As you can see from the measured speed accuracy and consistency, this $4990 table spins at the correct speed, and its consistency rivals that of far more expensive turntables.

As the measurements indicate, the design and execution [of the spindle itself and the permanently lubricated bronze bushing in which it rides] are precise, of very high quality, and contribute to the table’s impressive speed consistency.

AVM appears to have put considerable effort into the gimbaled-bearing aluminum tonearm which features an impressively massive yoke and what feel like low-tolerance, high-quality bearings. The 9″ arm’s effective length is 230mm, with a spindle-to-pivot distance of 212mm, which results in an 18mm overhang.

I ran the R 2.3 using a few cartridges priced appropriately for a $5000 turntable.  I also auditioned an Ortofon A95, though it’s priced beyond what I think most 2.3 buyers will use with it. I did it because I figured the arm was good enough to handle the A95, and it was.

Setting up and using the R 2.3 was straightforward, thanks in part to an excellent, well-illustrated glossy paper instruction manual.

When a turntable runs at the correct speed with excellent speed consistency, you can be assured of a pleasing and relaxing analog ride—and that was the case here. The R 2.3 produced a pleasingly uncolored sound.

AVM’s R 2.3 strikes me as a well-designed and built, well-performing, sexy-looking turntable. To someone just jumping in, the R 2.3 certainly performs well enough to communicate how sonically satisfying vinyl can be.

Michael Fremer, Stereophile November 2020, Stereophile Class B Recommended Component

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