Korg handytraxx tube Portable Record Player

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Korg handytraxx tube Portable Record Player. To take full advantage of this device's functionality and ensure years of trouble-free operation, please read this Owner's Manual carefully before use.

Conventions in this manual

Specifications and appearance of this product are subject to change without notice. The product shapes and display content illustrated in this manual may differ somewhat from the actual product.

Symbols used in this manual:

• ⚠ Indicates an explanation you should heed to ensure that you can correctly utilize the capabilities or functionality of this unit.
• Note: Indicates an explanation that requires your attention.
• Tip: Indicates supplementary information that is useful to know.

All product names and company names are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Main Features

Easily enjoy playing records without needing a lot of space

• Compact and lightweight design, with a handle for easy carrying.
• Can be powered by six AA batteries or the AC adapter.
• Includes a built-in phono equalizer and stereo speakers.

A full-fledged record player

• Features a statically balanced universal straight arm with a replaceable cartridge.
• Sturdy aluminum die-cast platter for stable turntable rotation.
• Microcomputer-controlled digital rotation correction maintains accurate speed.

Uses a JICO cartridge

The unit uses an MM cartridge made by JICO (Nippon Precision Jewel Industry Co., Ltd.), known for its quality and authentic sound.

Phono equalizer with Nutube

A Nutube vacuum tube in the phono equalizer preamp adds rich harmonics for a lustrous sound. A dedicated knob allows adjustment of this effect.

Built-in USB audio interface

Allows digital recording of record audio to a computer in PCM format (44.1/48 kHz, 16-bit).

About the Nutube

Nutube is a new vacuum tube developed by KORG INC. and Noritake Itron Corporation, utilizing technology from vacuum fluorescent displays. It functions as a triode tube, generating rich harmonic characteristics similar to conventional vacuum tubes. High-frequency noise may occur if the unit receives a strong impact, but this is not a malfunction.

About JICO (Nippon Precision Jewel Industry Co., Ltd.)

JICO is a Japanese company renowned for high-quality record needles and cartridges, recognized globally for their dedication to analog sound and precision manufacturing.

About the included cartridge

Different models of the handytraxx tube may be fitted with different cartridges. Refer to the specific cartridge's owner's manual for more details.

Part Names

Top Panel

Diagram shows the top view of the handytraxx tube with numbered parts:

• 1. Platter
• 2. Record mat
• 3. Spindle
• 4. EP adapter
• 5. Counterweight
• 6. Power indicator
• 7. Nutube
• 8. USB indicator
• 9. RPM switch
• 10. TUBE knob
• 11. TONE knobs (BASS, TREBLE)
• 12. MAIN VOLUME knob
• 13. STOP/START switch
• 14. Headshell
• 15. Tonearm lock
• 16. Tonearm
• 17. Speakers

Side Panel

Diagram shows the side view of the handytraxx tube with numbered ports and controls:

• 1. Headphones jack (3.5 mm stereo mini-phone jack, unbalanced): For connecting headphones.
• 2. OUTPUT switch: Set to "LINE" for line input audio equipment or "PHONO" for phono input audio amps.
• 3. OUTPUT jacks (RCA pin jacks): For connecting to powered monitor speakers or stereo amps.
• 4. SPEAKER switch: Set to "ON" to play audio through built-in speakers, "OFF" to disable them.
• 5. USB port (USB type-B): For connecting to a computer for recording.
• 6. DC 5V IN power supply port (USB type-C): For connecting the AC adapter.
• 7. Power button: Long-press to turn the unit on or off.

Getting Ready

Assembly

Some assembly is required before first use. The parts are:

• 1. Main unit
• 2. Head shell (with cartridge attached)
• 3. Tonearm
• 4. Counterweight
• 5. Record mat
• 6. Platter
• 7. Belt
• 8. EP adapter

⚠ Do not connect the AC adapter until assembly is complete.

How to Assemble

1. Mount the platter onto the spindle.
2. Attach the belt to the motor pulley. Align the platter opening with the motor pulley and attach the belt, ensuring it is not twisted. Remove the red ribbon used for installation.
3. Check that the cartridge is attached and secure the headshell to the tonearm.
4. Attach the counterweight onto the tonearm.
5. Place the record mat onto the platter.

Using the Dust Cover

To attach: Insert the tabs on the rear side of the dust cover into the grooves on the rear side of the top panel, then lower the cover. Slide the front buckles to lock it.

To remove: Slide the buckles to unlock, tip the front cover back, and remove the tabs from the grooves.

Setting Up the Unit

• Place the handytraxx tube on a flat surface.
• Avoid placing it next to speakers or other equipment that might cause vibrations or sound pressure interference.
• Keep away from radios to prevent wireless electrostatic interference.
• Avoid placing near wireless devices or devices emitting strong radio waves (like cellphones) to prevent radio wave interference and noise.

Moving/Carrying the handytraxx tube

• When moving the unit, attach the platter stopper to the spindle and keep the unit level.
• Before carrying, detach the platter, counterweight, and head shell (with cartridge) and pack them separately.

Adjusting the Needle Pressure

1. Turn the counterweight to level the tonearm horizontally.
2. Spin the gauge ring on the counterweight and align it to 0.
3. Turn the counterweight counterclockwise to set the desired needle pressure. For the included cartridge, set it between 1.5-3.0 grams.

Assembling the AC Adapter

Attaching the AC adapter plug

Attach the appropriate plug for your outlet to the AC adapter. Insert the plug, aligning the groove, and slide until it clicks securely.

Removing the exchangeable plug from the AC adapter

While pressing the lock button, slide the exchangeable plug. It can be removed once it stops sliding.

Connections

Connecting the AC adapter

Connect the included power adapter to the DC 5V IN (USB type-C) port and then plug it into an AC outlet. Use only the included AC adapter to avoid malfunction. Ensure your AC outlet voltage is correct.

Connecting the audio cables

Connect headphones to the headphones jack for private listening. The audio output is the same as the speakers.

Use the OUTPUT jacks (RCA) to connect to an audio amp or powered speakers. Set the OUTPUT switch to "LINE" for line input or "PHONO" for phono input on your audio equipment.

Connecting to a computer

Use a USB cable to connect the unit to your computer for recording. Audio recording software, such as the freeware Audacity, can convert record playback into digital audio files for playback on digital devices.

Note: Recording software is not included; freeware or commercial software can be used.

*Audacity is a registered trademark of Dominic Mazzoni. http://www.audacityteam.org

Inserting the Batteries

Remove the battery compartment cover screw from the bottom, open the cover, and insert batteries, observing correct polarity. If the power indicator blinks during battery operation, the batteries need replacement.

* Batteries are not included and must be purchased separately.

⚠ Turn off the power before replacing batteries. Remove depleted batteries promptly to prevent leakage and potential product failure. Remove batteries if the unit will not be used for an extended period. Do not mix new and used batteries or different battery types. The unit operates on AC power when the adapter is connected, even if batteries are installed.

Operation

Playing a Record

1. Turn the power on by holding the power button; the power indicator will light up. To turn off, hold the power button again.
2. Place the record onto the turntable, ensuring the spindle goes through the record's hole. For EP records, use the included EP adapter.
3. Set the playback speed using the RPM switch according to the record type.
4. Turn the built-in speakers on or off using the SPEAKER switch. Alternatively, listen via headphones or OUTPUT jacks.
5. Unlock the tonearm from the armrest.
6. Slide the STOP/START switch to START to begin turntable rotation.
7. Carefully place the needle onto the record using the finger lift on the headshell.
8. Adjust the volume using the MAIN VOLUME knob. Clockwise increases volume. This knob controls output for speakers, headphones, and OUTPUT jacks.

Note: When using OUTPUT jacks, set the OUTPUT switch to match the connected device.

Auto power-off function

The handytraxx tube automatically turns off after 20 minutes of inactivity if the turntable is stopped.

Adjusting the Tone

Adjusting the TONE knobs

Use the BASS and TREBLE knobs to adjust the tone. Turn clockwise to increase frequencies (bass or treble) and counterclockwise to decrease them.

Adjusting the TUBE effect

Use the TUBE knob to adjust the harmonic effect of the Nutube vacuum tube. Turn clockwise to increase the effect and counterclockwise to decrease it.

Connecting to a Computer

Connecting a USB cable

Use a USB cable to connect the unit to your computer for recording. Audio recording software, such as the freeware Audacity, can convert record playback into digital audio files for playback on digital devices.

Note: Recording software is not included; freeware or commercial software can be used.

*Audacity is a registered trademark of Dominic Mazzoni. http://www.audacityteam.org

Appendices

Replacing the cartridge and needle

Care and maintenance of the cartridge needle tip

Use a cleaning brush to remove dust from the needle tip, brushing from the base to the tip.

Cartridge and needle replacement

• Worn needle tips can degrade sound quality and damage records.
• Always turn off the power before replacing parts.
• Contact Korg customer service for cartridge or needle replacement.

Troubleshooting

Power does not turn on

• Check if the AC adapter is plugged into the outlet.
• If using batteries, they may be low. Replace batteries if the power indicator blinks.

The platter is not rotating

• Ensure the belt is correctly attached to the platter and motor pulley.
• If the belt is broken, replace it with a new one.

No sound, volume is too low or distorts, or is too loud

• Check input settings on your amp or connected equipment.
• Ensure the MASTER VOLUME is not set to minimum.
• Verify the SPEAKER switch is set to "ON" for sound from the built-in speaker.
• Check that the needle is correctly installed on the cartridge.
• Ensure the OUTPUT switch is set correctly ("LINE" for line input, "PHONO" for phono input). Incorrect settings can cause low volume or distortion.
• Clean the cartridge needle with a brush if dust is present.
• Check for needle damage and replace if necessary.

Needle skips when playing

• Check if the record is warped or scratched.
• Ensure the unit is on a stable surface.
• Set the needle pressure correctly.
• Clean the cartridge needle if dust is present.
• Check for needle damage and replace if necessary.

Feedback is heard

• Reduce vibrations from the floor, walls, or nearby speakers. Place the unit on a surface less prone to vibration.
• Ensure the unit is on a stable surface.
• Avoid setting BASS, TREBLE, and MAIN VOLUME knobs to maximum simultaneously, as this can cause vibration and feedback.
• Some records may play loudly, causing feedback. Reduce the volume if this occurs.

Playback noise heard when playing a record

• Clean the cartridge needle if dust is present.
• Check if the record is scratched.

The record plays back too fast or slow

• Ensure the RPM switch is set correctly for the record being played.

The playback speed slows down, or the turntable does not rotate at a constant speed

• The belt may be stretched. Replace the belt with a new one.

Sound from the speaker is distorted

Reduce the volume if it is too loud. Adjust BASS, TREBLE, and MAIN VOLUME knobs.

Specifications

Drive system

Belt-driven (with digital rotation correction)

Drive motor

DC servo motor

RPM

33-1/3, 45, or 78 revolutions per minute

Platter

Aluminum die-cast

Wow/flutter

< 0.15% (WTD) at 3 kHz

S/N (signal-to-noise) ratio

> 60 dB, DIN-B (when TUBE knob is set to minimum)

Cartridge model

MM stereo cartridge

* See the website below for information on the cartridge, such as needle pressure: https://www.jico-stylus.com/2024/12/handytraxx/

Effective length of tonearm

190 mm (distance from the tonearm center to the needle tip)

Output level

PHONO: 420-750 mV at 1 kHz (with TUBE knob set to minimum)

LINE: +14.75 dBu (4.24 Vrms), THD 1% or less

Headphones: 70mW (1.5 Vrms) @ 32 Ω, THD 1% or less

Speakers: 2.5 W @ 4 Ω x 2, THD 1% or less

PHONO preamp

Gain: 38 dB (standard value)

Equalizer characteristics: RIAA

Tone controls

BASS knob: 130 Hz, ±8 dB

TREBLE knob: 5.5 kHz, ±8 dB

TUBE control

GAIN: 0-6 dB

USB audio

Output: 2 ch, PCM 44.1 kHz/48 kHz 16-bit, USB 2.0 (Full Speed)

Power supply

AC adapter, six AA batteries (alkaline or nickel-metal hydride)

Battery life

Approx. 11 hours (speakers ON, volume centered, using alkaline batteries). Battery life varies with volume and speaker usage.

Dimensions (W x D x H)

370 x 286 x 118 mm / 14.57″ x 11.26″ x 4.65″ (including extensions and dust cover)

Weight

2.8 kg / 6.17 lb (including dust cover, excluding batteries)

Included items

Quick Start Guide, AC adapter (USB Type-C cable attached), AC adapter exchangeable plugs (5 types), dust cover, platter, belt, record mat, EP adapter, headshell, cartridge (pre-installed), counterweight, platter securing cap.

* Specifications and appearance are subject to change without notice for improvement.