Kenwood KD-291R

A belt-drive, semi-automatic turntable with automatic return and VM-type cartridge compatibility

Overview

The Kenwood KD-291R is a belt-drive, semi-automatic turntable with automatic return. It runs on a dc servo motor and takes VM-type cartridges such as the V-74 or V-76. Stylus options are the N-74 or N-76 with 0.6 mil diamond. It weighs 2.9 kg. The spec lists one dimension of 390 mm with no label, so it is likely the width or the depth.

Specifications

Drive system	belt drive
Motor	dc servo motor
Cartridge Type	VM type (V-74 or V-76)
Stylus	N-74 with 0.6 mil diamond or N-76 with 0.6 mil diamond
Weight	2.9kg
Dimensions	390mm
Production years	1991 (per YouTube); other sources suggest 1991–2001 or 1977–1980, conflicting

Design

The drive is a belt with a dc servo motor, and the operation is semi-automatic with automatic return. It accepts VM-type cartridges. The tonearm assembly is replaceable, part number J91-0399-08.

Market

Tested, working KD-291R units have sold used for around $90. Some are listed for parts or repair. At least one owner reported a failure over time, but no specific failure modes are documented.