Audio T Verdict
The Resolution Mk5 is where Origin Live's distinctive turntable architecture gains some of its most sophisticated resonance-control technology. It builds on the Calypso with a substantially more elaborate arm mounting, further isolation of the main bearing and four strategically positioned front-loading inertia discs.
The current Mk5 specification also includes Origin Live's Multi-Layer Platter as standard, together with the latest Mk5 motor power supply and DC100 motor. This is no longer simply an optional-platter version of the older Resolution.
Supplied here without a tonearm or cartridge, it gives you the freedom to build a genuinely serious vinyl front end around the arm and cartridge of your choice. Match it carefully and the Resolution is the sort of turntable that can form the heart of a system for a very long time.
Origin Live Resolution Mk5 Turntable
The Resolution Mk5 sits above the Calypso in Origin Live's current range and introduces several significant mechanical developments while retaining the company's distinctive cantilevered and decoupled turntable architecture.
The current specification combines:
- Origin Live Multi-Layer Platter
- Mk5 Motor Power Supply
- DC100 motor
- High Performance Armboard
- Ultra-low-friction main bearing
- Maximum main-bearing decoupling
- Heavy Sub-Chassis Inertia Disc
- 4 x Front Loading Inertia Discs
- High-specification sub-chassis
- Electronic 33? and 45 rpm speed selection
This Audio T version is supplied without a tonearm or cartridge.
Multi-Layer Platter Fitted as Standard
The current Resolution Mk5 incorporates Origin Live's Multi-Layer Platter as part of its standard specification.
Originally developed as an upgrade and influenced by work carried out on the flagship Voyager, the platter uses several mechanically different layers rather than relying on a single homogeneous material.
The upper structure incorporates more than 1,000 individually cut slots, combined with further material layers beneath and an acrylic platter structure. The intention is to disperse vibration through the interaction of mechanically dissimilar materials.
A label-sized recess at the centre also changes the way the record interfaces with the platter around its non-playing area.
Current Mk5 Specification
Some older Origin Live information still describes the Multi-Layer Platter as an optional Resolution upgrade. For the current Mk5 range, Origin Live's latest comparison table and Mk5 announcement list it as standard on the Resolution.
High Performance Armboard
The Resolution is the first model in the current Origin Live range to use the company's High Performance Armboard.
Compared with the standard armboard fitted to the Aurora, Swift and Calypso, the Resolution version is approximately twice as thick and incorporates a substantial steel insert around the tonearm mounting.
The additional thickness and concentrated mass are intended to reduce unwanted vibration travelling through the tonearm mounting while maintaining the mechanical relationship between the armboard, platter and bearing housing.
The armboard itself remains decoupled from the outer turntable plinth.
Calypso Mk5
- Standard armboard
- Multi-Layer Platter
- Sub-Chassis Inertia Disc
- No maximum bearing decoupling
Resolution Mk5
- High Performance Armboard
- Multi-Layer Platter
- Sub-Chassis Inertia Disc
- Maximum main-bearing decoupling
Maximum Main-Bearing Decoupling
Origin Live's current comparison specification identifies the Resolution as the first turntable in the range to receive its Maximum Decoupling on Main Bearing treatment.
This further separates the mechanical behaviour of the bearing assembly from unwanted vibration travelling through the surrounding turntable structure.
The intention is not to leave the bearing completely mechanically floating. Origin Live continues to favour a controlled path for unwanted energy to leave the platter while reducing vibration reaching the bearing from other parts of the deck.
Ultra-Low-Friction Main Bearing
The main platter bearing is manufactured by Origin Live in-house.
The spindle runs on a tungsten carbide ball centred on a hardened thrust pad, an arrangement developed to combine low friction, durability and controlled mechanical grounding.
Origin Live deliberately avoids air-floating or magnetically floating the platter, preferring the bearing to provide a carefully controlled route for vibration to leave the platter assembly.
Heavy Sub-Chassis Inertia Disc
A substantial stainless-steel inertia disc is positioned underneath the armboard and platter close to their connection with the sub-chassis.
This places additional mass at a mechanically important point rather than simply making the entire plinth heavier.
The mass helps resist vertical vibration travelling across the turntable structure and towards either the tonearm or platter bearing.
Four Front Loading Inertia Discs
The Resolution goes further than the Calypso by using four Front Loading Inertia Discs positioned around the extremities of the plinth.
These smaller concentrated masses are designed to resist rotational movement generated by both structure-borne and airborne vibration.
Together with the main stainless-steel Inertia Disc, they form part of the Resolution's increased resonance-control system.
High-Specification Sub-Chassis
The platter bearing and tonearm mounting are carried by a substantial sub-chassis rather than being independently fixed to the outer plinth.
Origin Live balances the armboard against the platter and bearing housing within this structure, while mechanically decoupling the assembly from the turntable's outer support.
The additional mass within the Resolution sub-chassis also contributes to damping vibration travelling between the armboard and platter assembly.
Origin Live Suspension
The Resolution uses Origin Live's own approach to turntable suspension rather than a conventional multi-spring floating sub-chassis.
The design combines decoupling with a comparatively rigid mechanical structure, aiming to control vibration without introducing the large movement and regular adjustment associated with some traditional suspended turntables.
Adjustable feet allow the deck to be levelled accurately during installation.
Mk5 Motor Power Supply
Origin Live's Mk5 Motor Power Supply replaces the previous Light Speed Controller generation with revised electronics and a new control PCB.
The controller is designed to provide stable motor operation while reducing effects such as speed drift, jitter and cogging.
Both normal vinyl playback speeds are selected electronically:
Speed can therefore be changed without moving the drive belt onto a different pulley position.
DC100 Motor
Origin Live's current Mk5 comparison table specifies the Resolution with its DC100 motor.
This high-grade Swiss motor uses an ironless-core design to reduce eddy-current effects and cogging behaviour.
The motor itself is mechanically decoupled from the main turntable structure to minimise vibration travelling towards the platter and tonearm.
Why You May See Different Motor Specifications Online
Older Origin Live literature refers to earlier motor configurations including the DC200. For the current Mk5 Resolution, Origin Live's latest live comparison table specifies the DC100, which is the specification used here.
Higher-Tolerance Motor Pulley
The Resolution uses Origin Live's specially selected polymer drive pulley, produced to tighter manufacturing tolerances than the pulley fitted to the Aurora and Calypso.
The pulley works together with Origin Live's in-house manufactured belt, which uses a specially selected material designed to provide high grip with reduced stretch during momentary changes in loading.
Choose Your Own Tonearm
The Audio T Resolution Mk5 is supplied without a tonearm, allowing the complete turntable to be configured around your preferred arm and cartridge.
Origin Live's own arms are obvious partners, with options ranging from the Onyx, Silver and Zephyr through to the Encounter, Illustrious, Conqueror, Enterprise, Agile and Renown.
Compatible Rega tonearms can also be accommodated.
No Tonearm or Cartridge Included
This listing is for the Resolution Mk5 turntable only. A compatible tonearm and cartridge must be purchased separately.
Audio T can supply and professionally configure the complete turntable, arm and cartridge combination.
12-Inch Tonearm Option
A dedicated 12-inch sub-chassis can be specified for customers who want to use a 12-inch Origin Live tonearm.
The arm mounting is integrated into the turntable's sub-chassis architecture, so converting from the standard arm configuration is considerably more involved than simply replacing a conventional armboard.
For this reason, the required 12-inch configuration is best specified when ordering the turntable.
Origin Live states that its own 12-inch tonearms will normally fit this version, while other manufacturers' 12-inch arms should be confirmed individually.
Dual-Tonearm Configuration
Origin Live also offers a twin-arm version of the Resolution sub-chassis capable of accepting two suitable 9.5-inch Origin Live or Rega tonearms.
A second arm can be useful for:
- Separate stereo and mono cartridges
- Different cartridges for different record collections
- Different cartridge profiles or tracking requirements
- Direct tonearm comparisons
As with the 12-inch version, it is best to specify the twin-arm configuration when ordering because the arm mounting forms part of the sub-chassis.
Optional Fully Balanced Upgrade Transformer
Origin Live offers a separately housed Fully Balanced Upgrade Transformer as an optional enhancement for turntables below the Sovereign.
The transformer replaces the standard external transformer and is intended to provide additional mains isolation, lower electrical noise and improved instantaneous current delivery to the motor control system.
It can be specified with a new Resolution or added to an existing compatible turntable later.
Made in Southampton
Origin Live designs and manufactures its turntables in Southampton, England.
The company produces most turntable components within its own workshop, giving it direct control over machining, material selection, tolerances, assembly and ongoing product development.
Dimensions and Installation
The Resolution's cantilevered design means its total outline is larger than the equipment-support surface actually required underneath it.
- Minimum support footprint: 40 x 29cm
- Overall size with 9.5-inch arm: 49 x 36 x 17cm
- Overall size with 12-inch arm: 55 x 36 x 17cm
- Turntable weight: 12.1kg
- Shipping dimensions: 60 x 45 x 16cm
- Packaged weight: 13.9kg
A rigid, level and stable equipment support is recommended, positioned away from unnecessary loudspeaker vibration where practical.
UK Power Specification
Origin Live configures the motor power system for the destination country.
For the UK, the Resolution Mk5 is supplied for 220-240V mains operation. A separate 110V configuration is used in applicable overseas markets.
The Mk5 Motor Power Supply is included with the turntable.
Key Features
- Origin Live Resolution Mk5
- No tonearm included
- No cartridge included
- Designed and manufactured in Southampton
- Belt-drive turntable
- 33? rpm
- 45 rpm
- Electronic speed selection
- Mk5 Motor Power Supply
- DC100 Swiss motor
- Ironless-core motor construction
- Mechanically decoupled motor
- Origin Live in-house drive belt
- Higher-tolerance Resolution pulley
- Multi-Layer Platter fitted as standard
- Multi-material platter construction
- More than 1,000 slots in platter upper layer
- High Performance Armboard
- Double-thickness armboard construction
- Steel tonearm-mounting insert
- Maximum main-bearing decoupling
- Ultra-low-friction main bearing
- Tungsten carbide bearing ball
- Hardened thrust pad
- High-specification sub-chassis
- Heavy stainless-steel Inertia Disc
- 4 x Front Loading Inertia Discs
- Origin Live tonearm compatibility
- Compatible Rega tonearm support
- Optional 12-inch sub-chassis
- Optional twin-arm sub-chassis
- Optional Fully Balanced Upgrade Transformer
- Adjustable levelling feet
- 40 x 29cm minimum support footprint
- 12.1kg turntable weight
- UK 220-240V configuration
- Five-year warranty against manufacturing defects
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Origin Live Resolution Mk5 include a tonearm?
No. This Audio T listing is for the no-arm version.
Does it include a cartridge?
No. The cartridge should be selected to suit the chosen tonearm, phono stage and rest of the system.
Does the current Resolution Mk5 include the Multi-Layer Platter?
Yes. Origin Live's current Mk5 comparison specification lists the Multi-Layer Platter as standard on the Resolution.
What motor does the current Resolution Mk5 use?
Origin Live's current Mk5 comparison table specifies the DC100 motor.
Why do some older specifications mention a DC200 motor?
Origin Live's website contains some legacy information from earlier versions of the Resolution. For the current Mk5 product, the latest comparison table lists the DC100.
What is the main difference between the Calypso and Resolution?
The Resolution adds the High Performance Armboard, four Front Loading Inertia Discs rather than the simpler Calypso arrangement, and Origin Live's Maximum Decoupling on Main Bearing specification.
What is the High Performance Armboard?
It is approximately twice the thickness of Origin Live's standard armboard and incorporates a substantial steel insert around the tonearm mounting to increase mass and control vibration.
What is Maximum Main-Bearing Decoupling?
It is Origin Live's higher-level treatment for reducing unwanted vibration reaching the main bearing through the surrounding turntable structure while retaining a controlled mechanical energy path.
What speeds does the Resolution support?
33? and 45 rpm.
Do I have to move the belt to change speed?
No. Speed selection is handled electronically by the Mk5 Motor Power Supply.
What bearing does it use?
The in-house main bearing uses a tungsten carbide ball centred on a hardened thrust pad.
Which tonearms can I fit?
Origin Live tonearms are natural partners and compatible Rega arms can also be accommodated. Other arms should be checked for mounting compatibility before ordering.
Can I use a 12-inch tonearm?
Yes. A dedicated 12-inch sub-chassis can be specified, primarily for Origin Live's own 12-inch tonearms.
Can I fit two tonearms?
Yes. Origin Live offers a twin-arm sub-chassis for two suitable 9.5-inch Origin Live or Rega arms.
Should I specify the arm configuration when ordering?
Ideally, yes. The tonearm mounting is integrated into the sub-chassis, so changing to a 12-inch or twin-arm arrangement later is significantly more involved.
Can the power supply be upgraded?
Yes. Origin Live offers an optional Fully Balanced Upgrade Transformer that replaces the standard external transformer feeding the motor-control system.
How much does the Resolution weigh?
Origin Live's current specification gives a turntable weight of 12.1kg.
How much space does it need?
The minimum support surface is approximately 40 x 29cm. Overall size with a conventional 9.5-inch tonearm is approximately 49 x 36 x 17cm.
Is the Resolution made in the UK?
Yes. Origin Live designs and manufactures its turntables in Southampton, England, with most components produced within its own workshop.
What voltage is the UK version?
The UK turntable is configured for 220-240V mains operation.
What warranty does the Resolution have?
Origin Live provides a five-year warranty against manufacturing defects on its turntables. A separately purchased tonearm is covered under its own warranty terms.
Complete Your Origin Live Turntable
Why Buy Origin Live From Audio T?
The Resolution Mk5 is supplied without a tonearm or cartridge, so choosing the right combination is an important part of the purchase. Audio T can help match the deck with an appropriate arm, cartridge and phono stage and professionally configure the complete analogue front end.
- Origin Live turntable demonstrations
- Tonearm matching
- Cartridge selection
- Professional cartridge alignment
- Tracking-force and anti-skate setup
- VTA and arm-height setup
- Phono-stage matching
- Turntable levelling and installation
- 9.5-inch and 12-inch arm guidance
- Twin-arm configuration advice
- Turntable isolation guidance
- Upgrade Transformer advice
- In-store demonstrations where appropriate
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to discuss the right Origin Live Resolution Mk5 tonearm, cartridge and phono-stage combination for your system.