The Danish manufacturer has perfected two models in its TT turntable range: Argon Audio unveils the TT MK2, available from €249, which is an improved version of its Argon Audio TT entry-level model. At the same time, the TT-3 Plus turntable, priced at €529, is positioned between the TT-3 and TT-4.
Argon Audio TT-3 Plus vs TT-3: what’s the difference?
The Argon Audio TT-3 Plus turntable is an optimized version of the TT-3 model. It offers an upgradeable solution thanks to the integration of a phono preamp that can be turned off. For music lovers who want to upgrade their vinyl system with an external preamp and hi-fi amp, or take advantage of the phono input of a hi-fi amp, they can simply deactivate the RIAA preamplifier stage. For a plug-and-play system, the TT-3 Plus turntable can be connected directly to a pair of active speakers, or to a speaker connected via the auxiliary input, for example. As a guarantee of quality, this is the same phono preamp used for the TT-4 model and the TT-4 SE, which we reviewed. This new turntable is both versatile and upgradeable.
- Read – Argon Audio TT-4 Special Edition review: a turntable with a revolutionary anti-vibration system!
In addition, the TT-3 Plus replaces the aluminum tonearm of the TT-3 with a carbon fiber arm. This material, both very light and rigid, further reduces internal resonance and vibration. This new tonearm adopts the ATS technology inaugurated on the top-of-the-range TT-4 model. The Danish manufacturer creates a very small slot under the tonearm to eliminate the internal resonance caused by torsion, which leads to vibrations that impair vinyl record playback.
Another important change: the aluminum platter is heavier! Increasing from 650 g to 735 g, it enhances the disc’s inertia and rotational stability. Finally, the Ortofon OM 5E cartridge is now replaced by the famous 2M Red. Reliable and renowned for its lively, nuanced sound, it guarantees perfect playback of LPs.
| Argon Audio TT-3 Plus | Argon Audio TT-3 | |
| Integrated phono preamp | ✅ | ❌ |
| Tonearm | Carbon fiber | Aluminum |
| ATS technology | ✅ | ❌ |
| Cartridge | Ortofon 2M Red | Ortofon OM 5E |
| Platter | Aluminum, 735g | Aluminum, 650g |
| How it works | Manual | Manual |
| Playback speed | 33 and 45 rpm | 33 and 45 rpm |
| Drive | By belt | By belt |
| Price | €529 | €390 |
Argon Audio TT MK2, a new anti-resonance design
Argon Audio has also unveiled the TT-MK2 turntable. The latter is an improved version of the brand’s entry level model, the Argon Audio TT turntable. The TT MK2 takes the Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge from the first generation, while adopting a new anti-resonance design.
To achieve this, Argon Audio has redesigned the internal construction of the TT MK2 turntable. A sub-platter is now integrated into the MDF chassis. Once again, this limits vibrations and therefore, internal resonance.
Finally, the Scandinavian manufacturer equips its Argon Audio TT MK2 turntable with a more powerful motor. This offers greater stability to ensure linear belt and platter drive. What’s more, the platter, made of steel, is more stable thanks to a revised weight: 1.9kg vs. 550g previously.
| Argon Audio TT MK2 | Argon Audio TT | |
| Integrated phono preamp | ✅ | ✅ |
| Anti-resonance sub-platter | ✅ | ❌ |
| Motor | 2nd generation | 1st generation |
| Drive | By belt | By belt |
| Cartridge | Audio-Technica AT3600L | Audio-Technica AT3600L |
| Playback speed | 33 and 45 rpm | 33 and 45 rpm |
| Price | From €249 | From €229 |
With these numerous improvements, the Danish brand reaffirms its commitment to offering high-performance audio equipment at the best possible price. The Argon Audio TT-3 Plus turntable, available in three finishes (black, white and walnut), is available from Son-Vidéo.com for €529. The Argon Audio TT MK2 model, with its seven different finishes, is offered at €249 or €269 in its walnut version.
