Clearaudio Concept MM
For those not familiar with the Clearaudio Concept turntable, the ‘concept’ part is essentially getting the most exceptional sound you can from your records at this price with the least effort. If that sounds simple, it’s probably because that simplicity is a big part of this package’s charm. Unlike some rival designs, which require a steady hand and a grasp of mathematics to get the thing working, the Concept is a ‘plug- and-play’ product, which means you can play your records pretty much straight from the box. The company’s own moving-magnet Concept cartridge (there’s also a movingcoil alternative) is fitted to the Verify Direct Wire Plus tonearm, and Clearaudio sets everything, including the cartridge weight and bias, before the turntable leaves the factory. Fit the platter and drive belt and the Concept’s ready to play.
Clean solidity
It’s worth taking a moment to admire the Concept’s clean design and chunkily substantial finish. Speed (33⅓, 45 and 78rpm) is controlled by a hefty rotary dial, and the whole thing operates with the sort of solidity more readily associated with the construction attributes of an outside water closet.
We dig Pixies' Doolittle album from its sleeve, delight in drawing the Concept’s magnetically poised tonearm over the edge of the record, and let it drop gently into place. Kim Deal chugs those first four bass notes and guitars yell as we anticipate being hit by the opening track
Debaser like a fist to the thorax. What’s impressive is that it’s so incredibly taut, matching its blistering pace with extraordinary poise and agility. It’s like the Rudolf Nureyev of turntables.
It isn’t the weightiest of sounds in terms of low-end anchor, but the bass guitar feels anything but cumbersome, being afforded the same light feet as its six-stringed cousins.
It’s difficult not to be enamoured of the precision of the Concept’s timing. It’s incredibly fast, yet always in control, never stumbling or tripping over its laces. As the intensity is relaxed a touch for Wave Of Mutilation, we have time to explore the ample space within the mix. There is air around the instruments; they have room to interact without ever colliding into one another.
All the atmosphere
We dig out some Django Reinhardt and the Clearaudio seems to transport us to 1930s France. It’s like the Concept is refusing to sand off any edges that would dilute the character of the music, instead digging into the timbre of the instruments to let them tell their own story.
Reinhardt’s tale is one of complex light and shade, rife with slides and trills – a sprightly dance with delicate dynamics. You won’t be surprised that the Concept tracks this dynamic journey step for step.
It is this delicate sense of alternating intensity that sets the very best hi-fi apart, and it’s a significant factor in giving Clearaudio such a stranglehold on this portion of the market.
Is it right for you?
We find few shortcomings at this price, but that’s not to say the Clearaudio is the perfect option for all. Some may prefer the more vigorous performance of the Rega Planar 6/Exact, for example.
But we can’t see anyone turning down the Clearaudio Concept because of its lack of talent. It is as clean, rhythmic, detailed and spacious as you’ll find for the money, not to mention engaging and entertaining. In fact, you could almost say it’s a Conceptual masterpiece.