Prisma

About the Prisma

The Michell Prisma was the first Michell turntable to feature a solid acrylic plinth, a design element that became characteristic of later Michell models. It evolved from the earlier Reference Electronic model and was designed to reduce static on records by supporting the vinyl on six pods. A later version added a glass platter on top for clamping the record. The Prisma incorporated advanced engineering features such as an oil-pumping inverted bearing that circulates oil via a spiral groove to reduce friction and vibration, improving sound quality and pitch stability. The sub-chassis design allowed for easy leveling and tuning of the suspension springs from above without disassembly. The Prisma is considered a rare and collectible deck, with a design heritage linked to the Transcriptor Hydraulic Reference and preceding the Focus and GyroDec models. It is praised for its visual appeal and engineering ingenuity, though as an older model, maintenance of electronics, motor, belt, and bearing oiling may be necessary. The Prisma was produced before Michell ceased manufacturing in 2001 and is no longer in production.