AFI FLAT.DUO, plate ironer/relaxer
AFI (Audio Fidelity Improvement) presents the FLAT.DUO, a groundbreaking innovation in the world of record care. As the second product in our range of record flatteners/relaxers, the FLAT.DUO combines state-of-the-art technology with efficient design. Through the revolutionary use of EPP (Expanded Polypropylene) for the housing, we achieve previously unimaginable energy efficiency while simultaneously reducing the environmental footprint.
DUO stands for two records and two treatment methods
The name "DUO" in FLAT.DUO stands for its duality in function and efficiency: the simultaneous treatment of two records and two treatment methods – ironing and relaxing. This offers a significant time saving on the one hand and improves the sound quality on the other.
Ironing with reduced treatment time
The integrated fan of the FLAT.DUO allows two plates to be smoothed simultaneously in only about 1.75 hours – a significant time saving compared to the four hours of treatment time required by conventional models. The fan can be adjusted to three speeds or deactivated.
Heating press module
The innovative heating and pressing module of the FLAT.DUO record iron allows for the simultaneous ironing of two records by stacking them piggyback or sandwiching them together. The module's sophisticated design ensures even heat distribution and pressure, which is crucial for optimal ironing results.
Torque knurled handle
The torque knurled handle plays a crucial role in the heating and pressing module of the FLAT.DUO record iron. It ensures that the individual components of the module, as well as the records, are held securely together and pressed with precisely the correct pressure. This is essential for the consistency and high quality of the ironing process.
EPP – a material revolutionizing the industry
Expanded polypropylene (EPP) is a material ideally suited for use in plate irons/relaxers and represents a revolutionary step in equipment design. Our EPP consists of 92% air and 8% polypropylene. Its high heat resistance and excellent thermal insulation make it ideal for use in temperature-controlled processes.
Passive tempering/relaxing with EPP
For the first time, the use of EPP as the housing material makes passive tempering of vinyl records possible. The tempering process, and thus the sound improvement, works all the better the slower and more evenly the temperature drops towards the end of the process. Thanks to EPP's excellent insulating properties, simply switching off the heating voltage is sufficient to achieve a perfect, ideally gradual temperature drop. Reheating to extend the cooling phase is unnecessary.
Improved energy efficiency through EPP
The FLAT.DUO requires only 30 watts of power, compared to 90 watts for its predecessor, the flat.2.
Complex housing construction with EPP
EPP enables the realization of complex housing designs that would otherwise be difficult to manufacture using mold-based production methods. The durability of EPP results in a longer product lifespan.
Ecological and sustainable
EPP is environmentally friendly and recyclable, meaning the FLAT.DUO leaves only a small ecological footprint. Its use in the FLAT.DUO is an example of responsible innovation.
Made in Germany
With the FLAT.DUO, developed, engineered, and manufactured in Germany, we continue our tradition of innovation. Through continuous improvements and the incorporation of customer feedback, we combine proven technologies with new, innovative, and clever solutions.
Technical data:
Dimensions (W x D x H): 36 x 45.5 x 11 cm
Weight: 2.8 kg
Test reports
Holger Barske writes in his conclusion in LP Magazine 3/24:
"Ironing with the FLAT.DUO works excellently and the 'relaxing' of records is clearly audible in many cases, which means the device definitely deserves a recommendation."
Marius Dittert writes about the AFI FLAT.DUO in Stereoplay 3/2024:
"The repeatedly mentioned tempering/relaxing process is anything but voodoo. After all, there's tempered glass, which has undergone heat treatment and is therefore significantly more shock- and impact-resistant than ordinary flat glass. In the AFI device, records are not only leveled, but tension is removed from the vinyl – and at the same time, the very surface is hardened where the tiny styli have to perform their almost impossible task is hardened. And this audibly makes their job easier. Because the reviewer initially didn't believe it, he had AFI send him two identical LPs to take home: Enzo Pietropaoli's quartet (yatra vol. 2, Jando Music), listened to directly through the headphone output of the MoFi Ultra-Phono, sounded clearly more coherent, relaxed, and three-dimensional in the tempered version. It wasn't a world of difference, but important nuances that couldn't be ignored and that were even more apparent on a high-resolution, large hi-fi system. After the AFI treatment, the sound remains..." You simply listen for longer, which is always a good sign of a real improvement in sound quality.
CONCLUSION: AFI has managed the feat of making their record flattener more affordable, efficient, and environmentally friendly. This is great news for audiophiles, but certainly also for record dealers who previously had to sell warped treasures for significantly less than they were worth. Now there's a "flattener" that, while not cheap, is more than worth its price.
Andreas Wenderoth writes in Image HiFi 3/2024:
"I find myself holding my breath. 'Oh friends,' the chorus begins, and I and the AFI FLAT.DUO have already become friends. I've tempered dozens of records with the device, some explicitly, but without a fan, ironed (the ironing effect of tempering was always perfectly sufficient) – all of them, really all of them, benefited, to varying degrees, but each in its own way. The new motto is: From now on, we can make our own audiophile records! Anyone who listens to analog and wants to avoid playing Russian roulette by frying their warped records in the kitchen oven (and unfortunately not tempering them in the process!), can hardly do without this probably unrivaled device. Paraphrasing a quote by Loriot, who of course meant it in reference to his pug, one could say: 'A life without tempering is possible, but pointless.'"
Bernhard Rietschel writes in Mint Magazine May 2024:
"Although these tensions don't always lead to deformations, they do seem to influence the record's acoustic character. Our listening tests—including comparisons with identical, duplicate pressings—reveal a clearer, more detailed sound with the 'relaxed' record. The improvement in sound with versus without the warp can be even more pronounced, depending on the severity. But there are many more records that can benefit from relaxation—in fact, practically all of them, with the exception of picture discs and, according to the manual, gold vinyl. Once you get used to the fact that you can smooth out warps—at least most of them—you won't want to be without the Flat.Duo. Then the only problem arises: Who's going to pay the €2,000 for the device? Ideally, several record enthusiasts should pool their resources—and set up a communal washing machine next to it. We can already see private vinyl washing and ironing centers springing up..."
The idea and technical know-how for the record flattener came from Dr. Ullrich Kathe – a passionate hi-fi enthusiast, analog aficionado, and long-time customer of the Wittmann HiFi Studio. One day, Ulli Kathe brought his vision of a record flattener to the studio, motivated by the knowledge that warped records directly affect the essential settings of a high-quality phono cartridge, such as the horizontal alignment of the turntable, tracking force, VTA, azimuth, and anti-skating. Depending on the warp position, the stylus dips to different depths, which alters the carefully set parameters during playback. Oliver Wittmann, the studio owner, was immediately enthusiastic about the idea. He offered to handle marketing and sales, as well as the sonic evaluation of the flattening process. This marked the beginning of their joint project: 'The Record Flattener', Made in Germany.
The development
During the two years of development, the team passionately experimented, tinkered, and tested the process. Countless test records underwent processes with a wide range of temperatures and varying heating, holding, and cooling times. Oliver Wittmann regularly checked the results of the tempering process on his reference system. It was crucial not only to achieve a perfectly flat record but also to ensure that the sound quality remained undiminished. During this research process, the decisive "aha" moment occurred: "Wait a minute, this sounds better than before!" This led to the innovative idea of tempering vinyl records. Another year of development work was dedicated to determining the optimal temperature profiles and holding times. The goal: to achieve the best possible tempering of vinyl records and thus maximum sonic improvement.
The start in 2016
In 2016, the time had finally come: The world's first record flattener, the AFI flat with a special tempering/relaxing program for improving the sound of vinyl records, was launched.
What is tempering?
Tempering, a form of heat treatment, has a long history of industrial use. The basic principles of tempering, particularly in metalworking, were already known in antiquity. However, the systematic application of these techniques in modern industry only began with the Industrial Revolution in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. For example, tempering steel was a crucial step in the production of high-quality tools and components. The industrial application of tempering to materials such as glass and plastics began in the 20th century, facilitated by improved chemical and physical knowledge and new manufacturing methods.
Why should you temper a vinyl record?
Vinyl records are pressed at approximately 150 degrees Celsius, with the pressing process lasting about 30 seconds. After a short cooling phase, during which the dies are cooled with water, the record is removed and stacked on a spindle, weighted down with metal plates, for further cooling. Due to the uneven and rapid cooling – much faster on the outside than on the inside – and the toughness of the material, the long molecular chains of PVC and polyvinyl acetate have little chance to relax and align themselves. This manufacturing process leads to material stresses that become "frozen" in the material and are audible.
What happens during tempering?
During tempering, the vinyl record is slowly and evenly heated to plateau temperature, held at this temperature for a period of time, and then cooled very slowly and in a controlled manner – a process that can take up to four hours. The slow and even cooling is more important than the heating. This allows the molecules to align naturally and without stress. This process significantly reduces internal stresses, making the material harder, more robust, and more homogeneous.
Safety instructions
Electronic devices:
1. General Use: • Electronic devices are designed for use in enclosed, dry rooms only. Direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures may impair function. • Avoid proximity to water sources or other liquids. 2. Electrical Safety: • Use only with the specified power source (e.g., 220-240 V AC). An incorrect power source may damage the device or be hazardous. • Never connect the device to overloaded outlets or extension cords. • If there is any visible damage to the power cord or other components, do not operate the device. 3. Operation and Ventilation: • Place the device on a stable, flat surface. Do not block any ventilation slots to prevent overheating. • Ensure sufficient distance from other devices or walls (at least 10 cm) to ensure optimal ventilation. 4. Children and Pets: • Keep the device away from children and pets, especially small parts that could be swallowed.
Speakers:
1. Setup: • Place speakers on a stable and secure surface or use suitable speaker stands. Tipping over may cause injury or damage. • Position speakers so they are not obstructed and optimal sound dispersion is ensured. 2. Environmental Conditions: • Speakers are intended for use in dry, enclosed spaces. Avoid moisture and direct sunlight, which could damage materials or electronics. 3. Connections: • Use only compatible amplifiers and cables that meet the speaker's technical specifications. • Avoid incorrect polarity connections to prevent damage to the speaker or amplifier. 4. Children and Pets: • Speakers are not toys. Make sure they are placed out of reach of children and pets. 5. Care: • Clean the surface with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use chemical cleaners or water.
Cable:
1. Use: • Cables are for their intended use only. Use them only with devices that meet the cable's technical specifications. • Ensure that all connections are secure and tight for optimum performance. 2. Handling: • Never pull on the cable to remove it from a device. Always hold the plug firmly. • Do not bend, overstretch, or place excessive strain on the cable. Cables should not run under heavy objects. 3. Children and Pets: • Keep cables away from children and pets as they can be a strangulation or injury hazard. 4. Inspection: • Check cables regularly for visible damage such as breaks, cracks, or frayed ends. Damaged cables must be replaced immediately.
Accesories:
1. Use: • Accessories such as adapters, mounts or cleaning utensils must only be used for their intended purpose. Incorrect use can cause damage. 2. Care: • Clean accessories only according to the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid harsh cleaning agents or use in damp environments. 3. Safety: • Ensure accessories are correctly fitted or connected to prevent accidents or malfunctions. 4. Children and pets: • Accessories, especially small parts, pose a choking hazard and should be kept out of reach of children and pets.
Common instructions for all categories: • Operating instructions: Read the operating instructions carefully before using the product. • Repairs: Do not open or repair the product yourself. Contact an authorized service partner or the manufacturer. • Contact us if you have any questions: We are always available to answer any questions you may have about the safe use of our products.
Manufacturer information & EU contact