A reference turntable and an exceptional tonearm, assembled and adjusted in our workshop: a high-end analog system ready for listening.
This pack combines the Tornado Neo in natural aluminum finish with the 12-inch TA-2000 Neo tonearm, the pairing recommended by Acoustic Signature to fully exploit the potential of this tripod chassis. The Tornado Neo is the most accessible model in the German manufacturer’s “Tripod” line, yet it is already a highly accomplished design that carries over most of the innovations from the Hurricane Neo. In the same logic, the 12-inch TA-2000 Neo is the third tonearm in the range—the one that elevates the turntable into a higher performance class. maPlatine.com delivers the complete system assembled, wired, and aligned in our workshop, ready to accept the cartridge of your choice.
The Tornado Neo in natural aluminum finish: engineering on display
The Tornado Neo takes the form of a three-armed star, a visual signature, but also a technical choice: distributing mass across three points optimizes rigidity while limiting resonance zones. Its 45 mm-thick solid aluminum plinth, here in its natural, uncolored finish, is 30% more massive than previous pre-Neo versions, bringing the total weight to over 26 kg. Three Sorbothane gel-damped feet provide vibration isolation, with precise and easy height adjustment.
The 50 mm solid aluminum platter weighs 11 kg and hosts four Silencer modules that increase inertia and reduce internal resonances. It is topped with a rigid, damping composite mat. At the core of the system is the ultra-precise DTD® spindle running in the Dura Turn Diamond® bearing—a virtually indestructible mechanism, guaranteed for 15 years, setting a new benchmark for operating silence.
Drive is provided by a silent AC motor with 2 coils and 24 poles, powered externally, combined with a digital controller featuring Level 1 AVC technology. This system measures and automatically corrects motor signal phase deviations in real time, eliminating the main source of residual vibration in synchronous AC motors. A separate control unit manages power-on and 33/45 rpm speed selection, connected to the DMC-20 power supply via an RJ45 cable.
The TA-2000 Neo 12-inch: precision taken further
Acoustic Signature refuses to offer a tonearm that would limit the performance of its turntables. The TA-2000 Neo is built to the same standards as higher-end models in the same German facility. In its 12-inch version, it features an effective length of 370 mm and an effective mass of 12.6 g, making it particularly well suited to high-end MC cartridges. Its dual carbon tube combines high rigidity with structural damping, ensuring perfectly controlled vibration transfer.
Tracking is handled by miniature SKF ball bearings, a benchmark supplier in the precision industry, paired with a machined stainless-steel axle ensuring smoothness and long-term durability. The solid brass counterweight applies tracking force with high precision, while the side-adjustable anti-skating mechanism allows fine and repeatable tuning. The solid aluminum headshell enables full alignment and overhang adjustment and accommodates virtually all cartridges on the market. The fully machined tonearm lift adds everyday usability comfort, turning each listening session into a tactile pleasure.
Internal wiring is handled by Japanese Mogami studio-grade copper, with 24k gold-plated cartridge connectors. The tonearm is supplied with an AudioQuest PSC copper DIN 5-pin to RCA cable. REGA 3-point and SME mounts are included, both with precise VTA adjustment.
Listening experience: precision, transparency, and emotion
The Tornado Neo delivers remarkable dynamics across the entire spectrum, particularly impressive on powerful musical passages. The sound is holographic, clear, and transparent. In orchestral works, it analyzes and reproduces the intensity of each instrument with great finesse while preserving the emotional weight needed for full immersion. It retains the brand’s characteristic warmth, supported by deep, tight bass—never bloated. Transients are extremely fast, and openness is striking.
The TA-2000 Neo adds refinement and transparency that elevate the experience further. With no added coloration, it keeps the cartridge perfectly stable in the groove. The subtlest dynamic nuances are preserved intact, timbres retain their identity, and the soundstage unfolds with rare holographic depth at this price level.
Together, the Tornado Neo + TA-2000 Neo 12-inch deliver a level of neutrality that allows each record’s unique character to emerge fully. Paired with the 12-inch TA-2000 Neo, the Tornado Neo stands today without any true competitor in its category.
FAQ: Everything you need to know before buying the Tornado Neo silver pack + TA-2000 Neo 12-inch tonearm
What does this package include?
This package combines the Acoustic Signature Tornado Neo turntable in natural aluminum finish with the 12-inch TA-2000 Neo tonearm—the combination recommended by the German manufacturer to fully unlock the Tornado’s performance potential.
Is the cartridge included?
No. The package is ready to accommodate the cartridge of your choice, but no cartridge is supplied.
Why choose a 12-inch tonearm instead of a 9-inch model?
A 12-inch tonearm offers a significant geometric advantage: reduced tracking angle error, lower distortion, and more accurate groove tracing. These benefits are fully realized when paired with a chassis as rigid and resonance-free as the Tornado’s.
FranckTornado NEO Turntable
Motors: 1 AC motor
Automatic Vibration Control: Level 1
Drive system: Belt drive
Speeds: 33.3 and 45 rpm
Speed adjustment: Yes, with fine tuning
Power supply: External DMC-20
Bearing: High-precision Dura Turn Diamond® bearing
Tonearm compatibility: 9- to 12-inch tonearms
Maximum number of tonearms: 3
Platter: Anodized aluminum, 310 x 50 mm
Platter weight: 11 kg
Platter dampers: 4
Chassis: Solid 45 mm thick aluminum chassis
Feet: 3 height-adjustable aluminum feet with gel dampers
Dimensions (W x D x H): 450 x 460 x 160 mm
Weight: 26.5 kg
TA-2000 NEO Tonearm
Length: 358 mm
Effective length: 309 mm
Mounting distance (from pivot to platter center): 295.8 mm
Total weight: 547 g
Effective mass: 12.6 g
Inclination angle (depending on cartridge): 12.1°
Overhang: 13.2 mm
Cartridge compatibility: 6 to 16 g
Mounting: Rega and SME type
Tube: Double-layer carbon
Internal cable: Mogami copper
Phono cable: Audioquest Din/RCA
Protactor: AS