Garrard changer...which model is better?

[ODYOFAEL]

Three Garrard changers, which is best?
Type A II
Type A70
Lab 80

Tia

 

[Wigwam Jones]

Three Garrard changers, which is best?
Type A II
Type A70
Lab 80

Tia

Best for what? You have to tell us what your planned use is.

In general, the LAB 80 is a more competent machine for most things, for a variety of reasons. One is the counter-balanced arm. Another is anti-skate. And the motor on the LAB 80 is, I believe a better unit as well.

However, if you play 78s or something, there may be compelling reasons to choose the A or A70.

 

[ODYOFAEL]

playing 33 and 45 only. it's for my Fisher Ambassador console, pretty much my daily driver.

 

[KentTeffeteller]

Lab 80 the best of the 3 models. The Lab 80 Mk II the last of the real original Garrard changers before Plessey took over and cut costs. The Lab 80 in good order will serve you well and wisely.

 

[Wigwam Jones]

In that case, if it were my choice, I'd pick the LAB 80.

 

[gillsev]

Lab 80. Bar None!

https://www.facebook.com/#!/GarrardLab80

Okay, please "Like" my page after reading it
Thanks! :thmbsp:

 

[gadget73]

The A70 is right up there though, and if you are replacing a Type A, it probably fits into the hole. The Lab 80 cutout and the Type A cutout are very different. The A70 has a counterbalanced arm, the same trip linkage as the Lab 80, same headshell as the 80, and I believe its the same motor as well, but it may be the similar 4 pole motor from the Type A. The 80's motor is probably better isolated though. One other plus to the A70 is that the side pusher mechanism is 78-friendly, and of course the machine will run 78 rpm.

An A-II is essentially identical to a Type A, other than the paint job. There would be no good reason to swap one for the other unless there are fatal flaws. besides, the original cream color Type A is a better looking rig IMO. The A70 is also largely similar, though with a better arm and better trip system.

 

[KentTeffeteller]

Lab 80 has better tonearm, can use better cartridge options by a bit. A 70 a nice choice as well.

 

[ODYOFAEL]

I should narrow it down now. choosing between the LAB 80 and A70. I don't really mind making another board for the LAB 80 if ever I decide to go that route.

I'm looking for something that I can use a variety of cartridges and quiet operation. :thmbsp:

 

[131east23]

Lab 80 was the child of a clock and a tank. Great machine that keeps earning more respect every year as we realize that it was one of the last great Garrard designs.

 

[Wigwam Jones]

I should narrow it down now. choosing between the LAB 80 and A70. I don't really mind making another board for the LAB 80 if ever I decide to go that route.

I'm looking for something that I can use a variety of cartridges and quiet operation. :thmbsp:

Asked and answered. Do what you want.

 

[JHS2RT]

Personaly --I had a Lab 80 and it was an OK machine --but I think the A-70 would be the best because of the 78 speed.

 

[131east23]

The Lab 80 also has removable head shells so installing a new cart is as easy as installing another head shell. I bought a basket case Lab 80 just for that reason not too mention it has been used to make several other Lab 80's here on AK whole again.

 

[JHS2RT]

And the Lab 80 and A-70 headshells are interchangeable.

 

[131east23]

And the Lab 80 and A-70 headshells are interchangeable.

That is cool!

 

[ODYOFAEL]

I think I'm gonna go with the LAb 80. I have a Denon DL103 LOMC and I'm hoping I'll be able to use it on the LAB 80. Has anyone tried this before?
I have an outboard phono preamp to use for the LOMC.

 

[gadget73]

make sure you take some measurements before you leap. the Lab 80 is a pretty big machine, slightly larger than a Type A. Not by a lot, but the counterweight sticks out further.

 

[ODYOFAEL]

make sure you take some measurements before you leap. the Lab 80 is a pretty big machine, slightly larger than a Type A. Not by a lot, but the counterweight sticks out further.

worse case is ill cut the board and the speaker selector and headphone jack will be staying in the bottom of the turntable. That way I can move the LAB 80 forward to make room for the counterweight.

The reason why I ask if I can use the Denon 103 on with the Lab 80 is because it sounds really nice , I'm listening to the Denon while I'm posting. It sounds so open.