Despite the fact that modern digital discs are often preferred to vinyl records, there are still many connoisseurs of vinyl who respect it for originality and quality, as well as nostalgic for bygone times. The Arcturus 006 model (see reviews below) refers to the products of the Soviet Union. Despite the fact that there was an opinion about the poor quality of Soviet technology, the device in question proves the opposite.
Historic moments
"Arktur 006" is the brainchild of the joint activity of the Berdsk radio plant and the Polish company "Unitra". The resulting device became proof that decent equipment could be made in the USSR. Even now it is an equal competitor to foreign analogues, not to mention domestic versions. It is worth noting that the Polish designers borrowed the features of the EPU elements and the tonearm of the device in question from Fisher players.
Released by the plant in Berdsk (1983) the carrier was rankedto the category of network transistor electrical appliances. Its main purpose is aggregation with Hi-Fi sets of sound reproducing equipment.
Characteristics of Arcturus 006 vinyl player
Owner reviews indicate that the unit in question is made on the basis of a two-speed EPU of the G-2021 configuration. The design includes an electric motor that operates with a minimum level of noise, as well as a direct working drive. The system includes a pressure-type regulator, rolling compensator, frequency adjustment.
Among other parameters, the following points can be noted:
- the presence of a mode of automatic stop and rotation of the disk according to the strobe;
- the presence of a speed switch, a microlift, an independent return of the tonearm after the end of the record;
- rotation speed - 33, 4 rpm;
- functional frequency range - from 20 Hz to 20 kHz;
- knock coefficient – 0.1%;
- noise level - 66 dB;
- background level - 63 dB;
- dimensions - 46/20/37.5 cm;
- weight of the device – 12 kg.
Description
In their feedback about the Arctur player, users point out interesting facts. For example, some of them note that even the versions made in 1985 are perfectly preserved and in working condition. Naturally, if they were properly cared for, and preventive measures were taken. For many unitsall factory filling was preserved, including Soviet-made electrolytes with nominal values. The only thing that most often failed was the lid hinges, due to their fragility.
There are no noticeable interventions in the design, except for the replacement of the pickup head. If desired, you can modify the device, having achieved much better sound quality from it. However, many owners do not see the point in this, since the player works decently for its level. If improvement of acoustics is required, it is logical to pay attention to the equipment of the higher category. Since the original versions are no longer made, why remake them?
Appearance
The Arcturus 006 player, the photo of which is given in the review, is equipped with a durable plastic case. Inside it is mounted EPU of Polish production with direct drive. The system has an S-shaped tonearm and a rather heavy work disk. The device stably keeps on any surface due to rubber feet of non-adjustable configuration. The back of the player is equipped with a pair of special outputs: for the built-in background corrector and for an external analogue (bypassing the first element). If an embedded system is used, a jumper is mounted in the second output.
The design of the device provides for a heavy support disk, which is also the rotor part of the electric motor. The inner compartment of the element is pasted over with a magnetic plate. Under the specified part is the stator of the electric motor. Tonearmmade entirely of metal, there is not the slightest hint of backlash in the design. Among the disadvantages is the counterweight, the gradation of which is made in increments of 0.5 g, which complicates the procedure for adjusting the clamping force without weights. In addition, the density of fastening of the element also leaves much to be desired. The shell is not equipped with slots for fine adjustment of the angle of entry, however, it has a removable design and can be easily replaced with another analogue.
Operation
As the reviews confirm, "Arcturus 006" is turned on with one switch of the toggle switch. In order for the disk to start rotating, it is necessary to bring the pickup head to the beginning of the record, select the desired track and lower the microlift. Adjustment of rotational speed and general control of the device is carried out from the operating panel. After pressing the "stop" and "end side" keys, auto-stop is activated and the tonearm returns to its original position.
In their reviews of the Arcturus 006 vinyl player, the owners consider a pair of regulators for 33 and 45 speeds to be significant advantages, which increase the accuracy of speed adjustment. In this case, it is not required to carry out manipulations with a screwdriver, as in most analogues of those times. The negative aspects include the need for additional speed adjustment after the next warm-up of the microcircuits of the electric motor controller. In addition, when buying a unit in the secondary market, you should check the absence of "swimming" modes. The models under consideration have a similar problem.often enough. The acquisition of "old" technology is always a kind of lottery. In any case, it is better to pay a little extra than to buy unnecessary "scrap".
Playback quality
The audition was performed with a high-quality Shure M97xE head (it is better than the standard Unitra). We also used an internal background corrector based on a K-157-UD2 chip, Pioneer-30 amplifier, and Amfiton acoustic devices.
Some users note that with the improved background corrector, it is possible to achieve detailed and deep sound, while the built-in element proved to be up to par. Here it should be emphasized that the device does not belong to the versions that give out the sound of the highest category, it feels quite good in the middle segment (good real Hi-Fi).
Features
When listening to different bands and performers on the records, users in the reviews of "Arcturus 006" indicate several positive points. Firstly, the central compositions of the albums were played with a decent amount of detail, depth of sound from the stage and excellent reproduction of the subtleties of each string of guitars and voices of vocalists.
The combination of the turntable with the upgraded cartridge continued to please. On all vinyls there is a lack of illegibility in the sound, the whole drive and emotional essence of the compositions is manifested. The bass was deep and soft, which is inherent in the specified media.
Pros and cons
In their reviews, the owners highlight a number of objective advantages and disadvantages of the device in question. Description of the vinyl player "Arcturus 006" will continue with these points in mind. Pros include:
- presence of direct drive;
- weighty durable disc;
- lack of even the slightest backlash in the design of the S-shaped tonearm;
- auto-stop mode;
- opportunity for many improvements and enhancements.
Flaws:
- poor quality plastic housing;
- questionable ECU control ICs:
- lack of proper vibration decoupling.
To independently solve some problems, you will need certain knowledge and skills.
Alteration and refinement
In the instruction of the Arcturus 006 player you will not find recommendations on how to upgrade the unit? This is due to the fact that at one time it was considered quite modern. However, craftsmen have found several ways to improve the functionality and sound quality of the device.
Recommendations are listed below:
- Change all capacitors.
- It is also desirable to put the head of improved quality.
- For the accuracy of the needle setting, it is allowed to replace the regular shell with an analog with slots.
- Supplement the design with an external corrector that improves sound quality.
- Instead of a pin connector, a "tulip" type is mounted.
- An audiophile cable is fitted in the tonearm.
- Equippower connector with a modern version (like a computer block).
Summarize
Arcturus 006 is one of the most deserving turntables of its era. Despite the fact that it was produced back in the USSR, the unit is still popular with music lovers, collectors and connoisseurs of rare quality items. During testing, the device showed itself well in playing any musical direction, which cannot but rejoice, especially considering its inclusion in the middle price category.
