When CD players first came out, all models feature a horizontal loading tray system. At that time, laser units reading data were very susceptible to misalignment resulting in skips. In the end, technological improvements allowed manufacturers to build versions with a vertical orientation. Oscar Olson does the same with the turntable and calls it the TT-90 system.
It’s always great to see engineers break the rule and do a modern redesign of something traditional. For the longest time, even the newest vinyl record players all followed the horizontal setting. The stylus and stylus are at the mercy of gravity which is why the body needs to be as flat as possible.
With the TT-90 system, Olsson goes for an open business show. Just like skeletal clocks, we can watch just about everything that makes it work. Moreover, instead of a stand-alone configuration, you can install this turntable on the wall. This makes it ideal for minimalist looking rooms.
Not only does it look sleek and flat against any vertical surface, but it also saves space. What holds all the components together is a solid steel frame with rubber balls to absorb vibrations. Aluminum would have been a lighter choice for the TT-90, but that’s really tricky.
Users install their vinyl on the spindle and lock it in place with a screw lock. The belt drive mechanism remains visible under a transparent cover. The transmission shaft is made of carbon fiber and is electronically controlled for smooth operation.
The control panel is located at the bottom right and supports connection to mobile devices. Users must be able to modify settings wirelessly. Oscar Olson may be working on something big with the TT-90. We can’t wait to see a real prototype in action.
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Photos courtesy of Oscar Olson