ELAC Miracord 50 Turntable Instruction Manual

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the ELAC Miracord 50 Turntable. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your new turntable. Please read these instructions carefully before use to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your device.

Important Safety Instructions

• Read all instructions before operating the turntable.
• Keep this manual for future reference.
• Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.
• Do not block any ventilation openings.
• Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
• Unplug the unit during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
• Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

Package Contents

Carefully unpack all components and ensure the following items are present:

• ELAC Miracord 50 Turntable Unit
• Dust Cover
• Platter
• Drive Belt
• Counterweight
• Headshell with pre-mounted Moving Magnet (MM) Cartridge
• Power Adapter
• RCA Audio Cable
• User Manual (this document)

Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the main components of your Miracord 50 turntable.

Figure 1: The ELAC Miracord 50 Turntable with its protective dust cover.

Figure 2: Top view of the ELAC Miracord 50 Turntable, showing the platter, tonearm, and controls.

• Platter: Supports the record during playback.
• Tonearm: Holds the cartridge and stylus, tracking the record grooves.
• Headshell: Detachable part of the tonearm where the cartridge is mounted.
• Cartridge & Stylus: Reads the audio information from the record.
• Counterweight: Balances the tonearm and sets tracking force.
• Anti-skate Dial: Compensates for inward force on the tonearm.
• Speed Selector: Changes playback speed (33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM).
• Power/Start/Stop Button: Controls power and platter rotation.
• Dust Cover: Protects the turntable from dust.

Figure 3: Rear panel connections, including RCA outputs, ground terminal, phono EQ switch, and power input.

• RCA Output Jacks (L/R): Connect to your amplifier or receiver.
• Ground Terminal: Connect to your amplifier's ground terminal if hum occurs.
• PHONO EQ Switch (THRU/ON): Selects whether the built-in phono preamplifier is active.
• DC 12V Input: Connect the power adapter here.

Setup

1. Placement

Place the turntable on a stable, level surface away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and strong vibrations. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit.

2. Platter and Belt Installation

1. Carefully place the main platter onto the spindle.
2. Locate the drive belt. Gently stretch the belt around the inner rim of the platter and then around the motor pulley. Ensure the belt is not twisted.

3. Tonearm Balance and Tracking Force Adjustment

Figure 4: Detail of the tonearm, showing the counterweight and anti-skate mechanism.

1. Remove the stylus protector from the cartridge.
2. Gently release the tonearm from its rest.
3. Screw the counterweight onto the rear of the tonearm. Adjust it until the tonearm floats freely and is perfectly balanced horizontally.
4. Once balanced, hold the counterweight steady and rotate the numbered ring to '0' (zero) at the top.
5. Rotate the entire counterweight (not just the ring) counter-clockwise to the recommended tracking force for the pre-mounted cartridge. Refer to the cartridge manufacturer's specifications, typically 1.8 to 2.2 grams for MM cartridges.

4. Anti-Skate Adjustment

Set the anti-skate dial to match the tracking force you set in the previous step. For example, if tracking force is 2 grams, set anti-skate to '2'.

5. Audio Connection

The Miracord 50 features a built-in, defeatable phono preamplifier. This allows direct connection to an amplifier's line-level input (AUX, CD, TAPE) or to a dedicated phono input.

• Using the built-in phono preamp: Set the PHONO EQ switch on the rear panel to ON. Connect the RCA cables from the turntable's output jacks to a line-level input on your amplifier (e.g., AUX, CD).
• Using an external phono preamp or amplifier with phono input: Set the PHONO EQ switch on the rear panel to THRU. Connect the RCA cables from the turntable's output jacks to your external phono preamp or the PHONO input on your amplifier. Connect the ground wire from the turntable to the ground terminal on your amplifier/preamp to reduce hum.

6. Power Connection

Connect the supplied power adapter to the DC 12V input on the rear of the turntable, then plug the adapter into a wall outlet.

Operating Instructions

1. Playing a Record

1. Place a record on the platter.
2. Select the correct playback speed (33 1/3, 45, or 78 RPM) using the speed selector knob.
3. Press the Power/Start/Stop button to start the platter rotation.
4. Gently lift the tonearm using the cueing lever.
5. Position the tonearm over the desired starting groove of the record.
6. Slowly lower the cueing lever to gently place the stylus onto the record.

2. Stopping Playback

1. At the end of the record, or when you wish to stop, lift the tonearm using the cueing lever.
2. Return the tonearm to its rest and secure it.
3. Press the Power/Start/Stop button to stop the platter rotation.

Maintenance

1. Cleaning the Stylus

A clean stylus is crucial for optimal sound quality and record longevity. Use a soft brush designed for stylus cleaning, brushing gently from back to front (in the direction of play). Never brush from side to side.

2. Cleaning the Turntable

Wipe the turntable chassis and platter with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. For stubborn marks, a slightly damp cloth can be used, but ensure no moisture enters the unit. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.

3. Dust Cover Care

Clean the dust cover with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or dry cloths, which can scratch the surface.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official ELAC website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

ELAC Official Website: www.elac.com