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Replace SL-Q200 with SL-D303?

monkeyevil

monkeyevil

Member
I currently have an SL-Q200 with a brand new AT 92ECD Cartridge. It's in good shape and my first TT. I think it sounds fine.

My LRS has a SL-D303 in nice shape with a new AT Cartridge for $75. Is this an upgrade worth considering? The curved tone arm is sexy. *lol*

I could have my SL-Q200 sold for $50 minimally.
 
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The Q-200 is plug-and-play simple with it's 'P' mount cartridge and DD platter, the other a little less simple with cartridge adjustments and otherwise not that much difference to make the jump IMO. Both are entry-level direct-drive TTs, your call.
 
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Based on my experience with the D202 and the Q200, the D303 should be a very nice upgrade.
 
The specs are about the same on those 2. The Q200 is quartz locked so thats a nice feature. I would take a Q200 over a D303 IMHO. If you find the curved tonearm sexy ( I do ;) ) I woould look into some of the higher end vintage models. I have an SL-1400 that I really like. Heck, I have an SL-23 that is a belt drive model, that I really enjoy using:yes:
 
Also keep in mind that the odds are that the new cartridge on that D303 is a conical, entry level cartridge--not bad, but your 92ECD is superior--so you're likely paying for a lesser, albeit new cartridge. And if it's not a p-mount, you wouldn't be able to put it on the Q200 in the event that you wanted to sell that with a cartridge.
 
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Hi, the SL-Q200 is a very good TT, The SL-D303 is a slightly better, different type of TT. You can do better for that price IMO.:scratch2:

The SL-QD33 is a nice upgrade and you can use the same cartridge.:scratch2:

Thanks,
John.:music::D
 
I appreciate the responses. I'm asking because my mom is looking for a TT and as I learn more about what available I like to entertain upgrading.

I know that my q200 works wonderful, and is super simple to use, so it would be a great table for her. I just need to fine a ~$100 replacement for me first :yes:

I'm not afraid of more tinkering possibility (i'm a notorious tinker,) but I'm very picky about sound quality and any noise.

I'd eventually like to work up to a SL-1200MK2 Black.
 
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The SL-D303's specs (new) for Wow and Flutter, Rumble, and tonearm friction are the same as the SL-1200s. While the tonearm pivots are physically different the arm has the same overhang, length, and offset angle. It doesn't have the torque of the 1200s but then it doesn't use quite as much electric. Set up a cartridge spot on with a Technics overhang gauge and you will get some nice music from it.
 
I have had a SL-D202 . It works as smooth as the day I bought it back in 1981? Seems to be a reliable TT...at least mine has been.
 
The D303 had a new AT needle installed as well, unsure of model, I'll do more research tonight.

I did pick it up at lunch. I'll get it setup and report my findings :)
 
Just played one record of "Give Up" by the Postal Service.

The D303 sounds much different than the Q200, but I'm assuming that's all in the cartridge. (D303 came with an AT LS-200 cart with a blue AT12E stylus. Much warmer sounding cart than the AT 92ECD with what I feel is boomier less accurate bass.

The D303 has far less static noise then the Q200. It seems like every time I pulled a record off the Q200 you could hear the the static discharge... both have stock mats. Also the new table seems much less effected by vibration of the woofers, or me tapping on the shelf.

I really do like the full automatic features of the D303. And I have to admit it does look better.

Happy so far. :)

IMAG0001.jpg


IMAG0002.jpg
 
monkeyevil said:
Just played one record of "Give Up" by the Postal Service.

The D303 sounds much different than the Q200, but I'm assuming that's all in the cartridge. (D303 came with an AT LS-200 cart with a blue AT12E stylus. Much warmer sounding cart than the AT 92ECD with what I feel is boomier less accurate bass.

The D303 has far less static noise then the Q200. It seems like every time I pulled a record off the Q200 you could hear the the static discharge... both have stock mats. Also the new table seems much less effected by vibration of the woofers, or me tapping on the shelf.

I really do like the full automatic features of the D303. And I have to admit it does look better.

Happy so far. :)

IMAG0001.jpg


IMAG0002.jpg
Click to expand...

Very Nice setup, enjoy the music.

Thanks,
John.:music::D
 
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