Technics EPA-100 Tonearm System

Technics EPA-100 Toonarm Systeem

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CODE: EPA-100 (Pre-Owned Margen Product) Excelent Condition !

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Technics EPA-100 Tonearm with Variable Damping Technology

Introduction:
The Technics EPA-100 tonearm system was developed to address a common issue in turntable systems: the damping of low-frequency resonance. The system utilizes a variable damping mechanism that effectively controls low-frequency resonance, regardless of the cartridge type – from high to low compliance. This improves sound quality by allowing the unique characteristics of the cartridge to perform at their best.

At ALBEPRO, we have been showcasing this tonearm system since the early '80s. Both the Technics SL-1000MK2 and the Technics SL-1000MK3 are equipped with the EPA-100 tonearm system.

Please refer to the following link for detailed photos of the Technics SL-1000MK2.

Design and Mechanism:
The EPA-100 tonearm system utilizes an advanced variable damping mechanism to control low-frequency resonance. Damping is achieved through a dynamic system with a spring-and-magnet mechanism. One part of the tonearm's main weight is supported by a spring, while the other is "floated" by the attractive force between two magnets attached to the rear of the weight and the damping selector. The resonance of the weight is further damped by viscous silicone oil and a damping cylinder. This results in resonance being reduced by more than half compared to conventional systems.

The resonance frequency of the main weight can be adjusted via the damping selector at the rear of the weight, depending on the compliance of the cartridge. This allows for precise adjustment of the damping to ensure it is optimal for the cartridge being used.

Material and Construction:
The EPA-100 tonearm system is equipped with a titanium nitride (TiN) tube, treated by hardening titanium with nitrogen. This makes the tube both lightweight and mechanically strong. The tube has an outer diameter of 9.5 mm and a wall thickness of 0.5 mm. Compared to traditional aluminum tubes, the weight of the arm is reduced by 85%, while its mechanical strength and internal damping are approximately 1.6 times greater.

Support System:
The tonearm uses a gimbal suspension system, supported by a high-precision pivot bearing for both horizontal and vertical rotation. The rotation axes for horizontal and vertical movements intersect at a single point. This minimizes sensitivity to initial movement and ensures uniform rotation in all directions.

Fine-Tuning and Performance:
The arm uses ruby bearings with a friction coefficient of approximately 1/3 of steel. These rubies are super-finished into balls with a sphericity of ± 0.5 μ, and a total of 20 stones are used in the gimbal suspension system. This contributes to a high initial motion sensitivity of 5 mg.

Technical Specifications of the Technics EPA-100 Tonearm:
(see the Specifications tab)

Conclusion:
The Technics EPA-100 tonearm system is an advanced and well-thought-out design that effectively controls resonances, resulting in improved sound quality and performance. It offers a wide range of adjustment options, both for cartridge compliance and weight, providing solid and reliable support for the turntable. The variable damping technology and the use of high-quality materials make this tonearm suitable for demanding audiophiles seeking the highest sound quality and precision.

Notice: All Information Compiled by ALBEPRO

The content in this document is the exclusive property of ALBEPRO and is protected by intellectual property laws. No part of this document may be copied, reproduced, or distributed without prior written consent from ALBEPRO. Unauthorized use or reproduction may result in legal action under applicable copyright and intellectual property laws. For permission to use any materials, please contact us directly.

Specifications

Technical Specifications of the Technics EPA-100 Tonearm:

Type: Universal tonearm with variable damping system
Effective arm length: 250 mm
Total arm length: 322 mm ~ 350 mm
Rear arm length: 66 mm ~ 94 mm
Arm height adjustment: 45 mm ~ 90 mm (Helicoid mechanism, 6 mm)
Overhang: 15 mm
Horizontal tracking error: +1.1° (inner circumference of a 30 cm record), +2.1° (outer circumference of a 30 cm record)
Effective arm mass: 22 g (cartridge weight 6.5 g, needle pressure 1.25 g)
Arm resonance frequency: 9.8 Hz
Resonance sharpness (Q): ≤ 6 dB (optimum adjustment)
Needle pressure adjustment range: 0 ~ 3 g
Cartridge weight: 5 g ~ 10 g
Cartridge mounting connection: JIS standard 12.7 mm (1/2 inch)
Arm mounting hole diameter: 38 mm
Balance weight SH-100G1 (sold separately)

Balance Weight (Counterweight) and Cartridge Weight Relationship for the EPA-100 Tonearm:

Balance Weight Type	Cartridge Weight (without shell weight)	Total Weight with Shell Weight
Standard Counterweight (included with EPA-100)	5 g ~ 10 g	14.5 g ~ 19.5 g
SH-100G1 Counterweight	9 g ~ 16 g	18.5 g ~ 25.5 g
SH-100G1 Counterweight + Extra Auxiliary Weight	20.5 g ~ 29.5 g	30 g ~ 39 g

Standard Counterweight: This standard counterweight allows you to use cartridges weighing from 5 g to 10 g. If you add the extra shell weight, you can use cartridges with a weight of 14.5 g to 19.5 g.
SH-100G1 Counterweight: This counterweight is sold separately and allows the use of cartridges weighing from 9 g to 16 g. With the additional shell weight, it supports cartridges weighing 18.5 g to 25.5 g.
SH-100G1 Counterweight + Extra Auxiliary Weight: When the extra auxiliary weight is added to the SH-100G1 counterweight, it supports cartridges with a weight of 20.5 g to 29.5 g and shell weights of 30 g to 39 g.

Shell Weight SFPZB3501 is the small weight/plate placed between the cartridge and headshell.
Extra Auxiliary Weight SFPWG17202-1 is the weight screwed onto the tonearm/counterweight behind the tonearm.

Technics EPA-100 Toonarm Systeem

Technics EPA-100 Tonearm with Variable Damping Technology

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