This pairing was not chosen at random. By combining the Tornado Neo in black finish with the 12-inch TA-2000 Neo, this pack represents what we consider the most accomplished version of the Tornado: a tripod chassis of exemplary rigidity, dressed in a sober and contemporary aesthetic, topped with the third tonearm in the Acoustic Signature range—the one that elevates the turntable into a higher performance category. maPlatine.com delivers the complete system assembled, wired, and aligned in our workshop, ready to accept the cartridge of your choice.
The Tornado Neo Black: the tripod chassis in its full glory
The Tornado Neo takes the form of a three-armed star—a visual signature, but also a technical decision: distributing mass across three points optimizes rigidity while limiting resonance zones. Its 45 mm-thick solid aluminum plinth, here in black finish, is 30% more massive than previous pre-Neo versions, bringing the total weight to over 26 kg. Three Sorbothane gel-damped feet ensure isolation from parasitic vibrations, with precise height adjustment.
The 50 mm solid aluminum platter weighs 11 kg and hosts four Silencer modules that dissipate internal resonances. It is topped with a carbon-look composite mat. At the heart of the system is the ultra-precise DTD® spindle housed in the Dura Turn Diamond® bearing—a virtually indestructible mechanism, guaranteed for 15 years, setting a new benchmark for operational 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 digitally corrects motor signal phase deviations in real time—an innovation targeting the root cause of vibration in synchronous AC motors. A separate control unit manages start-up and 33/45 rpm speed switching, connected to the DMC-20 power supply via an RJ45 cable.
The TA-2000 Neo 12-inch: precision taken to the next level
Acoustic Signature refuses to offer a tonearm that would compromise the performance of its turntables. With the 12-inch TA-2000 Neo, you move up a level from the TA-1000: selected SKF bearings, optimized dual carbon tube, and 12-inch geometry that reduces tracking angle distortion. It is the manufacturer’s recommended option to fully exploit the potential of the Tornado Neo. 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.
Tracking is handled by miniature SKF ball bearings, paired with a machined stainless-steel axle ensuring smoothness and long-term durability. The solid brass counterweight applies tracking force with precision, while the side-adjustable anti-skating knob allows fine and repeatable adjustment. The solid aluminum headshell enables full alignment and overhang adjustment and accommodates virtually all cartridges on the market. The fully machined tonearm lift adds a level of everyday comfort that turns 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: authority, holography, and silence
The Tornado Neo immediately asserts its authority: rare dynamic range, instantaneous transients, deep and tightly controlled bass. The mass of the chassis and the precision of the diamond bearing produce an exceptionally low noise floor—you literally hear everything engraved in the groove, including details that other turntables leave in the shadows.
The TA-2000 Neo adds refinement and transparency that transform the experience. The cartridge is held in the groove with near-absolute stability, without the slightest coloration. The most delicate dynamic nuances emerge intact, timbres retain their identity, and the soundstage unfolds with a holographic depth rarely heard at this price level.
The overall presentation is defined by absolute neutrality: the Tornado Neo + TA-2000 does not tell its own story—it reveals the story of the record. With the Tornado Neo in black and the 12-inch TA-2000 Neo, you reach a level of performance that direct competitors only achieve at a significantly higher price point.
FAQ: Everything you need to know before buying the Tornado Neo black pack + TA-2000 Neo 12-inch tonearm
What does this package include?
This package combines the Tornado Neo turntable in black finish with the 12-inch TA-2000 Neo tonearm.
Why is this combination considered a fully optimised solution?
It is the configuration recommended by the manufacturer to unlock the full potential of the Tornado Neo without compromise. Compared with the TA-1000, the 12-inch TA-2000 takes performance a step further, featuring selected SKF bearings, an optimised dual-carbon arm tube, and a 12-inch geometry that reduces tracking angle distortion.
Does the black finish offer any particular aesthetic advantage?
Yes. The tripod chassis, platter, carbon-fiber tonearm, and headshell all share the same dark finish, creating a discreet and refined appearance that integrates seamlessly into any hi-fi setup.
Is the cartridge included?
No. The system is delivered calibrated and ready to receive the cartridge of your choice.
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