KUZMA · Stabi
Stabi Ref 2
A reference-grade suspended platform engineered for absolute mechanical stability.
The Stabi Ref 2 represents a pinnacle of Kuzma's engineering, built upon the foundation of a design first introduced in 1992. It employs a rigorous sandwich construction throughout its architecture, utilising layers of aluminium and acrylic clamped together with pre-stressed, non-magnetic stainless steel screws to achieve superior rigidity and inherent damping.
The turntable rests on a dual-plate system where the top chassis is suspended by large springs submerged in silicone oil. This precision-tuned suspension achieves a remarkably low resonance frequency of 2.2 Hz, effectively isolating the platter and tonearm from environmental vibration and motor noise. The system is designed to be effortlessly levelled, with the silicone reservoirs automatically sealing when the chassis is lifted for transit.
Driven by a two-motor diamond drive system, the sub-platter features an inverted bearing with a ruby ball, both of which operate within dedicated oil baths to ensure near-frictionless rotation. The resulting sound is characterised by profound neutrality, exceptional deep-bass definition, and a expansive, holographic soundstage. It is a source component that captures the finest micro-details with effortless composure, remaining a definitive reference for the most demanding analogue systems.
Key Features
01
Sandwich construction
The chassis, platter, and armboard use layered aluminium and acrylic to maximise rigidity while minimising internal resonance.
02
Silicone-damped suspension
Springs are submerged in silicone oil to damp oscillations, achieving a low 2.2 Hz resonance that effectively filters out environmental interference.
03
Diamond drive system
Utilises two AC motors in a diamond configuration to provide high torque and superior speed stability.
04
Inverted ruby bearing
A high-precision ruby ball bearing system immersed in a dedicated oil bath ensures exceptionally low friction and long-term durability.
Chapter 01
Design Philosophy
The Stabi Ref 2 is based on the philosophy that the primary enemy of vinyl playback is energy storage. By utilising a sandwich structure of dissimilar materials, Kuzma successfully prevents the build-up of mechanical energy within the turntable structure. The open-architecture design ensures that every critical junction—from the motor coupling to the bearing—is engineered to dissipate unwanted vibrations before they can affect the stylus.
Chapter 02
Build & Materials
The build quality is defined by its substantial mass and precision. The 40 kg mass of the turntable provides a stable inertial base, while the specific use of non-magnetic stainless steel screws and high-grade aluminium layers demonstrates a commitment to material purity. Every element, down to the automated sealing of the silicone reservoirs, is designed for both high performance and practical utility.
Chapter 03
Listening Notes
Listeners typically describe the Stabi Ref 2 as 'unconflicting'. It does not impose an artificial warmth or forced detail upon the music; instead, it presents the recording with lifelike scale and depth. The noise floor is exceptionally low, allowing the listener to distinguish between different recording venues through the decay and natural silence preserved in the grooves.
Specifications
TypeSuspended belt-driven turntable
Platter mass8 kg
Platter materialAluminium and acrylic sandwich
Bearing typeInverted ruby ball with oil bath
Speeds33, 45 rpm
Dimensions (H × W × D)200 × 500 × 400 mm
Weight40 kg
Shaft diameter16 mm
DriveFlat rubber belt
Chassis/LevellingAluminium & acrylic/Yes
Turntable levellingNo
Motors2 pcs AC
External power supplyYes
ArmboardYes
VTA adjustmentYes
No. of tonearms1pc
Max tonearm’s cutout position10*
SuspendedYes ( 2.2 Hz)
FinishesBlack
ClampYes
MatYes
LidNo
AccessoriesOil, Allen keys
OptionsVarious armboards,