Given the number of new turntables we have seen in the past few years, there’s no denying that record players are making a comeback. Once neglected due to the rise of more convenient and portable audio formats like cassette tapes, CDs, and later the digital formats, turntables are now back in demand, garnering a lot of attention from serious audiophiles. We have witnessed recent releases and revivals from Audio Technica, Pro-Ject, and Bang & Olufsen in recent times, and it was only a matter of time before Dutch audio company Miniot announced its arrival on the scene.
The Dutch Hi-Fi maker has launched a sleek record player dubbed Miniot 3. First reported by Alpha Audio, Miniot’s latest record player spins vinyl vertically, allowing it to stand upright on a surface or even be mounted on a wall for a striking visual effect. Interestingly, one can even lay it down flat, but that kills the whole purpose of the vertical design.
Described by eCoustics as “a sleek piece of industrial design wrapped around some genuinely clever tech,” the turntable eliminates the clutter of traditional record players. Unlike conventional turntables that place the tonearm above the record, the Miniot Wheel 3 positions its playback mechanism underneath, leaving the vinyl’s surface unobstructed. Moreover, it doesn’t even feature any magnets or coils. Miniot 3 rather relies on an optical stylus (optical sensor) that reads the record (similar to a CD player). This inverted approach not only creates a clean aesthetic but also protects the delicate tonearm and stylus from dust and accidental damage.
This minimalistic approach is evident in its controls as well. Miniot has incorporated an innovative “Slide track and line display,” which simplifies operation while maintaining a wealth of functions. “Like its predecessors, the Wheel 3 has a slider that’s embedded into its side, which you use for adjusting volume and various playback controls,” Gear Patrol points out. When it comes to compatibility, the Wheel 3 is designed to play “singles, LPs, and everything in between,” making it versatile for all vinyl formats.
Unlike bulkier Hi-Fi systems, the Wheel 3 boasts a compact design appealing to both audiophiles and design enthusiasts. “Wheel 3’s spaceship shape is made of just two parts. The back is machined from a block of solid composite. The unibody front is turned and milled from a thick billet of aluminium, then circularly polished to a distinctive shine,” Miniot informs. To accentuate its black look, Wheel 3 flaunts a red finish, adding a pop of color that sets it apart from the standard black, silver, or even transparent turntables dominating the market.
Also Read: Pro-Ject Automat A1.2 Turntable Merges Modern Convenience with High-Quality Audio Performance
It is to be noted that Miniot Wheel 3 has entered a competitive landscape where turntables like the Audio-Technica Hotaru and Fuse Audio GLD vertical turntable vie for attention. While the Hotaru boasts a sci-fi aesthetic and premium features, the GLD lures with its affordable price, but the Wheel 3 offers a more accessible yet equally innovative option for vinyl lovers. Its unique playback mechanism, minimalist design, and affordability compared to other vertical record players in the market make it an exciting option. The turntable is available on preorder, and it will retail for €2,900 ($3,300 at current market rate).
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