What cartridge comes installed on the Kanto OBI3?

The OBI3 comes pre-fitted with an Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge. This model is known for providing a balanced sound profile suitable for various music genres and long-term listening sessions.

Does the Kanto OBI3 require a separate phono stage?

No, it features a built-in phono preamplifier. This allows the turntable to be connected directly to powered speakers or the line-level inputs of a standard amplifier via RCA cables.

Can I use wireless headphones with this turntable?

Yes, the OBI3 includes Bluetooth connectivity. This feature allows you to stream your vinyl audio wirelessly to compatible Bluetooth speakers or headphones, eliminating the need for long cable runs.

What is the purpose of the auto-stop function?

The auto-stop function automatically stops the aluminium platter from spinning once the record reaches the end of the side. This protects the stylus from excessive wear and prevents unnecessary friction.

Is the platter made of plastic or metal?

The Kanto OBI3 uses a weighted aluminium platter. Aluminium is preferred over plastic in turntable design because its mass helps maintain steady rotation speeds and provides better isolation from vibrations.

Does this turntable have pitch control?

Yes, it features an intuitive pitch knob. This control allows the user to manually adjust the tempo of the playback to ensure accurate speed or for creative listening preferences.

What accessories are included in the box?

The package includes the turntable unit, a dustcover to protect the platter and tonearm, a slip mat, and a 45 RPM adapter for playing 7-inch singles.

What is the typical price for the Kanto OBI3?

The typical price range for the Kanto OBI3 turntable is approximately £110. This positions it as an accessible entry point for those looking for a modern, feature-rich vinyl setup.

How does the OBI3 compare to a DJ turntable like the Pioneer PLX-1000?

The OBI3 is a belt-driven home hi-fi turntable, whereas the PLX-1000 is a high-torque direct-drive unit designed for professional DJing. The OBI3 is simpler to set up for home use and includes built-in Bluetooth, which the PLX-1000 lacks.

Can the OBI3 be paired with Kanto Ora speakers?

Yes, the OBI3 is frequently paired with Kanto Ora speakers. They can be connected either wirelessly via Bluetooth or through a physical RCA connection using the turntable's built-in preamp.

Does it support both 33 and 45 RPM records?

Yes, the OBI3 is designed to play both standard 12-inch LPs at 33 1/3 RPM and 7-inch singles at 45 RPM. A 45 RPM adapter is included in the box for this purpose.

What finish is available for this model?

The specific model described is finished in Matte Black. This provides a modern, understated look that resists fingerprints and fits well with contemporary audio equipment.

Gear article

Kanto Audio OBI3 Turntable

The Kanto OBI3 is a belt-driven turntable designed for contemporary vinyl listeners, featuring integrated Bluetooth connectivity and a built-in phono preamplifier. It is equipped with an Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge and a weighted aluminium platter to ensure stable playback in a variety of home audio environments.

Kanto Audio Kanto OBI3 Turntable with Bluetooth Matte Black

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Overview

The Kanto OBI3 is a user-centric turntable that bridges the gap between traditional analogue playback and modern wireless convenience. Finished in a matte black aesthetic, it is designed to integrate seamlessly into minimalist home decors. The unit is provided as a complete package, including a dustcover, slip mat, and a 45 RPM adapter, allowing for immediate operation upon unboxing.

Design and Key Features

The hardware is built around a weighted aluminium platter, which provides the necessary inertia for steady rotation and reduced speed fluctuations. A standout feature of the OBI3 is its intuitive pitch control knob, which allows the user to make precise adjustments to the tempo of the playback. To enhance longevity and equipment safety, the turntable includes an auto-stop function that ceases platter rotation once the stylus reaches the end of a record side, preventing unnecessary wear on the needle.

Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Direct Drive Turntable

Connectivity and Audio Path

Versatility is a core component of the OBI3's design. It features built-in Bluetooth, enabling users to stream audio directly to wireless headphones or powered speakers without the clutter of physical cables. For traditionalists, a built-in phono preamplifier is included, facilitating a direct RCA connection to standard amplifiers or active monitor systems. The audio signal is captured via the pre-installed Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge, a component widely regarded for its balanced frequency response and durability.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to entry-level alternatives like the Crosley Voyager or Lenco LBTA-165WD, the OBI3 focuses on more robust materials such as its aluminium platter. Unlike professional direct-drive units like the Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP or the Pioneer DJ PLX-1000, which are built for heavy-duty DJ use and high torque, the OBI3 is strictly oriented toward home hi-fi listening. It offers a more streamlined experience than portable tube-driven units like the Korg Handytraxx, prioritising stable home performance over portability.

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Frequently asked questions

What cartridge comes installed on the Kanto OBI3?: The OBI3 comes pre-fitted with an Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge. This model is known for providing a balanced sound profile suitable for various music genres and long-term listening sessions.
Does the Kanto OBI3 require a separate phono stage?: No, it features a built-in phono preamplifier. This allows the turntable to be connected directly to powered speakers or the line-level inputs of a standard amplifier via RCA cables.
Can I use wireless headphones with this turntable?: Yes, the OBI3 includes Bluetooth connectivity. This feature allows you to stream your vinyl audio wirelessly to compatible Bluetooth speakers or headphones, eliminating the need for long cable runs.
What is the purpose of the auto-stop function?: The auto-stop function automatically stops the aluminium platter from spinning once the record reaches the end of the side. This protects the stylus from excessive wear and prevents unnecessary friction.
Is the platter made of plastic or metal?: The Kanto OBI3 uses a weighted aluminium platter. Aluminium is preferred over plastic in turntable design because its mass helps maintain steady rotation speeds and provides better isolation from vibrations.
Does this turntable have pitch control?: Yes, it features an intuitive pitch knob. This control allows the user to manually adjust the tempo of the playback to ensure accurate speed or for creative listening preferences.
What accessories are included in the box?: The package includes the turntable unit, a dustcover to protect the platter and tonearm, a slip mat, and a 45 RPM adapter for playing 7-inch singles.
What is the typical price for the Kanto OBI3?: The typical price range for the Kanto OBI3 turntable is approximately £110. This positions it as an accessible entry point for those looking for a modern, feature-rich vinyl setup.
How does the OBI3 compare to a DJ turntable like the Pioneer PLX-1000?: The OBI3 is a belt-driven home hi-fi turntable, whereas the PLX-1000 is a high-torque direct-drive unit designed for professional DJing. The OBI3 is simpler to set up for home use and includes built-in Bluetooth, which the PLX-1000 lacks.
Can the OBI3 be paired with Kanto Ora speakers?: Yes, the OBI3 is frequently paired with Kanto Ora speakers. They can be connected either wirelessly via Bluetooth or through a physical RCA connection using the turntable's built-in preamp.
Does it support both 33 and 45 RPM records?: Yes, the OBI3 is designed to play both standard 12-inch LPs at 33 1/3 RPM and 7-inch singles at 45 RPM. A 45 RPM adapter is included in the box for this purpose.
What finish is available for this model?: The specific model described is finished in Matte Black. This provides a modern, understated look that resists fingerprints and fits well with contemporary audio equipment.