Sharp’s 20-Year Silence Ends in Disappointment: RP-TT100 Turntable Review for Vinyl Fans

Sharp’s RP-TT100 turntable marks the brand’s comeback after two decades, but does it truly satisfy vinyl enthusiasts?

When a beloved brand goes silent for twenty years, vinyl fans naturally expect a grand return. That’s exactly what Sharp aimed for with the RP-TT100, their first turntable release since the early 2000s. But after the long wait, is this new model a vinyl lover’s dream or a missed beat?

A Comeback on Paper: Sharp RP-TT100’s Features

On the surface, the Sharp RP-TT100 turntable looks like a classic-meets-modern experiment. This fully automatic turntable supports the standard 33⅓ and 45 RPM speeds. But the headline feature sparking debate among analog sound purists? A built-in Bluetooth 5.4 module. Yes, now you can wirelessly stream your vinyl grooves to any Bluetooth speaker.

Bluetooth offers undeniable convenience—no more tangled cables cluttering your listening nook. Yet, it raises the age-old question: why spin vinyl if you’re just going to compress and stream its warm analog sound digitally? Purists might scoff, but convenience is the new king for many.

User-Friendly Automation with a Nice Cartridge Surprise

Sharp didn't just stop at wireless streaming—they made the RP-TT100 incredibly easy to operate. The turntable’s automation handles lifting the tonearm, returning it when the record ends, and powering down the motor. And yes, you get a remote control in the box, because sometimes getting up just to stop the music feels like a chore.

The real highlight? The pre-installed Audio Technica AT-3600LA cartridge. This little gem delivers balanced sound with smooth highs—a thoughtful inclusion that vinyl fans can genuinely appreciate.

Classic Connectivity Meets Modern Needs

For the purists sticking to traditional setups, Sharp includes RCA outputs complete with a built-in phono preamp, making it easy to hook the RP-TT100 up to an amplifier or powered speakers. The addition of a USB-C port modernizes the package further by allowing users to digitize their vinyl collection—though it requires separate software to do so.

Build quality is solid, with a sturdy aluminum platter for stable rotation, a rubber mat to dampen vibrations, and a dust cover to protect your precious records.

Complementary Speakers: The CP-SS30BK Bookshelf Pair

Sharp also offers a matching pair of active bookshelf speakers, the CP-SS30BK, designed to complement the turntable’s output. These deliver 60 watts through wooden cabinets, aiming to preserve and enhance the warm character of vinyl sound.

Connectivity options are generous: Bluetooth 5.0, USB, optical, AUX, and RCA inputs mean these speakers can double as your TV or computer sound system when you’re not spinning records.

The sound can be tailored with five EQ presets and bass/treble adjustments. Plus, removable grills and a remote control add to the convenience.

Pricing and Final Thoughts

The RP-TT100 turntable retails around £134 (roughly $160 USD), with the CP-SS30BK speakers priced at about £89 ($105 USD). That’s a fairly accessible entry point for those wanting a blend of vintage charm and new tech.

But here’s the rub: while Sharp’s comeback is exciting, the RP-TT100 feels like it’s trying to please both analog purists and digital convenience seekers, and in the process, it ends up satisfying neither fully. The Bluetooth feature, though handy, may alienate the core vinyl audience who crave the purest audio experience. On the other hand, true audiophiles might seek out higher-end gear beyond this all-in-one solution.

“The built-in Bluetooth is convenient, but it begs the question: why digitize the warmth of vinyl?” — Sharp RP-TT100 overview

FAQ

• Does the RP-TT100 support both 33⅓ and 45 RPM records?
  Yes, it supports the standard vinyl speeds of 33⅓ and 45 RPM.
• Can the Bluetooth transmit high-quality audio?
  It uses Bluetooth 5.4, which offers stable wireless streaming, but audio is compressed compared to pure analog output.
• Is the cartridge upgradeable?
  The turntable comes with an Audio Technica AT-3600LA cartridge, which can be replaced with other compatible cartridges.
• Can I digitize my vinyl collection with this turntable?
  Yes, via the USB-C port, though separate software is needed to record and convert the audio.
• Are the included speakers suitable for other devices?
  Absolutely, the CP-SS30BK speakers have multiple input options like Bluetooth, USB, optical, AUX, and RCA for versatile use.

If you’re a vinyl fan craving nostalgia or a sleek combo for your music setup, consider shopping your favorite album cover posters to bring that vinyl vibe into your space. Browse our collection at Architeg Prints to find iconic artwork that complements your listening experience.