For over forty years, the global high-end audio industry gathered annually in Munich for HIGH END Munich, celebrating analog playback’s future. In 2026, this tradition shifts as the event relocates to the Austria Center Vienna, taking place from June 4–7.
Introducing the Greenwich turntable
One of the event’s highlights is the debut of the Greenwich Turntable, a carbon-composite flagship device from British manufacturer Wilson Benesch. Following its preview at the UK’s Audio Show Deluxe and a showcase at AXPONA in April, this will be its first major European appearance.
The Greenwich Turntable is more than just a product launch; it symbolizes a new era for ultra-premium audio. As Munich transitions to Vienna, it raises questions about audience reach and market dynamics, but Wilson Benesch is embracing the change by showcasing their new GMT platform at the exhibition.
Advanced engineering in focus
Eschewing retro-inspired designs, Wilson Benesch focuses on advanced engineering with the Greenwich, reflecting the industry’s technical progression. Known for carbon-fiber construction and composite materials, the Greenwich Turntable continues this tradition within Wilson Benesch’s GMT Collection.
The design incorporates the OMEGA Direct Drive motor, a 15-inch slotless synchronous motor, minimizing torque ripple and lateral forces for quieter playback. The ALPHA Drive control system ensures speed stability with quartz-referenced Class A electronics, supporting playback at multiple RPMs and offering precise adjustments via a dedicated app.
The design and market position
Aesthetically, the Greenwich features exposed motor architecture, a glass upper surface, metallic accents, and carbon-fiber parts, blending industrial art with high-end audio design.
Despite its “entry-level” label within the GMT hierarchy, the turntable’s price of approximately £82,000 ($130,000) places it in the ultra-luxury range. The Greenwich serves as an accessible starting point for Wilson Benesch’s modular ecosystem, allowing future upgrades while keeping the core drive platform intact, distinguishing it from standalone competitors like Rega or Technics.
Impact on the industry
The Vienna debut of the Greenwich Turntable isn’t just about the product; it’s about setting the stage for HIGH END Vienna. As other brands unveil new analog products, Wilson Benesch’s Greenwich acts as a symbolic focus for this inaugural event chapter.
Wilson Benesch’s Greenwich turntable at HIGH END Vienna 2026
Sources & Links
Source: yankodesign.com