Acoustic Signature Merlin NEO Turntable with TA-500 NEO Cartridge

The pickup shown in the photo is not included.

The beloved classic in a new generation

With the Merlin NEO, Acoustic Signature presents the logical evolution of a truly successful model. The original Merlin, released in 2016, enjoyed great popularity among vinyl enthusiasts for many years and, thanks to its exceptional price-performance ratio, became a staple in the German analog specialists' product range. Numerous customer requests for a successor ultimately led to the development of the Merlin NEO.

The new model inherits the strengths of its legendary predecessor and combines them with the latest technologies and innovations from Acoustic Signature. The result is a high-quality complete package that unites audiophile sound quality, precision manufacturing, and modern technology into an attractive entry into the high-end world of analog music listening.

Resonance-optimized design based on the CLD principle

The Merlin NEO is based on a resonance-optimized aluminum chassis, developed using Acoustic Signature's proven CLD (Constraint Layer Damping) technology. The aim of this design is to effectively reduce unwanted vibrations that can negatively impact sound quality.

The chassis is made of a specially selected aluminum alloy and offers excellent conditions for controlled and interference-free playback. This concept is complemented by a solid aluminum platter with integrated bitumen damping on the underside. This additional damping effectively reduces resonances and contributes to a smooth, precise, and detailed music reproduction.

The combination of these measures creates a stable working platform for the tonearm and cartridge, which can extract even the finest musical information from the record groove without distortion.

Precise drive with digital motor control

For the drive system, Acoustic Signature uses a fully isolated AC motor housed in a separate motor housing. This spatial separation of the drive mechanism and motor minimizes mechanical influences on playback.

The integrated digital motor control operates with quartz-based stability and is powered by a high-performance multi-voltage power supply. This ensures a consistently constant speed, independent of external influences. The motor unit's control panel allows for convenient selection of speeds between 33 1/3 and 45 revolutions per minute. Fine speed adjustment is also available.

Another highlight is the integrated AVC technology Level 1 (Automatic Vibration Control). This innovative vibration control reduces disruptive vibrations and improves the smooth operation of the entire system.

Proven DTD® bearing for highest precision

Like all high-quality turntables from Acoustic Signature, the Merlin NEO also features the renowned Dura Turn Diamond® Bearing (DTD®). This high-precision bearing is one of the manufacturer's core technological competencies and was developed for maximum stability, durability, and smooth operation.

The diamond-coated spindle minimizes friction losses and ensures exceptionally precise guidance of the turntable. At the same time, the maintenance-free bearing is characterized by its enormous robustness and wear resistance.

The combination of precise bearing, resonance-optimized construction and controlled drive forms the basis for musical reproduction with high detail resolution, accurate spatial imaging and natural dynamics.

Includes TA-500 NEO tonearm

The Merlin NEO is offered exclusively as a meticulously tuned complete system. Included in the delivery is the high-quality 9-inch tonearm TA-500 NEO, which is among Acoustic Signature's most successful tonearm designs.

The tonearm harmonizes perfectly with the turntable and optimally utilizes its low-resonance platform. The high-quality Audioquest Golden Gate phono cable is also included, ensuring high-quality signal transmission right out of the box.

This combination allows for an uncomplicated entry into the world of high-quality analog playback without having to forgo maximum sound quality.

Stability down to the last detail

The Merlin NEO's proven three-point setup ensures stability. The specially designed aluminum feet are height-adjustable and equipped with gel damping. This effectively decouples the turntable from vibrations of the surface it's placed on and allows for precise alignment.

With its high-quality aluminum housing, careful workmanship and modern technology, the Merlin NEO offers an exceptionally coherent overall package for discerning music lovers.

Technical data

• Drive: Belt drive with fine speed adjustment
• Motor: 1 AC motor in external motor housing
• Motor control: Digital, quartz-stable motor control
• AVC: Level 1 Automatic Vibration Control
• Speeds: 33 1/3 and 45 rpm
• Bearings: Dura Turn Diamond® (DTD®)
• Tonearm: TA-500 NEO, 9 inch
• Tonearm base: Rega compatible
• Maximum number of tonearms: 1
• Turntable: Aluminum, Ø 300 mm, 34 mm height
• Turntable weight: 5.8 kg
• Chassis: aluminum, Ø 300 x 50 mm
• Stand feet: Height-adjustable, yellow-damped aluminum feet
• Dimensions (W × D × H): 474 × 318 × 140 mm
• Weight: 15 kg
• Power supply: External power adapter (100–260 V AC, 50/60 Hz)
• Included in the box: turntable, TA-500 NEO tonearm and Audioquest Golden Gate phono cable
• Warranty: 15 years after registration