Acoustic Signature Hurricane NEO Turntable

The Acoustic Signature Hurricane Neo is the second model in the German manufacturer’s “Tripod” line. However, the Hurricane is already an extremely advanced turntable that incorporates most of the innovations found in the Typhoon Neo while delivering remarkable performance in its price category.

Acoustic Signature Hurricane Neo: plinth and platter

The Acoustic Signature Hurricane Neo features a distinctive three-point star-shaped design. Despite its relatively compact dimensions and manageable footprint, it weighs more than 30 kg. The 50 mm thick solid aluminum plinth is available in either black or natural aluminum finish. This new chassis is 30% more massive than previous Hurricane versions, giving it exceptional rigidity and mass to minimize resonance and vibration.

The plinth rests on three sorbothane gel-damped feet. Height adjustment is available and is both precise and easy to use.

The platter is machined from solid aluminum with a thickness of 50 mm, giving it a mass of 11 kg. It incorporates eight Silencer inserts that increase inertia and reduce internal platter resonance. A carbon plate is also mounted underneath. The platter is topped with a rigid damping composite mat with a carbon-style finish, featuring cut-outs around the Silencer inserts.

The platter rests on a sub-platter equipped with an ultra-precise and extremely rigid DTD® spindle. This spindle is integrated into a diamond bearing system (Dura Turn Diamond® bearing). This ultra-rigid and virtually indestructible bearing creates ideal conditions for outstanding sound reproduction and establishes a new standard in terms of maintenance-free operation, low noise and durability, backed by a 15-year warranty.

The sub-platter is driven by two belts powered by two AC motors.

Acoustic Signature Hurricane Neo: electronics and drive system

Acoustic Signature developed silent AC motors paired with the ultra-stable multi-voltage external DMC-20 power supply. This system works alongside a digital motor controller integrating Level 1 AVC technology (Automatic Vibration Control), one of the key innovations of the Neo range.

The AC motors feature two coils and 24 poles. To rotate the coils, a 90-degree phase-shifted sine wave signal is applied. As with all synchronous AC motors, manufacturing tolerances prevent perfectly accurate positioning of the poles and coils, which is one of the primary causes of vibration.

This is where AVC technology comes into play. It automatically measures and corrects motor signal phase shifts in real time and entirely automatically. These digitally applied corrections drastically reduce vibrations.

Depending on the drive system and number of motors used, AVC technology is implemented in three configuration levels. Level 3 represents the highest level of efficiency using dedicated software and components. From Level 2 onward, motors are rigorously selected and matched to optimize performance.

The Hurricane Neo uses Level 1 AVC technology with a dual-belt drive system powered by two AC motors. It is also controlled by an electronic oscillator allowing easy switching between 33 rpm and 45 rpm playback speeds.

Acoustic Signature Hurricane Neo: power supply

An external control unit independent from the chassis allows power-on and speed selection. The Hurricane Neo supports playback of both 33 rpm and 45 rpm records.

This control unit connects to the Acoustic Signature DMC-20 power supply via an RJ45 control cable. The DMC-20 itself connects to the mains using an IEC C13 power cable. The power supply features three D-Sub outputs capable of powering up to three motors. In the case of the Hurricane Neo, only two outputs are used since the turntable is equipped with two motors.

Acoustic Signature Hurricane Neo: tonearm choice

Like all Acoustic Signature turntables, the Hurricane Neo is supplied without a tonearm, but it is designed to accommodate up to three tonearms. It is compatible with most 9-inch to 12-inch tonearms.

We recommend pairing the Hurricane with either an Acoustic Signature TA-2000 Neo or an Acoustic Signature TA-5000 Neo, available in both 9-inch and 12-inch versions, with a personal preference for the 12-inch setup.

Acoustic Signature Hurricane Neo: sound performance

From the very first tracks, we were impressed by the outstanding transients that bring remarkable realism to the sound reproduction. The mechanical neutrality of the turntable introduces no sonic signature of its own, allowing the cartridge’s full character and potential to shine through.

The Hurricane Neo enables both the tonearm and cartridge to perform at their highest level, delivering exceptional results in high-end Hi-Fi systems. Resolution is remarkable and harmonic richness is extraordinary.

The Hurricane delivers deep and powerful bass frequencies with uncommon articulation and dynamics. Precision and transparency across the entire frequency range are simply fabulous.

The Acoustic Signature Hurricane Neo is built without compromise, combining stunning design with exceptional playback capabilities. It is an absolutely magnificent turntable, and at its price point it leaves very little room for competition.

Our favorite!