What cartridge comes with the Kanto OBI3?

The turntable comes pre-installed with an Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge, known for its balanced sound and reliability.

Can the OBI3 connect to speakers wirelessly?

Yes, the OBI3 features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing it to stream vinyl audio to the Ora speakers or other Bluetooth-enabled devices without cables.

Are the Kanto Ora speakers active or passive?

The Ora speakers are active (powered) speakers, meaning they have built-in amplification and do not require an external amplifier.

What is the purpose of the pitch knob on the OBI3?

The pitch knob provides intuitive control over the platter's rotational speed, allowing the listener to fine-tune the tempo of the music.

Does the OBI3 have a built-in phono preamp?

Yes, it includes a built-in phono preamplifier, which allows it to be connected directly to the Ora speakers or any standard line-level input via RCA.

What material is the OBI3 platter made from?

The OBI3 utilizes a weighted aluminium platter, designed to ensure steady rotational performance and reduce resonance.

Are cables included in the bundle?

Yes, the package includes a premium-quality RCA phono cable specifically for connecting the turntable to the speakers.

Can I use the Ora speakers with my smartphone?

Yes, because the Ora speakers are Bluetooth-enabled, you can pair them with a phone, tablet, or laptop to stream digital music.

Is the OBI3 turntable manual or automatic?

The OBI3 is a manual turntable, giving the user direct control over the tonearm and playback process.

What finish is available for this system?

This specific bundle is finished in a uniform Matte Black, covering both the turntable body and the speaker cabinets.

How does this compare to a DJ turntable like the AT-LP140XP?

Unlike the AT-LP140XP which is a direct-drive unit for professional DJing, the OBI3 is designed primarily for home hi-fi listening with a focus on ease of setup.

Is this system suitable for a beginner?

Yes, the inclusion of all necessary cables, a pre-aligned cartridge, and built-in amplification makes it an ideal all-in-one solution for those new to vinyl.

Gear article

Kanto OBI3 Turntable and Ora Speaker System

The Kanto OBI3 Turntable with Kanto Ora Speakers is a comprehensive vinyl hi-fi system designed for modern home environments. It combines a manual belt-drive turntable featuring an Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge with Bluetooth-enabled active speakers to provide a streamlined audio solution.

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Introduction

The Kanto OBI3 Turntable and Ora Speaker bundle is an all-in-one hi-fi solution produced by Kanto Audio. Designed for users seeking a minimalist aesthetic without sacrificing playback quality, the system bridges the gap between traditional analogue media and contemporary digital convenience. The matte black finish provides a cohesive look across both the turntable and the compact Ora speakers.

The OBI3 Turntable

The OBI3 serves as the source unit for the system. It features a weighted aluminium platter designed to provide rotational stability and reduce unwanted vibrations.

Direct control over playback is managed through an intuitive pitch knob, allowing for precise tempo adjustments. For connectivity, the unit includes a switchable built-in phono preamplifier, enabling it to connect directly to the included Ora speakers via the provided premium RCA phono cables, or to transmit audio wirelessly via Bluetooth.

Kanto Ora Speakers

The Ora speakers are active desktop monitors that serve as the output for the OBI3. Despite their compact size, they are engineered for hi-fi performance. They support Bluetooth input, allowing users to stream music from mobile devices when the turntable is not in use, and an RCA input for the wired connection to the OBI3. This dual-input capability makes the bundle a versatile hub for home audio.

Sound Character

The audio profile is largely defined by the pre-installed Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge. This cartridge is widely regarded for its balanced frequency response and durability, making it suitable for extended listening sessions. The combination of the weighted platter and the Ora speakers results in a clear, consistent sound suitable for a variety of musical genres.

Market Comparison

Compared to entry-level budget players like the Crosley Voyager, the Kanto OBI3 offers higher-fidelity components such as the aluminium platter and Audio-Technica cartridge. While it lacks the professional DJ features of the Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP or Pioneer PLX-1000—which are built for high-torque direct drive use—the Kanto system is more focused on home hi-fi aesthetics and ease of use. It sits as a more modern, complete alternative to traditional automatic tables like the Lenco LBTA-165WD.

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Frequently asked questions

What cartridge comes with the Kanto OBI3?: The turntable comes pre-installed with an Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge, known for its balanced sound and reliability.
Can the OBI3 connect to speakers wirelessly?: Yes, the OBI3 features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing it to stream vinyl audio to the Ora speakers or other Bluetooth-enabled devices without cables.
Are the Kanto Ora speakers active or passive?: The Ora speakers are active (powered) speakers, meaning they have built-in amplification and do not require an external amplifier.
What is the purpose of the pitch knob on the OBI3?: The pitch knob provides intuitive control over the platter's rotational speed, allowing the listener to fine-tune the tempo of the music.
Does the OBI3 have a built-in phono preamp?: Yes, it includes a built-in phono preamplifier, which allows it to be connected directly to the Ora speakers or any standard line-level input via RCA.
What material is the OBI3 platter made from?: The OBI3 utilizes a weighted aluminium platter, designed to ensure steady rotational performance and reduce resonance.
Are cables included in the bundle?: Yes, the package includes a premium-quality RCA phono cable specifically for connecting the turntable to the speakers.
Can I use the Ora speakers with my smartphone?: Yes, because the Ora speakers are Bluetooth-enabled, you can pair them with a phone, tablet, or laptop to stream digital music.
Is the OBI3 turntable manual or automatic?: The OBI3 is a manual turntable, giving the user direct control over the tonearm and playback process.
What finish is available for this system?: This specific bundle is finished in a uniform Matte Black, covering both the turntable body and the speaker cabinets.
How does this compare to a DJ turntable like the AT-LP140XP?: Unlike the AT-LP140XP which is a direct-drive unit for professional DJing, the OBI3 is designed primarily for home hi-fi listening with a focus on ease of setup.
Is this system suitable for a beginner?: Yes, the inclusion of all necessary cables, a pre-aligned cartridge, and built-in amplification makes it an ideal all-in-one solution for those new to vinyl.