Ken Micallef

After a restful, and quite respectful, long weekend, there’s nothing quite like returning to the analog breach by looking at a wide selection of new turntables and other cool gear shown at Munich 2024 by way of a video shot at the show by esteemed AP contributor Ken Micallef. Read on to see onsite footage of new and current tables from the likes of Garrard, Acoustic Signature, Zavfino, Kronos, Gold Note, and many, many more. . .

Rekkord Audio carries the torch of meticulous German craftsmanship, so we wanted to see if their flagship M600 high-end manual subchassis turntable backs up that claim. Read Ken Micallef’s review to see if the M600 is capable of delivering music with energy, drive, focused imaging, and bass lucidity. . .

Every now and then, we come across a product that truly defies description — and today’s special featured piece of gear is the ever-loving, AI-living proof. Please welcome the triumphant return of the always estimable Dr. Loof Lirpa, who has given AP exclusive access to his brand-spanking-new Lirpa Labs Noah’s Arc turntable. Read on to see what the M&M team — Mettler and Micallef, that is — think of this one-of-a-kind AAA (as in, absolutely amazing analog) marvel. . .

Introduced in 1979, the Technics’ SL-1200MK2 turntable soon became both the company’s standard bearer and the DJ’s vinyl spinner of choice. The 1200 went through endless iterations, entering the home and studio — and, in its latter variations, the 1200 also became a turntable audiophiles could love. Fast forward to today, where we now have the Technics SL-1200GR2 direct drive turntable, a quite formidable new entry in this venerable series. Read Ken Micallef’s review to see if the GR2 delivers the goods in terms of resolution, speed, textural information, and spaciousness. . .