Kanto Audio has launched the 2nd Generation Obi3, a manual belt-drive turntable aimed at bringing more hands-on control to the entry-level market.
Priced at $249.99 / CA$269.99 / £179.99 / €199.99, the Obi3G2 combines a weighted aluminium platter and engineered-wood plinth with sensor-controlled speed, an adjustable tonearm and Bluetooth 5.3. It also comes with a pre-installed Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge.
The turntable uses a speed sensor that monitors the platter’s actual rotation and continuously adjusts the motor to maintain consistent playback speed. Electronic speed selection supports both 33⅓ and 45RPM, so users don’t need to manually reposition the belt when switching between record sizes.
Kanto has also equipped the Obi3G2 with a ±10% pitch control, giving listeners the ability to make small adjustments to playback speed. That’s a feature more commonly associated with DJ-focused or enthusiast turntables as more entry-level automatic decks do not usually offer this.
The Obi3G2 is designed as a manual turntable, with an aluminium J-shaped tonearm featuring an adjustable counterweight and anti-skate control, allowing users to balance the tonearm and set the tracking force themselves. Meanwhile, a manual cue lever allows the stylus to be lowered onto a record more precisely.
There’s also an auto-stop function that halts the platter when a record reaches the end of a side. Kanto rates the turntable’s wow and flutter at less than 0.15% WRMS. The weighted aluminium platter and engineered-wood plinth are intended to provide a more rigid platform for playback.
Connectivity is similarly flexible. The Obi3G2 has an RCA output with a selectable built-in phono preamp, allowing it to connect directly to powered speakers or be used with a traditional hi-fi setup. Bluetooth 5.3 is also included for wireless playback to compatible speakers or headphones.
The turntable measures 43.2 x 36.3 x 12.4cm and weighs 5.5kg. It is available in Black, White, Green, Ice Blue and Walnut finishes.
Kanto is launching the Obi3G2 alongside a range of vinyl accessories, including record and stylus cleaning tools, setup and alignment equipment, replacement mats and protective inner and outer sleeves.
The Obi3G2 is on sale now in North America, while a worldwide launch is planned for early September.
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