As it is a highly sensitive receptor, the cartridge can detect even the most minuscule vibrations which can negatively affect sonic clarity. That is why vibrational disturbances are among the main factors that can reduce sound quality. Those vibrations can come from the speakers, travel through the ground or air, or they can originate from the mechanical components of the turntable itself such as the motor drive and rotating platter. In order to reduce vibrations, Thuono Audio has designed three magnetic suspensions which support the entire chassis and not just the platter. This solution allows cohesive functioning of the platter and tonearm in an integrated rigid system that does not minimally compromise dynamics.

Magnetic suspension supporting the TH400 chassis

Contrary to traditional spring suspensions, magnetic suspensions minimise contact between the upper and lower chassis creating additional noise isolation and enhancing sound clarity. Magnetic suspensions are made up of two oppositely placed magnetic rings. The upper ring is connected to the suspension shaft, which is driven by a self-lubricating, low-friction bushing that does not require maintenance over its lifetime. This system allows for supreme fluidity of movement and therefore, excellent vibration damping. Furthermore, oversized turntable support discs designed to further lessen vibrations have been placed under the chassis.

The TH400 model includes the Thuono Audio Clamp. It is a screw-on clamp that presses the record down so that it lays tighter to the platter. Materials such as bronze and aluminium have been chosen to provide optimal handling of resonances and sound balance. When listening with this clamp, it is possible to perceive an increased sonic richness as well as more spatial localization and a thick texture. A special copyrighted electromagnetic disc developed in collaboration with Sublima Audio Research is attached to the base of the clamp. While a record plays, small contact microcharges can commonly form between grooves causing the stylus to lift by a few microns and spoil the sound quality.

Screw-on clamp with anti-static disc

Moreover, those microcharges are among the main factors that cause wear and tear, both to the stylus diamond as well as the grooves of the record itself. Some intervention on electrostatic charge is therefore essential. The disc at the base of the clamp helps to absorb these contact charges and to improve not only record reproduction, but also the lifespan of the stylus diamond and records themselves. With the Thuono Audio Clamp, reproduction becomes clearer and richer in both harmonics and timber and above all accurate sound range reproduction.