Philips GA212 Question

[Seventy7]

Hey all!
I just got a GA212 in very nice condition from a thrift store. It did not have a cart/stylus when I got it, and while trying to determine if there was an economical solution to this I got to wondering if there would be an option to upgrade/update the original platter. Someone mentioned that the metal one gives issues to using a MC cartridge because of the magnet and ferrous platter... id there a non ferrous platter replacement that I could use? Would this change any of the working parameters in the unit like speed of the platter or any such? Also, any insight on the cart/needle situation would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

[Balifly]

Hey all!

I just got a GA212 in very nice condition from a thrift store. It did not have a cart/stylus when I got it, and while trying to determine if there was an economical solution to this I got to wondering if there would be an option to upgrade/update the original platter.

Someone mentioned that the metal one gives issues to using a MC cartridge because of the magnet and ferrous platter... id there a non ferrous platter replacement that I could use?

Would this change any of the working parameters in the unit like speed of the platter or any such? Also, any insight on the cart/needle situation would be appreciated. Thanks!

There is no non ferrous replacement platter made for this model of turn table.

Of course one can be made by using 3D printing technology.

You will have to figure out how the new material chosen for the replacement platter will affect the speed, resonance and other unknown issues.

Curious as to which Moving Coil cartridge are you considering for the Philips GA 212 turn table.

 

[Seventy7]

There is no non ferrous replacement platter made for this model of turn table.

Of course one can be made by using 3D printing technology.

You will have to figure out how the new material chosen for the replacement platter will affect the speed, resonance and other unknown issues.

Curious as to which Moving Coil cartridge are you considering for the Philips GA 212 turn table.

I figured that would be the answer... helps to hear somebody say it! Thanks for the quick response.
It really was just an idea I was tossing around as I procrastinate on picking a MM cart. My budget is low and I can't set it up,maybe to test... I COULD wait... probably should. If I found the right thing though...

 

[Balifly]

I figured that would be the answer... helps to hear somebody say it! Thanks for the quick response.
It really was just an idea I was tossing around as I procrastinate on picking a MM cart. My budget is low and I can't set it up,maybe to test... I COULD wait... probably should. If I found the right thing though...

A cartridge with mid to high compliance would give you better sound reproduction in view of the light tone arm.

Best of luck with your selection.

 

[Balifly]

While a high compliance cartridge is probably best for that turntable, I run an SC35C on my 312 and it sounds great, works great. A decent moving coil for your 212 could be a Denon DL-110, which is pretty light and middish highish compliance. However, heed the warnings about the dangers of a ferrous platter. I don't know what kind of voodoo that might release with a DL-110. Personally, I feel that there are plenty of moving magnet cartridges that are well worth audiophile listening. I was very impressed with the latest Grado Prestige2 line of cartridges, especially remarkable considering that I didn't much care for the erstwhile Prestige and Prestige1 line. Best bang for the buck is on the low end like the Black2, really. The Gold2 didn't blow any doors off the Black2.

Have not tried any Grado cartridge on my Philips GA 212 yet - fearful of the hum.

 

[Bobsblkwax]

I've got a bunch of 212s and 2 312s. The Audio Technica P mounts that were on closeout a while ago ( AT 450, ect.) work well for the entry level. If you want to splurge, the Ortofon 2M Bronze is fantastic, and the table will show it very well. Also Ortofon OM 20, 30 are very nice. I would stay away from MC cartridges due to the ferrous platter. It's best to use a light weight cartridge as well as high compliance.

 

[CT Jim]

There are a lot of entry level tables, such as the 212 and 312 Philips, but they were never intended for high end premium style MC cartridges. My last 312 I ran a MicroAcoustics 2002e which I let go with the table....damn.
I agree with Bob, stay away from MC, and enjoy the TT with a MM cartridge. The MC won't turn it into a REGA!

 

[rnorton]

There are a lot of entry level tables, such as the 212 and 312 Philips, but they were never intended for high end premium style MC cartridges. My last 312 I ran a MicroAcoustics 2002e which I let go with the table....damn.
I agree with Bob, stay away from MC, and enjoy the TT with a MM cartridge. The MC won't turn it into a REGA!

I also had a 212 with a 2002e. I really, really regret trading the table away after my last stylus wore out.

 

[stratmel]

I'll recommend an AT 440mlb cart for your 212. I use a 440mla body with a mlb stylus on mine. Sounds awesome to me. These are discontinued now, but still available. AT has a replacement cart, the VM 540ML, but I've never heard it.
Did you get the Philips sliding headshell and the plastic alignment tool with your 212?

Enjoy the music,
-Mark

 

[Balifly]

I'll recommend an AT 440mlb cart for your 212. I use a 440mla body with a mlb stylus on mine. Sounds awesome to me. These are discontinued now, but still available. AT has a replacement cart, the VM 540ML, but I've never heard it.
Did you get the Philips sliding headshell and the plastic alignment tool with your 212?

Enjoy the music,
-Mark

Yes, I have both items.