Review: TEAC TN-280BT turntable

The TEAC TN-280BT is a low/mid tier level turntable.  They are known for their audio equipment around the world.  For me, I was introduced to the TEAC brand back in the 90's with their 3.5" floppy drives.  As far as floppy drives goes back then, it was TEAC first, then all other brands.  The TN-280BT retails for $350 upon release but newer models have came out and the price has come down since its been discontinued.  I was able to find a good deal and got this one on a closeout price at $179.  The build quality of this is much better than the newly released turntables that cost $99 with the same features thus the higher cost.

TEAC TN-280BT Box

Purchase here

The TN-280BT is an all manual belt driven turntable.  It also has built in Bluetooth so that you can stream the audio to your headphones wirelessly.  I probably wouldn't use it because bluetooth audio sucks. It's also got a phono pre-amp so you don't have to buy a seperate pre-amp if you have a newer AV receiver that doesn't have the phono connection.  The dark walnut color is good but I would have preferred a lighter wood grain.  There is also a black version as well for the contemporary look.  It's sturdy weight at 10lbs gives the sense of high quality and stability when your record is playing.


Unfortunately, after unpacking the device and plugging it in, this device failed to spin.  I can see the motor pulley try to spin as I can see it twitch every 4-5 seconds but no dice.  I will have to return this unit.  Bummer.  I would have been nice to see this player in action.

TEAC TN-280BT Unpacked

TEAC TN-280BT Contents

Pros:

• Cost.  As of now, you can get it at the closeout price of $179.
• Sturdy weight.
• Built-in phono pre-amp.
• 33.3 and 45 rpm.
• Cue lever
• Anti-skate control

Cons:

• Wow and flutter is advertised at 0.20%.  Others at this prices has it under .20%.
• Power cable and audio cable supplies are a bit short.