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Wood-faced turntables

C

chmod007

New Member
I’m trying to find a good turntable to round out my new SX-1250-based system. I want something from the same era with lots of wood. These are the models that I’m considering so far:

PL-71
PL-550
PL-570

The advantage of 550 is that it seems to be easier to come by. How does it compare, technically, to 570? Am I correct in assuming that PL-71 is the “highest end” among the three? What would I lose if I stepped down to 530 or something?

What considerations should I take into account when choosing one? I will probably by on eBay and price is not a huge concern, though I definitely want to stay sub-$1000.
 
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The PL-71 is from the generation before the PL-550 and the PL-570. The 71 has the worst specs of all three, but they do have their fans. Lots of them in fact.

They all have adjustable VTA, which is nice.

The 71 is the only one of the three that is not equipped with PLL Quartz lock for constant accurate speed.

The 71 and the 550 are full manual tables and the 570 is fully automatic.

Just noticed you mentioned the 530 as well. Direct drive, great looks, better s/n ratio than the 71. However, no VTA adjustment, no quartz lock, part auto with the option to switch to full manual (more moving parts than a 550), prone to a common failure where the base of the tonearm (plastic) support can crack.
 
Thanks, that is great information. Sorry for the stupid question, I’m not lazy but it’s hard to take in all these specs without experience and knowledge about which really matter.

Any thoughts on the build quality and visual/tactile quality of the wood?
 
No problem, glad to help. I can't speak for the PL-71 as I've never seen one in person but the 530-570 aren't wood, or even wood veneer, they're covered with a wood grain sticker. There are some people (members here included) that have re-covered theirs' in real wood veneer, with incredibly nice results.

Regarding the build quality I can tell you that my 550 has never had to be repaired, feels very solid, and still works perfectly. They're very capable turntables as well. With a JICO SAS stylus equipped Shure M97XE cartridge, mine tracks incredibly well and makes some seriously sweet sounds.
 
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Does it have to be pioneer? One of my systems is a pioneer SX1250 with a Thorens TD-125 mkII. They are both from the 1970's and work very well together. Lots of wood. The linn lp12 also would have your wood.
 
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