QL-Y5F

About the QL-Y5F

The JVC QL-Y5F is a top model from JVC's range of turntables, manufactured in Japan from 1980 to 1982. It features a quartz-locked direct drive system with a coreless DC servo motor, providing speeds of 33 1/3 and 45 rpm with electronic speed change and a rapid start time of under 1.2 seconds. The turntable includes a 310 mm aluminum alloy die-cast platter weighing 1.5 kg. The tonearm is a dynamically balanced electro-dynamic servo type, controlled by linear force motors that actively detect and damp vibrations to reduce resonance and improve sound reproduction, especially in the middle and low frequency ranges. The tonearm has an effective length of 245 mm, an overhang of 15 mm, and supports cartridge weights from 14.5 to 24 grams including the headshell. It also offers height adjustment of ±3 mm and tracking force from 0 to 3 grams. The cartridge included is a dual magnet type with a 0.6 mil diamond needle, output voltage of 4 mV, and impedance of 510 Ohm. The turntable is fully automatic with features such as oil-damped tonearm lever system, anti-skating device, and rubber-mounted damping feet. It weighs 10.5 kg and measures 480 x 169 x 430 mm. The original price was approximately 948 Deutsche Marks. The QL-Y5F is noted for its high torque, rapid start-up, and precise tonearm geometry, making it a state-of-the-art model for its time.