The Gadhouse HENRY Turntable is a comprehensive audio system designed for vinyl playback and Bluetooth audio streaming, complete with integrated speakers. This user manual provides detailed instructions for its setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of the device.
Function Description
The HENRY Turntable serves as a versatile audio hub, primarily for playing vinyl records at both 33 1/3 and 45 RPM speeds. It features a belt-driven system for smooth and consistent platter rotation. Beyond vinyl playback, the unit incorporates a Bluetooth receiver function, allowing users to stream music wirelessly from their compatible audio devices. For external audio integration, the turntable offers RCA output jacks that can function as either Phono or Line outputs, providing flexibility for connection to various stereo systems or active speakers. Additionally, it includes a USB-Encoding feature, enabling users to digitize their vinyl collection. The system comes with two passive speakers, designed to deliver amplified, speaker-level signals from the turntable's output terminals.
Usage Features
Initial Setup and Assembly:
The setup process begins by placing the turntable on a stable, level, and vibration-free surface. Users need to install the turntable lid onto its hinges and remove the tie-wrap securing the tonearm. The drive belt is then placed around the Turntable Hub and fitted onto the motor pulley using a provided belt hook. The turntable platter is positioned through the spindle, followed by the slip mat. A crucial step involves sliding the Tonearm Counterweight onto the rear shaft of the tonearm and twisting it lightly. This counterweight is then adjusted to set the proper stylus pressure, a delicate process requiring the tonearm to balance out when moved up or down. Finally, the power adaptor is connected to the unit's Power Jack. It is emphasized not to plug the AC power adaptor into a power outlet until all assembly is complete and connections are verified.
Cartridge Down Force Adjustment:
The counterweight, suitable for cartridges weighing between 3.0-6.0g, is gently pushed and turned onto the tonearm. After removing the cartridge protection cap and lowering the tonearm lift, the cartridge is positioned between the tonearm rest and platter. The counterweight is then carefully rotated until the tonearm balances out, indicating the correct stylus pressure. Once balanced, the counterweight is held without moving, and the Down force Scale ring is rotated until its zero aligns with the black line on the rear of the tonearm. Further fine-tuning involves rotating the counterweight counter-clockwise to adjust the down force according to the cartridge manufacturer's recommendations, with each mark on the scale representing 0.05g of down force. The recommended down force for the factory-fitted cartridge is 3.5±0.5g.
Anti-Skate Force Adjustment:
To set the anti-skating force, the loop of the anti-skating weight's thread is slipped over the 3rd groove of the stick for the factory-fitted cartridge, and the thread is fed through the loop of the wire hanger. The anti-skating force must be adjusted to correspond with the tracking force, with specific groove positions recommended for different tracking force ranges (e.g., 1st groove for 5-10 mN, 2nd for 10-15 mN, 3rd for 15-20 mN, and 4th for 20mN and bigger).
Speaker Connection:
The system's spring clip speaker terminals deliver amplified, speaker-level signals. The Red plug connects to the Right channel, and the White plug connects to the Left channel of the passive speakers.
Turntable Function (LP):
To play a record, the Power Switch is pressed to turn on the unit. The MODE button is then pressed to select turntable mode, indicated by a red light. The record is placed on the turntable, using the 45 RPM Adapter if necessary. The stylus protector is removed from the stylus assembly, and the tonearm clip is opened. Pressing the PLAY / STOP button initiates platter rotation. The tonearm is gently lifted from its rest using the Tonearm Lift Lever and moved over the desired starting point on the record. Lowering the Tonearm Lift Lever allows the tonearm to descend slowly onto the record, beginning playback. To suspend playback or when the record finishes, the Tonearm Lift Lever is used to raise the tonearm, which is then returned to its rest. Pressing the PLAY / STOP button again stops the platter.
Bluetooth Receiver Function (BT):
To use the Bluetooth function, the Power Switch is turned on, and the MODE button is pressed to select Bluetooth mode, indicated by a blue light and an activation sound. Users then enable Bluetooth on their audio device, search for "HENRY," and pair. A "Connected" confirmation sound indicates successful pairing, after which music can be streamed from the device to the turntable.
Stereo System Output (RCA Jacks):
The RCA Jacks serve as both Phono and Line outputs, determined by the Phono/Line Switch. When set to LINE, they output analog line-level signals suitable for active speakers or a stereo system's line input. When set to PHONO, they should be connected to a phono pre-amplifier or the phono input of a stereo system. Caution is advised regarding incorrect switch settings, as they can lead to distorted sound or very low volume. RCA Jacks are not designed for direct connection to passive/unpowered speakers.
USB-Encoding:
For digitizing vinyl, users are directed to a tutorial page on the Gadhouse website (www.gadhouse.com/tutorial) or via a QR code, which provides instructions for both macOS and Windows operating systems.
Maintenance Features
General Maintenance:
The HENRY turntable requires minimal maintenance. Dust should be removed with a slightly damp antistatic cloth, avoiding dry cloths that can generate static electricity. Antistatic cleaning agents can be used sparingly. It is recommended to install the needle cover before any cleaning or maintenance to prevent damage. If the turntable is not used for extended periods, the drive belt should be removed to prevent unequal stretching. Always disconnect the record player from the power supply before maintenance.
Stylus Care:
Users are advised not to touch the stylus tip with their fingers or bump it against the turntable mat or record edge. The stylus should be cleaned frequently with a soft brush, moving from back to front only.
Record Care:
Records should be cleaned with a record cleaning brush and solution to remove dust or grease before playing.
Turntable Cleaning:
The turntable lid and cabinet can be cleaned with a slightly damped microfiber cloth. Harsh chemicals, alcohol, or benzene should not be used, as they can damage the paint and finish.
Cartridge Replacement:
Before replacing the cartridge, the stylus protector should be reinstalled. The wire leads are carefully removed from the original cartridge, and the two screws securing the cartridge to the headshell are loosened, allowing the original cartridge to be removed. The new cartridge is then mounted to the headshell and lightly tightened. The wire leads are connected to the new cartridge's terminals according to the specified color code (White to L+, Black to L-, Red to R+, Black to R-). The cartridge's position is then adjusted using the included paper cartridge alignment protractor, ensuring the stylus tracks the grooves perfectly at 130mm and 250mm points. Once aligned, the screws are completely tightened. For stylus replacement, users are directed to purchase a genuine Moving Magnet Cartridge (ATN3600L Dual) from the Gadhouse online store and refer to the tutorial page.