Great video, I'm always on the lookout for vintage equipment. I still have a Pioneer PL-570 table that I bought in 1979 - the thing is a warhorse and I have used it consistently over the years with zero problems
I have a Garrard DD75 and I've repaired it 5 times and I have to fiddle with it almost every time I use it but I love that thing, it sounds good and looks good. You can't go wrong with Technics direct drive units.
I picked up a Harmon/Kardon ST7 for $60 with owner and service manuals. Spent a lot of time going through it, replacing a couple of capacitors, belts, rubber drive tire, lights, and dust cover. Made in 1976, thick aluminum base, linear tracking. Looks and runs beautufully now. I use a SoundSmith Otello cart and really couldn't be happier.
My old Technics SL-5 finally died (none of the 4 buttons would work anymore). I talked to a record shop tech about it and he said parts were hard to find and the labor was like $50 or $60/hr. I decided to replace it with a brand new Rega P2 and an upgraded cart. Maybe I'll try to sell the SL-5 for parts on E-bay or FB Marketplace.
There are turntables and there are turntables. My favorite turntable in the whole world was manufactured in the mid 1970s. As an engineer IMO it beats everything on the market today at any price. It has many innovations that are still unique. In its day it was about 400 dollars. Today Ive seen them used for 4000 dollars on ebay. For example the tonearm bearings are sapphires. If you need to replace a stylus on a high end vintage cartridge you should buy new old stock. It's going to be expensive and finding one can be like looking for a needle in a haystack 🙂
I refurbish old turntables and most of the time,a little oil,deoxit and a new belt is all they need.Been using a 1978 Denon Dp-1200 for the past 15 years with zero issues
Depends on where you look, John...Craigslist, EBay, antique shops, garage sales, estate sales, flea markets...and yes, even thrift stores...can be your friends! My main turntable, a Sansui, cost me $25...An Elac Miracord...Also $25...My back-up Pioneer was $50...and I recent picked up a Realistic LAB-400 for $25...Not $15, but patience and persistence (and jumping at the right time) worked in my case!
Good Basics for getting started. The Technics turntable you're using has a P-mount cartridge. These quite often have a screw through the side to make sure that they are fully mounted. A drawback to the P-mount would be the limited number of choices for replacement cartridges, and you may be able to find a better cartridge for a little more than the cost of a replacement stylus.
At 2:55, you forget to mention that this type of "P-mount" plug-in phono cartridge may have a screw in the side of it that has to removed first before you can unplug the cartridge. And of course, if its not a P-mount turntable, the cartridge and headshell removal, and subsequent reinstallation *and alignment* is quite different..
Refurbed my dad's old Pioneer turntable last year. RCA cables and power cord were chewed by rats, the belt was totally disintegrated, and the cartridge had a dead channel. Total cost of the replacement parts was around the same price as a decent modern Audio Technica turntable, but was well worth it.
@@wolftickets1969 , most models of old Pioneer PL series turntables are worth fixing, especially if they have an S-shaped arm. However, you're a brave man to tackle a unit with major rodent damage!
My late father has an entire section of his dusty old wood shop dedicated to records and record players. There's got to be at least 7 old junk record players in a box. I'm not sure what he was doing with them and Idk if any work fully but I'm thinking I'm going to try my hand at creating a working one.
Yeah, they're fun to work with if you have the patience and a little of that fix-it aptitude. That said, some of them are like a Swiss watch, full of strange gears and gizmos. Typically a bunch of springs, too. Most guys who work on them professionally will tell you that the vast majority of problems are caused by dry/hardened lube. I fix a lot of them simply by cleaning out the old gunk and squiring in some new!
I would probably consider a modern TT if anyone offered the functionality that I need. Most importantly, full auto arm movement with hand-off cueing. The industry somehow managed to reinvent plain full auto, but servo arm cueing seems like forgoteen art, and will probably command five-digit prices if executed to 1980s quality standards. So I'll keep my 1985 rig that does it all (and still runs almost perfectly). Good choice for clumsy OAPs (like yours truly) with poor near vision and crippled fingers.
What up Deafman, just picked up a 1965 Duel 1019, question for the man. What speakers do you recommend I look for, and what power amp should I get? Thanks for any info you can give. Rock ON!
Dude, what are the chances the TT I found in my pops basement a few weeks ago is ALSO a DC Servo!? Amazing. Bought the rubber band and stylus online already and you just gave me the confirmation I needed, instantly subscribed. I'm about to plug it in and spin!
Great video. I do want to add that if do replace the belt on a turntable that uses an asynchronous motor (speed tied into the 60 hertz AC cycle), you might need to coat the belt in talcum powder ensure proper speed as the belts can be too sticky and you need the powder to create a bit of slippage for the centrifugal force of the platter to even out the speed.
I used to years ago have Techniques equipment turntable amplifier and double cassette player way before CDs came in.I remember the time on the record handle it was like the needle wasn't hitting the vinyl the correct way it would almost float in the air ,but I fixed it by putting a penny on top of the handle with a rubber band to hold it down to make it play correct. I'm sure a lot of us have done that before back in the day
I just got a philips component table in a trade for computer scrap. It is missing a headshell nut, the needle and the dust cover. Everything elce looks to still be there including the counterweight and the belt. Glad the belt is still there as it is a weired smaller round belt like a VCR belt. Not like the commone square vcr belts either
I inherited a vecter electronics T 150 turn table from the 1980s, and no amount of love could pet this puppy. As I return to vinyl, I'm caught between the cost factor of nostalgia and efforts to bring back a 45 year old turn table vers a new 350.00 entry level 2022 turn table.
The vector research went in the garbage, a lot of vintage stuff was plastic, as is the new audio technica stuff, which surprisingly, is a good entry brand, but I'm going to hold out for a solid wood base, direct drive fully auto turn table, that puts me into the used vintage market, local to me. If I cant find one, I'm going brand new, in the techincs SL 1200 range.
Yeah, I've thrown some good money after bad trying to get an old Garrard running. Lots of time spent on a Dual 1229, too. But I effing love this stuff!
I had a Technics in the same series (SL-QD33) for decades that’s a far superior starter unit than almost all of the current crop of turntables that you can buy, especially if you don’t mind that it’s always live and makes horrible sounds when landing on and lifting up from the record. Because I got sick of hearing those jarring sounds after growing up with a Dual 1229 that muted during the automatic cycle, I wanted a better unit than the Technics. I originally wanted something from Sony’s Biotracer series, but all of the ones that I found were much, much more than what I wanted to spend. I eventually settled for the Sony PS-X55, which I loved so much that I bought TWO of them! Peace.
About to pick up a turntable....the large cabinet style with sliding top cover access. Very good condition on the cabinet. Turntable turns and arm(?) moves automatically. FM radio works. Has the 8-track player. I assume it completely works since everything else in the place does. Has wheels on bottom of cabinet and it is HEAVY. So, what will I have? Worth the trouble to move to my house?
So, my Millenial and GenZ/X/Y friends LOVE these things. Mid-Century modern, they call it. I just call it "Grandma's old console." But yes, these can be a lot of fun if they fit into your decor. The cabinet usually gives it nice resonance. But as you've discovered, heavy as hell. If you like that look. I'd slap a new needle in there (www.turntableneedles.com) and have fun with it! Keep 'em spinning!
Good advice, as long as planned obsolescence was not already in full swing given the models one wants. It's damned near impossible to get certain parts for vintage or other older components. In some cases possible, it can be very expensive and time-consuming. Something in the family is cool, but when it comes to buying from strangers, that is a different ball of wax.
At this level of turntable I would suggest buy cds. There have been some great innovations with turntables and tone arms in the last 20 years . On the other hand any technics sl 1200 is a great buy
Just picked up a sanyo g2422kl for £15 - Any advice on How to plug speakers into it? completely new to vinyl and not quiet sure which wires/speakers will work or if i'll need a preamp etc. any advice would be really helpful 😃.
Hello to the Deaf Man just came . upon your site by accident I loved this video I also like vintage TT's I like mostly automatics I grew up with these mainly the cheaper models but I also found the high end type like Dual which I repaired and it works great today's TT'S are manual and very expensive don t know why there are some automatics out there I did find A Dual Cs 440 auto this one I would consider I saw. Vid on it and it looks like a well built one not much plastic inside from what I saw ,I recently bid on a Realistic lab 440 direct drive automatic TT I bid on it and got it for 100 dollars funny when I was one of those audiophile guys I considered the realistic brand sub par not good enough but I bought one it looks great and it is fully operational I was wondering on your opinion on this brand were they a good brand or unreliable it has several reviews so far all were good it is on its way so I hope I got a good deal what do think not expecting a quick response but at least I have another channel to enjoy thanks JRo📀
so how old can you go ? I am looking at a Garrard 5-300. apparently works and has a new needle, probable good purchacs ? i only have 5 albums i bought 20 years ago and never used them. i have a local store selling vinyl so looking at getting more. did get a rotel rx 102 for 70 that sounds amazing with cardas/hales/arcam, deals to be had.
With those vintage turntables, it helps if you're not afraid to take things apart! I'd say that 90 percent of issues with older turntables boils down to lubrication. I've been amazed at how simply cleaning out the old, caked up lube and re-lubricating everything fixes so many problems. Suggest you go to one of the online sources and download the owner's manual and service manual if they have one. I use www.vinylengine.com. Good luck!
The one exception to the phrase "it's just a simple piece of equipment" is trhe BSR transcription series-unlike the normal geared wheel cam driven off the platter shaft,these have a cam type of changer mechanism that is a mechanical nightmare--ever seen one of these? I have the model 710.Now I have worked on a fair number of turntables and changers over the last 40 years.Some,like the Empire 398,and AR turntable ARE very simple.My own choice of turntable,Dual,uses a fairly sophisticated,and sometimes fussy mechanism to adjust-but,once they are set up and lubricated properly,they will continue to work reliably for a long time.BUT--the BSR cam mechanism is so complicated,that even those who serviced them said that if you find one that is still working,DON"T TOUCH IT,don't even try to lube it--just LEAVE IT ALONE!
What’s your opinion of Plus Audio: The +Record Player Turntable + Integrated Audio System w/Bluetooth? Someone is selling used and wondering if this is a good option versus buying a standalone turntable? My budget is $500.
I have never stopped playing Dual 1216 turntable I bought for $50.00 in 1980. It is like my Dads Dual 1215S that he bought in 1971. By 1981 bought me and my Dad our second table the Dual 506. I now have my Dads tables and my tables. I did have everything overhauled over the last 15 years. They had never let us down, only a little sticky. Now perfect condition. Plus I acquired six others. All top notch condition. Own a modern Victrola all in one. What junk. Table never played 5 records and slow as ever. It does have a purpose. I burn CDs for the car, using my Dual turntables for source
@@DeafManVinyl One of my other tables I acquired 7 years ago, a mint 1229. I got it for $50.00. Only issue was a rubbing noise. Turned out to be the cardboard timing grid pasted to the bottom of the platter was loose. Who ever had it had a cloth dust cover over the plastic one. No blemishes. I did send it in for a full overhaul, due to the age. Great table
Great video about vintage turntables. I have a 'vintage' Philips 777 direct control. I'm very pleased with it. I do have a question though. I just replaced my stylus (or a stylus with cartridge, does that make?) and now it seems like the cartridge is much closer to the record when playing. Closer than before. It does not seems to affect playback, in fact it sounds great, but should it be higher? Can I damage my records this way. I even had to look closely 'cause optically it seemed like it was touching the record, but that was not possible of course, the sound was good, it was not dragging. Do you or anybody else have any advice on this? Is there a way to adjust the height of the cartridge? It also seems that this stylus is a bit shorter than my previous one. Many thanks. Cheers. Tim.
If your turntable has a weight at the back end of the tone arm, just turn it a little until the needle comes up a bit and you'll be fine. If you can't adjust the weight, as long as nothing more than the stylus itself is touching you'll be OK. Some people claim the stylus will carve up your records at a heavier weight, but that would take many many plays. Plus, most people just have basic stereo equipment anyway so don't stress. Just enjoy the hobby. No need to fall into the rabbit hole of the so called, True Audiophile. When these systems first came out, 99% of the public just played their records and didn't worry about the minutiae. 😉
@@GeemailMailboxx thanks for your reply. Yes indeed, I must beware not to fall into the audiophile trap, haha. I just have a simple receiver, but it's been working for 20 years and I'm happy with the sound. The Philips turntable is also a great thing, made 43 years ago and still working, and made in Holland. We don't make anything like that anymore in the Netherlands, let alone a device that works for 43 years haha. I was just replacing the stylus and all of a sudden it sounded worse.... Then I tried to fix it myself and it got worse. But since I've replaced the stylus with an elliptical one and balanced the tone arm and tweaked the stylus tracking force and anti skating and now.... It sounds great. I like the hobby of collecting and playing vinyl. It's fun to have an actual record in your hands, the nice covers and let's not forget, the music.... I'm in it for music. Yes, Queen, Miles Davis, Elton John, Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich, Fleetwood Mac, Judas Priest, Paul Simon. I like it all!! Thanks again.
Yeah, since the time of the video, I've actually started doing that with a kit from the auto parts store (used for buffing out glazed over car headlights). Thanks for adding to the conversation.
I bought a sears solid state turntable, it can also play cassette and 8 tracks. The only issue is I have no idea what speakers I should be using for it and how to connect. Any suggestions?
The "rubber band" is much more than that ---- the diameter, width and thickness of the belt are key not only to getting the speed right (or close enough that it can be electronically adjusted) but also to ensure low wow and flutter, and not put a lot of sideways stress on the motor bearings. Getting a belt that is really right can be tricky, and many on-line sellers who purport to be selling "exact replacement" belts, aren't. Measure the old, hopefully original belt, including width and thickness, and use that as a starting point. Buy replacement belts only from turntable specialists and make sure you have the option of returning it. If you don't have a stroboscopic speed disc or some way to check the speed of the turntable you should probably get one. If the turntable has a DC motor then the speed is probably adjustable internally, and it may have a user-adjustable pitch control as well. If it has an AC motor then it likely will not have any kind of speed adjustment, internally or externally, and selecting the right belt is absolutely critical or you will never get the speed correct. PS, A little known fact: when the proper, correct or original belt starts to stretch a little bit, the turntable platter speed actually *speeds up* instead of slowing down. I was an audio installer and repair tech for years.....
(new subscriber here)Another nice and simple video w/ the needed info on the subject! I'd like to know if you think "shielded" RCA's really make a difference, or even the length of the RCA's.
Unless you're picking up really cheap-and-nasty RCA cables, they should be shielded (most are). Shorter is better. As for "really making a difference," I'm pretty sure an average schmo like me can't tell the difference. I want to crank up my tunes, not lose sleep over "signal degradation!" Keep 'em spinning, my friend!
Yeah, I've just started experimenting with buffing them out. Actually bought a headlight restoration kit at the auto part store and messed around with a really scuffed up one. This particular set-up uses discs attached to a drill, which created some swirl patterns that I didn't like. Wound up just wet sanding by hand with 1500 grit then 3000 and then using the polishing compound and sponge bit that came with the kit. Came out remarkably well.
@@DeafManVinyl yes I agree about the drill motor swirl, I at one time of life had plexiglass aquariums that I learned on and got my technique down with . Now I put plastic cling wrap on my lids to keep them in prestien condition .
I've been looking for a 2nd turntable to replace my suitcase player. And i try convince my dad to allow me to buy a new turntable. And i said to him that i want a vintage player, but my dad says no. Because he believes that the turntable wouldn't last very long because of it's age and he said to buy a new turntable instead (like the audio technica LP-60). But due to inflation, that turntable is way out of my budget, and only thing i can afford is a used vintage turntable.
As long as you test it first and make sure it's running through its cycle, a used one can be a good bet. Just know that you're probably going to need to pop for a new stylus, unless you know the history of the one that's in there. They can range from $19.95 on up. Might also need a new belt, which are typically in the $12.95 range. Good luck!
I'd say a table that has a P-Mount cartridge, no alignment needed. Just add a drop of light weight oil to the center spindle (with the platter off), your safest bet
This is a great vid for noobs. A $100 on a working TT with a decent cart is good these days. No crosley, bsr, or lenoco. Budget 50 for a stylus. DD models are the best for low maintenance. Those servo motors dry out and require electric motor oil in the bearings.
I'm still kickin myself in the behind for dropping off a Marantz 6300 turntable at Best Buy to be recycled due to it's failure to hold an accurate speed on 33 and 45. What a dummy I was.
Yeah, I had the problem with an old Pioneer turntable I picked up. The belt was fine, but speed varied dramatically. I hit the connections at the speed control with some contact cleaner, and it cleared up. Gunky connections = increased resistance = variations in speed. Keep em' spinning!
I would not recommend buying used to a beginner,with the exception if the turntable can be checked before buying it. Simply because more of a decade after vinyl reached the mainstream again there are very little bargains left on the market for used stuff. What is on sale is mostly defective or overpriced, or worse: both.
Same thing with receivers, if you but a vintage receiver, get one that’s been recapped/fixed up. I finally splurged and got an old McIntosh and it’s just beautiful sounding but it had alot of work done to get it in that condition.
@@mikeg2491 Niiiiice !! Old Macs are very good (and show how little was done soundqualitywise over the decades). But Mac stands pretty much alone regarding service for old gear. With some cash you can basicly restore any Mac to effectivly new or at the very least top notch restore it. Its basicly the Rolls Royce of high fidelity. That status never changed over the decades. True quality made in the states.👍 On the other side Mac`s are not realy beginner gear - unless your dad (or mom) is a f`ing rich person and also an audiophile.....
I agree, I was in the market for a table and tried a few new ones (fluance, rega project) at about 4-500 cost. I then got oppertunity to buy a pioneer pl707.. for 250 bucks ?! I regretted my new tables immediately. Sold them, I'll never buy a new one again ..it's toys compared to the older stuff out there.
Child’s play huh? I have a 1985 AR turntable that I bought new in 1985. Still in use today. However, if I had to buy a new one (AR don’t make turntables anymore) say a rega or project, I would not spend less than $1200 on it.
Deaf Man Vinyl, excellent intro to vintage turntables. Well done, sir. I'm sure it will be very helpful to many newly minted (or should I say pressed) vinyl fans. To add my $.02 worth: Yes, dust covers on used gear are usually pretty beat up. But they are also often fairly easy to polish. Anybody with a DIY streak should be able to make a good go of it. There are a number of UA-cam vids out there on the subject. I don't think any intro to vintage turntables is complete without a mention of phono pre-amps. Probably should have included a reference back to your previous vids on them. (like this one: ua-cam.com/video/tCRcRhN18nk/v-deo.html )
I used a Technics SL used direct drive automatic turntable for few years but it started giving trouble initially with auto system and finally I bought audio-technica AT LP120USB in 2016 which is very good for 350 dollar. Monirul Islam Dhaka, Bangladesh. 05 May 2024
Got 2 technics sl1210-mk2 new out the box……30 years ago…..still got m…still work like a charm. Best investment I ever did!
Keep em their a great table. The 1200 series were all good tables
have my sl1200 since 73, first model issue.. Cost me 400$ back then..
Thanks Deaf Man!
Great video, I'm always on the lookout for vintage equipment. I still have a Pioneer PL-570 table that I bought in 1979 - the thing is a warhorse and I have used it consistently over the years with zero problems
Right on!
I've got the PL-500 from the same era, bought new at the time. Still going strong.
I have a Garrard DD75 and I've repaired it 5 times and I have to fiddle with it almost every time I use it but I love that thing, it sounds good and looks good. You can't go wrong with Technics direct drive units.
I picked up a Harmon/Kardon ST7 for $60 with owner and service manuals. Spent a lot of time going through it, replacing a couple of capacitors, belts, rubber drive tire, lights, and dust cover. Made in 1976, thick aluminum base, linear tracking. Looks and runs beautufully now. I use a SoundSmith Otello cart and really couldn't be happier.
Ah yes. Sometimes we get lucky! Sounds like a great find.
My old Technics SL-5 finally died (none of the 4 buttons would work anymore). I talked to a record shop tech about it and he said parts were hard to find and the labor was like $50 or $60/hr. I decided to replace it with a brand new Rega P2 and an upgraded cart. Maybe I'll try to sell the SL-5 for parts on E-bay or FB Marketplace.
There are turntables and there are turntables. My favorite turntable in the whole world was manufactured in the mid 1970s. As an engineer IMO it beats everything on the market today at any price. It has many innovations that are still unique. In its day it was about 400 dollars. Today Ive seen them used for 4000 dollars on ebay. For example the tonearm bearings are sapphires. If you need to replace a stylus on a high end vintage cartridge you should buy new old stock. It's going to be expensive and finding one can be like looking for a needle in a haystack 🙂
Just used your code and website suggestion for my allegro unit! They were super nice on the phone. Thank you much
I refurbish old turntables and most of the time,a little oil,deoxit and a new belt is all they need.Been using a 1978 Denon Dp-1200 for the past 15 years with zero issues
Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us!
The days of $15 turntables are gone. Hard to find any vintage for cheap. Still cheaper then new, thought.
Jayo Delaware yes it is I got plenty of vintage stuff.
Depends on where you look, John...Craigslist, EBay, antique shops, garage sales, estate sales, flea markets...and yes, even thrift stores...can be your friends! My main turntable, a Sansui, cost me $25...An Elac Miracord...Also $25...My back-up Pioneer was $50...and I recent picked up a Realistic LAB-400 for $25...Not $15, but patience and persistence (and jumping at the right time) worked in my case!
Facts...I use exclusively vintage tables...lucky to find them under 100 bucks...but, compared to new, they still are a bargain.
My 1985 AR turntable is worth at least $600. I bought it new for $350, including tonearm in 1985.
Purchased a JVC QL-A2 ❤turntable for $15 bucks yesterday.
Good Basics for getting started.
The Technics turntable you're using has a P-mount cartridge. These quite often have a screw through the side to make sure that they are fully mounted.
A drawback to the P-mount would be the limited number of choices for replacement cartridges, and you may be able to find a better cartridge for a little more than the cost of a replacement stylus.
Enjoyed the video. I've often thought about picking up a used turntables.
I'm glad you liked it! Let me know if you have any questions.
Got my vintage gear. Love it my magnavox reciever needs some tlc tho. Otherwise all good.
At 2:55, you forget to mention that this type of "P-mount" plug-in phono cartridge may have a screw in the side of it that has to removed first before you can unplug the cartridge. And of course, if its not a P-mount turntable, the cartridge and headshell removal, and subsequent reinstallation *and alignment* is quite different..
Refurbed my dad's old Pioneer turntable last year. RCA cables and power cord were chewed by rats, the belt was totally disintegrated, and the cartridge had a dead channel. Total cost of the replacement parts was around the same price as a decent modern Audio Technica turntable, but was well worth it.
What model is it?
@@DeafManVinyl PL-516
@@wolftickets1969 , most models of old Pioneer PL series turntables are worth fixing, especially if they have an S-shaped arm. However, you're a brave man to tackle a unit with major rodent damage!
@@wolftickets1969 Good deck that, I have one.
My late father has an entire section of his dusty old wood shop dedicated to records and record players. There's got to be at least 7 old junk record players in a box. I'm not sure what he was doing with them and Idk if any work fully but I'm thinking I'm going to try my hand at creating a working one.
Yeah, they're fun to work with if you have the patience and a little of that fix-it aptitude. That said, some of them are like a Swiss watch, full of strange gears and gizmos. Typically a bunch of springs, too. Most guys who work on them professionally will tell you that the vast majority of problems are caused by dry/hardened lube. I fix a lot of them simply by cleaning out the old gunk and squiring in some new!
Dad's special record players, probably worth fixing up for sure, play a record for the old man
I would probably consider a modern TT if anyone offered the functionality that I need. Most importantly, full auto arm movement with hand-off cueing. The industry somehow managed to reinvent plain full auto, but servo arm cueing seems like forgoteen art, and will probably command five-digit prices if executed to 1980s quality standards. So I'll keep my 1985 rig that does it all (and still runs almost perfectly). Good choice for clumsy OAPs (like yours truly) with poor near vision and crippled fingers.
What up Deafman, just picked up a 1965 Duel 1019, question for the man. What speakers do you recommend I look for, and what power amp should I get? Thanks for any info you can give. Rock ON!
The vintage turntables usually had a lot of wood and metal in their construction. The newer turntables seem to have a lot of plastic and plastic.
For a reason..... A very expensive one.
Agree a technics used at my record store was 175
Great video thanks Deaf man! I cant find your video about how to choose a stylus.. Are you able to post a link here in the comments please?
Dude, what are the chances the TT I found in my pops basement a few weeks ago is ALSO a DC Servo!? Amazing. Bought the rubber band and stylus online already and you just gave me the confirmation I needed, instantly subscribed. I'm about to plug it in and spin!
*too. appreciate your content.
my akai turtable uses a cartridge very similar to the one on that turntable
That was helpful. Thanks sir!
Great video. I do want to add that if do replace the belt on a turntable that uses an asynchronous motor (speed tied into the 60 hertz AC cycle), you might need to coat the belt in talcum powder ensure proper speed as the belts can be too sticky and you need the powder to create a bit of slippage for the centrifugal force of the platter to even out the speed.
Thanks for the info!
Very nice place you got there
I used to years ago have Techniques equipment turntable amplifier and double cassette player way before CDs came in.I remember the time on the record handle it was like the needle wasn't hitting the vinyl the correct way it would almost float in the air ,but I fixed it by putting a penny on top of the handle with a rubber band to hold it down to make it play correct. I'm sure a lot of us have done that before back in the day
Pioneer P-88F front loading player. 1985. Still works great
I just got a philips component table in a trade for computer scrap.
It is missing a headshell nut, the needle and the dust cover.
Everything elce looks to still be there including the counterweight and the belt.
Glad the belt is still there as it is a weired smaller round belt like a VCR belt. Not like the commone square vcr belts either
I inherited a vecter electronics T 150 turn table from the 1980s, and no amount of love could pet this puppy.
As I return to vinyl, I'm caught between the cost factor of nostalgia and efforts to bring back a 45 year old turn table vers a new 350.00 entry level 2022 turn table.
The truth is that the vintage one will sound much better (more realism and soul) than any new player.
The vector research went in the garbage, a lot of vintage stuff was plastic, as is the new audio technica stuff, which surprisingly, is a good entry brand, but I'm going to hold out for a solid wood base, direct drive fully auto turn table, that puts me into the used vintage market, local to me.
If I cant find one, I'm going brand new, in the techincs SL 1200 range.
Yeah, I've thrown some good money after bad trying to get an old Garrard running. Lots of time spent on a Dual 1229, too. But I effing love this stuff!
What about used direct drive turntables? What should we watch out when buying a used unit?
I just noticed you had "Misplaced Childhood" by Marillion. Great album, and it came out the year I was born (1985)!
Yeah, that's a below-the-radar album, for sure. But a great band!
I had a Technics in the same series (SL-QD33) for decades that’s a far superior starter unit than almost all of the current crop of turntables that you can buy, especially if you don’t mind that it’s always live and makes horrible sounds when landing on and lifting up from the record. Because I got sick of hearing those jarring sounds after growing up with a Dual 1229 that muted during the automatic cycle, I wanted a better unit than the Technics. I originally wanted something from Sony’s Biotracer series, but all of the ones that I found were much, much more than what I wanted to spend. I eventually settled for the Sony PS-X55, which I loved so much that I bought TWO of them! Peace.
Hmmm... good one, I think I will see what it takes to replace the RCA cables that come out of my turntable.
Great video!
About to pick up a turntable....the large cabinet style with sliding top cover access. Very good condition on the cabinet. Turntable turns and arm(?) moves automatically. FM radio works. Has the 8-track player. I assume it completely works since everything else in the place does. Has wheels on bottom of cabinet and it is HEAVY. So, what will I have? Worth the trouble to move to my house?
So, my Millenial and GenZ/X/Y friends LOVE these things. Mid-Century modern, they call it. I just call it "Grandma's old console." But yes, these can be a lot of fun if they fit into your decor. The cabinet usually gives it nice resonance. But as you've discovered, heavy as hell. If you like that look. I'd slap a new needle in there (www.turntableneedles.com) and have fun with it! Keep 'em spinning!
Love your videos!!!
i buy magnavox changer that are 50+ years old they sure beat ones that were made 15-19 years later
Good advice, as long as planned obsolescence was not already in full swing given the models one wants. It's damned near impossible to get certain parts for vintage or other older components. In some cases possible, it can be very expensive and time-consuming.
Something in the family is cool, but when it comes to buying from strangers, that is a different ball of wax.
Found a pioneer MCS today. 30$. What speaker?
At this level of turntable I would suggest buy cds. There have been some great innovations with turntables and tone arms in the last 20 years . On the other hand any technics sl 1200 is a great buy
Just picked up a sanyo g2422kl for £15 - Any advice on How to plug speakers into it? completely new to vinyl and not quiet sure which wires/speakers will work or if i'll need a preamp etc. any advice would be really helpful 😃.
Just found myself a scott ps 76 for 25 euro's and it is working fine happy me
Hello to the Deaf Man just came . upon your site by accident I loved this video I also like vintage TT's I like mostly automatics I grew up with these mainly the cheaper models but I also found the high end type like Dual which I repaired and it works great today's TT'S are manual and very expensive don t know why there are some automatics out there I did find A Dual Cs 440 auto this one I would consider I saw. Vid on it and it looks like a well built one not much plastic inside from what I saw ,I recently bid on a Realistic lab 440 direct drive automatic TT I bid on it and got it for 100 dollars funny when I was one of those audiophile guys I considered the realistic brand sub par not good enough but I bought one it looks great and it is fully operational I was wondering on your opinion on this brand were they a good brand or unreliable it has several reviews so far all were good it is on its way so I hope I got a good deal what do think not expecting a quick response but at least I have another channel to enjoy thanks JRo📀
I've found 4 vintage turn tables, 2 pioneers, 1 yamaha, and 1 panasonic didn't pay more than $100 for all 4, garage sales.
so how old can you go ? I am looking at a Garrard 5-300. apparently works and has a new needle, probable good purchacs ? i only have 5 albums i bought 20 years ago and never used them. i have a local store selling vinyl so looking at getting more. did get a rotel rx 102 for 70 that sounds amazing with cardas/hales/arcam, deals to be had.
With those vintage turntables, it helps if you're not afraid to take things apart! I'd say that 90 percent of issues with older turntables boils down to lubrication. I've been amazed at how simply cleaning out the old, caked up lube and re-lubricating everything fixes so many problems. Suggest you go to one of the online sources and download the owner's manual and service manual if they have one. I use www.vinylengine.com. Good luck!
The one exception to the phrase "it's just a simple piece of equipment" is trhe BSR transcription series-unlike the normal geared wheel cam driven off the platter shaft,these have a cam type of changer mechanism that is a mechanical nightmare--ever seen one of these? I have the model 710.Now I have worked on a fair number of turntables and changers over the last 40 years.Some,like the Empire 398,and AR turntable ARE very simple.My own choice of turntable,Dual,uses a fairly sophisticated,and sometimes fussy mechanism to adjust-but,once they are set up and lubricated properly,they will continue to work reliably for a long time.BUT--the BSR cam mechanism is so complicated,that even those who serviced them said that if you find one that is still working,DON"T TOUCH IT,don't even try to lube it--just LEAVE IT ALONE!
I just found the Sanyo G 1212 record player in my dad's garage
What’s your opinion of Plus Audio: The +Record Player Turntable + Integrated Audio System w/Bluetooth? Someone is selling used and wondering if this is a good option versus buying a standalone turntable? My budget is $500.
I have never stopped playing Dual 1216 turntable I bought for $50.00 in 1980. It is like my Dads Dual 1215S that he bought in 1971. By 1981 bought me and my Dad our second table the Dual 506. I now have my Dads tables and my tables. I did have everything overhauled over the last 15 years. They had never let us down, only a little sticky. Now perfect condition. Plus I acquired six others. All top notch condition. Own a modern Victrola all in one. What junk. Table never played 5 records and slow as ever. It does have a purpose. I burn CDs for the car, using my Dual turntables for source
Yeah, I've got a Dual 1229 and absolutely love it. Have it apart right now to lube the motor bearings. It's rumbling a bit as it spins.
@@DeafManVinyl One of my other tables I acquired 7 years ago, a mint 1229. I got it for $50.00. Only issue was a rubbing noise. Turned out to be the cardboard timing grid pasted to the bottom of the platter was loose. Who ever had it had a cloth dust cover over the plastic one. No blemishes. I did send it in for a full overhaul, due to the age. Great table
I saw a Sanyo TPX3 turntable yesterday. The price sticker was too squiggly to make out.
Tracvking gauge is what matters the most an speed stabilityImportant!
Great video about vintage turntables. I have a 'vintage' Philips 777 direct control. I'm very pleased with it. I do have a question though. I just replaced my stylus (or a stylus with cartridge, does that make?) and now it seems like the cartridge is much closer to the record when playing. Closer than before. It does not seems to affect playback, in fact it sounds great, but should it be higher? Can I damage my records this way. I even had to look closely 'cause optically it seemed like it was touching the record, but that was not possible of course, the sound was good, it was not dragging. Do you or anybody else have any advice on this? Is there a way to adjust the height of the cartridge? It also seems that this stylus is a bit shorter than my previous one. Many thanks. Cheers. Tim.
If your turntable has a weight at the back end of the tone arm, just turn it a little until the needle comes up a bit and you'll be fine. If you can't adjust the weight, as long as nothing more than the stylus itself is touching you'll be OK. Some people claim the stylus will carve up your records at a heavier weight, but that would take many many plays. Plus, most people just have basic stereo equipment anyway so don't stress. Just enjoy the hobby. No need to fall into the rabbit hole of the so called, True Audiophile. When these systems first came out, 99% of the public just played their records and didn't worry about the minutiae. 😉
@@GeemailMailboxx thanks for your reply. Yes indeed, I must beware not to fall into the audiophile trap, haha. I just have a simple receiver, but it's been working for 20 years and I'm happy with the sound. The Philips turntable is also a great thing, made 43 years ago and still working, and made in Holland. We don't make anything like that anymore in the Netherlands, let alone a device that works for 43 years haha. I was just replacing the stylus and all of a sudden it sounded worse.... Then I tried to fix it myself and it got worse. But since I've replaced the stylus with an elliptical one and balanced the tone arm and tweaked the stylus tracking force and anti skating and now.... It sounds great. I like the hobby of collecting and playing vinyl. It's fun to have an actual record in your hands, the nice covers and let's not forget, the music.... I'm in it for music. Yes, Queen, Miles Davis, Elton John, Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich, Fleetwood Mac, Judas Priest, Paul Simon. I like it all!! Thanks again.
Toss the desk cover away? There are lots of videos on how to clean them up and buy the scratches out.
Yeah, since the time of the video, I've actually started doing that with a kit from the auto parts store (used for buffing out glazed over car headlights). Thanks for adding to the conversation.
I bought a sears solid state turntable, it can also play cassette and 8 tracks. The only issue is I have no idea what speakers I should be using for it and how to connect. Any suggestions?
Yea as the sound is going to suck get a pair of rhe cheapest speakers you can find
The "rubber band" is much more than that ---- the diameter, width and thickness of the belt are key not only to getting the speed right (or close enough that it can be electronically adjusted) but also to ensure low wow and flutter, and not put a lot of sideways stress on the motor bearings. Getting a belt that is really right can be tricky, and many on-line sellers who purport to be selling "exact replacement" belts, aren't. Measure the old, hopefully original belt, including width and thickness, and use that as a starting point. Buy replacement belts only from turntable specialists and make sure you have the option of returning it. If you don't have a stroboscopic speed disc or some way to check the speed of the turntable you should probably get one. If the turntable has a DC motor then the speed is probably adjustable internally, and it may have a user-adjustable pitch control as well. If it has an AC motor then it likely will not have any kind of speed adjustment, internally or externally, and selecting the right belt is absolutely critical or you will never get the speed correct. PS, A little known fact: when the proper, correct or original belt starts to stretch a little bit, the turntable platter speed actually *speeds up* instead of slowing down. I was an audio installer and repair tech for years.....
i have the audio technica AT- LP60-BT and i just looked and saw it’s discontinued and idk what to do! like i don’t have a stylus for it or anything
You should still be able to get a stylus. Check out www.turntableneedles.com. Good luck!
(new subscriber here)Another nice and simple video w/ the needed info on the subject! I'd like to know if you think "shielded" RCA's really make a difference, or even the length of the RCA's.
Unless you're picking up really cheap-and-nasty RCA cables, they should be shielded (most are). Shorter is better. As for "really making a difference," I'm pretty sure an average schmo like me can't tell the difference. I want to crank up my tunes, not lose sleep over "signal degradation!" Keep 'em spinning, my friend!
One could fix and polish ugly turntable lids , I do it all the time , most end up looking like new ,
Yeah, I've just started experimenting with buffing them out. Actually bought a headlight restoration kit at the auto part store and messed around with a really scuffed up one. This particular set-up uses discs attached to a drill, which created some swirl patterns that I didn't like. Wound up just wet sanding by hand with 1500 grit then 3000 and then using the polishing compound and sponge bit that came with the kit. Came out remarkably well.
@@DeafManVinyl yes I agree about the drill motor swirl, I at one time of life had plexiglass aquariums that I learned on and got my technique down with . Now I put plastic cling wrap on my lids to keep them in prestien condition .
Anyone rate the SANYO G 2811KL-2?
Can’t get any info on it
i prefer the old turntables to the newer models which do not last long.
I've been looking for a 2nd turntable to replace my suitcase player.
And i try convince my dad to allow me to buy a new turntable. And i said to him that i want a vintage player, but my dad says no. Because he believes that the turntable wouldn't last very long because of it's age and he said to buy a new turntable instead (like the audio technica LP-60). But due to inflation, that turntable is way out of my budget, and only thing i can afford is a used vintage turntable.
As long as you test it first and make sure it's running through its cycle, a used one can be a good bet. Just know that you're probably going to need to pop for a new stylus, unless you know the history of the one that's in there. They can range from $19.95 on up. Might also need a new belt, which are typically in the $12.95 range. Good luck!
I'd say a table that has a P-Mount cartridge, no alignment needed. Just add a drop of light weight oil to the center spindle (with the platter off), your safest bet
This is a great vid for noobs. A $100 on a working TT with a decent cart is good these days. No crosley, bsr, or lenoco. Budget 50 for a stylus. DD models are the best for low maintenance. Those servo motors dry out and require electric motor oil in the bearings.
“Hungry Freaks, Daddy”
Is Soundesign a good company?
If I recall correctly, Soundesign produced pretty much budget, mass-market gear. Not thinking their stuff is particularly noteworthy or valuable.
Dude that T-shirt is BITCHIN! Just discovered your channel and LOVE IT! Cheers from Ottawa, Canada eh!
Gotta love any country that gave us Neil Young, Burton Cumming and Geddy Lee!
I'm still kickin myself in the behind for dropping off a Marantz 6300 turntable at Best Buy to be recycled due to it's failure to hold an accurate speed on 33 and 45. What a dummy I was.
Yeah, I had the problem with an old Pioneer turntable I picked up. The belt was fine, but speed varied dramatically. I hit the connections at the speed control with some contact cleaner, and it cleared up. Gunky connections = increased resistance = variations in speed. Keep em' spinning!
or be kinda shiny /glossy as it hardens and slip
You'll spend more money on a decent cartridge than you would on a vintage
I would not recommend buying used to a beginner,with the exception if the turntable can be checked before buying it.
Simply because more of a decade after vinyl reached the mainstream again there are very little bargains left on the
market for used stuff. What is on sale is mostly defective or overpriced, or worse: both.
You are so right there. An don't even think of trying to explain cartridge alignment to set. Minds might melt 🤔
Same thing with receivers, if you but a vintage receiver, get one that’s been recapped/fixed up. I finally splurged and got an old McIntosh and it’s just beautiful sounding but it had alot of work done to get it in that condition.
@@mikeg2491 Niiiiice !! Old Macs are very good (and show how little was done soundqualitywise over the decades).
But Mac stands pretty much alone regarding service for old gear. With some cash you can basicly restore any Mac
to effectivly new or at the very least top notch restore it. Its basicly the Rolls Royce of high fidelity. That status never
changed over the decades. True quality made in the states.👍
On the other side Mac`s are not realy beginner gear - unless your dad (or mom) is a f`ing rich person and also an audiophile.....
I agree, I was in the market for a table and tried a few new ones (fluance, rega project) at about 4-500 cost.
I then got oppertunity to buy a pioneer pl707.. for 250 bucks ?! I regretted my new tables immediately. Sold them, I'll never buy a new one again ..it's toys compared to the older stuff out there.
Child’s play huh? I have a 1985 AR turntable that I bought new in 1985. Still in use today. However, if I had to buy a new one (AR don’t make turntables anymore) say a rega or project, I would not spend less than $1200 on it.
Too 'Technique-al' (Technical) for me, I'll stick with the Crosley!
Nothing wrong with a Crosely!
I have Yamaha model p-10. Serial # 3462
Beogram 4000
Why do Americans pronounce Technics as though it has a ‘Q’ in it? As in Techniques! Surely it’s pronounced Techniks? No Q😁
Remember you get the quality of sound you pay for.....idler drive....
Agree. I've lucked onto 2 idler-wheel turntables in the last month. A Dual 1229 and an Elac Miracord. They are my new lust objects.
@@DeafManVinyl I have a 1229 and a Goldring Lenco GL75 and both are in my main system. I'm looking to get a 1019...I lust after them...
belts should be changed, rubber deteriorates
Platter is way too insubstantial for a decent quality deck...
Why do you call yourself the Deaf Man?
Too many concerts and loud music. Deaf in one ear and ringing in the other. Wear your plugs!
Deaf Man Vinyl, excellent intro to vintage turntables. Well done, sir. I'm sure it will be very helpful to many newly minted (or should I say pressed) vinyl fans.
To add my $.02 worth:
Yes, dust covers on used gear are usually pretty beat up. But they are also often fairly easy to polish. Anybody with a DIY streak should be able to make a good go of it. There are a number of UA-cam vids out there on the subject.
I don't think any intro to vintage turntables is complete without a mention of phono pre-amps. Probably should have included a reference back to your previous vids on them. (like this one: ua-cam.com/video/tCRcRhN18nk/v-deo.html )
Excellent. Thanks for adding to the conversation.
wrong advice, get a turntable WITH direct drive. END OF THIS CONVERSATION
True, still have my technics sl-d3 from 1981 ,never replaced anything.no rubber bands
Couldn't agree more, I absolutely LOVE my Sony PS-212!!!
I used a Technics SL used direct drive automatic turntable for few years but it started giving trouble initially with auto system and finally I bought audio-technica AT LP120USB in 2016 which is very good for 350 dollar.
Monirul Islam
Dhaka, Bangladesh.
05 May 2024