In this day and age, turntables come in all shapes and sizes, but they traditionally sit horizontally to play the vinyl records placed on top of them. Some models, however, embrace a vertical form factor, allowing both the turntable and the record to double as a display piece. Then there is the Ruka TD-1, which takes things a step further by letting users mount the turntable directly onto their wall.
Developed by Ruka Studios, the TD-1 features an aluminium body with several mechanical controls, including switches, buttons, and knobs. According to the company, these allow users to control various aspects of playback, including selecting the record’s rotational speed.
A Different Kind of Decor
Normally, users can place a record on a conventional turntable without worrying about it falling off due to gravity. However, that obviously isn’t the case with vertical turntables, which require a mechanism to keep the record secured in place. For the Ruka TD-1, this comes in the form of a small black magnetic puck that holds the record against the turntable during playback.
In a way, the Ruka TD-1 is positioned as an alternative to those who like unique or interactive decor in their home. However, in the event that there’s no place for it on the wall, users can place it on a specially made floor stand instead.
Ruka Studio explains that mounting the device on the wall is relatively straightforward thanks to the included rubber-coated mounting plate. Once the mount is secured to the wall, the TD-1 can be magnetically attached to it. The company also says the mounting system helps isolate the turntable from unwanted vibrations.
What Makes It Tick
According to the company, the Ruka TD-1 is a belt-driven turntable that features a swappable moving-magnet cartridge. Every purchase of the record player comes with a cartridge, which customers can select before the unit ships. Additionally, the motor has been decoupled from the platter to help minimise unwanted vibrations.
In terms of connectivity, users can pair the device with compatible speakers and other audio devices over Bluetooth. The record player also offers a wired RCA connection for hi-fi systems. Meanwhile, power to the Ruka TD-1 is supplied via a USB-C cable.
Pricing And Availability
The Ruka TD-1 is currently available to reserve through the company’s website for a “founder” price of US$1,399 (~RM5,676). Do note that each unit is made to order, which might explain why first the batch of reserved units will be shipped out to customers in the second half of 2027.
As per the company’s official Instagram post, the first production run will be limited to 500 units. At the time of writing, it is unclear if the company plans to produce more units after the initial run. While the official website states that shipping is free within the US, it does not currently specify whether the TD-1 will be available for international shipping, let alone to Malaysia.
(Source: Ruka Studios [1], [2], [3], Yanko Design)
