The Garrard 301 Classic brings the legendary Garrard 301 transcription turntable back in a meticulously rebuilt and modernised configuration. It combines the iconic 301 rim-drive motor unit with a precision SME M2-12R tonearm and a handcrafted solid walnut isolation plinth. The result is a high-end analogue turntable that preserves the character and engineering principles of the original Garrard 301 while incorporating carefully restored and upgraded components for contemporary high-fidelity playback.
The heart of the 301 Classic is the legendary Garrard 301 transcription motor. The high-mass platter is driven around its rim by the mechanical drive system, providing the characteristic high-torque operation associated with the original 301. The motor is spring suspended and magnetically screened to help control vibration and interference.
| Drive Method | Rim Drive / Idler Drive |
|---|---|
| Motor | Induction Motor |
| Motor Suspension | Spring Suspended |
| Magnetic Shielding | Yes |
| Playback Speeds | 33⅓ RPM / 45 RPM / 78 RPM |
| Speed Adjustment | Approximately ±2.5% |
The 301 Classic uses a high-mass, accurately balanced platter designed around the original Garrard 301 architecture. Its rim-drive configuration provides a direct mechanical connection between the drive system and platter, while the supplied rubber-compound mat provides the record interface.
| Platter Type | High-Mass, Accurately Balanced |
|---|---|
| Drive | Rim Driven |
| Platter Material | Die-Cast Aluminium |
| Platter Mat | Original Rubber Compound |
The 301 Classic is equipped with an SME M2-12R precision tonearm. The 12-inch arm is mounted to the dedicated arm position in the walnut plinth and provides a high-quality mechanical platform for cartridge alignment and vinyl playback.
| Tonearm | SME M2-12R |
|---|---|
| Arm Type | 12-Inch Precision Tonearm |
| Tonearm Base | Adjustable |
| Base Positioning | Damped or Fixed |
| Cartridge | Compatible with User-Selected Cartridge |
The 301 Classic is mounted in a handcrafted solid walnut isolation plinth designed specifically for the Garrard 301 motor unit. The plinth incorporates an isolated chassis suspension and adjustable feet with an isolation system to provide a stable and mechanically controlled foundation.
| Plinth Material | Solid Walnut |
|---|---|
| Plinth Type | Isolation Plinth |
| Chassis | Die-Cast Aluminium |
| Suspension | Isolated Plinth Chassis |
| Feet | Adjustable with Isolation System |
| Finish | Walnut |
The 301 Classic retains the three-speed capability of the original Garrard 301. All three speeds can be finely adjusted, allowing the platter speed to be accurately set for different recording standards and listening requirements.
| 33⅓ RPM Range | 33–34 RPM |
|---|---|
| 45 RPM Range | 44–46 RPM |
| 78 RPM Range | 76–80 RPM |
| Speed Fine Adjustment | Approximately ±2.5% |
The mechanical design of the 301 Classic is focused on stable and accurate platter rotation. The carefully rebuilt motor unit, high-mass platter, isolated plinth and precision tonearm work together to provide a controlled platform for high-quality analogue playback.
| Wow | Less Than 0.2% |
|---|---|
| Flutter | Less Than 0.05% |
| Power Consumption | 16 W |
The Garrard 301 Classic motor is designed for dual voltage ranges, allowing configuration for different electrical standards. The motor pulley is available for either 50 Hz or 60 Hz operation.
| Voltage Range | 100–130 V / 200–250 V |
|---|---|
| Frequency | 50 Hz / 60 Hz |
| Power Consumption | 16 W |
| Width | 640 mm / 64 cm |
|---|---|
| Depth | 480 mm / 48 cm |
| Height | 215 mm / 21.5 cm |
| Height Measurement | Feet to Top of Tonearm |