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Garrad Lab 80 vs 301

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Hey there,

Looking for anyone with experience in higher end Idler wheel turntables. I am wondering if anyone has info regarding the Lab 80 and how it compares to the much more expensive 301's...?

I've rebuilt a Lenco a few years ago and was really into the sound.
 
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If you were to build a plinth for the Lab 80 and mount a second tone arm on the back I am convinced that this would make a solid idler. For me, as much I love the look of the original Lab 80 tonearm, I think it is a weak spot. I have a really nice Lab 80 and for much less than I would pay for a 301 I could build a plinth, install the tonearm and cart of my choice, and probably be pretty happy. It might be a compromise but it would be a compromise in the right direction. I wouldn't alter the Lab 80, I would keep the original plinth, and if in the future I had the bucks for a 301, 401, or TD124, I would have the tonearm and the cart already in hand. There is a dedicated Lab 80 club here where asking this question will get you lots of info:

http://www.audiokarma.org/forums/showthread.php?t=278625&highlight=Garrard+lab
 
Lab 80 is a terrific changer, and a good automatic. But no 301. Professional grade bests consumer. Especially when you can have a choice of tonearm or tonearms. That said, I love a good Lab 80, the Lab 80 Mk II was the last true classic Garrard changer before Plessey degraded everything save for the 401.
 
KentTeffeteller said:
Lab 80 is a terrific changer, and a good automatic. But no 301. Professional grade bests consumer. Especially when you can have a choice of tonearm or tonearms. That said, I love a good Lab 80, the Lab 80 Mk II was the last true classic Garrard changer before Plessey degraded everything save for the 401.
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What are the specific differences between the consumer and pro grade of the two?

The one I have works well: motor and bearing. All the 'auto' parts are gone and the tone arm is in pieces. The only path for me is a custom plinth and manual operation with a new arm. Just wondering if it is worth the time and effort. I currently have a VPI Classic as my main system but would love an idler of equal quality for variety.
 
Being able to have the tonearm you want. Heavier duty motor. Heavier build quality. BBC grade reliability and ease of maintenance. You get what you pay for. Same also applies to the 401. Garrard's very best. The Lab 80 Mk II their best automatic. If you plan on using a separate arm, get a 301. It is a much nicer option. It is worth the cost.
 
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