One other (minor) limitation is the deck’s inability to accommodate longer tonearms, unless they employ an offset mounting. But the structural integrity and sound engineering suggest that, if the demand was there, a larger footprint version for more conventional 12” arms (in the style of the SME 20/12) might be readily realized. Multiple tonearms? Don’t push it!
As it stands, the revolution is a compact, consummately musical, effortlessly engaging and extremely attractive turntable. It’s offered at a remarkably approachable price and in turn, its versatility means that a wide range of partnering arms and price packages can be put together. The balance of this review is slightly unusual and I’ve spent far longer discussing the design, materials engineering and execution involved in the Systemdek’s production. That’s because there’s a lot to say: far more than you’d generally expect from a £6K turntable. It’s also because that thinking and engineering has a direct impact on the ‘table’s performance and musical delivery. If there’s a single word that sums up the Systemdek Revolution, it’s “confident”. Stable, with none of the nervousness so often associated with suspended decks, it sounds confident and it feels confident in use. Given its historical antecedents, the sheer quality of the materials employed and its construction, you can have confidence in its longevity too.
People have been consigning the three-point suspended turntable to the dustbin of audio history for years, but it keeps climbing back out. It lingers in the shape of heritage products like the Michell Gyrodek and Linn LP12. But it’s products like the Systemdek Revolution that breathe new life into the concept and maintain its relevance today. This is a much better turntable than its modest asking price suggests. It’s no throwback or retro blast from the past. It’s a thoughtful and beautifully executed extrapolation of three-point theory and considerable practice. Its refined and un-flustered sound is exactly what many a far more expensive ‘table is striving for. It ain’t perfect – but what it is, is inherently engaging and satisfying, a reliable platform on which to base your analogue replay. I wondered at first whether Evolution might be a more appropriate name. But having lived with the Revolution, I think Systemdek got it right. It might just be time to take suspended decks seriously all over again. Well, this one anyway.
Price and availability:
Systemdek Revolution Turntable – £6,250
External Power Supply – £2,500
Manufacturer:
Systemdek Turntables, Troon, Scotland
T: +44(0) 1292 319416
