How to Get the Best Sound from the Argon Audio TT MK2
By 8mm Audio Experts | Turntable Setup Guide & Review
Vinyl has made a strong comeback, and for many listeners it offers a richer and more engaging listening experience than digital streaming. If you’re starting your vinyl journey, the Argon Audio TT MK2 Manual Belt Drive Turntable is one of the easiest ways to begin.
The TT MK2 is designed as a plug-and-play turntable that allows beginners to start listening quickly without complicated setup. However, taking a few extra steps during installation can significantly improve sound quality and record longevity.
This guide explains how to set up the TT MK2 correctly and get the best sound from your vinyl records.
What Is the Argon Audio TT MK2?
The Argon Audio TT MK2 is a manual belt-drive turntable developed by Argon Audio, the hi-fi brand created by Scandinavian retailer HiFi Klubben.
It is designed for beginner and entry-level vinyl listeners who want a simple, reliable, and great-sounding turntable without requiring additional equipment.
- Belt-drive system for low vibration
- 1.9kg steel platter for improved speed stability
- Pre-mounted Audio-Technica moving magnet cartridge
- Built-in switchable RIAA phono preamp
- 33⅓ and 45 RPM speed selector
- RCA outputs for easy speaker connection
- Included dust cover
The built-in phono preamp allows the turntable to connect directly to active speakers or any amplifier line input.
Belt Drive Design Explained
The TT MK2 uses a belt-drive system where the motor spins the platter using a rubber belt.
This design isolates motor vibration from the platter and stylus, reducing mechanical noise and improving playback quality.
The heavier steel platter provides rotational stability and helps minimize pitch variation during playback.
This results in smoother playback with less wow and flutter.
Understanding the Built-In RIAA Preamp
Vinyl records are mastered using the RIAA equalization curve, which modifies frequencies during recording.
To play records correctly, the signal must pass through a phono preamp that reverses this equalization.
The TT MK2 includes a built-in RIAA preamp, allowing it to connect directly to:
- Active speakers
- Amplifiers with AUX or LINE inputs
- Hi-fi receivers without phono inputs
If your amplifier already has a dedicated phono input, switch the TT MK2’s preamp to BYPASS and connect it to that input instead.
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
Step 1: Assemble the Turntable
Place the turntable on a stable surface and install the steel platter onto the spindle.
Loop the drive belt around the motor pulley and platter groove, then attach the dust cover.
Remove the stylus protector before playing records.
Step 2: Level the Turntable
Use a spirit level or smartphone leveling app to ensure the turntable is perfectly flat.
An uneven turntable can cause uneven tracking and distortion.
Step 3: Adjust the Counterweight
The tonearm counterweight controls the tracking force applied by the stylus.
Balance the tonearm until it floats horizontally, then set the tracking force to approximately 2.0–2.5 grams for the supplied Audio-Technica cartridge.
Step 4: Set Anti-Skating
Anti-skating counteracts the inward pull of the tonearm while the record spins.
Set the anti-skating value to match the tracking force value.
Step 5: Choose a Stable Placement
Place the TT MK2 on a solid surface away from speakers or vibration sources.
Wall shelves or heavy furniture are ideal for minimizing vibrations.
Connecting the TT MK2 to Speakers
The easiest setup is connecting the turntable to active speakers.
- Connect the RCA outputs from the turntable to the speakers.
- Ensure the built-in preamp switch is set to ON.
- Start playback.
For systems using a traditional amplifier, connect the turntable to an AUX or LINE input.
If your amplifier includes a phono stage, switch the TT MK2 preamp to BYPASS.
Best Settings for Sound Quality
To achieve the best sound from the TT MK2, ensure these settings are correct:
- Tracking force set to approximately 2.0–2.5 grams
- Anti-skating matched to tracking force
- Correct speed selection (33⅓ or 45 RPM)
- Proper turntable leveling
These adjustments ensure accurate tracking and minimize record wear.
Cartridge Upgrade Options
The TT MK2 includes an entry-level Audio-Technica moving magnet cartridge with a conical stylus.
This cartridge provides reliable tracking and durability for beginner vinyl users.
For improved detail and stereo imaging, a popular upgrade is the Audio-Technica VM95E cartridge.
The elliptical stylus design reads more information from the groove, improving clarity and channel separation.
Cleaning Vinyl Records
Clean records are essential for good sound quality.
Dust and static can create noise and reduce detail during playback.
Recommended record care includes:
- Use a carbon fibre brush before every play
- Clean dirty records with a vinyl cleaning solution
- Store records vertically in sleeves
- Avoid direct sunlight and heat
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Plug-and-play design ideal for beginners
- Built-in RIAA phono preamp
- Stable belt-drive mechanism
- Heavy steel platter for smoother rotation
- Compatible with active speakers
Cons
- Entry-level cartridge included
- No automatic tonearm return
- Limited cartridge upgrade flexibility on some versions
Final Verdict
The Argon Audio TT MK2 is an excellent entry point for anyone starting their vinyl listening journey.
Its plug-and-play design, built-in phono preamp, and reliable belt-drive system make it easy to integrate into modern audio systems.
With proper setup and care, the TT MK2 can deliver warm, engaging analogue sound that showcases why vinyl continues to grow in popularity.
