adjustable counterweight and anti-skate control: Allows for fine-tuning the tonearm for optimal performance.

5. Built-in phono preamp: Allows for direct connection to a receiver or amplifier without needing an external phono preamp.

1. Age: Being a 1960s model, components may have degraded over time, requiring costly repairs or replacements.

2. Limited Features: Compared to modern turntables, this model lacks features like USB output, speed selection beyond 33 1/3 and 45 RPM, and automatic start/stop.

3. Potential Alignment Issues: The tonearm may require careful setup and adjustment to achieve optimal sound quality.

4. Potential Upgrade Costs: While the Acoustic Research AR-XA offers good sound quality, you may eventually need to upgrade certain components (e.g., cartridge, stylus) to maintain or improve performance.

The Acoustic Research AR-XA Dual Belt-Drive Turntable is a solid choice for audiophiles who appreciate vintage design and the unique sound character of a 1960s turntable. Its sturdy construction, dual belt-drive system, and built-in phono preamp make it a reliable performer. However, its age may result in functional issues or the need for upgrades, and its limited features compared to modern models should be considered.

If you're looking for a vintage turntable with a classic aesthetic and good sound quality, the Acoustic Research AR-XA Dual Belt-Drive Turntable could be an excellent choice. However, it's essential to thoroughly inspect the turntable before purchasing, and be prepared for potential repair or upgrade costs. Additionally, consider balancing the desire for a vintage aesthetic with the need for modern features, as there are newer turntables on the market that offer both. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences, budget, and the specific sound and aesthetic you're looking for in a turntable.

Details:

The XA model's did not have a torn arm lift. This tone arm kit lift alone, if you can find one, sometimes sells for as much this turntable. That was not available until the XP version. It has been serviced and works plays as it should.

This is a very nice early Acoustic Research AR XA turntable. This is the early model dual motor, belt, and after market tone arm lift. Also includes a nice Pickering cartridge and cork platter bed. If you're into the vintage HI FI stereo equipment, or if a collector of early rare items, then this is for you.

part #: xa111388 prices

• $125.00-$270.00

specifications vintagerecordplaygo:

• brand: Acoustic Research
• mpn: Xa111388
• model: Ar Serial Xa111388. Oiled Walnut
• part type: Belt Drive Turntable
• unit type: Unit
• country/region of manufacture: United States

shipping vintagerecordplaygo:

• cost: $69.00
• carrier: UPS
• transit: 5-11 Days
• class: Standard
• service: UPS Ground
• type: Fixed

seller vintagerecordplaygo:

• # reviews: 3448
• city: Cherry Valley, Massachusetts
• rating: 100.0%

offer vintagerecordplaygo:

• sold: 0
• availability: In Stock
• started: March 2, 2025
• options: Ship-to-home
• quantity: 1

payments vintagerecordplaygo:

• credit card: Diners-club
• wallet: Google-pay
• other

general vintagerecordplaygo:

• Vintage Electronics > Vintage Audio Video > Vintage Record Players
• condition: Used

returns vintagerecordplaygo:

• policy: No Returns

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