Technics SL-20: Worth restoring?

[Brett H]

Hi, all!

My wife gifted me a couple of vinyl records for Christmas along with an entry-level turntable. The turntable sounded absolutely terrible (we got what we paid for) so we sent it straight back, but I did like the idea of getting into vinyl so I've been on the lookout for a better turntable. While visiting my folks over the holidays, my dad dug out an old Technics SL-20 turntable and amplifier that he used to use back in the day and said I could have it. The turntable hasn't been used in probably at least two decades, and would need some significant work (new belt, probably new stylus, fine-tuning of the electronics to correct speed issues etc).

I have no idea what I'm doing, so I hopped online and found this site. Hoping someone here might be able to help me with the following questions:

1. Does anyone have a ballpark estimate of what it would cost to restore a system like that, assuming it is possible and it would just require some new basic parts, tweaking, lubricating, etc.?

2. Any thoughts on whether it would actually be worth doing? A cursory Internet search seems to indicate that the Technics SL-20 was an entry-level system to begin with, so I'm wondering if it would even make sense to put money into restoring it if I could get something brand new and of equal quality for a similar amount of money.

Any input would be greatly appreciated--thank you!!

-Brett

 

[Montycat]

The SL-20 might have been entry level but it's of reasonable quality. I'd fix it up.

A belt will cost about $10 or so, a cartridge (assuming it needs one), a little more to a lot more. Invest in some Deoxit, or other spray contact cleaner for it and the amplifier, add a bit of oil to both motor and spindle and the rest is just reading and elbow grease.

It would easily take $300 or more to equal or better the Technics you have. And they wouldn't offer any features it doesn't have either.

 

[illini]

https://www.audiokarma.org/forums/i...-with-technics-sl-23-tt.812458/#post-11665835

Basically the same as the sl-23.

1. maybe 30 bucks

2. It’s worth the restoration, but the small unserviceable dc motor may need service.

 

[Montycat]

^ Those motors often seize and appear dead but revive with oil and some coaxing.

 

[Cylontymany]

To me its a great Turntable since I bought one new back in 76 as my 1st table. Today I have collected and restored another one to duplicate my original system I grew up with. I use it now to compare many cart/stylus combinations. I also have its Panasonic cousin that has the wood veneer. Enjoy!