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PP-1 Turntable
3 March 2025 - Blog

The Armless PP-1 Turntable: A Futuristic Spin on Vinyl Playback

In a bold move that challenges traditional turntable design, Paris-based design studio Waiting for Ideas has unveiled the PP-1, a revolutionary turntable that reimagines how we experience vinyl records. Dubbed “Plug and Play 1,” this sleek, minimalist device strips away conventional components like the visible tonearm and manual speed controls, offering a fresh take on analog audio.

Design and Construction

The PP-1 is crafted from a single block of aluminum, giving it a monolithic, futuristic appearance that evokes the iconic aesthetics of “2001: A Space Odyssey.” Its compact dimensions—35cm x 35cm x 8.5cm (13.7″ W x 13.7″ D x 3.34″ H)—and anodized aluminum finish make it a striking addition to any modern space. The design is intentionally pared down, featuring only two control knobs: one for play/pause and another for volume adjustment.

A Revolutionary Playback Mechanism

What truly sets the PP-1 apart is its unconventional approach to vinyl playback. Instead of a traditional tonearm, the turntable employs an inverted cartridge system developed in collaboration with Miniot. Users place their records upside down on the platter, and a hidden mechanism takes over from there. A subtle door conceals the cartridge when not in use, revealing it only when a record is placed on the platter. This innovative design ensures a seamless and clutter-free listening experience.

Automatic Features for Simplified Listening

The PP-1 is designed to make vinyl playback more accessible and user-friendly. It includes several automatic features:

  • Speed detection: A built-in sensor automatically identifies whether the record should play at 33 or 45 RPM.
  • Self-learning closed-loop speed control: This system ensures optimal playback speed, adjusting as needed to maintain consistency.
  • Track selection and volume control: These functions are integrated into the turntable’s minimal interface, streamlining the listening process.

Connectivity and Power

The PP-1 keeps things simple in terms of connectivity. Power is supplied through a 5V USB-C port, and audio output is via a single 3.5mm jack. This straightforward setup ensures that users can easily connect the turntable to their existing audio systems.

Pricing and Availability

The PP-1 is positioned as a premium product, with a price tag of €5,800 (approximately $6,012 or $6,050 USD). Orders are made to order, with a 12-week production time. A deposit of €2,900 (50% of the total cost) is required at the time of order. The first shipments are anticipated to go out by May 30, 2025.

Complementary Speakers

To complement the PP-1, Waiting for Ideas offers matching passive speakers priced at €3,200 (about $3,320). These speakers feature 85 decibels of sensitivity and 80W of power. However, an external amplifier is required, as one is not included with either the turntable or the speakers.

The PP-1 represents a bold step forward in turntable design, catering to design-conscious vinyl enthusiasts who value minimalist aesthetics and simplified operation. While it may not appeal to traditionalists who prefer manual controls and customization options, it has the potential to attract a new audience seeking a more streamlined and modern listening experience.

The Armless PP-1 Turntable: A Futuristic Spin on Vinyl Playback

In a bold move that challenges traditional turntable design, Paris-based design studio Waiting for Ideas has unveiled the PP-1, a revolutionary turntable that reimagines how we experience vinyl records. Dubbed “Plug and Play 1,” this sleek, minimalist device strips away conventional components like the visible tonearm and manual speed controls, offering a fresh take on analog audio.

Design and Construction

The PP-1 is crafted from a single block of aluminum, giving it a monolithic, futuristic appearance that evokes the iconic aesthetics of “2001: A Space Odyssey.” Its compact dimensions—35cm x 35cm x 8.5cm (13.7″ W x 13.7″ D x 3.34″ H)—and anodized aluminum finish make it a striking addition to any modern space. The design is intentionally pared down, featuring only two control knobs: one for play/pause and another for volume adjustment.

A Revolutionary Playback Mechanism

What truly sets the PP-1 apart is its unconventional approach to vinyl playback. Instead of a traditional tonearm, the turntable employs an inverted cartridge system developed in collaboration with Miniot. Users place their records upside down on the platter, and a hidden mechanism takes over from there. A subtle door conceals the cartridge when not in use, revealing it only when a record is placed on the platter. This innovative design ensures a seamless and clutter-free listening experience.

Automatic Features for Simplified Listening

The PP-1 is designed to make vinyl playback more accessible and user-friendly. It includes several automatic features:

  • Speed detection: A built-in sensor automatically identifies whether the record should play at 33 or 45 RPM.
  • Self-learning closed-loop speed control: This system ensures optimal playback speed, adjusting as needed to maintain consistency.
  • Track selection and volume control: These functions are integrated into the turntable’s minimal interface, streamlining the listening process.

Connectivity and Power

The PP-1 keeps things simple in terms of connectivity. Power is supplied through a 5V USB-C port, and audio output is via a single 3.5mm jack. This straightforward setup ensures that users can easily connect the turntable to their existing audio systems.

Pricing and Availability

The PP-1 is positioned as a premium product, with a price tag of €5,800 (approximately $6,012 or $6,050 USD). Orders are made to order, with a 12-week production time. A deposit of €2,900 (50% of the total cost) is required at the time of order. The first shipments are anticipated to go out by May 30, 2025.

Complementary Speakers

To complement the PP-1, Waiting for Ideas offers matching passive speakers priced at €3,200 (about $3,320). These speakers feature 85 decibels of sensitivity and 80W of power. However, an external amplifier is required, as one is not included with either the turntable or the speakers.

The PP-1 represents a bold step forward in turntable design, catering to design-conscious vinyl enthusiasts who value minimalist aesthetics and simplified operation. While it may not appeal to traditionalists who prefer manual controls and customization options, it has the potential to attract a new audience seeking a more streamlined and modern listening experience.

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