Frame Theory 3D's SongBird Is a 3D-Printed Vinyl Turntable You Can Build at Home
Designed to be both functional and educational, the SongBird kit is available with 3D-printed plastic parts or STL files for home printing.
Frame Theory 3D's Kiran Pearce has turned to crowdfunding to bring a novel creation to life: the SongBird, a 3D-printable turntable kit for your vinyl collection.
"At Frame Theory 3D, we've been working tirelessly over the last year to bring you our first 3D printing kit and here it is: The SongBird Turntable," Pearce writes. "Take your 3D printing skills to the next level through this exciting and original kit, or test the 3D printing waters by getting our pre-printed kit and discover just how much is possible with a domestic 3D printer."
The SongBird is an interesting hybrid project: At its heart, it's a kit-form music turntable for vinyl records. Supplied in kit form, with a detailed build guide, many of the parts are pre-prepared — including laser-cut anodised aluminum for the frame, a custom brass bearing for the arm, and solder-free wiring looms. Those who buy the kit need only assemble it as per the instructions to get started.
Those looking for something a little more custom, though, can opt to receive the kit without the plastic parts - printing them at home from supplied STL files. "Should you need to replace any part of any of our kits, you can repair it with ease by simply re-printing the file," Pearce explains. "You will gain an intimate understanding of not only the Songbird, but all turntables work, whilst learning the skills of 3D printing."
The SongBird is now funding on Kickstarter priced at £127 early bird pricing for the print-it-yourself kit or £212 for the pre-printed version (around $176 and $294 respectively). Those opting for the printable model will need to ensure they have access to a 3D printer with a build volume of at least 220x220x50mm (around 8.7"x8.7"x1.97").