While not a globally recognized household name like JBL or Marshall, Kanto is a well-regarded and respected audio brand, particularly among entry-level to mid-tier audiophiles. The Canadian company is known for its high-quality powered speakers that balance impressive sound performance with modern aesthetics, courtesy of which, it even made it to our Best of IFA 2024 roundup last year. Hot on the heels of its success in speaker production, the company is now venturing into the turntable industry.
First reported by What Hi Fi, Kanto Audio has unveiled Obi3, the company’s inaugural turntable. Measuring 15 inches long and 13.9 inches wide, the compact turntable fits into any small space, designed for convenient placement on a desk, shelf, or sideboard. Beyond a compact footprint, the turntable excels in aesthetics, too. Obi3 is available in three colors: black, white, and sage green, allowing each finish to blend in with a variety of interior styles.
Tech-wise, Obi3 features a belt-driven mechanism paired with a weighted aluminum platter and wooden plinth, which, as per the company, is “designed to minimize vibrations and deliver precise, vibration-free playback.” The turntable includes an Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge, which Forbes notes is “calibrated for clear and balanced audio right out of the box.”
Adjoining the cartridge is the aluminum J-shaped tonearm that provides consistent tracking accuracy, while a built-in phono preamp and RCA outputs cater to traditional hi-fi setups. For the wireless options, Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity allows effortless pairing with Kanto’s active speakers, like the Ren series, or any compatible headphones, no adapters or lag required.
Priced at $199 in the US and £179 in the UK, the Obi3 undercuts competitors from Audio-Technica and Pro-Ject while packing rare perks like pitch control for fine-tuning speed on warped records or live mixes. Its two-speed selector handles 33⅓ and 45 RPM platters, complete with a slip mat, dust cover, and 45 RPM adapter.
In terms of design, Kanto flaunts a minimalist style that mirrors the sleek lines of its speaker collection. The turntable features a stable wooden base, understated controls, and finishes in black, white, or a striking green to match diverse interiors. Nobody’s had a hands-on review of the model yet, but early impressions suggest that its low-profile design, coupled with smooth, balanced sound, is enough to lure audiophiles to stream grooves to Bluetooth setups without compromising fidelity.
Also Read: Best Turntables to Buy in 2025: Top Picks for Vinyl Lovers
As vinyl sales continue to peak, fueled by artists like Metallica and AC/DC dropping exclusive pressings, the Obi3 aims to capitalize on the opportunity with its high-quality playback for budget-conscious audiophiles. Pre-orders are expected soon via Kanto’s site and select retailers.
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