Hotaru

Record Player for Audio-Technica

Transform your space with this stunning turntable. Its floating platter seamlessly merges sound and light, creating an immersive sensory experience. The minimalist cartridge and tonearm deliver pristine audio and visual elegance, while the concealed belt sub-platter drive minimizes vibrations for pure sound clarity. Crafted from premium acrylic, aluminum, and brass, this system not only offers exceptional audio quality but also serves as a striking centerpiece in any room.

Download Press Kit № 170557

Download Press Kit № 170557 Record Player for Audio-Technica by Audio-Technica Corporation to access high-res images, essential texts, translations, and exclusive interviews—all in one.

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Hotaru by Audio Technica Corporation

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Record Player by Audio Technica Corporation

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Audio Technica Corporation Hotaru

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Audio Technica Corporation Record Player

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Audio Technica Corporation Design Team Photo

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Unique Properties

This strikingly designed turntable features a floating platter that seamlessly integrates into any space, creating an atmosphere of harmony and depth. Its innovative design fuses sound and light for a captivating sensory experience. The minimalist cartridge and tonearm, paired with a concealed belt sub-platter drive, ensure both sonic clarity and visual elegance. Crafted from premium materials like acrylic, aluminum, and brass, the system delivers an unparalleled audio experience.

Tags

analog, floating, turntable, record player, vinyl, music

Production Technology

The floating turntable, achieved through powerful magnetic repulsion, eliminates unwanted vibrations, unlocking the full potential of the cartridge. It also seamlessly blends function and aesthetics with a minimalist VM cartridge and carbon tonearm. Precision-crafted acrylic, a high-quality aluminum case with integrated speakers, and solid brass feet create a refined aesthetic. The meticulously engineered structure produces a depth and richness of sound that defies its compact size.

Design Challenge

The challenge was to make sure that the magnets used in the floating structure didn't affect the cartridge. This was especially important for cartridges, which contain strong magnets. If any magnetic energy leaked from the floating structure, it could directly lead to an unusual tracking force and sensitivity to movement. By using tools that analyze magnetic flux in product development and adding the right shielding materials to the case, we solved this problem.

Project Duration

The project started in December 2022 in Japan and will be exhibited in Milan Design Week in April 2025.

Operation Flow

It is operated using three knobs. The left knob selects the lighting mode, type, and brightness. The center knob selects the turntable speed. The right knob controls the speaker volume.

Research

Speaker-integrated turntables typically use rubber or springs for vibration damping. But this time we considered a method of suppressing vibration by using magnetic repulsion to float the turntable from the speaker. Through repeated prototyping and signal analysis, we realized to achieve effects greater than existing structures. Generally, vibration suppression structures are internal mechanisms, but through these studies, we succeeded in sublimating this mechanism into an external design.

Inspiration

We envisioned a musical experience that transcends the ordinary. We believe that the moment of listening to an analog record holds the potential for more than just sound - it can be a captivating spectacle. With its floating analog record and ethereal glow, HOTARU is designed to stimulate the senses and create an immersive world where every moment becomes a cherished memory. This is our vision - to elevate the act of listening to an unforgettable sensory experience.

Image Credits

Audio-Technica Corporation

Project Overview

Hotaru Record Player has been a Platinum winner in the Audio and Sound Equipment Design award category in the year 2024 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Platinum A' Design Award is recognized for honoring designs that stand at the forefront of creativity and innovation. It is the highest accolade bestowed by the A' Design Awards, acknowledging works that blend remarkable innovation with impactful societal contributions. These designs not only showcase exceptional artistic and technical proficiency but also highlight their creators' commitment to advancing the boundaries of art, science, design, and technology. Recipients of this award are celebrated for their role in shaping the aesthetics and trends of our time, contributing significantly to the enhancement of quality of life and promoting sustainable development.

Platinum Recognition

Audio-Technica Corporation was recognized with the coveted Platinum A' Design Award in 2025, a testament to excellence of their work Hotaru Record Player.

Audio-Technica Corporation Newsroom

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