Clearaudio
Clearaudio Performance DC AiR Turntable
Best high-fidelity turntable for discerning vinyl enthusiasts seeking sonic precision.
Experience superior analog sound with the Clearaudio Performance DC AiR Turntable. This high-fidelity turntable is engineered for discerning audiophiles, delivering exceptional clarity and detail. Its robust construction and precision components ensure a smooth and accurate playback of your vinyl collection. The Performance DC AiR Turntable offers a refined listening experience, bringing out the best in every record. It's a testament to Clearaudio's commitment to sonic excellence and meticulous craftsmanship, making it a centerpiece for any serious audio setup.
$5900.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
98
/ 633
#98 in Turntables & Record Players
Price vs Category Average
+36%
Above average
Construction details
401.5
/ Resonance optimized chassis with internal damping, belt-driven with user-adjustable speed control, dynamically balanced mm / -inch POM platter
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking transparent and highly detailed musical reproduction
- Listeners prioritizing long-term speed stability and quiet playback
- Design-conscious owners who value modularity and future upgrade paths
Who should skip it
- Minimalists wanting to avoid extra cables and shelf clutter
- Budget-conscious buyers avoiding high-end system costs
- Novice users intimidated by complex manual calibration requirements
Performance breakdown
Rotational Stability
The decoupled DC motor ensures pitch-perfect playback with minimal speed variation.
Vibration Isolation
Ceramic magnetic bearing technology effectively eliminates unwanted mechanical noise and friction.
Build Integrity
Resonance-optimized chassis construction provides a rock-solid foundation for high-fidelity audio.
Tonearm Precision
The included Tracer tonearm tracks grooves with exceptional accuracy and minimal distortion.
Operational Simplicity
Manual operation requires a hands-on approach favored by dedicated vinyl enthusiasts.
Aesthetic Craftsmanship
Anodized aluminum and precision-machined POM create a striking, modern visual centerpiece.
Key Specs
Construction details
Resonance optimized chassis with internal damping, belt-driven with user-adjustable speed control, dynamically balanced 40mm / 1.5-inch POM platter
Bearing
CMB (ceramic magnetic bearing)
Platter
CNC-machined POM (polyoxymethylene), 40 mm thickness
Motor
Decoupled DC motor with low-noise bearings
Speed ranges
33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM, convenient electronic controls
Speed accuracy
± 0.5 %
Weight
22 lbs
Dimensions
16.5″ x 14″ x 6″
Features
- Patented Ceramic Magnetic Bearing for minimal friction
- Resonance-optimized composite chassis for superior sound
- Decoupled DC motor ensures quiet, stable operation
- Precision-machined POM platter with weighted rim
- User-adjustable speed control with fine-tuning
- Elegant design with anodized aluminum plates
- Includes high-performance Tracer tonearm
- Precision engineered for superior analog sound
What customers say
Owners consistently praise the Clearaudio Performance DC AiR Turntable for its exceptional sound reproduction. Users report precise, detailed, and expansive audio that uncovers new nuances in their vinyl collections, creating an immersive listening experience. The build quality receives universal acclaim, reflecting robust construction and elegant engineering. The integrated technology notably enhances sonic purity through superior stability and vibration damping. While it represents a significant investment, enthusiasts agree the performance fully justifies the cost. This turntable is viewed as a worthwhile centerpiece for any serious, high fidelity audio system, delivering profound satisfaction to dedicated music lovers.
Know before you buy
No, this turntable does not include a built-in preamp. You will need to connect it to an external phono stage or an amplifier with a dedicated phono input to achieve proper sound levels.
The Performance DC AiR features electronic speed control, allowing you to switch between 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM via convenient buttons on the chassis. It also includes user-adjustable fine-tuning to ensure precise speed accuracy.
The patented CMB design levitates the platter on a magnetic field, which significantly reduces friction and mechanical noise. This results in a smoother, quieter rotation that allows for greater clarity and detail in your music.
No, a dust cover is not included with the Performance DC AiR. You may want to consider a third-party dust cover or a dedicated equipment rack to protect the platter and tonearm when not in use.
Yes, the Performance DC AiR is designed to be compatible with several Clearaudio tonearms, including the Tracer, Universal 9", and Satisfy Carbon Fiber models, offering flexibility for future system upgrades.
No, this is a purely analog turntable designed for high-fidelity playback. It does not feature USB connectivity or any digital recording capabilities.
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$5900