Block PS-100+ black
Overview
The Block PS-100+ perfectly embodies the modern evolution of analog playback by combining advanced technologies with a pragmatic design approach. This belt-drive turntable features a dual-layer sandwich construction, a decoupled external motor, and a magnetic tonearm locking system—hallmarks of technical excellence usually reserved for high-end models.
Equipped with a 9.5-inch Project tonearm and a pre-aligned Ortofon OM5E cartridge, it targets demanding audiophiles seeking reference-level performance without compromising ease of use. Priced around €1600, it stands out as a benchmark choice for accessing very high-quality vinyl playback.
Anti-Vibration Architecture and Precision Engineering
The PS-100+ adopts a multilayer approach to control parasitic vibrations that degrade record playback. Its high-gloss lacquered MDF chassis rests on a dual-layer sandwich construction that effectively absorbs resonances. This technique, commonly found in turntables costing over €2000, is a major asset in this price range.
The 1.5 kg external motor is a particularly astute engineering choice. By distancing this potential source of vibration from the platter and tonearm, Block eliminates a major cause of distortion. The motor drives the platter via a Teflon belt, which naturally filters out micro-mechanical vibrations while ensuring perfectly stable rotation.
The solid aluminum spiked feet complete this anti-vibration system by mechanically decoupling the chassis from its support. These precisely machined spikes concentrate the turntable’s weight on minimal contact points, drastically reducing the transmission of external vibrations.
Playback System and Acoustic Fidelity
The 9.5-inch Project tonearm on the PS-100+ benefits from the established reputation of this Austrian manufacturer specializing in analog playback solutions. With an effective mass of just 11.5 grams and an effective length of 236.2 mm, this tonearm offers an optimal balance between rigidity and lightness for precise groove tracking.
The aluminum tonearm tube and headshell ensure faithful transmission of vibrations picked up by the cartridge to the processing circuits. The traditional 65-gram counterweight adjustment system allows for precise tracking force adjustment, while the anti-skating device ensures optimal tracking even in complex record passages.
The standard Ortofon OM5E cartridge is a well-balanced choice for this price range. This moving magnet cartridge delivers detailed sound with an extended frequency response, while maintaining notable robustness for regular use. Its factory pre-alignment avoids delicate handling during installation.
Practical Innovations and Ease of Use
One of the most appreciated innovations of the PS-100+ lies in its magnetic tonearm locking system. This elegant solution automatically holds the tonearm in its rest position without resorting to the often unsightly and impractical traditional clips. The magnetic system ensures a firm hold while allowing smooth release during use.
Fully automatic speed change between 33.33 and 45 revolutions per minute greatly simplifies daily use. This electronic regulation maintains remarkable stability with wow and flutter limited to ± 0.1%, ensuring music playback without audible fluctuation.
The heavy acrylic glass platter combines the acoustic advantages of substantial mass with the vibrational neutrality of the material. Its perfectly flat surface ensures optimal contact with records, while the supplied felt mat further improves damping of residual vibrations.
Quality Materials and Refined Finishes
Block has favored premium materials for the construction of the PS-100+. The high-gloss lacquered MDF chassis offers not only excellent dimensional stability but also impeccable aesthetic presentation. This finish effectively resists scratches and signs of use while retaining its shine over time.
The precisely machined aluminum sockets reflect the attention to manufacturing detail. These structural elements ensure the rigidity of the whole while contributing to the turntable’s overall aesthetics. The three available finishes—black, white, and gray—allow for harmonious integration into different listening environments.
The thick acrylic glass platter combines acoustic mass and vibrational neutrality. Its transparency adds a modern touch to the whole, while allowing a view of the belt-drive mechanism. This transparent approach contrasts pleasantly with the understated chassis.
Simplified Setup and Commissioning
Block greatly simplifies the setup of the PS-100+ by delivering the turntable factory pre-set. The Ortofon OM5E cartridge is installed, aligned, and adjusted to optimal specifications, thus sparing users delicate handling. This professional approach guarantees optimal performance straight out of the box.
The inclusion of cotton gloves in the packaging reveals the attention paid to installation details. These gloves allow handling of sensitive components without risk of damage or leaving marks. The supplied RCA cable with grounding completes the necessary equipment for immediate connection to an amplifier with a phono input.
The external motor simply requires enough space near the turntable. The drive belt is easy to install, and basic adjustments are accessible without specialized tools. The user manual details installation and routine maintenance procedures.
Upgradability and Customization
Although delivered in an optimized configuration, the PS-100+ retains interesting upgrade possibilities. The Project tonearm accepts various cartridges, allowing users to tailor the sound reproduction to their preferences or upgrade to higher-performance models. The standard mounting system makes these changes easy.
The tracking force and anti-skating adjustments allow performance optimization according to the cartridge used. These adjustments, accessible without disassembly, enable fine-tuning of playback. The adjustable counterweight accommodates cartridges of varying weights, broadening the range of possible upgrades.
The acrylic platter can also be replaced with aftermarket versions in different materials, although the original already offers excellent performance. Likewise, the felt mat can be swapped for cork or rubber alternatives according to acoustic preferences.
Technical Specifications
Performance
- Speeds: 33.33 / 45 rpm
- Speed control: fully automatic
- Wow and flutter: ± 0.1%
- Signal-to-noise ratio: > 65 dB
Construction and Design
- Dual-layer sandwich construction for optimal resonance absorption
- Fully metal spike-shaped feet
- Heavy acrylic glass platter
- Separate decoupled motor with Teflon drive belt
Tonearm
- 24.1 cm (9.5 inch) ProJect tonearm
- Effective tonearm mass: 11.5 g
- Effective tonearm length: 236.2 mm
Power Supply
- Power consumption: 5.5 W
- External power input: 100 - 240 V AC at 50 - 60 Hz
- External power output: 18 V DC at 1.33 A
Dimensions and Weight
- Dimensions (W × H × D): 450 × 180 × 375 mm (with motor)
- Weight: 12.5 kg
Included Accessories
- Felt mat
- RCA connection cable with ground
- Tonearm
- Drive belt
- Tonearm counterweight
- Anti-skating weight
- 45 rpm adapter
- External motor
- Cotton gloves
General Information
- Cartridge: Ortofon OM 5E (supplied as standard)
- RCA connection cable with ground
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between an external and an integrated motor?
The external motor eliminates mechanical vibrations that can affect playback by physically isolating this source of disturbance from the platter and tonearm. This architecture significantly improves audio signal purity by reducing parasitic modulations caused by motor vibrations.
Is the magnetic tonearm locking system robust enough for intensive use?
The magnetic system developed by Block uses industrial-grade permanent magnets that retain their holding force for decades. This solution is more reliable than traditional mechanical clips as it avoids wear on moving parts while offering progressive and controlled release.
Can the Ortofon OM5E cartridge be easily replaced with a higher-performance model?
The Project tonearm accepts all standard-mount cartridges weighing between 5 and 20 grams. The counterweight adjustment system allows precise adaptation of tracking force, and anti-skating remains adjustable to optimize tracking with the new cartridge.
Does the PS-100+ necessarily require an external phono preamplifier?
This turntable outputs a phono-level signal that absolutely requires a phono preamplifier, either integrated into the amplifier (PHONO input) or as a separate box. This approach ensures better sound quality than a built-in preamp in the turntable, but does require suitable equipment.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
- Manufacturer reference: PS-100+ NOIR
