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Thinking about replacing my turntable

BejittoSSJ5

BejittoSSJ5

New Member
I'm thinking about replacing my Pioneer PL-4, due to a few reasons. (the lack of proper azimuth and VTA adjustment, the occasional speed inconsistency, damage around the plastic plinth etc.) It actually sounds quite good, but I feel I could get better with something that allows for easier fine-tuning as opposed to using shims for both azimuth and proper VTA.

I'm currently thinking of getting these turntables, I prefer vintage in general since I'm on a budget (~3-400$) -

Realistic LAB 400, 420 or 440
Technics SL-1600MK2
Pioneer PL-518, PL-530
U-Turn Orbit Plus (would this necessarily be an upgrade though?)

Any suggestions? And do any of these turntables allow for VTA adjustment at the tonearm? (azimuth isn't an issue for the standard headshells at least)
 
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I have a Technics 1700 mk2 ( semi instead of full auto) and a PL-530 both are great tables if i had to choose between them i would keep the 1700 mk2 its a rock solid table and compatible with a ton of carts even some very pricey ones, easy to align and set up. The PL-530 is a better looker and you wouldnt lose to much going with that either if looks matter.

20160414_222557 (450x800).jpg 20160526_202007 (450x800).jpg
 
If you Google pioneer PL -4 the top few tell you exactly how to fix the speed issue. The specs on this table surpass the BEST upgraded U-Turn, unless you believe in fairy dust. A lot of the newer turntables, have all kinds of belt and speed problems. You may have to buy a better motor drive supply to make it right, or even better spin your table by hand before you start it up!!!! Vertical Tracking adjustment is a nice feature, and it is important but once it is set you really don't mess with it. Save your money or put it into a better cart, it will do you more good.
 
If you are looking for convenience, then the Technics SL 1600 MK2 is the way to go. I had one that I bought brand new in 1980 and loved it. I currently have the SL 1800 MK2,
same as the 1600 but fully manual. It's a rock solid table but I have to say that my AR XB sounds better.
 
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