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Belt drive with auto return?

A

andythomaspa

New Member
Please excuse my ignorance.. I'm new here. I currently own a Pioneer Pl10 turntable... I love it, but want to upgrade. Something I have always loved about my Pl10 is how quite it is which I assume has to do with the fact that it has a belt drive. Something I don't like however is having to manually move the tone arm after each side of a record. Did Pioneer make any belt drive TTs with an auto return back in the 70s/80s? Would I be sacrificing much in sound quality by having an automatic feature? I am not completely opposed to a direct drive and from what I've read the pl630, pl610, pl600 and pl560 could be good options (note.. if I've understood what I've read correctly the pl600 was actually made both as a belt drive and direct drive... seems like the direct drive model is preferred in overall build quality) Anyway... I'd love some help if anyone can point me in the right direction.
 
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andythomaspa said:
Please excuse my ignorance.. I'm new here. I currently own a Pioneer Pl10 turntable... I love it, but want to upgrade. Something I have always loved about my Pl10 is how quite it is which I assume has to do with the fact that it has a belt drive. Something I don't like however is having to manually move the tone arm after each side of a record. Did Pioneer make any belt drive TTs with an auto return back in the 70s/80s? Would I be sacrificing much in sound quality by having an automatic feature? I am not completely opposed to a direct drive and from what I've read the pl630, pl610, pl600 and pl560 could be good options (note.. if I've understood what I've read correctly the pl600 was actually made both as a belt drive and direct drive... seems like the direct drive model is preferred in overall build quality) Anyway... I'd love some help if anyone can point me in the right direction.
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If you like the PL10, then perhaps the PL15 semi-auto would be a good option. Or the PL-115 (semi-auto) or PL-117 (full auto). Very similar tables, with very similar sound quality.

If you like the looks of the PL-560, also consider the PL-518 and PL-540.

The PL-630 is a wonderful table, but lots of electronics. Generally, these need a fairly extensive restoration. They have a secondary motor and optical (vs mechanical) sensor dedicated to tonearm automation, thereby alleviating any concerns about the effects of automation on performance. There is a good, extensive thread here on AK regarding PL-630 restoration.
 
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I ended up going with a pl600 direct drive (excellent condition) for $570. That was more than I wanted to spend but from everything I've read it should be worth it. I've seen them go for much more so I'm feeling good. Can't wait for it to arrive. Thanks again everyone!
 
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