Akai AP 005 (1976–1978)
A fully automatic belt-drive turntable from Akai’s premium 1970s lineup, featuring a precision tone arm and factory-fitted Audio-Technica cartridge.
Overview
The Akai AP-005 is a fully automatic belt-drive turntable produced between 1976 and 1978. It was part of a high-end series that included the AP-001 through AP-004, representing the peak of Akai’s turntable engineering during that era. The unit comes equipped with an Audio-Technica AT-11 cartridge and ATS11 stylus, featuring a 0.65 mil diamond tip, and includes a 45 rpm adapter. Designed for precision playback, it supports record speeds of 33 and 45 rpm with low wow and flutter performance.
Specifications
| Tone Arm | Static balanced type stainless steel tubular arm with inside force canceler & lateral balance weight |
| Arm Length | 220 mm |
| Platter | 300 mm aluminium alloy die-cast turntable |
| Drive type | Belt drive |
| Speeds | 33 and 45rpm |
| Wow and flutter | 0.05% wrms |
| Signal to noise ratio | 52dB |
| Stylus pressure (factory setting) | 2 grams |
| Stylus Pressure Adjustment Range | 0 to 3 grams |
| Applicable Cartridge Weight | 4 to 8 grams (8 to 12.5 grams using sub-weight) |
| Arm Lifter | Oil damped |
| Supplied cartridge | Audio-Technica AT-11 |
| Supplied stylus | ATS11 |
| Stylus type | 0.65 mil diamond |
| Included accessory | 45 r.p.m. Adapter |
Context
The Akai AP-005 was part of the greatest lineup of turntables that Akai ever made before and since. It shared its series with the AP-001, AP-002, AP-003, and AP-004 models, forming a cohesive range of high-fidelity automatic turntables aimed at discerning audiophiles in the late 1970s.
Market
Replacement styli are available through specialty vendors such as LP Gear, and common refurbishments include replacing the drive belt and cartridge. Units have been listed for as much as $401.11 on Etsy, while others appear on Facebook Marketplace for $25, reflecting condition and restoration status.
eBay Listings
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