During Milan's 2025 Design Week, Japanese brand Audio-Technica revealed the new Hotaru, an illuminated vinyl record player that combines cutting-edge audio technology and design.

Named after the Japanese word for "firefly," the Hotaru features a magnetically suspended acrylic turntable that floats above its speaker section, isolating the specially crafted stylus from unwanted vibrations. The design includes a hidden belt drive system within an aluminum case.

The sophisticated illumination system is what really sets the Hotaru apart. The turntable can glow in 20 different color shades and three distinct lighting modes. Listeners can select a constant color in Basic Mode, synchronize lights with their music in Link Mode, or enjoy smooth color transitions in Gradation Mode.

The Hotaru is a limited edition product and Audio-Technica will produce only 1,000 units. Priced at $9,999 each, the record player is still way cheaper than Brian Eno’s £20,000 Turntable II designed by Brian Eno in 150 units for the Paul Stolper Gallery in London.

Potential buyers interested in the Hotaru must register between April 8 and May 30 to gain the chance to purchase the record player in August, with deliveries beginning in October 2025.