Debuting at Milan Design Week, where aesthetics often overshadow practicality, Audio-Technica’s latest creation, the Hotaru turntable, achieves a harmonious blend of both. The upper section of the turntable is suspended above the base with the aid of magnets that dampen vibrations, and it features an internal light show that changes colors in sync with the music, making it an integral part of the vinyl listening experience.
While floating turntables are not entirely novel, as they are used to minimize vibrations and enhance playback quality, the Hotaru offers something unique. Unlike models like the MAG-LEV that only elevate the spinning platter, the Hotaru levitates its entire upper assembly, including the tonearm and DC motor.
The levitating section is crafted from translucent acrylic, concealing a belt drive mechanism and featuring three distinct lighting modes. Users can choose from 20 static color palettes, a Gradient Mode that softly shifts between colors, or a Link Mode where the lights pulse with the music’s rhythm. Unlike many party speakers, this lighting effect aims to create a relaxed atmosphere rather than an energetic party vibe.
The sturdy aluminum base of the Hotaru turntable is equipped with solid brass feet and an integrated speaker system, consisting of two 63.5-millimeter full-range speakers and a pair of tweeters. Additionally, it includes a line out port for connecting to an external sound system and a subwoofer output for enhancing low-frequency sounds.
