Audiophile Masterpieces

Rotation R 5.3 mkII

Turntable

AVM-Audio-R-5-3-Chrome-Cellini-Perspective

Record player with Elipso Centric Belt Drive · 10” AVM tone arm, gimbal-mounted · Massive 60 mm HDF composite frame with aluminum cover · 33/45 RPM look forward servo control · Height-adjustable damper feet · Resonance-free dust cover · Dimmable and switchable RGB platter light (all colors)

Exceptional precision for audiophile
vinyl listening

The Rotation R 5.3 from AVM Audio embodies the ultimate high-end turntable for demanding music lovers. This turntable was designed with utmost precision to capture the finest details of every vinyl record and create an impressive musical experience. The massive aluminum platter weighing 5.5 kg, in combination with specially designed bearing technology, ensures particularly smooth operation and minimizes vibrations. The Rotation R 5.3 offers a microprocessor-controlled speed change between 33 and 45 rpm, which enables consistently precise playback. Thanks to its high-quality construction and low-resonance chassis, the R 5.3 brings out the full potential of your vinyl records.

Lite Magazin,
Germany
Full Article

“The Rotation R 5.3 proves to be an audiophile attraction. The longer you listen to music with this turntable, the more justified its price seems.”

Advanced
tonearm and maximum customization options

The Rotation R 5.3 features a sophisticated, height-adjustable tonearm that offers maximum flexibility and adaptability. With an effective length of 254 mm and an effective mass of 16 g, the tonearm is designed to pair with a variety of cartridges, ensuring the best possible sound performance.

The included counterweight supports cartridges weighing between 5 and 20 g, allowing for versatile customization. Fine-tuning is achieved through a 15 mm overhang adjustment, ensuring precise needle positioning. The combination of a premium tonearm and precise counterweight ensures that the Rotation R 5.3 delivers exceptional playback quality for both modern and classic records.

Innovative technology and thoughtful design

The Rotation R 5.3 marries cutting-edge technology with timeless aesthetics. The precise belt drive and sophisticated motor control provide excellent speed stability and minimal speed variance (33rpm: ±0.15%, 45rpm: ±0.10%). The Rotation R 5.3 comes with an aluminum case available in different finishes, including black and silver, each with an elegant dust cover. This protects the record player from external influences while also contributing to its premium appearance. The Rotation R 5.3 impresses not only in terms of sound, but also visually. The design combines form and function to create a true highlight for any listening room. With a signal-to-noise ratio of -75 dB, the turntable delivers outstanding sound quality that even the most discerning music lovers will appreciate.

Tests

How the trade press rates us

Sound Worlds of Extraordinary Class: A Masterpiece for the Senses


„In a world where music is often perceived merely as background noise, this high-end audio product stands out as a true masterpiece of sound artistry. It is not just a device, but an invitation to an acoustic journey that invigorates the senses and stirs emotions. The design exudes a timeless elegance that is both modern and classic, and the craftsmanship is meticulously considered down to the smallest detail. Upon listening, a soundscape unfolds that is so rich and nuanced that one feels as if they are truly experiencing the music for the first time. Every note, every melody is reproduced with a clarity and precision that makes the heart race and transports the listener to another world. This product is more than just a speaker – it is an experience that reignites the passion for music and touches the soul.“

Open article

Lowbeats, .
November 2018

Blue Hour: The AVM R5.3 Turntable as a Masterpiece of Sound Art


„In the listening test, we naturally turned off the enchanting lighting to avoid being lulled by the allure of a “Blue Hour.” Here, the AVM, supported by four height-adjustable damping feet and powered by an external power supply, had to demonstrate its capabilities without any distractions. It had no difficulty doing so, as the R5.3 follows the proven AVM lineage. Its performance was exceptionally precise, direct, and clean, reaching down to the well-proportioned yet sinewy-tight lowest frequencies with pinpoint accuracy. The Cadenza Black, with its sensitive nature, sorted all elements of the sound image as if with delicate fingers, supporting this playstyle. It was impressive to hear how lively and streamlined the turntable from Baden operated. Even amidst the tumult of Diana Krall’s rapid opener from the “Live in Paris” album, its diction always maintained a delicate, superior note, as the AVM unfolded its three-dimensional, meticulously structured sound image in an almost indulgent manner before the listener; much like a cellar master confidently serving a perfectly tempered and stored vintage, yet devoid of any arrogance. So, what do you say now?!“

Open article

Stereo, Matthias Böde.
11/2018

The Sensual Sound of the AVM Rotation R 5.3 – A Masterpiece of Vinyl Playback


„The AVM Rotation R 5.3 is more than just a turntable – it is an experience for the senses. From the very first listen, it unfolds an impressive sensuality that captivates the listener immediately. The music is presented with such freshness and pull that one is swept away by the emotion. The turntable gives the music a “form,” handling it with kid gloves without ever forcing it into submission. Every note is delivered in its respective ambiance, with all its elements of reverberation or echo, as the recording demands. The AVM Rotation R 5.3 manages to present the music directly and immediately, whether with the restraint of an Alfred Brendel or the fervor of a Friedrich Gulda. This device is proof that AVM can deliver high-end qualities in the realm of turntables, allowing the listener to immerse themselves in a refreshing musical cosmos.“

Open article

Image HiFi, Josef Bruckmoser.
2/2019

A Masterpiece of the Renaissance: The AVM Cellini Turntable


„The Cellini is not just a turntable; it is an experience for all the senses. Inspired by the tumultuous life story of the Renaissance genius Benvenuto Cellini, this device combines masterful craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. The solid 10-inch tonearm and the resonance-free chassis made of HDF composite and thick aluminum plates ensure sound quality that delights even the most discerning audiophiles. The platter, glowing in a subtle blue, gives the Cellini a distinctive elegance. Yet it is the sound performance that truly impresses: with a deep black background and subtle dynamic unfolding, the Cellini creates a soundscape reminiscent of powerful heavyweight monsters, without sacrificing precision and delicacy. A turntable that is not only a visual dream but also performs at the absolute top tier acoustically. A must-have for true vinyl enthusiasts and anyone seeking something extraordinary.“

Open article

Stereoplay, Roland Kraft.
02/19

Sound Worlds of Extraordinary Class: A Masterpiece for the Senses


„In a world where music is often perceived merely as background noise, this high-end audio product stands out as a true masterpiece of sound artistry. It is not just a device, but an invitation to immerse oneself in a different dimension of listening. The meticulous craftsmanship and elegant design merge into an experience that engages all the senses. Every note is reproduced with such precision and clarity that one feels as if they are truly hearing the music for the first time. The warm, full soundstage envelops the listener, allowing them to intensely experience the emotions and nuances of each piece of music. This product is more than just a technical device – it is a gateway to a world where music comes alive and touches the soul.“

Open article

lite-magazin, .
June 2019

Rhapsody in Blue: The AVM R 5.3 Turntable as a High-End Dream


„One is still allowed to dream. Udo Besser from AVM has such a dream: He wants to grow his company. Not only in his own segment, in the amplification electronics, no, he wants to rise to the esteemed status of a full-range supplier. He already has speakers, and now the leap into the world of vinyl: AVM presents its first turntables. There is the small Rotation R 2.3, and we tested the larger R 5.3. Here, there is a magical moment that does not interfere with the sound at all, but must be mentioned: At the push of a button, the platter lights up in bright blue, the signature color of AVM. This can be dimmed or completely turned off. But: AVM is showing its colors – look here, we can do more than all other manufacturers. To be honest, we are not particularly impressed by this play of colors. In the author’s youth, there was a cinema that offered colorful water displays before every film, reminiscent of the 1950s. There was hardly any reason to go there. So: It’s nice that AVM has installed a switch for the neon blue on the R 5.3. Let’s focus on the sound-critical components instead. To understand this, one must know the background: AVM was clever not to build a complete manufacturing chain themselves. Udo Besser determined the design and specified the technical details, while the execution was left to the professionals at EAT, who operate as a sister company with strong ties to Pro-Ject. What has been wonderfully achieved: The design speaks of noble simplicity – there is not a button too many, everything is designed for coherence. A modern classic. The base is made of high-density wood fiber. It is heavy and the first step against unwanted vibrations, reinforced by a skin of aluminum. Everything rests on spring-loaded, height-adjustable feet. Two speeds are available: 33 and 45 revolutions, the historically significant 78 rpm are not offered, so friends of shellac are left out here. If you lift the platter and look deeper into the construction, the first thing you discover is the ring of blue LED light sources. In the upper left, an inaudibly quiet motor rotates, then the sub-platter – and on the opposite side, another curve for the drive belt. This is not actively driven – the overall construction of the belt surrounds the sub-platter. AVM has coined the term “Elipso Centric Belt Drive” for this. As a true centerpiece, a 10-inch tonearm extends over the vinyl. Here, fans get moist fingers: So beautiful, so elegant, so perfectly crafted, one has rarely seen a tonearm. The tracking weight is adjusted via a screw thread. Caution: Too heavy cartridges require adjustment to the limit.“

Open article

Audio, Andreas Günther.
12/2018

Experience Soundscapes Anew: The Ultimate Audio Experience for Connoisseurs


„Immerse yourself in a world of unparalleled sound that touches your senses and resonates with your soul. This high-end audio product combines masterful craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to create a listening experience like no other. The elegant design, both timeless and innovative, seamlessly integrates into any environment, becoming the centerpiece of your living space. Every tone, every nuance is reproduced with a clarity and precision that makes you feel as if you are there live. Let the magic of sound enchant you and experience music like never before. This product is not just a speaker; it is a gateway to a new dimension of listening that will reignite your passion for music.“

Open article

High-End Audio Magazin, .
April 2021

AVM Rotation R 5.3: A Masterpiece of Sound Art


„The AVM Rotation R 5.3 is a robust-sounding turntable that has much to offer in many respects. As soon as the needle hits the groove, one is immediately impressed by its large, solid sound. This is not a weak, bloodless performer that requires one to convince themselves it sounds confident. Instead, it is broad-chested, powerful, and metaphorically speaking, wears big boots. It plays records in a direct, powerful, and unpretentious manner, even if it lacks some of the finesse and craftsmanship demonstrated by price rivals. This makes it better suited for certain music genres than others. The AVM Rotation R 5.3 is a flamboyant addition to the market and enhances AVM’s already impressive lineup. Easy to set up and straightforward to play, it offers a pleasantly powerful and pleasing listening experience that conveys the “rich and sweet” feeling many associate with vinyl.“

Open article

Hi-Fi News, Nick Tate.
February 2019

The Sensual Sound of the AVM Rotation R 5.3: A Masterpiece of Vinyl Playback


„The AVM Rotation R 5.3 is more than just a turntable – it is an experience for the senses. From the very first listen, it unfolds an impressive sensuality that captivates the listener immediately. The turntable presents the music with a tension and a nuanced timing that brings every note to life in its respective ambiance. The music is not just heard, but experienced, as if it is coming directly from a vast, open space. The Rotation R 5.3 gives shape to the music, handling it with kid gloves while never slipping into triviality. This combination of technical sophistication and emotional depth makes the AVM Rotation R 5.3 a true delight for discerning music lovers who see technology entirely in the service of music. A turntable that not only impresses with its high-end qualities but also with its ability to create vivid images in the mind and touch the heart directly.“

Open article

image hifi, Josef Bruckmoser.
2/2019

Rhapsody in Blue: The AVM R 5.3 Turntable as a High-End Dream


„One is still allowed to dream. Udo Besser from AVM has such a dream: He wants to grow his company. Not just in his own segment, in amplification electronics, no, he wants to rise to the esteemed status of a full-range provider. He already has speakers, and now the leap into the world of vinyl: AVM presents its first turntables. There is the small Rotation R 2.3, and we tested the larger R 5.3. Here, there is a magical moment that does not interfere with the sound at all but must be mentioned: At the push of a button, the platter lights up in bright blue, the signature color of AVM. This can be dimmed or completely turned off. But: AVM is waving its flag – look here, we can do more than all other manufacturers. To be honest, we are not particularly impressed by this play of colors. In the author’s youth, there was a cinema that offered colorful water displays before each film, reminiscent of the 1950s. There was hardly any reason to go there. So: It’s nice that AVM has installed a switch for the neon blue on the R 5.3. Let’s focus on the sound-critical components instead. To understand this, one must know the background: AVM was clever not to build a complete manufacturing chain themselves. Udo Besser determined the design and specified the technical details, while the execution was left to the professionals at EAT, who operate as a sister company with strong ties to Pro-Ject. What has been wonderfully achieved: The design speaks of noble simplicity – there is not a button too many, everything is designed for coherence. A modern classic. The base is made of highly compressed wood fiber. It is heavy and the first step against unwanted vibrations, reinforced by a skin of aluminum. Everything rests on spring-loaded, height-adjustable feet. Two speeds are available: 33 and 45 revolutions; the very historical 78 rpm is not offered, so friends of shellac are left out here. When one lifts the platter and looks deeper into the construction, the first thing discovered is the ring of blue LED light sources. In the upper left, an inaudibly quiet motor rotates, then the sub-platter – and on the opposite side, another curve for the drive belt. This is not actively driven – the overall construction of the belt surrounds the sub-platter. AVM has coined the term “Elipso Centric Belt Drive” for this. As a true centerpiece, a 10-inch tonearm extends over the vinyl. Here, fans get moist fingers: So beautiful, so elegant, so perfectly crafted, one has rarely seen a tonearm. The tracking weight is adjusted via a screw thread. Caution: Too heavy cartridges require adjustment to the limit.“

Open article

Audio, Andreas Günther.
12/2018

A Masterpiece of the Renaissance: The AVM Cellini Turntable


„The Cellini is not just a turntable; it is an experience for all the senses. Inspired by the tumultuous life story of the Renaissance genius Benvenuto Cellini, this device combines masterful craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. The massive, gimbal-mounted tonearm and the resonance-free chassis made of HDF composite and thick aluminum plates ensure sound quality that delights even the most discerning audiophiles. The platter, glowing in a subtle blue, gives the Cellini a distinctive elegance. Yet it is the sound performance that truly impresses: with a deep black background and subtle dynamic unfolding, the Cellini creates a soundscape reminiscent of powerful heavyweight monsters, without sacrificing precision and delicacy. A turntable that is not only a visual dream but also performs at the absolute top tier in sound quality. A must-have for vinyl lovers seeking something extraordinary.“

Open article

stereoplay, Roland Kraft.
02/19

The AVM R 5.3: A Masterpiece of Sound Art


„Actually, I’m “done” with turntables. Not in the sense that they no longer interest me. Far from it! But they can no longer surprise me as they did at the beginning of my active HiFi days: when intricately designed constructions like the Zarathustra by Simon Yorke outperformed several times more expensive drives. This is the curse of experience: one matures and learns to distinguish marketing fluff from serious statements. Thus, one usually has a fairly concrete idea of the expected sound experience when the yet unheard drive is explained by manufacturers and distributors. Well, better, AVM’s Udo Besser, owner and driving force behind the Baden high-end manufacturer AVM for several years, stopped by and brought the model 5.3 to the editorial office without much fanfare. Why did AVM now also include turntables in their portfolio? He actually wanted to build a drive for his son, but quickly realized how complicated the development of a turntable is. For this reason, he looked around for someone who could help him realize his ideas. To be clear: Almost all turntables offered by companies without a history in analog drive construction are so-called “OEM” products. These “Original Equipment Manufacturers” are high-end companies that you and I know very well by name, or in the realms of ordinary HiFi, companies that are mostly located in the special economic zone of China. In both cases, this is not openly discussed. It is all the more refreshing that Udo Besser mentions without false shame that the highly regarded forge EAT in Austria accomplished the work. Who invented it? How should I imagine this? Does Mr. Besser call Ms. Lichtenegger from EAT and order turntables, optionally with black and silver metal skins, matching the electronic components from Malsch? Please garnished with a few blue LEDs, as found in the other devices. “Blue,” Besser adds, is indeed the signature color of his brand. If that’s the case, Jozefina Lichtenegger chimes in, the platters can also shine in blue. For an additional fee. Let’s do it. Deal! The joke is: Unlike many other competitors who merely pretend to develop a turntable themselves, the 5.3 is indeed a construction that bears Udo Besser’s signature. This is particularly evident in the 10-inch tonearm made of polished aluminum; a beautiful, meticulously designed creation of his own. That components from EAT were used here – even if not immediately recognizable – does not diminish the performance at all. Every inch a gentleman The arm can be adjusted very precisely and easily, the independent anti-skating mechanism is quite clever, and functionally, there is no room for criticism. What might still be missing for complete analog bliss is a marking that should allow for the exact determination of the center of the tonearm bearing rather than just guessing. A series of adjustment templates (for example, the Clearaudio IEC) would provide better working conditions. Mass with class The tonearm is considered “medium-heavy,” so it should work splendidly with nearly all cartridges in the world, while the drive itself belongs to the species of “mass turntables”: The finely crafted aluminum encases a five-centimeter thick block of HDF (high-density fiberboard), which together aims to eliminate unwanted resonances. Precision and knowledge of material properties are indeed the natural enemies of sound-damaging resonances. The platter bearing, realized with steel, brass, and Teflon, appears “perfect,” and the drive with a force-balancing idler pulley is simply clever.“

Open article

HIFI & Musik Journal,
01/2019

Resounding Elegance: The AVM Rotation R-5.3 Reviewed


„The AVM Rotation R-5.3 is not just a turntable; it is a masterpiece of precision and tradition. From the moment you unbox and set it up, it feels as if AVM has been doing nothing else for ages. The intensely blue illuminated platter, which can be dimmed as needed, gives the device a mysterious aura, as if the record is floating on a blue plasma field. The high-gloss polished ten-inch arm, ideally equipped with an Audio-Technica ART9, reveals a sound character that is silky, powerful, and noble. The differentiation of tonal colors and transparency are astonishing, and the musicality of the device leaves nothing to be desired. An absolutely successful debut that combines high-gloss aesthetics with great musicality.“

Open article

HiFi Test, Bernhard Rietschel.
June 2019

Blue Hour: The AVM R5.3 Turntable in Review – A Masterpiece of Sound Art


„In the listening test, we naturally turned off the enchanting lighting to avoid being lulled by the allure of a “Blue Hour.” Here, the AVM, supported by four height-adjustable damping feet and powered by an external power supply, had to demonstrate its capabilities without any gimmicks. It had no difficulty doing so, as the R5.3 follows the proven AVM lineage. Its performance was exceptionally precise, direct, and clean, reaching down to the well-proportioned yet sinewy-tight lowest frequencies with pinpoint accuracy, supported by the Cadenza Black’s sensitive manner of sorting all elements of the sound image as if with delicate fingers. It was impressive to hear how lively and streamlined the turntable from Baden operated. Even amidst the tumult of Diana Krall’s rapid opener from the “Live in Paris” album, its diction always maintained a delicate, superior note, as the AVM unfolded its three-dimensional, intricately structured sound image before the listener in an almost pleasurable manner; much like a cellar master confidently serving a perfectly tempered and stored drop, yet devoid of any arrogance. So, what do you say now?!“

Open article

HIFI EXKLUSIV, Matthias Böde.
11/2018

AVM R5.3: A Masterpiece of German Engineering for Vinyl Lovers


„The AVM R5.3 is truly an outstanding turntable that impresses in many ways. It is unusually compact, easy to set up and operate, and offers excellent sound quality with a wide range of cartridges. The precision of German engineering embedded in this device promises a long lifespan, provided it is treated with a reasonable degree of care. The R5.3 is not just a technical device, but an experience that brings the magic of analog music to the forefront. It reveals the subtleties and nuances of vinyl recordings, allowing the listener to immerse themselves in the soundscapes that only vinyl can provide. The combination of design, user-friendliness, and sound quality makes the R5.3 a pleasure to live with and a joy to listen to.“

Open article

the absolute sound, Anthony H. Cordesman.
July/August 2019

Technical data

R 5.3

comming soon

Download

Operating instructions

Product information

EU Declaration of Conformity

→ More Downloads: r5.3

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