Argon Audio AURORA – User Manual

1. Overview

1.1 What is in the Box

Please check thoroughly and make sure all of the following items are present before setting up:

Quick Start Guide
Turntable
Turntable Lid
2x Lid Hinges
Platter
Rubber Slip Mat (for HiFi use)
Counterweight
Ortofon Concorde Music Blue Cartridge
Pair of Audio Cables (RCA)
Ground Wire
Power Cord

Keep the original box and packing material for future transportation.

1.2 Parts Names and Functions

Turntable:

Hinge – Allows the dust cover to open and close while remaining attached.
Center Spindle – Holds the record securely in place.
Start/Stop/Speed – Toggles the start or stop function of the direct drive motor, as well as the speed setting.
Platter and Slip Mat – The platter is made of aluminium with rubber damping and has a slip mat on top.
Tonearm – Complete tonearm assembly.
Cartridge – The Concorde Music Blue cartridge mounts directly to the tonearm's SME-type mount. Unlike a conventional cartridge, which is screwed to a separate headshell, the Concorde-style cartridge integrates the cartridge body itself into the mount, with no separate headshell in between.
Tonearm Lock (Arm Rest) – Locks the tonearm in place when not in use.
Tonearm Lever – Used to lower or raise the tonearm.
Anti-Skating Control – Sets the anti-skating function of the tonearm.
Tonearm VTA Adjustment and Lock – A ring at the base of the tonearm adjusts the VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle). Tighten the rear pin to lock the VTA height in place.
Counterweight – Used to precisely adjust the stylus pressure (tracking force) on the vinyl record, ensuring the tonearm is properly balanced.
Dust Cover – Detachable dust cover for protection.
Rubber Feet – Adjustable, shock-absorbing rubber feet.

Rear Panel:

RIAA ON/OFF Switch – Activates or bypasses the turntable's built-in phono stage. See section 3.1 for full guidance.
Signal Connectors – RCA output; connect to your amplifier or sound system.
Ground Terminal – Connect a ground wire (required when using an external RIAA/phono stage).
Auto Stop ON/OFF – Automatically stops the platter at the end of the record when enabled.
Power Plug – Insert the power cable and connect to an electrical outlet.

1.3 Unpacking

Carefully unpack the AURORA and all accessories listed in section 1.1. We recommend keeping the original box and all packing materials for any future transportation or storage.

1.4 Safety Instructions

Please read and follow these safety instructions carefully before use:

Power supply – Only use the supplied power cable. The AURORA operates on 100–240V and has an integrated power supply. Do not use any other power adapter, as this may damage the turntable or create a safety hazard.
Earthing connection – The power cord must be connected to a socket outlet with an earthing connection.
Do not open the unit – There are no user-serviceable parts inside the turntable or its power supply. Do not attempt to open, modify or repair any internal components. Doing so may result in electric shock, fire, or permanent damage to the unit and will void the warranty. Always refer servicing to qualified personnel.
Liquids and moisture – Keep the turntable away from liquids, rain, and excessive humidity. Never place objects containing liquids near the unit.
Power cord – Route the power cable carefully to avoid tripping hazards and prevent damage to the cable.
Disconnecting from power – Always disconnect the turntable from the power supply before performing any maintenance, cleaning, or cartridge work.
Long periods of non-use – Disconnect from the mains supply if the turntable will not be used for an extended period.
Children – Keep small accessories such as the stylus, adapters, and counterweight out of reach of young children.

1.5 Positioning and Placement

Correct placement of the AURORA is important for optimal sound quality and safe operation:

Place the turntable on a firm, stable, and level surface. The AURORA features adjustable, shock-absorbing rubber feet, allowing you to fine-tune levelness even on a slightly uneven surface — use a spirit level or a level-check app and adjust each foot as needed until the platter sits level.
Isolate from vibration – avoid placing the turntable on or near speakers or subwoofers, as vibration can cause the stylus to skip or introduce unwanted resonance.
Keep the turntable as far as practically possible from loudspeakers to avoid acoustic feedback at higher volumes.
Keep the turntable away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and strong magnetic fields.

1.6 Cleaning and Care Instructions

Remove dust with a slightly damp antistatic cloth. Never use a dry cloth, as this creates static electricity and attracts more dust. Never use solvents or chemical cleaners.
Always fit the stylus protection cap before cleaning or performing any maintenance.
Always disconnect the turntable from the power supply before any cleaning or maintenance.
Handle the stylus and cartridge with care — they are precision components and are easily damaged.

1.7 Functionality and Technology

Direct Drive System – Unlike the belt-driven models in the Argon Audio range, the AURORA's platter is driven directly by the motor beneath it, offering strong torque and consistent speed stability without a belt to wear or replace.
Concorde-Style Cartridge Mount – The AURORA's tonearm uses an SME-type mount, but is paired with an Ortofon Concorde Music Blue cartridge — a style where the cartridge body itself connects directly to the mount, with no separate headshell required. The tonearm's internal wiring is integrated directly into the SME mount and pickup. All styli within the Concorde Music series are compatible with this pickup, making stylus upgrades straightforward. A separate SME headshell can also be fitted to use conventional headshell-mounted cartridges, though the tonearm is built and optimized for the Concorde-style pickup.
Static-Balanced S-Shaped Tonearm – Designed for smooth, accurate tracking with minimal resonance across the full width of the record.
High-Quality Built-in Phono Preamp – The AURORA features a high-grade internal phono stage that pairs excellently with the pre-installed Ortofon Concorde Music Blue cartridge, allowing direct connection to a line-level input without needing an external phono preamplifier. See section 3 for details.
Three-Speed Playback – Supports 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM playback.
Auto Stop – Automatically stops the platter at the end of a record, when enabled.
Vibration-Damping Feet – Adjustable rubber feet reduce the transmission of external vibration into the platter and tonearm.

1.8 Running-in Period

We recommend a running-in period of approximately 15–20 hours at normal listening level before deciding on final positioning and control settings. During this time, the drive units and cartridge suspension will settle in and perform as intended.

2. Setup

2.1 Setup of Turntable

2.1.1 Belt Drive Setup

(Not applicable — the AURORA uses a direct drive motor, see section 2.1.2)

2.1.2 Direct Drive Setup

Install the platter directly onto the direct drive motor.
Place the rubber slip mat on the platter.

Note: Unlike belt-driven turntables, there is no belt to install or route — the platter sits directly on the motor spindle.

2.2 Floating Suspension Adjustment

(Not available on this model)

2.3 Leveling the Turntable

The AURORA features adjustable, shock-absorbing rubber feet. Place the turntable on a firm surface, then use a spirit level or a level-check app to verify the platter is level, adjusting each foot individually as needed. Correct leveling ensures optimal tracking and consistent tonearm performance.

2.4 Setup of Optional Accessories (Lid)

Install the turntable lid onto the rear of the plinth using the two included lid hinges. The hinges allow the dust cover to open and close while remaining attached. Ensure both hinges are properly seated before opening or closing the lid.

2.5 Grounding

Proper grounding reduces or eliminates hum in your audio system. Connect the ground wire from the turntable's ground terminal to the corresponding ground terminal on your amplifier or external phono preamplifier. If you experience hum after connecting your turntable, check that the ground wire is securely connected at both ends before checking other potential causes.

Note: A ground connection is only required when using an external phono stage (RIAA switch set to OFF). See section 3 for full connection guidance.

2.6 Tracking Force

2.6.1 Manually

Gently push and turn the counterweight onto the rear of the tonearm, with the scale facing toward the front of the turntable.
Remove the cartridge protection cap.
Lower the tonearm lift and position the cartridge in the space between the tonearm rest and the platter.
Carefully rotate the counterweight until the tonearm balances out/floats freely — it should return to the balanced position when moved up or down. This adjustment must be done carefully.
Once balanced, return the tonearm to its rest. Hold the counterweight without moving it, and gently rotate the Downforce Scale ring (the part with numbers on it) to 0. Check whether the arm still balances out.
Turn the counterweight counter-clockwise (seen from the front) to adjust the tracking force.

Note: The recommended tracking force for the Ortofon Concorde Music Blue is 1.8g.

2.6.2 With Tipping Tool

(Not applicable for this model)

2.6.3 With Electrical Scale

(Not applicable for this model)

2.7 Anti-Skating

Adjust the Anti-Skating Control to match the downforce value (1.8g). This initial setting serves as a good starting point for further adjustments.

2.8 Installation and Change of Pickup

Note: If you are unfamiliar or uncomfortable with completing this procedure, we recommend consulting with a professional or your point of purchase to perform the installation.

2.8.1 Change of Needle (Stylus)

The Ortofon Concorde Music Blue is part of the Concorde Music series — all styli within this series are compatible with this pickup, making stylus replacement or upgrades straightforward.

To replace the stylus:

Lock the tonearm in place before starting.
Gently remove the stylus from the Concorde cartridge body — this is typically done by pulling the stylus assembly straight out and downward from the front of the pickup.
Align the replacement stylus with the pickup body and press it gently but firmly into place until it seats securely.
Do not force it — it should seat with light, even pressure.

Important: Always confirm compatibility with the Concorde Music series before purchasing a replacement stylus, as styli from other cartridge series are not designed to fit this pickup.

2.8.2 Change of Cartridge

The AURORA's tonearm uses an SME-type mount. The pre-installed Ortofon Concorde Music Blue is a Concorde-style pickup, where the cartridge body connects directly to the SME mount — the tonearm's wiring is integrated directly into the mount and pickup, and there is no separate headshell with wiring in between.

Replacing with another Concorde-style pickup – Simply detach the current pickup from the SME mount and attach the replacement in the same way.
Using a conventional cartridge instead – A separate SME headshell (not included) can be fitted to the tonearm, allowing the use of conventional headshell-mounted cartridges. Note that the tonearm is built and optimized for Concorde-style pickups, so performance with a conventional cartridge and separate headshell may differ.

2.8.3 Change of Headshell

(Not applicable to the pre-installed Concorde-style pickup — see section 2.8.2 for information on fitting a separate SME headshell for conventional cartridges)

2.9 VTA / Azimuth Settings

The ring at the base of the tonearm adjusts the VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle). A screw on the side of the ring can be tightened to lock the position in place after making adjustments.

Turning the ring counter-clockwise raises the tonearm.
Turning the ring clockwise lowers the tonearm.

Note: It is not necessary to adjust the VTA with the stock Concorde Music Blue cartridge attached. Adjustment may be required if you change the cartridge.

2.10 Use of Included Accessories and Tools

2.10.1 Alignment Tool

(Not available on this model)

2.10.2 Singles Adapter (45 RPM Adapter)

When playing 45 RPM singles, you may need to use the singles adapter on the spindle, as most singles have a larger center hole.

3. Connections

3.1 Connecting to Amplifier with Integrated RIAA

The AURORA features a high-grade built-in phono preamp, controlled via the RIAA ON/OFF switch, which pairs excellently with the pre-installed Ortofon Concorde Music Blue cartridge. In many setups, using the internal phono stage provides optimal performance.

Locate the RCA outputs on the rear panel of the turntable.
Connect the RCA cable to this output, and then to a free ANALOGUE INPUT on your amplifier (not a phono input).
Match the plugs: Red plug into the Right channel input, White plug into the Left channel input.
Set the RIAA ON/OFF switch on the rear of the turntable to ON.

3.1.1 Turning RIAA On and Off

RIAA ON – The internal phono preamplifier is active. Connect to a free analogue/line-level input (e.g. AUX) on your amplifier.
RIAA OFF – The internal phono preamplifier is bypassed. Use this setting when connecting to your amplifier's dedicated phono input, or to an external phono preamplifier (see section 3.2).

Caution: Do not set the RIAA switch to ON while connected to a dedicated phono input on your amplifier, as this will overload and distort the signal.

3.2 Connecting to Phono Preamplifier

If your amplifier has a dedicated PHONO INPUT, or you prefer to use a separate external phono preamplifier, you can bypass the AURORA's internal phono stage:

Locate the RCA outputs on the rear panel of the turntable.
Connect the RCA cable to this output, and then to the PHONO INPUT of your amplifier, or to an external phono preamplifier.
Match the plugs: Red plug into the Right channel input, White plug into the Left channel input.
Set the RIAA ON/OFF switch to OFF.
Connect the ground wire between the turntable's ground terminal and the corresponding terminal on your amplifier or external phono preamplifier.

3.3 Connecting to Home Cinema Receiver

(Not specifically addressed in source material — follow the same guidance as section 3.1 or 3.2 depending on your receiver's available inputs)

4. Playback

Place the record on the turntable. If playing a 45 RPM single, you may need to use the singles adapter on the spindle, as most singles have a larger center hole.
Turn on the power switch, located on the left-hand side.
Pull up the arm lifter, and then release the arm lock clip.
Place the cartridge over the first track of the record.
Select the appropriate RPM setting (33, 45, or 78) as specified on the record, by turning the control knob — the platter will start spinning.

Note: If playing 78 RPM records, a dedicated 78 RPM stylus must be used. The pre-installed Ortofon Concorde Music Blue is designed for standard 33 and 45 RPM records only.
Lower the arm lifter. The stylus will touch the record and start playing music.
When the record is finished, lift the tonearm using the arm lifter, guide it back to the armrest, and lock it in place.
To stop the platter from spinning, turn the control knob to the Off position.

5. Basic Operation

5.1 Turning On and Off

Use the power switch, located on the left-hand side of the turntable, to turn it on or off.

5.2 Changing Speeds

Turn the control knob to select the appropriate speed:

33 RPM – Standard LP and 12" records
45 RPM – 7" singles and EPs (use the singles adapter if needed)
78 RPM – Requires a dedicated 78 RPM stylus; the pre-installed Concorde Music Blue does not support 78 RPM playback

5.3 Speed Fine Adjustment

(Not available on this model)

5.4 Tonearm Cueing

Use the Tonearm Lever to raise and lower the tonearm in a controlled manner. Always cue the tonearm using the lever rather than lifting it by hand.

5.5 Lowering and Raising the Tonearm

Pull up the arm lifter and release the arm lock clip to free the tonearm.
Position the cartridge over the desired point on the record.
Lower the arm lifter to gently set the stylus onto the record.
When finished, lift the tonearm using the arm lifter, return it to the armrest, and lock it in place.

5.6 Auto-Stop / End-Stop

The AURORA features an Auto Stop function, which automatically stops the platter at the end of the record when enabled. Use the AUTO STOP ON/OFF switch on the rear panel to enable or disable this function.

5.7 Bluetooth / Wireless Functionality

(Not available on this model)

5.8 Further Additional Functionality

(Not applicable to this model)

6. Tips

6.1 Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Solution
No sound	Incorrect amplifier input selected	Ensure the correct input is selected on your amplifier
No sound	RCA cable not connected properly	Check all cable connections at both the turntable and amplifier
No sound	Stylus protection cap still attached	Remove the stylus cover before playback
No sound / very quiet	RIAA switch set incorrectly for your connection type	If connected to a phono input, set RIAA switch to OFF; if connected to a line-level/analogue input, set it to ON
Distorted or overloaded sound	RIAA switch ON while connected to a phono input	Set the switch to OFF when using a dedicated phono input on your amplifier
Hum or buzz	Ground wire not connected	Connect the ground wire to the ground terminal on your amplifier or phono preamplifier (only required when using an external phono stage)
Platter not spinning	Power not connected	Check power cable connection and power switch position
Stylus skipping	Tracking force too low	Increase tracking force to the recommended 1.8g
Stylus skipping	Turntable surface not level	Ensure the turntable is placed on a firm, level surface — adjust the feet if needed
Stylus skipping	Vibration from speakers	Move turntable further from loudspeakers
Distorted sound	Tracking force too high	Adjust tracking force to the recommended value
Distorted sound	Dirty stylus	Clean the stylus carefully with a stylus brush
Speed sounds wrong	Wrong speed selected	Check the RPM selector matches the record type
No sound at 78 RPM	Standard stylus in use	Fit a dedicated 78 RPM stylus — the pre-installed Concorde Music Blue does not support 78 RPM
Acoustic feedback / howling	Turntable too close to speakers	Increase distance between turntable and loudspeakers
Platter doesn't stop automatically at end of record	Auto Stop disabled	Enable the AUTO STOP ON/OFF switch on the rear panel

6.2 Record Care

Always handle records by their edges and label area — avoid touching the grooves with your fingers, as skin oils attract dust and degrade sound quality over time.
Store records vertically in their inner sleeves and outer covers to prevent warping and dust accumulation.
Clean records before playback using a carbon fibre brush or record cleaning cloth, brushing in the direction of the grooves.
For deeper cleaning, a record cleaning solution and microfibre cloth can be used. Always allow the record to dry completely before playing.
Keep records away from direct sunlight and heat, as this can cause permanent warping.

6.3 Stylus Care and Cleaning

Always fit the stylus protection cap when the turntable is not in use.
Clean the stylus regularly using a stylus brush, brushing gently from back to front (in the direction of record travel). Never brush sideways, as this can bend or snap the cantilever.
A stylus cleaning solution can be used sparingly on the brush for more thorough cleaning.
Inspect the stylus periodically for visible dust buildup, bending, or wear. A worn stylus can damage your records — replace it if there are any signs of deterioration.
The typical lifespan of a stylus is approximately 500–1000 hours of playback depending on use and care.

6.4 Amplifier and System Pairing Notes

This turntable is fitted with an Ortofon Concorde Music Blue cartridge (Moving Magnet type). MM cartridges require a phono input or external phono preamplifier with standard MM-compatible loading (typically 47kΩ). Do not connect the cartridge output directly to a line-level (AUX/CD) input without engaging the turntable's internal phono stage, as the signal will be too weak and lack correct RIAA equalization, resulting in very quiet, thin-sounding playback.

This model features a built-in, switchable phono stage, controlled via the RIAA ON/OFF switch, giving you two connection options:

Using the internal phono stage – Set the RIAA switch to ON, and connect the turntable to a free analogue/line-level input (e.g. AUX) on your amplifier.
Using an external phono stage or your amplifier's built-in phono input – Set the RIAA switch to OFF, and connect the turntable to your amplifier's dedicated phono input, or to an external phono preamplifier.

Do not set the switch to ON while connected to a phono input, as this will overload and distort the signal.

6.5 FAQ and User Topics

For further tips and tricks on achieving optimal performance with your turntable, refer to the article Tips & Tricks: TURNTABLES available on the Nordic Hi-Fi support page.

6.6 Updating

(Not available on this model)

6.7 Factory Reset

(Not available on this model)

Appendix

A. Technical Specifications

Parameter	Value
Cartridge	Ortofon Concorde Music Blue (MM)
Speeds	33 / 45 / 78 RPM
Platter	Aluminium with Rubber Damping
Drive Type	Direct Drive
Plinth	MDF
Platter Weight	1.4 kg
Platter Bearing	Brass Sleeve / Thrust Pad
Tonearm	Aluminium (Static-Balanced S-Shaped)
Effective Tonearm Length	9.17"
Effective Tonearm Mass	20 g
Built-in RIAA	Yes
Speed Deviation	± 0.2%
Signal-to-Noise Ratio	65 dB
Wow and Flutter	≤ 0.10%
Automatic Operation	No (manual start/stop; Auto Stop available separately)
Supported Cartridge Weight	6 – 10 g
Recommended Tracking Force	1.8 g
Additional Features	Auto Stop, Static-Balanced S-Shaped Tonearm, High-Quality Built-in Phono Preamp, Vibration-Damping Feet, Detachable SME Mount for Cartridge Upgrades
Dimensions (H x W x L)	15.3 x 36.6 x 45 cm
Dimensions incl. Packaging (H x W x L)	25.3 x 53.9 x 43.8 cm
Net Weight	10.4 kg
Gross Weight	12.5 kg
Power Consumption	4 W
Available Colors	Black (Matte Lacquer), Walnut (Veneer)

B. Disposal and Recycling

The Argon Audio AURORA and its accessories should not be disposed of as general household waste. Please follow local regulations for the disposal of electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE):

Electronics – Bring the turntable to a designated collection point or recycling centre for electrical and electronic equipment.
Packaging – Cardboard and paper packaging can be recycled through standard paper recycling. Foam and plastic materials should be disposed of according to local recycling guidelines.
Stylus/Cartridge – Contains small electronic and mechanical components. Dispose of at an electronics recycling point.

By disposing of this product correctly, you help protect the environment and human health.

C. Warranty and Support

Warranty The Argon Audio AURORA is covered by a warranty period in accordance with the applicable consumer protection legislation in your country of purchase. Please contact your local dealer or retailer for specific warranty terms and coverage applicable to your region.

The warranty covers manufacturing defects and component failures under normal use conditions. It does not cover damage resulting from improper use, unauthorized modifications, physical damage, or failure to follow the instructions in this manual.

Support and Contact For support, spare parts, firmware updates and further documentation, please contact Nordic Hi-Fi:

Website: www.nordichifi.com
Email: info@nordichifi.com
Address: Nordic Hi-Fi A/S, Tilst Søndervej 136, 8381 Tilst, Denmark

Specifications and features are subject to change without notice. Please refer to the product page at www.nordichifi.com for the most current information.