Pioneer PL514 w/ broken auto return

[a_painter]

Hello audiokarma!

First time posting here and vinyl beginner - looking to get me first TT and I've found a Pioneer PL514X for £100, however apparently the automatic return function is broken, so it's basically manual. Comes with a Ortofon F15E cart and apparently a new belt. Haven't heard it but apparently plays well (will hear it before buying if it comes to it). Seems it pretty good condition apart from the return.

To my naive brain (and after some searching around) that sounds like a lot considering it's not 100% - any thoughts if that's a decent deal or should I stay clear?

 

[bichitus]

Hi painter,​

I believe that we can't speak about the price here in this forum, you need to move to dollars & sense forum.
But I can talk to you about the automatic return function in the tonearm issue.
Two years ago, I bought a Pioneer PL-514 with the same problem. I moved the tonearm with my hand a little beyond of the spindle and the problem was fixed.
Is a good turntable and very easy to use.
Regards.

Hello audiokarma!

First time posting here and vinyl beginner - looking to get me first TT and I've found a Pioneer PL514X for £100, however apparently the automatic return function is broken, so it's basically manual. Comes with a Ortofon F15E cart and apparently a new belt. Haven't heard it but apparently plays well (will hear it before buying if it comes to it). Seems it pretty good condition apart from the return.

To my naive brain (and after some searching around) that sounds like a lot considering it's not 100% - any thoughts if that's a decent deal or should I stay clear?

 

[Montycat]

Yes, "broken" is a wide open term and often it's a simple fix. Even if it's not fixable it's a decent turntable as a manual. Perhaps a bit overpriced though as is.

 

[Tiver]

It's always preferable to have a fully functioning deck, but if it otherwise functions well, has very good cosmetics and the stylus is in good shape, those are things that elevate the value. I think it's within reason. An easy fix of the return would certainly be a nice bonus.

 

[a_painter]

Hi painter,​

I believe that we can't speak about the price here in this forum, you need to move to dollars & sense forum.
But I can talk to you about the automatic return function in the tonearm issue.
Two years ago, I bought a Pioneer PL-514 with the same problem. I moved the tonearm with my hand a little beyond of the spindle and the problem was fixed.
Is a good turntable and very easy to use.
Regards.

Ahh, I was looking for somewhere more appropriate to post a money question but missed that forum - thanks for the heads up.

 

[a_painter]

It's always preferable to have a fully functioning deck, but if it otherwise functions well, has very good cosmetics and the stylus is in good shape, those are things that elevate the value. I think it's within reason. An easy fix of the return would certainly be a nice bonus.

Looks in great cosmetic condition, cart is new and it's just had a new drive belt so seems like it's been taken care of. I might go for it - I fancy a crack at fixing the return anyway.

Thanks for the advice everyone!

 

[Tiver]

Well, update it you get it. We always like to see these things come to a enjoyable conclusion.

It's a very easy plinth to replicate if it's similar to the PL-518. And I mean copy......it can be veneered fairly easily as well. I mention replicate because, while the gray vinyl veneer isn't the most exciting finish, it seems there is some value in it as an original piece of kit. But then again, perhaps this particular Pioneer will never reach the kind of desirability where originality makes any difference in value?

No matter, I think these tables are as nice as the current new offerings under $350 or so and when set up properly should provide a good experience.

 

[a_painter]

Yep, will report back here if I get it. Will go round this week and try to see it (from a distance) in action before purchasing!

 

[a_painter]

Late update:

Didn't go for the Pioneer, found this Dual CS 505-3 for about £100 which had recently restored! IMO looks and sounds great - happy to not have to try and fix something on my first TT as well.

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