TECHDAS AIR FORCE V PREMIUM

Ex store demo.

Recommended tonearm: Sorane SA-1.2 or Ikeda IT-345 CR-1.

The Air Force V Premium turntable by TechDAS represents a further evolution of the Air Force design philosophy, successfully integrating all of the brand’s core technologies into a more accessible offering without compromising sonic performance. The air-based solutions that define the range allow the platter to float on an extremely thin cushion of air, mechanically isolating both the record and the rotation from external vibrations, while the vacuum hold-down system ensures perfect contact between the vinyl and the platter surface. Thanks to these technologies, analog playback achieves an exceptionally low noise floor and a level of rotational accuracy that approaches modern digital standards, resulting in a sound that is remarkably clean, stable, and free from residual noise.

The project is conceived with the aim of combining compact dimensions, greater affordability, and the highest construction standards. The chassis retains a footprint comparable to the most compact upper models in the series, yet careful vibration-reduction work makes it possible to integrate the motor directly into the plinth. This approach eliminates the need for a separate motor unit and results in an even more compact turntable capable of accommodating up to four tonearms, significantly expanding configuration possibilities.

The two-phase, four-pole AC synchronous motor delivers performance very close to that of higher-end models and is mounted on a vibration-damping system specifically designed for integration into the plinth. The polished polyurethane drive belt helps maintain a high signal-to-noise ratio, while the entire structure rests on four feet that employ an air-damping principle already proven effective in other models of the series.

One of the most significant features of this version is the completely redesigned chassis, CNC-machined from a solid block of aluminum. Unlike the previous panel-assembled structure, this monolithic solution provides greater overall mass and superior rigidity, resulting in an increase in dynamic range and improved resonance control.

The platter assembly adopts a dual-platter design with an inner sub-platter and an outer platter, both precision-machined from A5056 aluminum alloy. With a total weight of approximately seven kilograms, the system provides sufficient inertia for smooth and stable rotation. The outer platter surface is black anodized with a glossy hairline finish, creating an elegant contrast with the natural aluminum plinth. A tapered spindle helps absorb any wobble caused by off-center records, while an extremely thin layer of anti-vibration material protects the vinyl and improves coupling.

The drive system ensures exceptionally precise speed control through the use of a quartz oscillator and a sophisticated torque management circuit. During start-up, torque is increased to quickly reach the nominal speed, then reduced once stable rotation is achieved in order to further minimize vibrations. Digital synthesis of waveforms and frequencies via DDS allows for accurate and stable control of motor operation.

The separate power supply unit integrates the circuits dedicated to the motor, the air pump, and the air condenser, coordinating the suspension and vacuum functions. This specially developed air control system ensures consistent and reliable operation of all the pneumatic technologies that define the design.

Technical specifications:

• Chassis: precision-machined aluminum alloy (A5052); silver anodized satin finish; weight 19.0 kg
• Platter: dual-platter system with sub-platter; precision-machined aluminum alloy (A5056); total weight 7.0 kg; outer main platter black anodized 4.0 kg; inner sub-platter silver anodized 3.0 kg
• Total moment of inertia: 734 kg·cm²
• Drive system: belt drive with polished polyurethane belt
• Motor: 2-phase, 4-pole AC synchronous motor integrated into the chassis
• Motor power supply: digital rotational control system driven by a power amplifier
• Rotational speeds: 33.3 rpm; 45 rpm
• Wow & flutter: below 0.03%
• Power consumption: 50 W
• Main unit dimensions: 312 (W) × 168 (H) × 368 (D) mm
• Total weight of main unit: 26.0 kg
• Minimum dimensions for main unit setup: 413 (W) × 418 (D) mm
• Power supply, pump and air condenser unit dimensions: 350 (W) × 160 (H) × 270 (D) mm
• Power supply, pump and air condenser unit weight: 9 kg
• Minimum dimensions for power supply, pump and air condenser unit setup: 350 (W) × 330 (D) mm