MoFi Electronics has introduced its latest creation, the MasterDeck Turntable, designed to provide reference-quality vinyl playback without breaking the bank. This turntable has garnered attention not only for its esteemed designer, Allen Perkins of Spiral Groove fame but also for its innovative features and competitive price point, challenging the prevailing trend of escalating prices in the realm of high-fidelity vinyl playback.
At the heart of the MasterDeck is an "all-new" dual-pivot carbon-fiber 10-inch tonearm, a testament to Allen Perkins' turntable design ethos. This tonearm boasts precision, control, and friction-free tracking, thanks to its removable headshell and adjustable features such as horizontal angle (azimuth), vertical tracking angle (VTA), overhang, and anti-skate. The internal tonearm wiring, provided by Cardas Audio, further enhances the overall performance.
To achieve precision playback, MoFi has incorporated an optically regulated speed controller utilizing a three-phase brushless DC drive motor. This motor is housed in an isolated container, enabling fine speed adjustments for 33, 45, and 78 RPM, all conveniently displayed on a four-digit screen.
The 1.75-inch thick platter, crafted from a high-mass hybrid of aluminum and Delrin, sits atop an ultra-high-quality Encapsulated Spiral Groove inverted bearing. This combination ensures stability and reduces unwanted vibrations, contributing to the overall fidelity of the vinyl playback experience.
The MasterDeck Turntable takes a holistic approach to isolation, addressing both environmental noise and feedback. Custom Harmonic Resolution Systems (HRS) Isolation Feet effectively float the turntable, preventing interference that could compromise the audio quality.
In terms of aesthetics, MoFi has incorporated a solid wood frame, available in either Walnut or Black Ash finish, wrapping around a constrained-layer body of wood and aluminum. This design not only enhances the turntable's visual appeal but also serves a functional purpose by eliminating resonances that could impact sound quality.
MasterDeck Turntable Main Features:
Manufactured in small batches at MoFi's Ann Arbor, Michigan facility, the MasterDeck Turntable shows the brand's effort to quality control and precision craftsmanship. The attention to detail, from the choice of materials to the engineering prowess, positions the MasterDeck as a compelling option in the market.
While other high-end turntables flirt with five-figure price tags, the MoFi Electronics MasterDeck, with an MSRP of $5,995.00, presents a noteworthy alternative for audiophiles seeking exceptional performance without the exorbitant cost. The turntable is set to be available in November 2023 (with shipping expected to begin in December), offering a promising addition to the vinyl playback landscape.
