Classic

About the Classic

The Well Tempered Labs Classic turntable, produced circa 1982, exemplifies the brand's pioneering approach to analog playback with a unique design featuring a zero-clearance stainless steel spindle bearing lubricated by synthetic oil, a thin 0.004-inch polyester monofilament belt drive, and a signature tonearm where an aluminum tube passes through a golf ball suspended in high-viscosity silicone fluid for bearingless, variable damping. This setup minimizes vibrations, enables easy on-the-fly adjustments for azimuth, VTA, and tracking force (with settling time of 1-2 seconds), and delivers articulate, resolute sound with deep bass, low noise, and precise imaging. The three-layer high-density plinth provides isolation via squash balls, and the heavy platter (over 10-15 lbs) ensures stable rotation with low wow and flutter. Often upgraded with carbon fiber tonearms or exotic platters, it outperforms many contemporaries and remains highly regarded, with production continued under Stanalog after Well Tempered Labs ceased operations.