They say that absence makes the heart grow fonder. And that’s certainly the case with Sharp’s record players.
The firm used to make turntables, but stopped in the early years of the 21st century. Now, after a hiatus of 20 years, it’s back with the RP-TT100. Looks like it was worth the wait.
Classic but modern
The RP-TT100 is a fully automatic vinyl turntable that’s a seamless blend of classic functionality with modern convenience. As well as supporting 33⅓ and 45 rpm speeds (7″ or 12″ records), it boasts Bluetooth 5.4, allowing you to wirelessly beam your vinyl playback to any Bluetooth-enabled speakers or sound systems. That gives you much more flexibility when it comes to room layout and where to position your speakers, with no cables snaking across the floor to act as trip hazards.
Controlling it is effortless. Thanks to its auto return features, it will lift the tonearm and return it to its rest, and shut off the motor once the vinyl has finished playing, saving possible stylus wear and tear on the runout groove. And all at the touch of a button. You don’t even have to get up in order to operate it, just sit back, relax, and use the bundled remote control.
And what a performance you’ll enjoy, thanks to the pre-installed Audio Technica AT-3600LA cartridge. You can expect a balanced sound with all the warmth native to vinyl, along with gentle highs that fit perfectly within the musical soundscape.
Well-connected
An RCA (phono or line) output is also onboard via the built-in preamp, so you can plug it into an amplifier or active speakers for the superior fidelity that comes with a wired setup. The USB-C output is another modern touch – plug it into your PC and you can convert your vinyl to digital files for archiving or accessing from your computer (though you will require separate software for this).
Build quality is second to none, with a sturdy aluminium platter for stable playback, a rubber mat to reduce vibrations and static and maintain sonic purity, and a dust cover to protect your records for the long term. It’s a versatile but well-priced turntable, as you would expect from a brand with Sharp’s storied heritage and exacting standards.
Dynamic duo
The Sharp CP-SS30BK are the perfect accompaniment to the RP-TT100 turntable. These active two-way bookshelf speakers deliver 60 W RMS output (2 x 30 W) from wooden cabinets for a sound that’s just as warm and clear as befits a vinyl performance.
They offer a wealth of connectivity options, including Bluetooth 5.0, USB playback, optical input, AUX and RCA. So when they’re not showing off your Sharp turntable, they can work with TVs, computers, mobile devices and more.
The sound is customisable too, with five equaliser presets and adjustable bass and treble settings. Add in the removable front grilles for a sleek, modern look, and remote control for simple operation, and you’ve got speakers with contemporary features and a timeless sound.
Buy the Sharp RP-TT100 turntable (currently £134) and CP-SS30BK speakers (currently £89)
