Clearaudio Innovation Turntable Setup and Stand Guide

Quick Answer

Setting up your Clearaudio Innovation Turntable with the Innovation Series Stand requires careful leveling, proper isolation, and precise tonearm alignment. Follow these steps to get the best performance from your high-end analog system.

Setup Steps

1. Assemble and Level the Stand: Place the Innovation Series Stand in your chosen location. Use a high-precision bubble level on the top plate and adjust the feet until the stand is perfectly level in both axes. Tighten locking rings if present. Even a slight tilt can cause the platter to wobble and degrade tracking accuracy.
2. Mount the Turntable Base: Carefully lift the Clearaudio Innovation Turntable onto the stand's top plate. Align the turntable's feet or mounting points with the stand's surface. Ensure the turntable is centered and not overhanging the edges. Do not slide the turntable across the stand—lift it to avoid scratching the finish.
3. Level the Turntable Platter: Place the bubble level directly on the platter (without the mat). Adjust the turntable's own feet or leveling system until the platter is perfectly level. Check after each adjustment by spinning the platter 90 degrees. The turntable must be level independently of the stand; the stand only provides a flat starting point.
4. Install the Tonearm and Cartridge: Mount your chosen tonearm (not included) following its manufacturer instructions. Install the cartridge using the supplied hardware. Set tracking force, anti-skate, and alignment using a protractor. Verify with a test record. Skipping the alignment protractor is the most common mistake—it guarantees distortion and record wear.
5. Connect and Test: Connect the turntable's RCA cables to your phono stage or preamp. Ground the turntable if needed. Play a record and listen for hum, vibration, or speed instability. Adjust the stand's feet or turntable level if you hear any issues. If you hear a low hum, check the ground wire connection first—it's often the culprit.

Product Facts

• Clearaudio Innovation Turntable: Pictured tonearm and cartridge are not included. Perfect synchronisation of technology, workmanship, and design for the best possible music reproduction. You'll need to purchase a tonearm and cartridge separately, but the turntable's engineering ensures that any quality arm and cartridge will perform optimally when properly installed.

  

• Clearaudio Innovation Series Stand: Made from solid aluminium and Panzerholz bulletproof wood for excellent listening pleasure and visual appeal. Available as a special order. The stand's materials provide superior vibration damping and a timeless aesthetic, but you should contact the store before ordering to confirm availability and lead time.