Modi

Advantages of using air bearings

The platter is centred by a steel spindle running in a very low-friction, low-noise and hard-wearing polymeric bearing material. It floats on a thin air cushion, reducing mechanical bearing noise to an absolute minimum, if any. A traditional bearing supports the platter weight as well as keeping it centred. This produces more mechanical bearing noise because the contact point between the top of the spindle and the platter generates very high pressure and, consequently, noise.

Floating on an air cushion also gives the platter a high degree of isolation from its surroundings, in the same way as the air-supported shelves used in many high-end audio systems.

The air-supported platter also benefits speed stability. The musical flow is particularly natural, although this is not necessarily measurable, but is audible.

Modi

The name Modi means “courage” or “brave”. He is the son of Thor and Sif, and represents his father’s characteristics. It is said that he will survive Ragnarok and, together with his stepbrother Magne, carry on Thor’s strength and qualities.

Plinth, Modi Turntable

The plinth is made from 1 solid piece of CNC-machined composite material and stands on 3 adjustable feet. The platter is belt-driven by a DC tacho motor. Communication between the DC tacho motor and the high-precision motor control electronics maintains very accurate platter speed. Speed variation is 0.003%, measured using Brüel & Kjær equipment.

The DC tacho motor is decoupled from the plinth by an isolating layer of sponge rubber between the motor and plinth. Sponge rubber has a high degree of vibration absorption because of the high density of air pockets within its construction. This prevents motor vibration from being transmitted to the plinth.

The air supply is controlled remotely from the Modi plinth. After the platter is turned off, the air supply switches off automatically 2 minutes later. This provides convenient operation.

Armboards, Modi Turntable

Modi accepts 2 tonearms, radial and linear tracking. As standard, Modi is supplied with a main armboard that fits almost any tonearm brand, including 9”-12” tonearms.

An additional armboard for almost any tonearm brand is available for the Modi turntable.

Air supply and power supply, Modi Turntable

The air pump must deliver an even, clean and dry airflow.

The pump’s impulses are absorbed in an encapsulated reservoir, producing an even airflow to the air bearing. The air supply is fitted with a filter that prevents dust particles from entering the system. This filter is replaceable when necessary.

The pump is an oil-free, long-life unit that requires little maintenance.

The air supply box contains the air pump, power supply and communication electronics for Modi. The air supply is controlled from the turntable plinth by pressing either the 33 or 45 rpm button. The first press switches the air supply on, and the second press starts the platter spinning. When the platter is turned off, the air supply switches off automatically after 2 minutes.