Clearaudio
Clearaudio Innovation Basic Wood
Best high-end turntable for serious audiophiles seeking precision and versatile playback.
Experience superior analog sound with the Clearaudio Innovation Basic Wood turntable. This high-performance turntable features a resonance-optimized chassis and a dynamically balanced 38mm POM platter for exceptional stability. It utilizes Clearaudio's patented Ceramic Magnetic Bearing (CMB) technology for reduced friction and Optical Speed Control (OSC) for precise speed accuracy. The high-torque DC motor ensures consistent playback. Designed for dual tonearm capability, it offers flexibility for audiophiles. Available in elegant finishes, it combines meticulous craftsmanship with innovative design for an unparalleled listening experience.
$4799.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
98
/ 631
#98 in Turntables & Record Players
Price vs Category Average
+10%
Above average
Platter
38
/ mm thick, dynamically-balanced POM
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking immersive and highly detailed musical clarity
- Design-conscious listeners who value premium materials and sophisticated aesthetics
- Long-term collectors planning future component upgrades and system expansion
Who should skip it
- Budget-focused buyers prioritizing value over high-end performance
- Novice users intimidated by complex manual calibration and setup
- Listeners without existing high-performance amplification and speaker systems
Performance breakdown
Speed Stability
Optical Speed Control ensures near-perfect pitch consistency during every playback session.
Vibration Isolation
Resonance-optimized chassis design effectively silences unwanted mechanical interference.
Bearing Precision
Ceramic Magnetic Bearing technology virtually eliminates friction for smooth, silent rotation.
System Versatility
Dual tonearm capability offers audiophiles significant flexibility for advanced cartridge setups.
Build Quality
Meticulous craftsmanship and premium materials define this high-performance analog centerpiece.
Platter Performance
The 38mm POM platter provides exceptional mass and dimensional stability.
Key Specs
Platter
38mm thick, dynamically-balanced POM
Bearing
Patented CMB (Ceramic Magnetic Bearing)
Motor
High-torque DC motor with Optical Speed Control (OSC)
Speed Accuracy
Less than ±0.05%
Supported Speeds
33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM
Weight
26 lbs (without tonearm and power supply)
Dimensions
18.86″ x 19.09″ x 5.55″
Warranty
5 years
Features
- Dynamically-balanced POM platter for excellent dimensional stability
- Magnetically levitating platter via CMB technology for low friction
- Optical Speed Control (OSC) for real-time speed monitoring and adjustment
- Dual tonearm capability for versatile setup options
- Resonance-optimized chassis design minimizes audible distortion
- High-torque DC motor ensures consistent playback speed
- Available in multiple premium finishes including Piano Black Lacquer
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Clearaudio Innovation Basic Wood for its exceptional build quality and sophisticated design. Reviewers frequently highlight the turntable's ability to deliver incredibly detailed and expansive sound, creating an immersive listening experience. The elegant wood finish and precision engineering are often cited as key factors contributing to its premium feel and aesthetic appeal. While a significant investment, users generally perceive its performance and craftsmanship as justifying the price, affirming its position as a top tier audio component.
Know before you buy
The CMB technology allows the platter to levitate on a magnetic field, which significantly reduces friction and mechanical noise. This results in a quieter background and more precise, fluid rotation for your records.
The OSC system uses a sensor to monitor the platter's rotation in real-time. If it detects any deviation from the set speed, it automatically adjusts the motor to ensure your playback remains accurate to within ±0.05%.
Yes, the Innovation Basic Wood is designed with dual tonearm capability. This allows you to mount two different tonearm and cartridge combinations, giving you the flexibility to switch between setups for different types of records or listening preferences.
Yes, the turntable supports 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM playback speeds. You can easily switch between these speeds to accommodate a wide range of vinyl formats.
The 38mm platter is crafted from POM, a high-density engineering plastic known for its excellent dimensional stability and resonance-damping properties. This material helps minimize vibrations that could otherwise interfere with the stylus tracking.
The unit measures approximately 18.86 inches wide by 19.09 inches deep. Given its 26-pound weight, ensure your rack or shelf is sturdy enough to support the turntable and provide a stable, level surface for optimal performance.
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$4800