If you have an extra $10,000 and strive to own the most visually stunning, illuminated, and gravity-defying centerpiece for your audio system, then look no further than the latest offering from Audio-Technica.
Recently revealed at Milan Design Week, the Audio-Technica Hotaru is a limited edition all-in-one turntable that boasts a strikingly luminous, magnetically-levitating platter that floats above a built-in speaker base. With only 1,000 units available globally, this eye-catching device is both a work of art and a premium audio player.
The name “Hotaru” translates to “firefly” in Japanese, which perfectly encapsulates its dazzling design. Audio-Technica explains that the platter and levitating base are crafted from high-precision acrylic to intensify the lighting, creating a stunning visual experience. Its lighting system offers a selection of 20 colors and features three different modes: a static color in Basic mode; a color transition in Gradation mode; and Link mode, which syncs to the music, transforming sound into light and enhancing the auditory experience. According to Audio-Technica, this multisensory approach enables listeners to engage more deeply with the music and its surroundings, fostering memorable moments.
While the justification for the Hotaru’s $10,000 price point remains unclear, let’s delve into its specifications. The base housing the floating section contains a speaker system equipped with two 2.5-inch full-range speakers and two 0.75-inch tweeters, supporting a frequency range of 60Hz to 20kHz. This floating design isolates the speaker casing from the platter, effectively reducing resonance. Constructed from premium aluminum and resting on solid brass feet, this setup enhances its ability to manage vibrations. Audio-Technica claims this system delivers a rich and refined sound quality with exceptional clarity and dynamic expression.
The platter is driven by a DC servo motor that rotates the sub-platter via a concealed belt, with the entire assembly floating as a result of magnets in both the turntable and speaker sections that repel each other, effectively isolating it from disruptive vibrations.
Featuring a static balanced carbon straight tonearm mounted on the sub-platter, the Hotaru utilizes a specially designed VM cartridge, known for its high quality. Additionally, it includes RCA line outputs for connecting to your own hi-fi setup, along with a subwoofer output for enhanced bass performance.
Pre-orders for the Hotaru will be available until May 30, 2025, with expected deliveries in October. Interested buyers can reserve their piece via the official website. More details can also be found on Audio-Technica’s Japan site.
