Miniot Wheel 3: The Vertical Turntable Fusing Art and Technology

The Miniot Wheel 3 Vertical Turntable: Futuristic Design and Smart Audio Technology

The Miniot Wheel 3 is the latest addition to the world of turntables, offering a design that combines futuristic aesthetics and simplicity with true engineering ingenuity. This device is the third generation of Miniot's vertical vinyl players, fulfilling a vision held by technology enthusiasts for decades, thanks to its form that perfectly complements modern and contemporary decor, making it a work of art in itself.

Miniot Wheel 3 Design and Optical Stylus Technology

The Wheel 3 features a stunning visual design, as it lacks a traditional visible tonearm. Instead, it uses an optical diamond stylus that relies on an optical sensor to convert needle vibrations into an audio signal, instead of using traditional magnets or coils found in conventional audio devices. This stylus integrates with a direct-drive motor controlled by an optical sensor and a built-in amplifier. The device also features a hidden tonearm that moves vertically from bottom to center beneath the platter, giving it a unique and innovative appearance.

Optical stylus technology in vinyl players offers unique advantages, as it works by using a beam of light to read the vibrations produced by the needle tracing the record grooves, converting these vibrations directly into an electrical audio signal. Among the most prominent features of this technology is that it provides true non-contact reading, which significantly reduces wear on both the record and the stylus. It also captures sound details with high accuracy. However, it's important to note that turntables using an optical stylus can be very sensitive to dirt and dust on the record, as they can "read" every dust particle instead of pushing it aside as a traditional needle would. (Source: Wikipedia, HiFi Buys, ELP Laser Turntable).


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Placement Flexibility and Pricing

The Miniot Wheel 3 design allows for great flexibility in placement; it can be laid flat, mounted on a wall, or placed on its dedicated stand. Although other vertical turntables exist on the market, such as the Pro-Ject VTE and Fuse Audio, the Miniot Wheel 3 stands out as a luxury model, which is reflected in its price of approximately €2,900 / US$3,443 / £2,550 / AU$5,351.


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Device Availability and Initial Reviews

Pre-orders for the device began in May, and while comprehensive reviews of the latest model are not yet available, previous reviews of the older model praised its unique and impressive design, noting that it is unparalleled in the market. However, audiophiles seeking superior sound performance may find more traditional and affordable options. The Miniot Wheel 3 is primarily purchased for its aesthetics and its ability to seamlessly integrate into modern spaces.


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Purchase and Shipping

The Miniot Wheel 3 is now available for purchase via miniot.com, with shipments expected to begin in the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom in approximately ten weeks.

Map showing the density of global shipping routes, reflecting the availability of shipping services.
Map showing the density of global shipping routes.
Shipping routes” — Source: Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0.
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