Debut V

About the Debut V

The Basis Audio Debut Mk V is a high-end, belt-drive turntable with a fluid-damped spring suspension system derived from A.J. Conti's original Debut design. It uses a 1-inch thick cast acrylic base that incorporates four solid aircraft-grade aluminum suspension towers, from which a separate 2-inch thick acrylic main chassis is hung via silicone-damped spring cartridges to provide low-frequency isolation from motor noise and external vibration. The main chassis supports a precision bearing and a 19-lb, 2-inch thick cast acrylic platter whose high mass and careful machining are intended to minimize resonances and maintain exceptional speed accuracy. Drive is via a flat belt and a crowned pulley assembly providing both 33⅓ and 45 rpm operation from an AC synchronous motor, with excellent speed stability even without an external motor controller or outboard power supply. The suspension is designed to be rugged and relatively quick to set up and level, and the overall design is compact compared with many reference-class turntables while still offering very sophisticated isolation performance. Dimensions are approximately 22.5 inches wide by 7.25 inches high by 16 inches deep, with a weight of about 90 pounds. In listening tests it has been characterized as delivering highly detailed, neutral sound with a spacious, three-dimensional soundstage and very low noise floor, though some reviewers note its acrylic platter may trade a bit of ultimate dynamic slam for refinement.