• The move to the new server is done. There are some software and database maintenance updates in process. This has us passing the hat around to help out. We appreciate any donations. Seriously, even a dollar helps. The payment page may be found here - https://www.audiokarma.org/support.html

Pioneer Pl-518 Upgrade

fastrodger

fastrodger

New Member
Hi everyone,

I have a PL-518 with an AT 120E cartridge and a PL-514 with an AT 95 played through a SA-8500
and a pair of JBL recapped L-36 speakers and a pair of recapped HPM-700 speakers. I am thinking
upgrading to an AT 150ML cartridge. Can the PL-518 handle the 150 or is it a waste of money
because 518 just cannot provide the platform for the 150 to shine? Also any experience with the
440MLa or the AT F7 or the AT 7V?
 
Register to hide this ad
I have a PL-516X (which is just a belt drive 518) and had the AT440MLA on it for about 2 years until i got a Yamaha PX-2. Totally worth it. Don't underestimate the 518. It's a respectable turntable at the very least and I would definitely slap a AT150MLX on it ;)
 
What cartridge is on the Yamaha? My AT 120 has just gotten to the point where the highs are crisp not crushed and it really jumps out
of the JBLs but I want to hear a bit more definition. Kind of like the difference between listening to Sirius and then vinyl.
 
I have a PL-518 (my original purchase in 1978) running an AT440MLa with the original headshell and it sounds fantastic. I do not have any 1st hand experience with or knowledge about the 150 and the PL-518, but I have been more than happy with the 440. Outstanding tracking, no IGD...actually looking at finding some replacement stylus for down the road (saw some good prices on LP Gear recently).
 
My current daily driver is a PL-516. I've experimented with several carts including an AT-125LC and it was pretty nice! I think a PL-518 can certainly justify the nicer cartridge you're thinking on.
 
fastrodger said:
What cartridge is on the Yamaha? My AT 120 has just gotten to the point where the highs are crisp not crushed and it really jumps out
of the JBLs but I want to hear a bit more definition. Kind of like the difference between listening to Sirius and then vinyl.
Click to expand...
Just last week i bought a NOS Denon DL-160 which I'm using on the PX-2 now. Its a different beast to the AT440MLA, but I still like it. Like yourself though, I'll be going for an AT150MLX next.
 
thanks for all the input. I am taking a pair of JBL L-26's and a pair of Athena LS-500B speakers to a local vintage reseller should get enough
for an AT-150 and a Herbie's mat. Will post some listening observations.
 
I'm running an AT15SA on my PL-518, after running a Shure M97XE, and the difference is HUGE, the PL-518 is a great table, upgrade away.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom