Sony ps FL77

[LocoStereo]

I was wondering if any of you out there have had any experience with a Sony PS FL77 TT. It's a front loading, very compact unit. Just curious to get some different opinions, I was looking at a Garrard DD75, but from what I have read on the net, they are not very good quality. As far as the Sony is concerned, would I be better off with a Pioneer PL12D? Thanks have a great day gang!
Loco

 

[pioneernut]

I had a similar Sony PS-FL1 and after getting a Pioneer PL-610 theres no comparison. The Pioneer blows the Sony away. The Sony's platter is lightweight, feedback was a problem at increased volume levels(30~40% volume level), and the adjustments on the arm were limited to just the counter balance. This PS FL77 looks to be a linear tracker, and I'm personally not to familiar with those since I tend to like the manual aspects of a basic turntable. Less moving parts, and less stuff to go to crap later.

The only reason I'd consider the Sony is if your cabinet location isn't condusive to a regular turntable and you need the front loading capabilites.
Feedback was such a problem with mine, I always recorded my albums to cassette wearing my headphones before ever cranking it with the speakers on.
- Mike

 

[gadgetworks]

I have the 77II. I like the front loading and yes it is linear tracking. I don't play records on a regular basis like I used to, so as far as depandability, it hasn't failed me yet. I have an Akai 77 on top of it with no problem. It also comes out far enough for easy loading. Bought it used a couple years ago.

 

[KentTeffeteller]

Simpler it is, the less gadgets it has you don't need, the more reliable it is with age. Sony Hi-Tech turntables and the linear P-Mount stuff has more to go wrong. Make sure it works with current cartridge/stylus options you can buy genuine which are still made today! Also, buy what is maintainable today and ages best. Think carefully!

 

[YY1]

I have a PL-77 that wasn't treated very well.

Bought at thrift for $5, filthy, and with all the wires cut.

It cleaned up well and after shoehorning the splices in for the power cord, it plays just fine.

Chalk one up for surprising durability.

One note- the tray is too heavy if nothing is on top of the player, IE if it ejects with nothing on top, it will likely fall over forwards.

 

[Clemon]

The PS-FL77 doesn’t fall forward when the tray is extended, in my experience. I don’t know what a PL-77 is.

The PS-FL77 is a complex device, and is more likely to need service than other turntables, but if you like trouble shooting and fixing stuff, it is a nice, compact, full auto turntable. It works well and sounds good, albeit with a few compromises, e.g. very warped records will hit the low riding tonearm and cause mistracking.

It’s not my only turntable, but it takes up almost no space in my near field, desktop system, and I get a kick out of it.