Origin Live has unveiled images of their latest turntable model, the Swift. This exciting announcement coincided with the recent Bristol Hi-Fi Show, where the company introduced a series of upgrades to their Mk5 line, including the introduction of this new turntable to their lineup.
Elevating Sound Quality with the Multi-Layer Platter
A standout feature of the Origin Live Mk5 series is the innovative Multi-Layer Platter (MLP), which has been inspired by technology from their flagship Voyager turntable. The MLP is now a standard component in all models above the Aurora, including the Swift, which is essentially an Aurora turntable enhanced with this advanced platter system.
Mark Baker, the founder of Origin Live, emphasized the importance of incorporating the MLP as a standard feature: “We were often telling customers that this platter upgrade takes an Aurora up to the performance level of a Calypso, and the Calypso to that of a Resolution and so on. We wanted to make things clearer and provide consumers with the best sound possible. The MLP has been a game changer for our products for years.”
Although the addition of the MLP has resulted in price adjustments for the Calypso and Resolution models, Origin Live has strategically positioned the Swift to fill the price gap between the Aurora and Calypso, maintaining accessibility for their customers.
Innovative Design and Engineering
The Swift turntable retains the fundamental design principles of the Aurora, featuring a cantilevered architecture where the platter and tonearm are balanced on a high-mass sub-chassis plate. This design emulates a rigid, mechanical suspension system, which Origin Live claims effectively avoids the muddiness often associated with suspended designs and the harshness found in many non-suspended models.
Additionally, the Swift is equipped with a low-friction bearing system, which ensures that the platter can take at least 2:30 minutes to come to a complete stop from 33 RPM when operated without a belt. This level of precision is a testament to the engineering prowess behind the Swift.
Cutting-Edge Multi-Layer Platter Technology
The Mk5 Multi-Layer Platter is a marvel of engineering, featuring a top layer intricately designed with over 1,000 laser-cut slots. This unique design, combined with an underlying composite layer, works to diffuse surface resonance through vibrational interference. The careful assembly of the acrylic platter, with the layers not overly tightened, enhances its performance.
The Bakers at Origin Live have invested significant time in experimenting with various laser-cut line profiles to determine the optimal design for the top layer. One notable feature is the label-sized hole at the center of the platter, which they claim contributes to improved bass detail and depth—an essential consideration for audiophiles seeking an immersive listening experience.
Pricing and Availability
The Origin Live Swift Mk5 Turntable is now available for purchase at a price of £2,290. For those looking to enhance their audio setup further, the accompanying Zephyr Mk4 Tonearm is available for £1,080. With the Swift, Origin Live continues to push the boundaries of audio excellence, offering consumers a remarkable turntable that embodies both innovative technology and superior sound quality.
