Scholars say that each era has its own unique spirit or cultural climate that sets it apart from other times.

Marantz enthusiasts point to the 1970s as one of the most important decades in our heritage, and there’s good reason why: Relentless innovation and a commitment to continually pushing the boundaries.

For example, take the late 1970s. In a period known for velour and polyester excesses, when vinyl and reel-to-reel were the only options for sound enthusiasts, a team of inspired designers and engineers loosened their thick ties and got to work on a direct-drive turntable modern enough to challenge the market leaders and the decade’s zeitgeist.

The result? The masterfully crafted Marantz Model TT1000.

Prototypes for the turntable were presented in the fall of 1979 at different audio shows in Japan and quickly caught people’s attention.

With plastics ruling the day, the Model TT1000 featured a glass build that set it apart on the world stage. This thick glass design, along with a list of well-thought-out features and superior audio performance, puts this turntable on the must-have list for audiophile collectors and design lovers alike.

Described by one reviewer as the “epitome of Japanese turntable excellence,” the turntable plinth is built on a heavy 38mm-thick laminate of dual 15mm glass plates sandwiching an 8mm aluminum alloy interlayer.

In another unique design touch, the TT1000 came without an arm and cartridge, allowing buyers to personalize their music listening experiences by adding on select pieces.

The power source for the turntable’s motor is housed separately in a large wood and metal cabinet next to the unit to eliminate hum.

Instead of rubber, the turntable features a 5mm/.20-inch slip mat. Adding even more stability, the TT1000 has a pneumatic suspension in the feet to eliminate skipping. Its motor features electromechanical braking, allowing users to change playing speeds quickly without waiting for the record to stop spinning.

If you were to travel back in time to the early 1980s and tour Hollywood mansions or the finest NY penthouses, you would likely find a TT1000 in many audio systems.

Despite having many prestigious owners and fans, the TT1000 wasn’t a huge commercial success. As the years passed, more and more audiophiles discovered the turntable’s rich, musical sound.

Described as “robust, forceful, and reassuring,” this sound, combined with its iconic design, makes the TT1000 so beloved by collectors around the globe.

With its floating motor, external belt drive, audiophile-quality sound, and breathtakingly minimalistic design, the modern Marantz TT-15S1 is a worthy successor to the TT1000.

We invite you to learn more about the majestic TT-15S1.