Takumi TT Level 3.1

Takumi TT Level 3.1 – solid wood, Delrin, and the pursuit of silence

A flagship built on engineering conviction

The Takumi TT Level 3.1 sits at the top of Rik Stoet's range, and it earns that position through substance rather than gesture. A solid wood plinth, a Delrin platter, and an integrated armlift mechanism set this model clearly apart from the Level 2.1DC. The tonearm and bearing assembly are identical to those found throughout the Takumi range — consequently the mechanical signature remains consistent, but at a higher level of resonance control and rotational stability. Above all, every component is manufactured in-house, thereby ensuring that nothing is left to chance.

Solid wood plinth with decoupled acrylic layer

The plinth is constructed from carefully selected solid wood — available in beech or walnut — enclosed between two acrylic layers. The upper acrylic layer is mechanically decoupled from the wooden core. This arrangement intercepts vibrations arriving via furniture or floor before they can reach the tonearm or bearing. Furthermore, the combination of solid wood's natural damping and acrylic's resonance neutrality produces a plinth that addresses mechanical interference from multiple directions simultaneously.

Delrin platter — closer to vinyl than acrylic

The main platter is CNC-turned from Delrin, a material whose physical properties are considerably closer to those of vinyl than acrylic. This results in near-ideal mechanical coupling between record and platter, therefore reducing the transfer of unwanted resonances into the groove. Delrin is also denser than acrylic, consequently increasing the rotating mass, which improves speed stability and reduces wow and flutter beyond what the Level 2.1DC already achieves. The result is a quieter background and more composed playback.

Integrated armlift and classic front-panel controls

A defining feature of the Takumi TT Level 3.1 is its integrated armlift, located at the front right corner of the plinth — a layout reminiscent of the great turntables of the 1970s. Speed selection and armlift controls sit side by side, making operation straightforward and unambiguous. The arm rest and damped armlift are integrated with one another; the height of the arm rest is adjustable to match the VTA of the tonearm, allowing all lines to remain level regardless of cartridge geometry. The overall effect is a clean, minimal aesthetic that does not compromise ease of use.

Specifications

• Type: belt-drive turntable
• Motor: regulated DC motor with Hall sensor
• Speeds: 33⅓ and 45 rpm
• Speed control: SpeedPod (optional)
• Plinth: solid wood (beech or walnut), two acrylic layers, upper layer mechanically decoupled
• Platter: CNC-turned Delrin, mechanically decoupled
• Sub-platter: aluminium
• Main bearing: ceramic spindle, brass sleeve, oil bath, hardened steel ball
• Tonearm: 9-inch gimbal, thin-walled titanium armtube, fixed headshell
• Armlift: integrated, damped, height-adjustable
• Cable: 120cm, dual earth, low-capacitance
• Feet: three height-adjustable, vibration-isolating feet
• Finishes: beech, walnut
• Supplied with: hinged dust cover, spirit level, record clamp, Audio-Technica AT-3600L cartridge

Frequently asked questions

What separates the Takumi TT Level 3.1 from the Level 2.1DC?

Three things distinguish the Level 3.1: a solid wood plinth with mechanically decoupled acrylic upper layer, a Delrin platter in place of acrylic, and an integrated armlift with combined front-panel controls. Tonearm and bearing design are identical across both models. The SpeedPod is optional on the Level 3.1 and is not included as standard.

Why Delrin rather than acrylic for the platter?

Delrin's material properties are closer to those of vinyl than acrylic, which improves mechanical coupling between record and platter. Its higher density also increases the rotating mass, thereby improving speed stability and reducing wow and flutter. The practical result is a lower noise floor and more composed, precise playback.

Does the Takumi TT Level 3.1 require a separate phono stage?

Yes. There is no built-in phono preamplifier, so you will need either an amplifier with a phono input or a dedicated phono stage. At Novus Audio we are happy to advise on the right combination for your system.