RS Lab 420/Technics SL-D2

[xpert54]

I've been using a Technics SL-D2 for my secondary TT for some time. I've alternated between a Shure M95 cart/stylus and a AudioTechnia 433E cart with a AT12XE stylus. I like both.

I recently obtained a RS Lab 420 TT and after a good cleaning and a quick test to make sure it is in good working order I let it sit for a while. I decided to rotate the SL-D2 out and use the Lab 420 the other day. I'm using the same cart/stylus setup that I used on the SL-D2.

I pretty much expected the Lab 420 to be in the same class as the SL-D2. A decent TT and not much more. however after listening to several LP's that I'm quite familure with. I've come to the conclusion the the Lab 420 is a considerably a better TT than the SL-D2.

I've had RS gear through the years although not much of it. My favorite being the Nova 8b speakers. I think I'll keep the Lab 420 TT in service for some time as it is quite surprise for a RS TT.

 

[12ax7]

The cat's out of the bag!

People are discovering what good tables these CEC made LAB-400/420s are. Many looked down on the Realistic brand but failed to realize that they are essentially the same as some Marantz, Hitachi and other well regarded tables. The down side is that prices are starting to rise on these once overlooked gems.

I too own an SL-D2 and a LAB-400. They each have their strong suits. Under the skin, I think the Technics has a little better quality and operates more smoothly. Soundwise though, the LAB has the edge. Not by much, but there is a more solid feel to the music. And it's certainly better looking!

 

[xpert54]

I agree on the more solid feel to the music and the better looks. What got me was I was listening to Earl Klugh's Life stories on the Lab 420 and I noticed it sounded better on the Lab 420 than the SL-D2. Seem's there is a bit more clarity using the Lab 420 with the Shure M95 although the SL-D2 TT is no slouch besides I think the SL-D2 is very underated.

I have also located a Lab 400 TT that I'm giving very serious thoughts to purchasing and the price is right. Tomorrow will tell as I'm going to look at it one more time and maybe bring it home. I'd like for it free as the Lab 420 was however I don't think it will be. Who knows tomorrow will tell.

 

[Metalownz]

The LAB 400 was my first real turntable. And ive never looked back. The only tables in my lineup that bests it is my Technics SL-1800 and my Yamaha YP-D6.

 

[Azimuth]

I have both an SL D2 and a LAB 400 as well. I haven't really compared them side by side with the same carts, but I like them both. My D2 is black, which looks good (D2K), but the looks of the LAB 400 make it very appealling. I've taken the D2 out of the lineup and replaced it with a Technics SL 1610 (black again) and an SL 5210 (and again).

 

[markshan]

The cat's out of the bag!

People are discovering what good tables these CEC made LAB-400/420s are. Many looked down on the Realistic brand but failed to realize that they are essentially the same as some Marantz, Hitachi and other well regarded tables.

Yep.:yes:

People scoff at my CEC made Fisher ("Fisher! They made crap.") I went through several "upgrades" that turned out not to be before landing on my current JVC QL-A7 (another happily under the radar table).

Who gives a flip what "they" think. "They" just drive up the prices for us.

 

[GOYA]

The LAB-500 is a fine table as well.
I'd like to hear it next to a 420 or 400.

 

[xpert54]

I was not aware that RS had a Lab 500 TT. I kinda figured the 400 series was the last of the decent RS TT's.

 

[asmd]

had a 420 and a 400 for a while. gave up the 420 as it was very similar to the 400 and i wanted a sample of the various tables out there. They work fine enough and are always within my means of repair.

on a side note...
what other tables have full auto features from the mid to late 70s with a faux or real wood finish? most that i see mainly have auto return only.

 

[GOYA]

The LAB-500

I've removed the headshell/cart on mine and I'm using a regular 1/2" mount headshell and Shure V15 III.