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Another Record Store Day is behind us. One of the coolest exclusive releases this year wasn’t vinyl at all, and carries a name that will have you thinking “droid.” The RSD3 was released by Crosley as an exclusive available only in participating brick-and-mortar stores. It’s a 3-inch turntable-inspired by the 8ban record format that had a brief period of popularity in Japan 15 years ago.
Crosley RSD3: A Mini, Portable Turntable
It’s a safe bet that the Crosley RSD3 is probably the smallest fully functional turntable that most people have seen. It’s just over 6-inches wide, under 3-inches tall and weighs only one pound. The platter is belt-driven and can be powered by USB or with four AA batteries. It has a built-in speaker, but if you want to go bigger and louder the RSD3 is equipped with a 3.5mm AUX output jack so you can connect it to an audio system. There’s even a dust cover included.
One of the things that adds to the visual appeal of the RSD3 is the included cartridge. Despite the wee form factor, it’s equipped with a full-sized Audio Technica AT-3600 cartridge. The effect is somewhat akin to a puppy with the overgrown paws you know it will grow into as an adult-except this turntable will always be tiny. The inclusion of the AT-3600 is a nice touch that ensures those 3-inch…
