Clearaudio Champion Series turntable

Description

Key Characteristics of the Clearaudio Champion Series:

• Resonance-Optimized Chassis: The Champion series typically features a geometrically optimized chassis made from materials like GS-acrylic (a high-quality acrylic) to minimize unwanted vibrations. Some models, like the Champion Level 1 and Level 2, incorporate multiple plinths separated by isolation elements for further resonance control.  
• Belt-Drive System: A decoupled, standalone synchronous motor housed in a substantial metal casing drives the platter via a belt, isolating the platter and tonearm from motor vibrations.  
• Inverted Bearing: Clearaudio often employs a patented inverted bearing design with a polished steel shaft and a bronze bushing, sometimes with a ceramic ball or magnetic levitation in higher-end versions, for smooth and quiet platter rotation.  
• Acrylic Platter: The platter is usually made from silicon-acrylic, a material chosen for its properties that closely match those of vinyl records, aiding in resonance control. Different Champion levels may feature platters of varying thicknesses.  
• Upgradeability: A significant feature of the Champion series is its modular design, offering clear upgrade paths. Users can often upgrade components like the plinth configuration, feet, motor power supply, and bearing to achieve higher levels of performance.  
• Compatibility with Various Tonearms: Clearaudio offers interchangeable armboards, making the Champion series compatible with a wide range of 9-inch tonearms from different manufacturers. They also offer packages with their own Clearaudio tonearms.
• Clean and Modern Aesthetics: The use of clear or black acrylic often gives Clearaudio Champion turntables a distinctive and elegant appearance.

Different Levels of the Clearaudio Champion: The Clearaudio Champion series has included different levels, offering varying degrees of performance and features:

• Clearaudio Champion (Base Model): Typically features a single acrylic plinth and a 30mm thick platter. It's considered an excellent entry point into Clearaudio's higher-end offerings.
• Clearaudio Champion Level 1: Adds an additional plinth to the base model for improved resonance control and increased mass.  
• Clearaudio Champion Level 2: Represents a significant step up, often featuring two decoupled acrylic plinths and a thicker platter (e.g., 70mm). The isolation between the plinths is achieved with metal pucks, further enhancing performance.  
• Clearaudio Champion Magnum: An even more substantial version with a heavier plinth and platter, often incorporating Clearaudio's Ceramic Magnetic Bearing (CMB) for near-frictionless platter rotation.  
• Clearaudio Avantgarde Magnum: Another high-performance model in the series, often featuring advanced bearing and motor technologies.

Sonic Characteristics (Based on Reviews): Reviews of Clearaudio Champion turntables often describe their sound as:

• Accurate and Uncolored: Aiming to present the music as it is without adding significant sonic coloration.
• Detailed and Precise: Capable of revealing fine nuances in the recording.
• Good Speed Stability: Ensuring accurate pitch and timing.
• Solid Bass Performance: Providing well-defined and controlled low frequencies.
• Wide Soundstage: Creating a spacious and immersive listening experience.

Some reviewers have noted that the Champion series might lean towards a more analytical sound, but many owners and reviewers praise their neutrality and ability to extract detail without sounding sterile. The overall sonic character can also be influenced by the choice of tonearm and cartridge.