Rui Borges
Founder and CEO of Rui Borges Turntables,
Passionate about music from a very young age, he started building his own turntables in the early 1990s. In 1996, one of his models was honoured for the first time with the Product of the Year award.
For more than three decades, he dedicated himself to studying the mechanics and science of materials – exploring the structure and plasticity properties of various compounds.
This led to the development of a unique approach for isolating the reproduction of music from external factors, based on the meticulous fine-tuned use of different materials. These were chosen for their individual properties, with the main objective of controling vibrations, whether produced by the cartridge, received by the air or the floor.
More importantly, beyond the individual qualities of these materials – used in other quality high end audio products, – was the identification of the most synergistic combinations between them. The real core characteristic of RB turntables. This was achieved through a multi-year pathway of development iterations, rigorous tests of a large range of materials, followed by rigorous listening sessions. The result is a chassis construction method he calls FLD (Fluid Layer Decoupling), an attribute transversal to all RB turntables and support systems.
Always in search of improvement, he developed Pendulum, a system that is probably unique in the way it is implemented. This mechanism makes it possible to isolate the motor in a mobile context, contributing significantly to its rotational stability, and to a background silence that further enhances the music.
commitment to our customers
For us, building a turntable is, above all, about serving music. But it’s also about serving those who live it with the same passion – our customers. More than just a purchase, we want each turntable to be the start of a long-lasting relationship built on trust, sharing and continuous evolution. That’s why we’ve made a commitment: to always be there for you, with customisation options, upgrade programmes and a community spirit that brings musicplusplus to life.
Personalization
Because each system is an extension of the listener’s personality, we offer exclusive personalisation options. Whether it’s a special inscription engraved on the turntable – such as a name, a dedication or a milestone date – or the choice of a colour other than the classic gloss black and aluminium, every detail can be adjusted to the taste and sensibility of those who live music with passion. A personal touch in an object designed to last a lifetime.
Upgrades
Evolving to the rhythm of your listening
Our turntables are designed with evolution in mind. You can opt for a modular upgrade – replacing specific components such as the turntable or arm board, adjusting performance over time – or, when it makes sense, exchange your current turntable for a superior model through a take-back programme with a personalised assessment.
Because your connection to music deserves to grow with you, step by step, note by note.
RUI BORGES INNA TURNTABLE
The INNA is the entry-level model, and the latest in the Rui Borges turntables range, integrating all the knowledge of the brand. It combines the FLD (Fluid Layer Decoupling) philosophy present in all turntables with a lighter structure than the other models, but with the same main objective: vibration control.
The primordial essence of the Rui Borges turntables lies in the quest for absolute Silence – Where the music breathes freely: more dynamics, more space, more emotion.
The Chassis is made up of three boards of composite material, carefully selected for their insulation and energy absorption properties: The upper board supports the platter, subplatter and bearing assembly. The lower plate serves three different armboards that accomodated tonearms from 9’’ up to 12’’. The middle board separates the two, with minimal connections using a elastomarous material that guarantees effective decoupling between the components.
The bearing, sub-platter and platters were designed and the materials chosen with the main objective of guaranteeing maximum rotational stability of the system. The bearing and sub-platter are common to all models. The aluminum platter, supplied as standard, is machined from a solid block of aluminium not casted, and, as an option, the Hybrid aluminum and bronze platter, designed for a greater inercia that helps to increase rotational stability.
The power supply is common to all models in the brand’s range. This unit electronically stabilizes the engine speed and includes a selection for 33⅓ and 45 rpm, with extra individual manual adjustment via two pitch controls, one for 33⅓ and other for 45 rpm. The technical design ensures optimal stability of rotation, minimising ‘wow and flutter’ variations.
The motor is housed in an independent block outside the chassis to prevent vibrations from being transmitted to the main structure, thus protecting the integrity of the mechanical signal and contributing to quieter, more stable operation.
Customisation options, upgrade programmes and a community spirit.
INNA can be upgraded in two ways:
– Upgrade the model itself, replacing the aluminium platter with the hybrid aluminium and bronze model, or adding a dedicated decoupling table.
– Model upgrade, keeping the main components such as the bearing, sub-plate, plate, motor block and power supply – common to the entire Rui Borges range – reducing the cost of the transition to higher models.
Tech. Specs
Wow and fluter: Tipically 0,06
Dimensions (H x W x D):
Aluminium plate: 7,9 kg
Total Weight: 25 kg
RUI BORGES ULTIMO TURNTABLE
The ULTIMO is the middle model in the Rui Borges range, and in its MK II version integrates all the knowledge of the brand. Based on the FLD (Fluid Layer Decoupling) philosophy, takes this turntable to a new level, with significant gains in vibration control and rotational stability – it’s the natural continuation for those who want to go even further, without ever losing the original soul.
The primordial essence of the Rui Borges turntables lies in the quest for absolute Silence – not technical, but the kind you feel: deep, enveloping, essential for the music to emerge with all its dynamics, texture and spatiality, revealing every detail naturally and precisely.
The Main Chassis, is made up of a composite board, the chassis support blocks, a part dedicated to supporting the bearing and tensioning rods. A closer look reveals the complexity and excellence of this architecture. Designed with the precision of a piece of structural engineering, the base rests on just three support points. This configuration, combined with the considerable weight of the bearing support piece, would naturally generate a tendency towards micro-arching. The introduction of tension rods neutralises this effect, guaranteeing the rigidity and stability of the whole: compressive and tensile forces remain in balance, ensuring a static and controlled structure.
This assembly rests at three points on the Suspension chassis, made up of an acrylic board and three aluminium cylinders, integrating its own suspension system. The contact points are aligned with millimetre precision to the operating plane of the drive belt, minimising oscillations or variations that could compromise its performance.
The entire system rests on a Decoupling table, whose contact is ensured by spheres made of different materials, carefully selected for this purpose.
Also noteworthy is the location of the centre of gravity – quite low – which contributes to overall mechanical stability and, in particular, to minimising unwanted movements in the drive belt. As a result, the system operates with high precision and consistency, optimising speed control.
To summarise: the FLD architecture, combined with the careful selection of materials, is aimed above all at effective vibration control. The way the chassis is supported is a fundamental element in guaranteeing the system’s rotational stability.
The bearing, sub-platter and platters were designed and the materials chosen with the main objective of guaranteeing maximum rotational stability of the system. The bearing and sub-platter are common to all models. The aluminum platter, supplied as standard, is machined from a solid block of aluminium not casted, as an option, the Hybrid aluminum and bronze platter, designed for a greater inercia that helps to increase the rotational stability.
The BPW, a highly complex component and a notable advance on the hybrid platter, is also made of aluminium and bronze. It starts from the same fundamental principle: a cymbal with greater mass promotes inertia and therefore greater rotational stability. However, too much mass can absorb too many vibrations and compromise lightness and musical fluidity.
Without revealing its construction secrets, the BPW is heavier on the periphery, lighter in the centre. It is also precisely bevelled, ensuring minimal contact with the top of the sub-platter. This approach allows vibrations to be channelled to the base of the system, making it easier to dissipate them through the main shaft.
In addition, the grooves on the plate follow the Fibonacci pattern, contributing to an even more effective dispersion of vibrations. A second acrylic platter rests on top of this set, where the disc is placed – an element that reinforces the lightness, brilliance and musical swing characteristic of this system.
The power supply is common to all models in the brand’s range. This unit electronically stabilizes the engine speed and includes a selection for 33⅓ and 45 rpm, with extra individual manual adjustment via two pitch controls, one for 33⅓ and other for 45 rpm. The technical design ensures optimal stability of rotation, minimising ‘wow and flutter’ variations.
The motor is housed in an independent block outside the chassis to prevent vibrations from being transmitted to the main structure, thus protecting the integrity of the mechanical signal and contributing to quieter, more stable operation.
Customisation options, upgrade programmes and a community spirit.
The system’s performance can be raised to a much higher level.
ULTIMO can be upgraded in two ways:
– Upgrading the model itself: opting for the aluminium and bronze platter; opting for the BPW platter; replacing the motor support with a horizontal pendulum support; adding a dedicated decoupling table.
– Model upgrade: upgrade to the PENDULUM, as both share most of the construction base, adding the dedicated rack and vertical pendulum.
Tech. Specs
Wow and fluter: tipically 0,06
Dimensions (H x W x D): 520 x 670 x 270 mm
Aluminium plate: 7,9 kg
Total Weight: 49 kg
RUI BORGES PENDULUM TURNTABLE
PENDULUM is the natural evolution of ULTIMO. Having found in it the ideal decoupling, control and dispersion that the chassis structure could offer with the FLD (Fluid Layer Decoupling) philosophy, it has opted for an approach, which we believe is unique in the way it has been implemented, for the support of the engine, thus suggesting a vertical pendulum, which allows the engine to be “suspended”.
The primordial essence of the Rui Borges turntables lies in the quest for absolute Silence – The kind of silence you don’t hear – you feel it. An absolute black background on which the music comes to life, revealing more dynamics, greater spatiality, more subtle nuances and, above all, a more fluid and natural musical tempo.
The Pendulum Main Chassis and Suspension Chassis are the same as the Ultimo. Read about ULTIMO Chassis above.
The Decoupling table is different: on the Pendulum it is made up of two additional plates, one in glass and the other in composite material, and the entire weight is supported by three small aluminium parts of different sizes, which vibrate at different frequencies, each with a cylindrical aluminium part with inverted spikes.
The whole set has a Dedicated floor table that also follows the FLD architecture, and which also supports the pendulum system.
The bearing, sub-platter and platters were designed and the materials chosen with the main objective of guaranteeing maximum rotational stability of the system. The bearing and sub-platter are common to all models. The aluminum platter, supplied as standard, is machined from a solid block of aluminium not casted, as an option, the Hybrid aluminum and bronze platter, designed for a greater inercia that helps to increase the rotational stability.
The BPW, a highly complex component and a notable advance on the hybrid platter, is also made of aluminium and bronze. It starts from the same fundamental principle: a cymbal with greater mass promotes inertia and therefore greater rotational stability. However, too much mass can absorb too many vibrations and compromise lightness and musical fluidity.
The Power Supply is common to all models in the brand’s range and includes automatic gear selection (33⅓/45 rpm), with the option of manual adjustment via two pitch controls. The design ensures strict control of the engine, optimising the stability of its rotation and minimising unwanted ‘wow and flutter’ variations.
The main feature of the Pendulum is, as the name suggests, the existence of a motor support with a pendulum. Why implement this system? The operation of a turntable requires it to move, even a millionth of a millimetre. If the motor is fixed, it will create tension and distension in the drive belt, which jeopardises rotational stability.
By having a suspension that allows the engine to move freely, it can follow the movements of the assembly, there is no belt tensioning, which results in a more precise transmission.
For an equally millimetre adjustment, the two pulleys have different angles. By adjusting the counterweight in one direction or the other, you can fine-tune the traction force that the belt makes through the angles, allowing you to fine-tune the rotation. It is important to avoid any fluctuations, as these will degrade the tempo of the music.
Customisation options, upgrade programmes and a community spirit.
To reach the Excellence in sound performance PENDULUM Reference is the ultimate evolution step.
PENDULUM can be upgraded in two ways:
– Upgrading the model itself; opting for the aluminium and bronze platter or for the BPW platter
– Model upgrade; upgrade to the Pendulum Reference. Because pendulum system is different, is necessary a new dedicated rack and pendulum.
Tech. Specs
Turntable
Wow and fluter: <= 0,04
Dimensions (H x W x D): 520 x 670 x 270 mm
Aluminium plate: 7,9 kg
Turntable Weight: 49 kg
Dedicated Table:
Dimensions
Weigth
Pendulo
Dimensions
Total Weigth:
RUI BORGES PENDULUM REFERENCE TURNTABLE
PENDULUM Reference is the ultimate evolution step of Rui Borges range of turntables. Combining the FLD (Fluid Layer Decoupling) philosophy with the Pendulum techonolgy is a masterpiece of engineering and design. It is not just a turntable—it is a statement of artistry and passion for sound.
The primordial essence of the Rui Borges turntables lies in the quest for absolute Silence – The kind of silence you don’t hear – you feel it. An absolute black background on which the music comes to life, revealing more dynamics, greater spatiality, more subtle nuances and, above all, a more fluid and natural musical tempo.
The Pendulum Reference Main Chassis and Suspension Chassis are the same as the Ultimo. Read about ULTIMO Chassis above.
The Decoupling table is different: on the Reference it is made up of two additional plates, one in glass and the other in composite material, and the entire weight is supported by three small aluminium parts of different sizes, which vibrate at different frequencies, each with a cylindrical aluminium part with inverted spikes.
The whole set rests on a floor table dedicated to supporting the turntable, designed according to the principles of FLD architecture, but with a significantly higher degree of complexity than that used in the Pendulum model. This configuration makes it possible to achieve exceptional levels of performance and stability, elevating the sound experience to levels of great precision and fidelity.
The bearing, sub-platter and platters were designed and the materials chosen with the main objective of guaranteeing maximum rotational stability of the system. The bearing and sub-platter are common to all models. The aluminum platter, supplied as standard, is machined from a solid block of aluminium not casted, as an option, the Hybrid aluminum and bronze platter, designed for a greater inercia that helps to increase the rotational stability.
The BPW, a highly complex component and a notable advance on the hybrid platter, is also made of aluminium and bronze. It starts from the same fundamental principle: a cymbal with greater mass promotes inertia and therefore greater rotational stability. However, too much mass can absorb too many vibrations and compromise lightness and musical fluidity.
The power supply is common to all models in the brand’s range and includes automatic gear selection (33⅓/45 rpm), with the option of manual adjustment via two pitch controls. The design ensures strict control of the engine, optimising the stability of its rotation and minimising unwanted ‘wow and flutter’ variations.
The main feature of the Pendulum is, as the name suggests, the existence of a motor support with a pendulum. Why implement this system? The operation of a turntable requires it to move, even a millionth of a millimetre. If the motor is fixed, it will create tension and distension in the drive belt, which jeopardises rotational stability.
By having a suspension that allows the engine to move freely, it can follow the movements of the assembly, there is no belt tensioning, which results in a more precise transmission.
For an equally millimetre adjustment, the two pulleys have different angles. By adjusting the counterweight in one direction or the other, you can fine-tune the traction force that the belt makes through the angles, allowing you to fine-tune the rotation. It is important to avoid any fluctuations, as these will degrade the tempo of the music.
Unlike the Pendulum, in the Reference model the pendulum also has a dedicated support table, which provides even tighter control of the entire system and contributes to excellent performance.
Customisation options, upgrade programmes and a community spirit.
PENDULUM Reference can be upgraded:
– Upgrading the model itself; opting for the aluminium and bronze platter or for the BPW platter.
Tech. Specs
Turntable
Wow and fluter: tipically 0,06
Dimensions (H x W x D): 520 x 670 x 270 mm
Aluminium plate: 7,9 kg
Turntable Weight: 49 kg
Dedicated Table:
Dimensions
Weigth
Pendulo
Dimensions
Total Weigth: