Acoustic Signature Double X NEO Turntable

The Acoustic Signature Double X is the manufacturer's first model to feature a classic shape and a wood finish. However, it offers the same technology as the brand's other products, along with very high-level performance.

Acoustic Signature Double X Neo: plinth and platter

The Acoustic Signature Double X has a classic shape but is already fairly substantial in size (44 x 35 cm) for a turntable designed for a 9-inch tonearm. It also has a considerable weight of 24 kg. The plinth is available in two superb finishes: Makassar wood or piano black lacquer (7 coats!). The Acoustic Signature Double X Neo is the perfect synthesis of cutting-edge technology and classic design. The chassis design is close to that of the Verona Neo model. This sophisticated and massive multi-layer chassis is composed of three layers of MDF, steel and plywood, press-bonded with a specific flexible adhesive.

The Acoustic Signature Double X Neo rests on three feet damped with sorbothane-based gel. Height adjustment is available, and is both precise and very simple to perform. To the right of the base sits the control panel, used to start the turntable and select the playback speed. The Double X Neo therefore allows playback of both 33 rpm and 45 rpm records.

The platter is made of solid aluminium 50 mm thick, giving it a mass close to 10.3 kg. This platter is fitted with 8 polished brass "Silencers".

It is covered with a fairly rigid damping composite mat (carbon-style). The platter sits on an ultra-precise, extremely rigid and robust DTD® spindle, which fits into a diamond bearing (Dura Turn Diamond® bearing). This ultra-rigid and virtually indestructible bearing creates optimal conditions for outstanding sonic reproduction and sets a new benchmark in terms of maintenance, low noise and lifespan, all backed by a 15-year warranty.

Acoustic Signature Double X Neo: electronics and drive

The platter is driven by a belt around its periphery. All rotary motors generate vibrations that are inevitably transmitted to the chassis, the platter and the tonearm, which compromises reproduction quality. Generally, this issue is addressed by focusing on damping the chassis and platter and on the design of the entire drive system, including motor choice. But for cost reasons, manufacturers rarely consider a coherent combination of all these measures. Furthermore, every designer eventually realises that these conventional approaches have their limits in terms of effectiveness. Vibration-minimisation concepts only work up to a point.

Acoustic Signature has chosen to push these limits further. In addition to innovative technologies such as the Silencer and CLD (Constrained Layer Damping), the brand has developed a silent AC motor with an ultra-stable external multi-voltage power supply. This is paired with a digital motor controller that integrates Level 1 AVC technology (Automatic Vibration Control), one of the new features of the Neo range. The AC motor is built around 2 coils and 24 poles. To drive the coils, a sinusoidal signal phase-shifted by 90° is applied to them. Like all synchronous AC motors, it has manufacturing tolerances that prevent perfectly accurate positioning of the poles and coils — one of the main causes of vibration. To eliminate these vibrations, it is essential to compensate for these manufacturing tolerances by other means.

This is where AVC technology comes in: it measures and automatically corrects motor signal phase shifts in real time, fully autonomously. These digitally applied corrections deliver a drastic reduction in vibration.

It should be noted that depending on the drive system and the number of motors used, AVC technology is applied at three different configuration levels.

Level 3 represents maximum efficiency, using dedicated software and components. From Level 2 onwards, motors are rigorously selected and matched to optimise performance.

The Double X Neo features Level 1 AVC paired with belt drive and an AC motor. It is also controlled by an electronic oscillator that allows the choice between the two speeds, 33 and 45 rpm.

Acoustic Signature Double X Neo: choosing the tonearm

Like all Acoustic Signature turntables, the Double X Neo is sold without a tonearm. However, after several tests and trials, we recommend pairing it with an Acoustic Signature TA-500 Neo or an Acoustic Signature TA-1000 Neo in the 9-inch version.

Acoustic Signature Double X Neo: listening impressions

We carried out our listening using the Acoustic Signature TA-500 tonearm. You will of course find these same qualities with the TA-1000 or TA-2000, but with greater precision, transparency and dynamics.

From the very first bars, what strikes you most is the silence and the complete absence of background noise.

The reproduction is nuanced and remarkably defined, with a top end teeming with detail and information.

The sound image is surprising in its depth and in the space it creates between the musicians. The separation between the different sections is remarkable. You also find the dynamics characteristic of Acoustic Signature turntables, spread across the entire spectrum with striking realism. Strings and brass are reproduced with remarkable realism and finesse. There is not the slightest hint of aggressiveness, and sibilants are perfectly under control.

But above all, the Acoustic Signature Double X conveys all the emotion linked to the performance. Voices benefit from a particularly natural and realistic rendering.

The Acoustic Signature Double X Neo is as beautiful as it is high-performing, thanks to an uncompromising design. The result is undeniable musicality and fidelity.

FAQ - Your questions about the Double X Neo Acoustic Signature turntable:

What finishes are available?

The plinth is available in two stunning finishes: Makassar wood or black piano lacquer (7 coats).

What size and weight should I plan for my cabinet?

The turntable measures 44 x 35 cm and weighs 24 kg. It is designed for a 9-inch tonearm.

Do I need to buy a tonearm separately?

Yes, like all Acoustic Signature turntables, the Double X Neo is sold without a tonearm. We recommend pairing it with a 9-inch Acoustic Signature TA-500 Neo or TA-1000 Neo tonearm.

What speeds can it play, and how do you select them?

The turntable plays 33 and 45 RPM records. The control panel, located on the left side of the base, allows you to power on the unit and select the speed.