Air Force V Premium - Entry Level Upgrade, TechDAS Style

The TechDAS Air Force V Premium features an upgraded chassis which includes being machined from a solid block of aluminium, like the upper-tier Air Force III, rather than being an aluminium plate chassis as on the original 2018-released unit. Furthermore, TechDAS says the Air Force V P offers “dynamic range similar to that of higher models” too.

The Air Force V P uses an air bearing mechanism that floats the 7kg platter on a thin layer of air, mechanically isolating the rotating platter and the record from any vibration. Additionally, the system creates a vacuum that holds the LP to the platter. TechDAS says, “this unique air technology has realised a sound that is different in dimension from conventional analogue turntables.”

Both the inner-sub and outer platter are both precision-machined from solid aluminium alloy A5056 with the outer platter surface anodised in a black gloss hairline finish. Also, a special thin pad is applied on top of the platter to protect records. Additionally, the turntable features a tapered spindle to absorb any swaying caused by an off-centre LP. Wow and flutter is quoted as being 0.03 % or less.

The relatively compact chassis (W312 x H168 x D368mm / 26kg) can still house up to four tonearms. Drive comes by way of a 2-phase, 4-pole AC synchronous motor that apparently offers almost the same level of performance as the upper models and is integrated into the main unit with an optimally designed anti-vibration mechanism. The polished drive belt of polyurethane rubber helps achieve a high sound to noise ratio, says TechDAS. Both 33.3 and 45 RPM speeds can be selected, of course.

Given that the AirForce V goes for around £15,000 in standard form expect to pay an extra premium for the, well, Premium version. The Air Force V P sells for ¥ 1,300,000 in Japan which currently converts to £9,711 but then add a huge wadge of import and Brit tax on top of that.

For more information, visit TechDAS.