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Old vs New

L

lennono84

New Member
Hello again all,
I've been thinking of selling two or three of my turntables, and buying a decent Technics (or other TT like it, with strobe, basically, a 1200 series TT), and have been wondering about whether to go used or new. I'd really appreciate any opinions, is there a real advantage to just buying one (for around $200-250 or so) new or used?? Other than age? Any recommendations on a specific model?? Any help is appreciated!


-Side note- the TT's I'm considering selling are a JVC L-A31, a JVC QL-A200, and a Pioneer Pl-990 (I know they're not high-end, but that's why I want to upgrade)

Bill
 
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I suppose...

that if you buy a used old one there is more problems that you may need to deal with and parts for it may not b easy to find. however u may b able to get a fairly high quality one for the price range u were considering. however if u were to shop around 4 a brand new high quality one today u may b spending a lot more than the price range u were considering. just some thoughts from a newbie. hope they help!

(I myself recently scored an 8 dollar technics sl-1700 off ebay w/ out a needle, these are from the mid to late 70s, and im still waiting for a new needle to b shipped to me, all seems to work gr8, hope u find a good one!)
 
Hi Bill,

I have never ventured into the Technics line, but I have a lot of experience with vintage tables. I am a huge proponent of the belt-driven suspended platter tonearm design, isolating the motor from those two areas.

I would highly recommend a Thorens or an AR. Prices have recently spiked, but if you wait it out, you could grab a nice Thorens TD 160/145/166/165 in that range. The main thing is to get the seller to guarantee the motor...it is hard and not cheap to get a replacement. With belt off the motor should run silently and without any noticeable wobble. An AR ES-1 or EB-101 might also be found in that range. The good thing about those two ARs is the arms are easier to change out.

dave
 
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Bill I just got a new SL-1210 mk2 and am happy with it so far. I thought of used, but this is a home setup and I just didn't want to be wondering if my TT had spent the last few years in a smoky club/DJ setup etc.

Setup for a newbie like me was pretty easy, the only real challenge being the mounting of the cartridge to headshell - not good for shaky hands like mine!
 
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