950

About the 950

The EMT 950 is a heavy, direct-drive turntable weighing approximately 70-75 kg, designed primarily for professional broadcast use. Introduced in 1976, it features a 200 ms start-up time, three speeds (33, 45, and 78 RPM), and a built-in shock absorber for improved immunity to shocks and vibrations. The platter is made of a light resin material with resonance characteristics similar to vinyl. It includes advanced functions such as reverse cueing (backwards spinning of the platter), groove locate, motor-driven tonearm lift, and pushbutton controls for start/stop, speed selection, and other operations. The tonearm is the EMT 929 model, and cartridge options include the EMT TSD-15 moving coil or Shure moving magnet types, with modifications required for MC cartridges. The unit was designed with broadcast needs in mind, featuring very low wow, flutter, and rumble, a groove meter to visually indicate remaining playing time, and a stylus illuminator. The BBC variant, known as the EMT 9 950 347, included additional front panel controls such as a Penny & Giles potentiometer, headphone monitoring with level control, and built-in muting. The output is balanced via XLR connectors and includes remote control capabilities. The EMT 950 was considered a flagship model, built like a battleship with no expense spared, and became an industry standard for broadcasters in Europe until the rise of CDs. Despite its professional design, it has gained appreciation in the audiophile community for its sound quality when properly set up. The price for a restored or like-new unit today is around to . It remains a complex and highly regarded piece of professional audio equipment.