Atlantic Records Turntable Setup: A First-Play Guide

What you need before you start

The Atlantic Records Turntable is a red U-Turn Orbit Basic with custom Atlantic logo artwork. Before you set it up, clear a stable, level surface near your amplifier or powered speakers. The turntable weighs 11.5 lb, so choose a shelf or stand that can support it without wobble.

Open the box and confirm you have the AC adapter, RCA cables, dust cover, felt mat, and the turntable itself. The cartridge is an Audio-Technica CN5625AL with a conical diamond stylus, and the tonearm is a precision gimbal with an adjustable counterweight. You will need a record to play once setup is complete.

Step-by-step first setup

Work through these steps in order. Each one builds on the last, so avoid skipping ahead.

1. Place the turntable on a level surface: Set the platter on the base, then put the felt mat on top. Keep the unit away from speakers that vibrate strongly and from direct sunlight. The dust cover can stay on when you are not playing records.
2. Connect the RCA cables: Plug the RCA cables into the turntable's output and into your amplifier or powered speakers. Match left and right channels. The supplied cables are the ones to use first; upgrade later only if you have a specific need.
3. Connect the AC adapter: The turntable is rated for 115V/60Hz input. Plug the AC adapter into a wall outlet that matches that voltage. Do not force the plug into a different outlet type.
4. Balance the tonearm: The tonearm has an adjustable counterweight. With the stylus guard still on, adjust the counterweight so the arm floats level, then set the tracking force according to the cartridge manufacturer's recommendation. The supplied information does not include a specific tracking force value, so check the Audio-Technica documentation for the CN5625AL before you play a record.
5. Set the speed and play: The turntable supports 33 and 45 RPM with manual speed adjustment. Select the speed that matches your record, remove the stylus guard, and gently lower the tonearm using the cueing lever. Start with a record you do not mind handling as you learn.

Turntable specifications that affect placement and use

• Atlantic Records Turn Table: Weight: 11.5 lb A stable, level surface is essential; check that your shelf or stand can hold this weight without flexing.

  

• Atlantic Records Turn Table: Dimensions: 16.75 x 12.5 x 4.25"" Use these measurements to confirm the turntable fits your space and that the dust cover has clearance.
• Atlantic Records Turn Table: Input voltage: 115V/60Hz Plug the supplied AC adapter into a compatible outlet; using a different voltage can damage the motor.
• Atlantic Records Turn Table: 33/45 RPM manual speed adjustment You will need to move the belt or switch manually when changing between LP and 45 RPM records.

Tonearm and stylus basics for a clean first play

The tonearm's adjustable counterweight lets you set the tracking force, but the correct value depends on the cartridge. The Audio-Technica CN5625AL is a conical diamond stylus, which is a common, durable choice for beginners. Because the supplied information does not state a tracking force, use the cartridge maker's figure rather than guessing.

Handle the tonearm by its headshell or cueing lever, not by the arm tube. Lower it slowly with the cueing lever. Keep the stylus guard on whenever you move the turntable. The low-noise AC synchronous motor and the powdercoated MDF platter are designed to keep speed steady, but the manual speed adjustment means you should confirm the belt is on the correct pulley for 33 or 45 RPM before each play session.

Common first-play problems and what to check

• No sound or very quiet sound: Check that the RCA cables are fully seated and that your amplifier is set to the correct input. Confirm the turntable is plugged into a 115V/60Hz outlet.
• Record spins but the tonearm does not move: The tonearm is manual; lift the cueing lever and gently move the arm over the record. Make sure the counterweight is adjusted so the stylus can contact the record.
• Speed sounds wrong: The turntable uses manual speed adjustment. Confirm the belt is on the pulley for 33 or 45 RPM as appropriate for your record.
• Uneven or wobbly playback: Check that the turntable sits on a level surface and that the platter and felt mat are seated flat. The 11.5 lb weight helps stability, but a shaky shelf will still cause problems.

What the supplied information does not cover

The catalog listing does not include a specific tracking force, anti-skate setting, or belt replacement procedure. It also does not confirm whether a built-in phono preamp is included, so check your amplifier or speakers for a phono input or use an external phono stage if needed. For those details, consult the U-Turn or Audio-Technica documentation that comes with the turntable. The Atlantic Records Turntable is a special edition, so keep the original packaging for safe transport if you move it.

When you are ready to play, start with a clean record and let the stylus settle into the groove. The first play is about learning the manual steps: speed selection, cueing, and volume. With a little practice, the routine becomes quick.