Renowned composer and musician Brian Eno, notably recognized for creating the celebrated Windows 95 startup sound, has just unveiled his latest work – the Turntable II – a striking limited-edition sculpture that doubles as a functional turntable. This piece, which carries a price tag of £20,000, is presented at the esteemed Paul Stolper Gallery as a part of Eno’s continuing exploration into generative art and music.
Brian Eno’s Turntable II has been crafted with a keen eye for aesthetic beauty, merging his interests in ambient and generative creations. The sculpture boasts an acrylic design, embellished with internal LEDs that emit an evocative glow in dim environments. This continuation of his previous work, the 2021 Turntable I, was available for viewing at the gallery until March 9, 2024.
This piece stands out not only as a piece of functional art but also as a testament to Eno’s innovative journey through the world of music and technology. Known for his eclectic repertoire that spans ambient, electronic, rock, and pop music, Eno has always been at the forefront of creating experiences that merge the auditory with the visual. His generative works, such as the Turntable II, produce ever-changing soundscapes and visual experiences that echo his belief in music and art that evolves over time without ever exactly repeating.
Eno’s Turntable II is as practical as it is artistic. Measuring 45 cm in diameter and 16.8 cm in height, the turnject aluminum tonearm project turntable, which operates at both 33 rpm and 45 rpm speeds, is capable of playing vinyl records with clarity and precision. It uses an Ortofon 2M cartridge to deliver its sound, showcasing its commitment to high-quality audio performance.
Celebrating the release of the Turntable II, collectors and fans have the opportunity to own one of the 150 copies available, along with 20 additional artist’s proofs. Each edition is distinctively marked with an engraved edition number and the signature of Brian Eno himself.
For those with a keen interest in audio equipment and contemporary art, Brian Eno’s Turntable II offers a marvelous amalgamation of both. It represents a statement piece that is as much a sonically impressive device as it is a captivating work of art, perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life. For avid collectors and audiophiles not looking to invest such a large sum, there are alternatives on the market, including more affordable Pro-ject turntables, that can still offer quality listening experiences accompanied by the artist’s vinyl records.
