La Boite Concept Unveils Square CC Turntable: Premium Design and High-Fidelity Sound
The audiophile community has something new to ponder: La Boite Concept has unveiled the Square CC turntable, a premium vinyl player that seamlessly blends form and function. This minimalist turntable is crafted with high-quality materials like walnut or oak wood, leather, and metal, giving it a sleek, elegant aesthetic that stands out in any setting.
Measuring 350 x 350 x 110 mm, the Square CC features a square design with a subtly off-center vinyl platter. The top is made of black-tinted MDF for rigidity, surrounded by a wooden frame that's machined, painted, and varnished in the Basque Country. The leather finish on the top adds a touch of refinement, and a removable acrylic cover made in France protects the turntable when not in use.
Under the hood, the Square CC utilizes a belt-driven system and a straight aluminum tonearm fitted with an Ortofon OM10 cartridge. The 20 cm long tonearm has a one-piece, conical design to eliminate reflections and standing waves, ensuring high-precision playback. The counterweight is pre-set, so there's no need for adjustments—truly a plug-and-play experience.
One of the standout features is the integrated but switchable MM phono preamplifier, amplifying the vinyl output by 34 dB. This means it can connect directly to a hi-fi system, amplifier, or active loudspeaker, making it versatile for various setups. The turntable offers two speeds, 33⅓ and 45 RPM, easily switchable via a button on the platter.
The transparent Plexiglass vinyl support reveals the rotation mechanism—a sub-platter mounted in a 0.001 mm main bearing with a hardened steel axle and brass ring to prevent vibration or bearing play. Driven by a mains-powered synchronous motor, the belt-driven system provides maximum stability and silence during playback.
To combat unwanted vibrations, the Square CC incorporates a tripod anti-vibration system developed by La Boite Concept. Utilizing cork pads and resting on three points, this system directs vibrations to the rear, absorbing them effectively. This allows the turntable and a loudspeaker to be placed on the same surface without degrading sound quality.
Assembled in La Boite Concept's new factory in Hossegor, France, the Square CC combines aesthetic appeal with technical prowess. Priced at €649, it's crafted for those who appreciate both design and high-fidelity sound. It seems to strike a compelling balance that's sure to intrigue vinyl enthusiasts looking for a blend of modern craftsmanship and classic audio performance.
