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Posted (edited)

I'm looking for advice on buying a turntable that plays 78 rpm records. I would prefer one that is less than $350.

I currently have a Technics SL-QD33 that is plugged into the phono input of my amplifier. I use it frequently to record my LPs to digital through my soundcard. It's probably a vanilla turntable by audiophile standards, but I'm not audiophile. I just want to listen to music, so it suits my needs.

I am assuming that I will be using the new and current turntable side by side. Thus I would need, I think, a pre-amp so I can plug the new turntable into the Aux input. Maybe this is a bad assumption.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Edited by joestrummerlives
Posted

Also, you can try to find vintage Technics SP15 or SP10MKII - the best choice for heavy shellac records...

I read that maintenance of these are no longer supported. Finding one in good condition may be out of my price range.

Numark and the like, are cheap (and thus not so well suitable) substitution to Technics direct drive.

You can try:

"KAB BROADCAST STANDARD

78 RPM UPGRADE FOR TECHNICS SL-1200

Any Technics SL-1200MK2, 3, or 5 can be turned into a KAB Broadcast Standard.

Technics introduced the MKII version of this worldwide acclaimed turntable in 1979. Still selling at a rate of about 25,000 per year worldwide, and it remains the most widely used turntable today.

In December of 1994, KAB began shipping the Broadcast Standard version of the SL1200. The success of this model continues unrivalled. Not surprisingly since there isn't a turntable out there that can match the performance features and value of a Technics SL-1200 with all 3 speeds.

UPGRADE DESCRIPTION

The upgrade is somewhat complicated since it affects three separate internal functions and therefore cannot be offered as a kit.

The upgrade incorporates two new circuit boards and a total of 27 interconnections. Very high quality relays and precision components are used. This is critical since the KAB Broadcast Standard has found a home in Record Companies, Re-Mastering facilities, Radio Stations and Sound libraries around the world. Reliability and dependability are assured.

Once complete, the Turntable will have no outward signs that it has been modified. The new speed is coded into the existing speed buttons. The 45 button becomes a "shift key" and the 33 button becomes the 78 RPM button. Simply hold the 45 down and momentarily touch and release the 33. The 'table is now spinning at 78 RPM. Hit 33 or power down to restore the standard 2 speed operation. You can change speeds while the table is spinning.

All FEATURES ARE RETAINED

That means that the variable speed is quartz locked and provides a range of 72 - 85 RPM. The Strobe will indicate correctly also, locking in at 78.26 RPM and showing the + 3.3 and + 6.6 and - 3.3 as usual.

PACKING AND RETURNING YOUR SL1200

You will have to return the unit to KAB for the upgrade. Typical turn-around time is 3-5 days less shipping."

  • 1 year later...
Posted

I recently got an old Lenco GL75- it had no arm so had a second-hand Linn Basik Plus LVX added, total cost was £195 plus a Ortofon OM5E and additional OM78 stylus. The Lenco is infinitely adjustable between 16rpm and 83 rpm if needed.

The interchangeable stylii allow me to play 78s and LPs/singles. I have a huge pile of fairly batter 45s which are not in good enough condition to put anywhere near my more expensive Den DL103 R cartridge on my P3, so these get played on the Lenco too.

Lenco's are available fairly cheaply and there is a wealth of information regarding how to upgrade them (I've not bothered)

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