Bang & Olufsen BeoLab RX Turntable (1972)
The Bang & Olufsen BeoLab RX series came out in 1972. It was part of B&O's high-fidelity system components of the 1970s, and the RX turntables paired the engineering with a clean, minimalist Danish design.
The series came in several variants - the RX, RX2, and RX3. They were reportedly designed to work with other B&O components such as the BeoSystem 2500 and BeoCom 5000. Audiophiles and collectors still regard the RX series highly for its precision mechanics, low noise, and use of tangential tracking technology.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Model | BeoLab RX Series (RX, RX2, RX3) |
| Year of Production | 1972–1982 |
| Turntable Type | Belt-drive, suspended sub-chassis |
| Tonearm Type | Reportedly pivoted (RX), tangential/linear (RX2) |
| Drive System | AC synchronous motor with belt drive |
| Speeds | 33⅓ and 45 RPM |
| Wow and Flutter | < 0.05% (weighted) – exceptionally low |
| Tonearm Return | Automatic lift and return |
| Cartridge | B&O MMC (Moving Magnet Compact) series – proprietary |
| Output Level | ~4 mV (dependent on cartridge) |
| Recommended Load | 47 kΩ impedance, 200–400 pF capacitance |
| Power Requirements | Mains-powered (110–240V via internal transformer) – no amplification |
| Dimensions | 450 × 350 × 120 mm (with dust cover) |
| Weight | ~12 kg (varies by model) |
| Dust Cover | Hinged acrylic cover included |
Historical Context
The BeoLab RX appeared in a golden era of high-fidelity audio, when Bang & Olufsen was working at the line between technology and design. It has clean lines, brushed aluminum accents, and simple operation, all in the Scandinavian modernist style.
The big innovation was the optional tangential tonearm on the RX2 model. A conventional pivoted arm swings the cartridge in an arc. This linear-tracking arm moved the cartridge in a straight line across the record, which eliminated tracking error and distortion. It was not the first tangential arm, but B&O brought this high-end feature into the consumer market, and it proved reliable.
The RX series was often paired with B&O's proprietary loudspeakers and control units, as part of a modular audio system. Its automatic functions, such as tonearm return and speed selection, were considered cutting-edge at the time. The aim was ease of use without giving up performance.
Sound Signature
The BeoLab RX has a clean, neutral, and highly detailed sound. It has a rigid construction, a low-resonance chassis, and precision-engineered MMC cartridges, and it reproduces music with exceptional clarity and minimal coloration.
- Bass: Tight and well-controlled, with excellent pitch definition
- Midrange: Transparent and natural, ideal for vocal and acoustic recordings
- Treble: Smooth and extended, without harshness
- Imaging: Precise stereo separation, enhanced by accurate tracking (especially on RX2)
B&O's proprietary MMC cartridges add to this performance, with high compliance and low distortion. The catch today is that they are proprietary, and the original units are no longer in production.
Maintenance and Tips
Because of its age, proper maintenance is essential to keep the BeoLab RX performing and lasting:
Common Issues & Solutions
- Belt Degradation: The rubber belt can dry out or stretch over time. Replace with a high-quality OEM or compatible silicone belt every 10–15 years.
- Tonearm Mechanism: The automatic lift and return system relies on delicate gears and linkages. If sluggish or noisy, disassembly and lubrication by a qualified technician are recommended.
- MMC Cartridges: Original B&O MMC cartridges are obsolete. While some can be retipped by specialist services, alternatives include adapting modern cartridges (with alignment adjustments) or sourcing NOS (New Old Stock) units.
- Capacitors and Wiring: Internal power supply units (for motor control) may contain aging capacitors. Consider a safety check and recapping if the unit has been stored for decades.
- Dust Cover: Clean with a microfiber cloth and non-abrasive cleaner. Avoid ammonia-based products that can cloud acrylic.
Usage Tips
- Always use a record weight or clamp to improve stability and reduce resonance (especially on warped records).
- Store the turntable in a dry, dust-free environment with the cover closed.
- Use a quality phono preamp with appropriate loading for MMC cartridges (47kΩ input impedance).
- For RX2 models, ensure the linear tracking mechanism is free of obstructions and properly calibrated.
Collectibility and Market Value
The BeoLab RX series holds a collectibility rating of 7/10, driven by its design, its engineering pedigree, and its link to B&O's golden era. The RX2, with its tangential arm, draws the most interest among audiophiles.
| Condition | Estimated Value (USD) |
| Excellent (fully serviced, original parts) | Reportedly $400–$600 |
| Good (functional, minor wear) | Reportedly $250–$400 |
| Poor (needs restoration) | Reportedly $150–$250 |
Units with original packaging, manuals, and accessories may fetch premiums from collectors.
Conclusion
The Bang & Olufsen BeoLab RX is a turntable with a place in audio history. Its engineering was groundbreaking and its design followed B&O's philosophy of form following function. Age and proprietary parts make maintenance a challenge, but a well-cared-for RX delivers listening pleasure that rivals many modern turntables.
For vintage audio enthusiasts, interior designers, or fans of Scandinavian design, the RX series is a worthy addition to a collection or listening room.
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