Japanese analogue specialist TechDAS has introduced the Air Force IV, a new high-end turntable that brings a range of the company’s flagship technologies into a more compact and comparatively accessible model.
Designed and manufactured in Japan, the Air Force IV builds on TechDAS’s established “air” technology platform, using a high-pressure air bearing system to float a heavyweight, one-piece aluminium platter. This approach isolates the platter from vibration, enabling ultra-stable, frictionless rotation, while a vacuum hold-down system clamps vinyl records perfectly flat to the surface.
The belt-driven design incorporates an external 2-phase, 4-pole AC synchronous motor housed in a separate unit to reduce vibration and improve signal-to-noise performance. A digitally controlled power supply ensures precise rotational accuracy at both 33.3 and 45rpm, with wow and flutter specified at below 0.03%. The turntable features a precision-machined one-piece aluminium chassis and platter, contributing to a total system weight of 34.3kg.
Despite its relatively compact footprint, the Air Force IV supports up to three tonearms, allowing users to configure multiple cartridges for different playback characteristics. Optional tonearm bases are available, while compatible tonearm options include models from Reed and TechDAS’s own Air Force 10 tonearm. Moving-coil cartridges from Analog Relax are also positioned as suitable partners.
Within the TechDAS range, the Air Force IV sits above the Air Force V Premium and below models including the Air Force III Premium, Air Force One and the flagship Air Force Zero. It incorporates features derived from these higher-tier designs, including a precision-machined one-piece platter, advanced damping and suspension systems, and a separated motor assembly.
Additional engineering details include a flat polyester drive belt, specialised damping feet to minimise external vibration and a tapered spindle designed to stabilise off-centre records. The platter is topped with a thin damping and antistatic mat to protect vinyl during playback.
According to TechDAS, the combination of air bearing isolation, vacuum clamping and high-mass construction enables the Air Force IV to deliver improved dynamics, extended frequency response and a notably low noise floor, positioning it as a high-performance solution for vinyl enthusiasts seeking reference-level analogue playback.
First previewed at the High End Munich, the Air Force IV is now available in the UK through Absolute Sounds, with a retail price of £19,998 including VAT.