Ruka TD-1 is a wall-mountable and vertical record player

The Ruka TD-1 is an analog vertical record player that can be mounted on the wall, connected to a stand, or placed on a base and used traditionally. Basically, you have full control over the configuration and aesthetics, which is rad.

Modern turntables or record players are getting smaller and more lightweight to the point where, now, some are even portable. But even in those cases, you still need a space to plop down and listen. You also need somewhere relatively stable to set that player down upon. Ruka has done things a little differently with its TD-1 turntable. It’s a vertical record player that you mount on the wall, instead of setting down on a table or shelf. Don’t have a suitable place to mount it? No problem, you can order the optional stand. It’s meant to adapt to your space and your preferred aesthetic. How cool is that?

The player itself supports modern and hi-fi listening with Bluetooth, analog outputs, or whatever you prefer. The casing is machined aluminum so it’s tough, resists flexing and standard wear, and looks phenomenal. A magnetic clamp built-into the player helps keep the record in place and also locks the TD-1 to the wall bracket, the stand if you use that, or a tabletop base if you want it resting traditionally. The appropriate tracking force is automatically detected based on the turntables configuration. Moreover, onboard mechanical controls give you full freedom over your music and listening sessions. The knobs turn. The switches click. It all feels satisfying and analog, as it should be.

What else is there to know about the Zuka TD-1 vertical record player?

Ruka TD-1 vertical record player up close with blue vinyl loaded

The TD-1 is powered by a USB-C cable and comes with Bluetooth out, for use with wireless speakers and systems, and wired output through pure analog (RCA audio). If you’re a specs or numbers person, you get a signal-to-noise ratio of ≥75 dB, speed accuracy of ±0.1%, and wow and flutter at <0.15% RMS. It should sound pretty clean, but the real test of that will be when it’s in your hands and available to jam out with. Dimensions are about 12 inches tall, 3 inches wide, and 1.6 inches deep, but that’s just for the turntable unit alone. You’ll also need plenty of space for the records.

The biggest downside is that this product is not yet ready to ship. If you order today, it will only be a pre-order with no estimated release date mentioned as of yet. If you check the “Shipping & Returns” drop-down on the pre-order page, it says they are made to order and will ship in about 12 months. That is a long time to wait for something you’re spending $1,400 on. It does also say your payment is fully refundable “any time” before your unit ships.