Korg Joins the Turntable Trend with Portable Options for Archiving, DJing, and More.
The famous synthesizer manufacturer ventures into the world of turntables, which run on AA batteries and feature built-in speakers.
Korg, primarily known for its synthesizers and production tools, has made an unexpected turn by announcing a new line of turntables called Handytraxx, in anticipation of NAMM 2025. Unlike the typical turntables usually found on shelves, these models are portable, ideal for listening, archiving, and DJing music. Some of them incorporate the company’s Nutube vacuum tubes.
The designation "Handytraxx" pays homage to the original Handy Trax by Vestax. Korg has collaborated with Toshihide Nakama, former president of Vestax and co-creator of the original model, in the development of a new type of turntable. Unfortunately, Nakama passed away in 2023 during this process; however, Korg decided to continue blending its digital and audio technology with the legacy of Handy Trax.
Among the new models, the Handytraxx Play stands out, aimed at DJs and priced at $400. This turntable, which was briefly showcased at NAMM the previous year, is designed for scratching and features a fader designed by Nakama, as well as three types of filters, playback control, and a built-in audio looper. Additionally, its tonearm is designed to minimize needle skipping, and its belt drive motor includes digital rotation correction. The Play is compatible with ceramic and MM cartridges, although some soldering is required for the swap.
For those more dedicated to listening than scratching, the Handytraxx Tube, priced at $800, promises to combine modern convenience with analog charm. This model utilizes the small Nutube vacuum tube to enhance its phono amplifier, providing warmth to the overall sound. Its main components include a cast aluminum platter and a balanced tonearm, along with bass and treble controls on top. It also allows for conversion to digital files via a USB connection to a computer.
There are two versions of the Handytraxx Tube, one being the Handytraxx Tube J, which is offered at $1,200. This model is nearly identical to the Tube but is equipped with a JICO Clipper MM cartridge that optimizes vibration playback, providing an immersive Hi-Fi audio experience.
Finally, the Handytraxx 1bit, the flagship model of this new series, costs $1,000 and combines high-quality playback with 5.6 MHz/1-bit recording, ideal for archivists. It works with Korg's high-resolution audio conversion software, AudioGate 4, and supports both recording and playback in DSD and PCM formats. This model comes with a JICO J44A MM cartridge and also includes the Nutube.
Each turntable in the Handytraxx series is portable thanks to its integrated 2.5-watt speakers, which can be powered by wall adapters or via six AA batteries for mobile use. All models feature suitable inputs and outputs for a stationary setup, as well as a power switch for the speakers.
The Handytraxx Play, Tube, and 1bit models are expected to arrive in May, while the Tube J will be available in June. Currently, all of them can be preordered.