Brushless DC motor and high-capacity power supply
The drive motor is one fundamental component of a belt-drive analog player where powerful and stable platter rotation is of paramount importance. The PD-191A features an original, high-precision, high-torque, brushless DC motor supported by a float-mounted, highly stable and fully regulated large-capacity power transformer that has been upgraded to higher specifications for today’s favored high-mass platters. Our sine wave PWM/PID rotation speed control* programming achieves constant and accurate rotation control under various demands and a high-performance reference clock for speed correction, using a MEMS oscillator with excellent temperature characteristics, is deployed. As a result, precise speeds and quiet platter drive are assured.
heavyweight, high-mass platter with a huge moment of inertia
The platter chosen for the PD-191A is a 35mm-thick, 5.2kg heavyweight disk, machined from a single, extremely thick aluminum billet, precisely diamond cut and finished to exact surfaces which beautifully reflect light. The platter acts as a flywheel with a huge moment of inertia of 0.7t·cm2 , delivering smooth and confident rotation. The spindle supporting the platter boasts high-rigidity specifications with its high-tensile strength stainless steel shaft (diameter 16mm) and a customized bearing support system. This structure combines a PEEK* thrust bearing, with its excellent heat resistance and wear resilience to a matched brass radial bearing filled with organic molybdenum oil that maintains stable lubrication even under high loads while firmly supporting the platter. The motor’s energy is transferred to the platter via an EPDM* drive belt that is resistant to aging and accurately supports the high-torque brushless DC motor output without loss.
Elegant, timeless LUXMAN industrial design,featuring a wood front-panel and low center-of-gravity chassis
Our selection and finishing of the external and structural materials that make up the finished product are highly important to us as we feel that the listener’s operation of an analog player should be a tactile and visually satisfying experience. A feast for the eyes, the PD-191A is elegant and sophisticated, with a rosewood-stained, solid natural wood front panel with a beautiful glossy finish, contrasting with the finely hairline-treated aluminum top panel. In addition, by offsetting the mounting of the motor inside the lower chassis, we realized a stylish, low center of gravity form with a total height 12mm lower than the earlier PD-171A. In addition, by focusing on the operational systems, such as power supply, turntable start/stop, rotation speed switching and adjustment on the top panel, we have pursued utilitarian and functional beauty. Sold separately is an available and highly recommended purpose-built 4mm thick acrylic dust cover equipped with cam/spring supporting hinges for easy opening and smooth closure.
Multiple integrated vibration damping structures
The underslung suspension structure, in which the main components are attached to a 15mm thick aluminum plate, has succeeded in achieving both high rigidity and damping performance. Also, by mounting the motor drive system and power transformer on an extra thick bottom plate, insulated with damping rubber, delicate signal pickup is protected from external vibrations, greatly improving the mechanical S/N ratio (rumble) and feedback resistance.