Proudly American, the Sota Turntable Range is beautifully crafted and proudly boasts audiophile grade listening for considerably less than their competitors. Delving in to the hi-fi industry in the early 80’s, Sota turntables have remained remarkably consistent, and there is an air of mystery surrounding the brand that we want to explore.
History of Sota Turntable Range
Sota’s introduction to turntable manufacturing dates back to the early 1980’s, when the brand existed as the only manufacturer of high-end turntables in the whole of the US. The brand got off to a cracking start, and since then they have only grown in leaps and bounds in order to establish themselves as one of the most coveted turntable makers in the world.
For over 20 years, SOTA was operated firstly by Kirk and Donna Bodinet before the a new partnership was formed with Donna and the likes of Christian Griego in 2018. The very first entry into the Sota turntable range marked the beginning of an extensive history of exceptional turntable design. Their vintage turntables which were finely engineered and built to the highest American standards set the benchmark for what would come from Sota in the years to follow. Quiet, sonically excellent, reliable vacuum turntables became Sota’s Made-in-the-USA trademark.
Today, the brand is known for striking turntables that from the bat, look incredible. You don’t have to get closeup to appreciate the beauty of their craftmanship, the hand-finished real wood tables and silky-smooth edges. The Sota turntable range is an audiophiles dream, their high-end specs are suited for the experienced record listener as they represent the most outstanding analogue playback that is truly exclusive.
Urban Series
Sota turntables are organised in three series, the cardinal being the Urban Series which consists of the Moonbeam IV, Escape and Comet V turntables. These are the smaller sized record players from Sota, all employed with a one piece S330 tonearm and differing Ortofon cartridges for an additional price.
Sota’s Moonbeam IV is available at Audio Affair in three genuine wood finishes; cherry, oak, and walnut. This is the entry level model in the Sota turntable range, constructed with a precision-machined high-density polymer platter, and polymer bearing enforced with Teflon offer an outstandingly high fidelity performance at a low price. Finished with a stylish acrylic platter and MDF plinth in your colour of choice, we love the Moonbeam’s classic design.
Next in the Sota turntable range is the Escape turntable, which brings performs to unparalleled levels when compared to other turntables at this price. Dissimilar to the preceding model, the Sota’s acrylic platter is clear whilst the chassis is constructed using phenolic resin – an eco-friendly material that promotes better bass extension and a spacious soundstage. Completely blacked out, this model offers a monochromatic simplicity that may appeal to those who prefer the minimal side of design.
At the top of the Sota Turntable range is the Comet V, a heavier model that provides even greater resistance to vibration than the aforementioned models. Further improvements are seen with the use of a dual-layered acrylic platter that spins on an MDF plinth enhanced for exceptional damping. We return to the natural aesthetics with the Comet V, with the option of three stunning wood veneer finishes to match your interior of choice.
Heritage Series
A step up in price and performance, the Heritage series which boasts the Nova VI and Sapphire VI are larger, heavier and more acoustically enhanced turntables for high quality vinyl listening.
The Sapphire VI turntable that marks the inclusion of technological advancements employed by SOTA. This turntable uses a newly optimised motor control system for greater stability and features the brands famous 4-point spring suspension system which effectively isolates records without the need for an additional and costly rack.
Above the Sapphire, sits the Nova VI which breaks traditions with the inclusion of vacuum hold down system, employed for a super quiet performance. Build-quality is stepped up with aircraft grade aluminium forming the sub-chassis which offers superior rigidity and longevity. An individually balanced internally damped one-piece aluminium platter spins the records with next to no noise for a ultra-realistic and dynamic musical performance.
Statement Series
The ultimate range from Sota, these turntables represent the highest standard of analog playback, with no details glossed over. These truly high-end turntables are the ultimate expression of Sota’s faithfully American engineering and musical excellence.
The penultimate Cosmos Eclipse is a shining example of engineering brilliance, with an innovative 3 phase DC motor mounted on to the cabinet instead of the sub-chassis for a quiet, low-noise performance. This sub-chassis is constructed wit aircraft grade aluminium similar to the Nova VI, whilst the individual balanced platter that sits on an MDF platter enhanced for optimal dampening is the same as the Heritage series models. With the additional option of high gloss black alongside oak, walnut, and cherry the Cosmos Eclipse accommodates even more design preferences.
At the very top is the Sota Millenia turntable, a real statement and a foray on cutting-edge vinyl playback. With over 20 years of award-winning designs, the Millenia is the full package. Featuring state-of-the art Visco elastic suspension which uses layered rubber polymers for impeccable isolation of the plinth. Alongside this, this is the only Sota turntable to boast a standalone motor housing. Free from any vibrations or environmental noise, the Millenia can give you the highest performance for relaxed, and seamless record playing. If you’re looking for high end, look no further.
To explore our range of Sota turntables further, head over to our main website or visit Sota’s own website here.