YAMAHA YP-701

Pre owned. In good condition. Shows some signs of wear on the dust cover and minor cosmetic marks, as visible in the photos. Original packaging not included.

The Yamaha YP-701 is a belt-drive turntable that stands as one of Yamaha’s most refined creations of the 1970s, conceived to deliver a high-quality analog listening experience through a combination of mechanical precision, elegant construction, and meticulous engineering. Its understated and balanced design reflects a philosophy focused on functionality, where every element contributes both to the aesthetics and to the overall performance of the system.

The structure is distinguished by its generous dimensions and particularly robust construction. The chassis is mounted on a solid multilayer wooden base carefully damped and isolated through rubber elements, a solution that helps minimize the transmission of unwanted vibrations. The satin-finished top panel gives the turntable a timeless and sophisticated appearance, while the quality of the assembly highlights Yamaha’s attention to every construction detail.

One of the most significant aspects of the design is its sophisticated floating suspension system. The platter and tonearm are decoupled from the motor through a dual-suspension structure that effectively reduces the influence of mechanical vibrations and drive-system noise. This approach helps preserve tracking stability and contributes to cleaner, more accurate playback.

The high-mass die-cast aluminum platter provides excellent rotational inertia and remarkable speed consistency. The belt-drive system employs a simple yet effective design that connects the synchronous motor to the platter through a dedicated pulley for 33⅓ and 45 RPM operation. This configuration ensures stable and accurate rotation while keeping noise and vibration to a minimum.

The automatic mechanism represents another distinctive feature of the YP-701. During playback, the auto-return mechanism remains completely disengaged, preventing any drag or interference with the platter’s operation. Only at the end of the record does the system activate, gently lifting the tonearm, returning it to its rest position, and automatically switching off the motor. This solution combines the convenience of automation with the performance expected from turntables focused on playback purity.

The tonearm features a classic S-shaped design engineered to provide proper dynamic balance and precise groove tracking. Its construction emphasizes stability and accuracy, while the tracking force adjustment system allows highly precise settings thanks to a carefully designed graduated counterweight. The anti-skating mechanism also employs a dedicated mechanical solution that helps maintain balanced tracking across the entire record surface.

Everyday operation is particularly enjoyable thanks to the smooth and precise controls. The mechanical switches convey a sense of quality and solidity, while the cueing mechanism enables controlled and gentle tonearm movements. The arm rest also incorporates a locking system that secures the tonearm during transport and handling.

Considerable attention has also been devoted to less visible technical aspects. The internal wiring was developed to maintain low capacitance and preserve signal integrity, while the electrical design allows operation with different voltages and power frequencies, making the turntable suitable for use in various international markets.

The build quality is further reflected in the completeness of the original accessory package, which included tools and maintenance items intended to preserve long-term performance. This focus on durability and reliability continues to make the YP-701 highly regarded among analog enthusiasts.

Thanks to its balance of mechanical sophistication, effective vibration isolation, operational precision, and elegant styling, the Yamaha YP-701 delivers a natural and engaging listening experience while preserving the enduring appeal of classic analog playback, remaining one of the most successful turntables of Yamaha’s historic production.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Auto-start and auto-return turntable
• Drive System: Belt drive
• Platter: 300 mm die-cast aluminum platter
• Speeds: 33⅓ and 45 rpm
• Wow & Flutter: 0.08%
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 48 dB
• Tonearm: S-shaped; static-balance design
• Overhang: 17 mm
• Headshell: Universal plug-in type; 12 g
• Supported Cartridge Weight: 11–27 g (with auxiliary counterweight)
• Dimensions (W × D × H): 480 × 410 × 161 mm
• Weight: 9.2 kg