Our Favorite Vintage Turntables!!! So Many Surprises!!!

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  • čas přidán 29. 06. 2024
  • Kevin shares our list of our favorite vintage turntables!
    fixmydual.com/
    vinylnirvana.com/
    www.ebay.com/usr/jnbaudio?_tr...
    Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we’ll receive a small commission.
    We have owned and used every product we recommend
    Kicker speaker to Line level adapter amzn.to/3D2ghyB
    Recommended Subwoofers with high level speaker inputs
    $250 10” Polk Subwoofer (with speaker level) amzn.to/3qp74sL
    $100 6” Acoustic Audio (with speaker level) amzn.to/3d0YVaR
    12” Polk Subwoofer (with speaker level) amzn.to/3DmBnaZ
    Recommended Bookshelf Speakers
    Klipsch B100 bookshelf speakers amzn.to/3xk9dd6
    Elac Debut 2.0 speakers amzn.to/3LeI4y4
    Klipsch RP-500m speakers amzn.to/3DuRROi
    Recommended Turntables
    Audio Technica LP60 Great entry-level “fully automatic” turntable for under $150 amzn.to/3eAPC1B
    U-turn Orbit Plus- Skylabs favorite new turntable with a 3 year warranty for under $350 amzn.to/3delM2H
    Recommended Phono Cartridges
    Grado 3 series- Made in Brooklyn NY since 1953 amzn.to/3L9t8B7
    Ortofon 2M Blue amzn.to/3d9fBNw
    Recommended Phono Preamps
    U-turn Pluto- awesome little preamp for under $100 amzn.to/3RHm01k
    Parasound Zphono- excellent choice if you want to try moving coil cartridges amzn.to/3RJ31TY
    #vintagehifi #vinylrecords #vintagestereo #marantz #pioneer #sansui #stereorepair #turntable #recordplayer #skylabs #skylabsaudio #skylabsiowa
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Komentáře • 606

  • @davidclark8132
    @davidclark8132 Před rokem +5

    I had an old Dual 1218. I put an ad on kijiji, "Free to a good home". 15 minutes later a 17-year-old kid was on the way. I still feel good about that.

  • @TheHammerofDissidence
    @TheHammerofDissidence Před rokem +13

    Can never go wrong with a Technics in good shape. The amount of headaches you avoid having a swappable headshell, adjustable VTA, and the most reliable speed you could ask for is worth every penny. Only thing that sucks with the older models is the attached RCA.

  • @musicforfun5350
    @musicforfun5350 Před rokem +41

    I'm still using my Dual 1219, purchased in 1971. Recently took it in for a tune-up and it works like a charm.

    • @juanvillanueva5267
      @juanvillanueva5267 Před rokem

      I've owned 1009(f?) A TANK. Needed full restoration, contacted well known Dr. Dual, (way more money than I could afford). I only own the drop 45 rpm spindle I bought on Ebay. It's one of those things where with head tossed to side, I heave a sigh.....

    • @brucesmith5426
      @brucesmith5426 Před rokem +3

      Love my $58.00 1219 with a Shure V15-III cartridge. Cleaned the old hard grease out and lubed with quality fishing reel grease and viola it's like new. I've had it now 5 years and it's going strong.

    • @60gregma
      @60gregma Před rokem +1

      The 1219 was the predecessor to the 1229, made from 1969-1971. It came in two iterations. In the v1 version, the cuing lever does not work in multi-play mode. The 1219 is the same as the 1229, minus the built-in strobe. Many of the parts are interchangeable. The 1229 also came in a 1229Q version... Q for quadraphonic. The only real difference was updated tonearm wires to support the high frequency pilot signal needed to decode quad playback.

    • @flouisbailey
      @flouisbailey Před rokem

      Dual Guy here 1218 and 701 Bill services as needed.

    • @SinnerSince1962
      @SinnerSince1962 Před rokem

      You can't beat any of these Duals: 1009, 1019, 1219, 1229 (all idler drive). I also like the 701, a direct drive model. I have a copy of each of the aforementioned units.

  • @z3r0w1ng
    @z3r0w1ng Před rokem +19

    Still spinning vinyl on my original Dual 1257. Solid as a rock even for being the more budget friendly Dual of the time. 43 years and going strong.

    • @renebollengier1111
      @renebollengier1111 Před rokem

      Still using my 1257 as well. Just have to give it a spin in the right direction when I start it. Kinda part of its charm

  • @kasperkjrsgaard1447
    @kasperkjrsgaard1447 Před rokem +3

    Bought my Thorens TD 160 Super with a Morch UP-4 arm in ‘85.
    Still uses it each day.

  • @tjtreinen7381
    @tjtreinen7381 Před rokem +12

    Don't forget about the Dual 1219!!! I have just restored a 1219 my older brother gave me. Solid built.. A nice heavy platter also...

    • @thorstenromstadt485
      @thorstenromstadt485 Před rokem

      The 1219 is the direct predecessor of the 1229. It is about 97 % identical to the 1229. Especially if you compare the latest 1219 to the very first 1229.

  • @RonSiwicki
    @RonSiwicki Před rokem +4

    My Dual 701 turntable is great but I have also a Dual 1219, Linn Sondek LP-12 I visited the factory as a dealer in 1983 and all my turntables work great. I have hundreds of LP's in great shape. Working at a stereo store was great.

  • @billyoungberg3207
    @billyoungberg3207 Před rokem +5

    Very nice video. I still have my Dual 1216 in a Sylvania case from 1974. Still works great.

  • @JazzEnthusiast
    @JazzEnthusiast Před rokem +16

    Great post! I was a QA tech at the Dual U.S. main distribution location in Mount Vernon, N.Y. back in the late 70's.
    One of the main features on their turntables was how accurately you could balance the tone arm.
    At audio shows we would mount the turntable upside down on a rack and play a record. The tone arms were so finely balanced that there was minimal wear on your vinyl. Beautifully engineered.

    • @michaeladdison5359
      @michaeladdison5359 Před rokem +5

      My Dual 1218 still works. I purchased it in 1974. When a wrapped record wouldn't play on other tables, the Dual was there to show that it could be played.

    • @JazzEnthusiast
      @JazzEnthusiast Před rokem +3

      @@michaeladdison5359 that's the incredible Dual Gebrüder Steidinger's tonearm engineering. It has gyroscopic stability.

  • @passqualecaiazza7728
    @passqualecaiazza7728 Před rokem +2

    My first table was a BSR. 1980 bought a used Duals 1216. I still have it and love it. Since then two 1215S, two 1216, 1218, 1225, 1226, 1229, and two 506 Duals. Love them all

  • @nicomeier8098
    @nicomeier8098 Před rokem +11

    I'm using a DUAL 704 Electronic Direct Drive, with a Nagaoka JT322 cart with a Shibata Naked diamond stylus.
    In total it cost me less then €500 and I love it! I have a custom made acrylic dust cover on it as well, looks so good.
    I did go from vinyl to CD during the 90's, but now I use both as they both have their strong and weak points.
    The thing about vinyl is that it takes more time and effort to properly use it (starts with cleaning any new record), which in turn makes you really take time to sit down and listen to the music.

    • @BLOVECU
      @BLOVECU Před rokem +1

      love my modded dual 704 too. with a retipped micro-acoustics 2002e, sweet.

    • @norbertkuhse3790
      @norbertkuhse3790 Před rokem

      The 704 is a Great Turntable , the reason why i use a 606 is , that i love the Ortophon ULM 155 System

  • @ozarkpipertony8396
    @ozarkpipertony8396 Před rokem +9

    I appreciate your connection with turntables and that "connection" to vinyl. Its something I was blessed to grow up with and it sounds better with the right turntable and amp/speakers. I have a Fluance RT83 with upgraded plate and Ortofon Blue cartridge. Staying with heritage and media that has so much historic meaning in history is so much more than many in our electronically advanced society will truly enjoy. Thanks for sharing!

    • @stevenjosephs9
      @stevenjosephs9 Před rokem

      Hang Friday & Saturday playing vinyl ( 70's ) pretty much fighting over the next LP

  • @raybode8347
    @raybode8347 Před rokem

    Great video thanks. I have a Dual 504 I bought in 1974. It's all original with dust cover and it works great. Glad you like them.

  • @donalddeorio2237
    @donalddeorio2237 Před rokem +1

    I still have my Technics SL D2 direct drive turntable from 1978 and it still works

  • @SinnerSince1962
    @SinnerSince1962 Před rokem +2

    I love your reviews. No bravado, no boasting, just a regular guy who loves audio and tells everyone about his experiences.

  • @mccarthyd6603
    @mccarthyd6603 Před rokem +5

    Picked up a Hitachi PS-48 a year ago for a fair price on looks for my spare listening room. Love this TT so much I actually got rid of my Rega.... Love the sound and appearance of vintage....just recently upgraded to a Grado Opus Cartridge and could not be happier 👍

  • @Slonge92
    @Slonge92 Před rokem +2

    I’ve had a Marantz 6300 since new in 1977, it is like new and with a good cartridge it hasn’t let me down.
    Friends are always recommending tables in the thousands, maybe I’ll buy one if the Marantz dies.
    Great videos, thanks.

  • @alanrogs3990
    @alanrogs3990 Před rokem +5

    I just got a very old but in great condition Rek O Kut T12 with a Shure 232 arm. It has that low idler noise floor but this beast is so dynamic and forceful in its music presentation. I'm amazed.

  • @NebukedNezzer
    @NebukedNezzer Před rokem +2

    I have a very nice Technics SL-D2 that I got for free. also my pioneer single play bought in hong kong 1966. I also am a broadcast engineer so got to keep the old gates, etc tables going. a tip. clean the rubber parts with alcohol.

  • @user-dq5xx9hi4q
    @user-dq5xx9hi4q Před 5 měsíci +1

    Duals were my favorite. Before them I had a BSR and a Sanyo. My last was a Pioneer linear, but it only lasted 4-5 years before the motorized arm stopped working.

  • @MuzikJunky
    @MuzikJunky Před rokem +3

    I grew up with a Dual 1229 and was so sad when it bit the dust in 1985! I also loved that it muted during the automatic cycle and the noises that the unit itself made while it cycled! Peace.

    • @girogio83
      @girogio83 Před rokem +1

      I’ll be selling a Dual 1229 I’m very good,shape if you are interested I’ll let you know when it’s ready. Charlie

  • @JackT_Music_on_Vinyl
    @JackT_Music_on_Vinyl Před rokem +1

    Great video. I live very close to Skylabs and have been there a few times over the past few years. Always a welcome greeting, happy to chat and answer questions, and the "bench" is in plain sight. They do it all! My 2 turntables are a Technics SL1200 MK2 and a 1972 AR XA which I rehabbed myself. One is a fancy vintage deal, the other probably the world's simplest turntable. Love em both for different reasons.

  • @robertbright2057
    @robertbright2057 Před rokem +4

    I’ve owned many high end and vintage turntables and my FAVORITE one was always the AR XA due to it’s SIMPLICITY and tone arms that would virtually float down towards the vinyl.

  • @Johnny-ov7qe
    @Johnny-ov7qe Před 4 měsíci

    Just got a recently serviced Dual 1229! This video and your interview with Bill got me hooked. The look, sound, and build quality are top notch.

  • @jshelledy1
    @jshelledy1 Před 7 měsíci +1

    Thanks for the post. Good job.

  • @victorbloom8286
    @victorbloom8286 Před rokem +2

    My love in 1985 was the Pioneer PL L-1000 . Loved It

  • @malexder0082
    @malexder0082 Před rokem +7

    I sold most of the tables you reviewed when I worked for a couple of shops in Harvard square from 72-75. Thorens and Technics were the top picks for people with money. The AR was a best-seller because of price/performance.

  • @stevenjosephs9
    @stevenjosephs9 Před rokem

    Love your video , great . Love you flashed my Denon . 40 years old this year . To me the tone arm drop is everything , preserves your vinyl . Thanks , love Dual & Pioneer look . Cut a square hole in a coffee table for looks ( same tone wood )

  • @markmwj
    @markmwj Před rokem +3

    Cool! I have an SL-110 with an SME arm and Shure V15 type III pickup. I bought it in 1970's after I got my B&W DM2A's at their Worthing shop. My dad was friend's with John Bowers and Roy Wilkins and worked for B&W for a short time.

  • @timfenton7469
    @timfenton7469 Před 10 měsíci +1

    Still have the Dual 1229 that I bought in 1972 when I was 18. I love this turntable not only because it’s built extremely well but also has a very high degree of sensitivity. It has the counter weight, of course, for balancing the tone arm, anti-skate, a light strobe function for fine tuning record speed, three settings- 45 and 78 are the two that aren’t normally used and a toggle that allows you to manually very softly drop the tone arm onto the LP.

  • @frankstephenson1746
    @frankstephenson1746 Před 7 měsíci

    Thank you!
    Your the only normal record guy on utube
    I’ve been running a PL-41 for years now just wanted to see if there was a vintage player I was missing out on.
    Once again, thanks for the down to earth video.

  • @davidspriggs5024
    @davidspriggs5024 Před rokem +1

    I very much enjoyed this video. Well done.

  • @davewallace8219
    @davewallace8219 Před rokem

    Anthony you are correct!...I've been doing this since the 70s....your statement follows basic principles! always buy the best!!! it holds its values....

  • @martinlepper4522
    @martinlepper4522 Před rokem +2

    Sent my Dual 1219 to 'Fix My Dual'. Awesome. Glad to hear you give them a heads up.

  • @danwheetman6914
    @danwheetman6914 Před rokem +2

    Good look. I have thr P 41 and the Dual 1229, both great tables.

  • @brucecoyle2565
    @brucecoyle2565 Před rokem +3

    It’s cool to have vintage gear and a repair shop close to home.

  • @mrpbody44
    @mrpbody44 Před rokem +1

    The AR was my first turntable in 1972 and still my fave. Still working after heavy use for 50 years. I got other turntables but kept coming back to these. I have 2 now.

  • @davidrothert7531
    @davidrothert7531 Před rokem +2

    I am still using the family Philips 312 turntable from 1979. Only issue it ever had was a fractured rca connector. Replaced the cables and sounds better than new.

  • @danvoight9393
    @danvoight9393 Před rokem

    This was very helpful and interesting ; thank you so much.

  • @thorstenromstadt485
    @thorstenromstadt485 Před rokem

    That´s a nice video! I still have the 1229 I bought new in the 70s, accompanied by a Lenco L78, a Dual 502, and a CEC BD-3200. The nice thing with classic turntables is: when they are well cleaned and properly lubricated, when they have a cartridge that fits to the toneam in its compliance, when the cart is properly aligned, and when you have added a bit of damping and fiddling, then any of those machines sounds really good. So really it is useless to debate which of those is "he best".

  • @korling99
    @korling99 Před rokem +1

    Very cool that you are local only - cheers to your local customers too - when I get the chance to travel to that part of the country, I will definitely stop in

  • @WC0125
    @WC0125 Před rokem +5

    Excellent - Thank you! Your list has some of mine on it too. The AR, Dual 1229 and Empire. Add add two others have mentioned. Garrard 301 and 401 and one you'll hate for its service complexity but when restored, a great unit; Yamaha PX-2 linear. The Technics SP-15 and 25 are great as well but they are starting to have capacitor and solder joint issues, eek!

  • @hewie2u
    @hewie2u Před rokem +3

    I started out in around 1973 with AR XB 1a , kept it for years and have it stored now in the original box and foam with the books.
    Next I went a bit sky high with Linn LP12 Ittok Karma. Then to Sota Star Saphire 2 .
    Still have that and love it .
    Two Turntables years ago really did me in though . Nakamichi Dragon and also Thorens Prestige. They are some piece of work there for their day . Just saying how I feel about Turntables.

  • @rogercoates2492
    @rogercoates2492 Před rokem +2

    I love the Lenco 75 that I re-built. I grew up with a Dual 1219 that my dad bought.

  • @ccrm10
    @ccrm10 Před rokem +4

    I have the AR XA, Thorens TD 165, Pioneer PL-41 and the Dual 1229. Looking at the Technics next. Thanks for validating my selections!

  • @luckyduckexplores3407
    @luckyduckexplores3407 Před rokem +2

    Great Video. Just getting into vintage gear. I only have newer hifi. I just checked the shelf. I've got a dual 1218 and a thorens 147 jubilee. They are not on your list, but same manufacturers. so much to learn! keep the videos coming, please :)

  • @Nightrelic
    @Nightrelic Před rokem +5

    Currently my favorite turntable to use is my Realistic Elac Miracord 46. It's fully automatic (I tend to like semi-automatic in other TTs) and it's an idler wheel (I was previously a direct drive guy). I bought it at Goodwill for $5 and pulled it out of a bin piece by piece. I had to get a skate and spindle for it. Someone must have cleaned and regreased it because it ran perfectly when I got it, except one of the metal pieces underneath was bent and the start up wasn't working right. I bent the piece back into shape to match the piece next to it and it ran perfectly after that. It's fun to use. The tone arm is short and lifts at an awkward looking angle, but lands perfectly every time. Push the button and walk away. It's a great machine.

    • @flouisbailey
      @flouisbailey Před rokem

      Automatics are the only turntables I have ever owned, the start, play, shutoff is the only way to go. Got my first Dual 1218 in 1970 now at 71 years old I don’t want to fuss with a non automatic turntable.

  • @jeffneedstogivejakeaturnon1083

    Just found your channel.
    Thanks for the video's man. I love them.

  • @wallymarx9646
    @wallymarx9646 Před rokem +1

    Great video! Thank you👍

  • @houseontherock3105
    @houseontherock3105 Před rokem +2

    Great and informative vid, thanks. Nice quality

  • @woodyunderwood2828
    @woodyunderwood2828 Před rokem +1

    I have an Elac/Miracord purchased in 1973. Perfect and still running.

  • @0PsychosisMedia0
    @0PsychosisMedia0 Před rokem +1

    I have scored a linear vintage turntable a few years ago...it a rebrand of a popular model but it now needs to have work done to it. I loved the thing. Yeah it's a linear record player so it's more automatic in function but to watch the thing work is a joy to me. I'll get it up and running again soon I hope.

    • @skylabsaudio
      @skylabsaudio  Před rokem +1

      Hey man, no judgment here. If you got a table you love, be grateful. There are a lot of people out there spending big bucks on upgrades chasing a sound that doesn't exist.
      I appreciate the engineering involved with those, especially when they work =)

  • @s.t.e.r.e.o.
    @s.t.e.r.e.o. Před rokem +2

    Great video. Ive been rocking my 1200 since the early 90s. It sounds great. DD all the way.

    • @RUfromthe40s
      @RUfromthe40s Před rokem

      my first direct drive was a technics in 76 ,still working , all original ,the SL-1100 i didn´t have it but had the first and second sl-1200 and the sp-10 costumized and the SL-1000mkII

  • @karaDee2363
    @karaDee2363 Před rokem +4

    I love your unbiased opinions on components..
    The only turntable I've owned was the one I bought when I was in high school, which was a technics sl220 belt driven and best audio Technica cartridge I could afford... couldn't afford the direct drive model... But I never had any complaints with the sl220, it did everything it was supposed to do and thought the speed controller was a real plus with the Technics players..
    When the belt drive got old and broke, I used a comparable sized rubber band and it worked...lol

    • @skylabsaudio
      @skylabsaudio  Před rokem +2

      I fixed an 8track player with a rubber band when I was younger. Gotta do what ya gotta do!

  • @johngorman2029
    @johngorman2029 Před rokem +9

    I'm using an old elac miracord 50h ii and I'm extremely happy with it sounds amazing

    • @kevinsmith8328
      @kevinsmith8328 Před rokem +1

      I have one also and enjoy how well it is made.

    • @Nightrelic
      @Nightrelic Před rokem +1

      @@kevinsmith8328 I have a Realistic Elac Miracord 46. Never thought I'd like a fully automatic idler wheel TT, but it's awesome.

  • @TheMentalblockrock
    @TheMentalblockrock Před rokem +16

    You might also wish to try the Rega planar 2 and 3. These are very simple, just a motor, a glass platter and a VERY good tone arm. Made in England and sound great.

    • @greganderson1681
      @greganderson1681 Před rokem +1

      My P3 rules.

    • @davidclark8132
      @davidclark8132 Před rokem

      Gave one to my son.

    • @TonyAguirreJazz
      @TonyAguirreJazz Před rokem

      Rega Planar 3 with the Ortofon Blue! in one room and a Dual 504 in the other

    • @JU5T1NH4RTL3Y
      @JU5T1NH4RTL3Y Před rokem +1

      Currently using a Planar 2 from 1978 with cherry wood framing with a Nagaoka MP-110 cart and can confirm! It's not nearly as detailed sounding as my Marantz 6170 but it sounds way more powerful and "musical". And the motor is practically indestructible! I'm never going to stop using my Rega! :D

    • @jamesbrunnette4895
      @jamesbrunnette4895 Před rokem

      My Rega planar 2 has worked great for over 40 years. Great product!

  • @rod4795
    @rod4795 Před rokem +5

    very interesting video. I am currently using the last model AR turntable, "The AR Turntable" with a Linn Basik tonearm on an aluminum arm board.I believe with some minor mods this TT rivals anything under $2000, and a few over tnat amount.

  • @mallacai
    @mallacai Před rokem +1

    i'm sure you've covered some great deck's I have a 1968 goldring lenco GL75 made in switzerland, I built it over a 30 year period and couldn't find most parts untill ebay came online, it runs 16-33-45 and 78, it runs like a swiss watch and I love the fact that it took 30 years to finally finish it, i'm not an audiophile I just like good music and it meets my need's, I hope everyone else is out there that loves the deck they have, DuaL also marketed the same deck under their own name which I think show's how good it still is, really enjoyed the video

  • @astolatpere11
    @astolatpere11 Před 10 měsíci

    I too have had many turntables over the years. My current tt is a Harmon Kardon ST7 that I refurbished, with an ADC XLM cart and new stylus, into a EAR clone tube phono preamp and I love it - the looks, how it operates, and how it sounds. Oh la la ...!

  • @abdulhalim9650
    @abdulhalim9650 Před rokem +1

    The feeling and relationship I have when playing a record with my Dual turntable is akin to I'm dressing up and on my way to a live concert...

  • @mileshigh1321
    @mileshigh1321 Před rokem +1

    I recently acquired a refurbished Gradiente DD 200Q. Brazilian made and just a really beautiful turntable! I also have 1970 British built Ariston RD 11S turntable with an upgraded tonearm and platter. You have to switch the belt over to play 45's ! Paid $10 at a yard sale for that one in the 90's !

  • @BIGD-gj1vb
    @BIGD-gj1vb Před rokem +3

    Realistic Lab-400. Much mystery behind who produced it but it's a rock soild performer. Just installed an Ortifon Blue cartridge and it's a great TT. ❤

  • @barbiejaye8623
    @barbiejaye8623 Před rokem +2

    I loved it. Brought back memories. Loved my AR XA. I used to get Garrards at a discount, but they were junk..

  • @robertliskey420
    @robertliskey420 Před 12 dny

    I still have my Empire 598 Mk2 first high end I bought in 1972! And except a couple belts over the years still runs great! ($400.00 back then)

  • @williamsharp5973
    @williamsharp5973 Před rokem +3

    Good Grief! I found this list pretty amazing. My path too has followed simplicity, design, and manual operation. But, with all the turntables available during these years, I have only had a relative few, but what a list, as least as evidenced by what is covered here. 1964, my first real turntable, ARxa, about $64.00. 1968, Pioneer PL-41, purchased at a PX in Viet Nam and shipped home. 1974, Technics SL1200, initial production model - the first arm, simple single switch for 33/center off/45, lift, speed adjustment controls, fair trade pricing back then, $279.98 I think. 1984, I traded in the SL1200, getting in some fashion what I paid for it ten years earlier - they were still very popular with DJ's - this was mainly a direct drive and torque issue - fast startup onver belts. Took home Harman Kardon T-60, about $475.00 list back then. Then soon after, around 1985 I got out of vinyl when CDs hit, and didn't have a turntable again until 2017. I bought a Haman Kardon T-40 and then added a T-60, both from ebay. Though not 60's-70's, I'll add here that both of these turntables follow the same path - simple and relatively 'clean' design and function.

  • @jtaylor0727
    @jtaylor0727 Před rokem +1

    Great video... I have I think 9 turntables hooked up to something around here... I love the too! I was happy to see a Dual on your list... my first GOOD turntable in the early 1970s... dependable... and played well ... ex wife got it lol! I purchased one several years ago in great shape ... a 1225. And yep I stack... especially old Christmas records!!!! Lol! Again, Great show!

  • @georgestefano673
    @georgestefano673 Před rokem

    Still have and play the sl 1300 with ortofon red cartridge now,but back in 70’s I used the Stanton 681eee with my pioneer 737 and it sounded great ,many parties,many good times.Thanks for the video,loving it.

  • @johnedwards2696
    @johnedwards2696 Před rokem +1

    Back in "the day", I owned a Linn LP12/ SME/ V15 combo and gave it up for the SL110/ SME/ V15. Today I use Technics SL110/ SME 309 on a nice burrwood board with Kiseki Blue NS and loving it.

  • @markbryant4641
    @markbryant4641 Před rokem +2

    The Thorens is VERY quiet. As in the background noise from the motor and bearing. I used to spend hours mucking around with it and I've had it so quiet that it couldn't be heard playing blank passages of an album with the volume turned up more than double the setting that I listen to music at what for me is high volume. This is loud enough to be heard out on the street.
    And at double this volume the turntable was silent.
    This is absolutely the key to high definition playback.
    But plonked on a shelf and used as is, this is still a very good table. Mine's simply plonked at the moment and I use it every day.
    Here in Melbourne, Australia I see Thorens TD160 and 165 come up for sale with Empire MM carts. There must have been a dealer back then who sold these tables with these carts.
    This is how mine came (second hand 16 years ago)and it's a fantastic combo.
    I've tried other tables, sometimes for a year or more but when I swap back to the 165/Empire it sounds better.
    The Empire cart is very clear and tonally a little light on mid-bass. Opposite to the classic Stanton carts.
    I need this tonal voicing as my speakers are bass heavy transmission line.

  • @kennethrossfeld5532
    @kennethrossfeld5532 Před rokem +1

    I have been using a vintage Sonab 65-S for a few years now, it has an Inertia unipivot arm. It's fully manual and I use it in my bedroom so it has a Q-up on it in case I fall asleep listening to a jazz record. The speed is absolutely dead on, it's a great table.

    • @pauldavies6037
      @pauldavies6037 Před rokem

      I think that was made by Yamaha my friends in England were Sonab dealers and sold loads of those excellent units

  • @josephhoward8304
    @josephhoward8304 Před rokem +7

    You'd have to pry my ELAC Mirachord 50H turntable from my cold dead body.

  • @careystuart
    @careystuart Před 2 měsíci

    Thorens really got ya' with their head shells!! Even the screws are proprietary. Some people are 3D printing the head shells, also a company in Italy makes replacements and variations that fit. I personally like the 165's anti skate method more than the magnetic version on the 160. The PL series of Pioneers are awesome. The PL35 had it all. Boy an AU series Sansui amp (or receiver) and a PL series deck...Jeesh that's vintage Heaven.

  • @willhouse
    @willhouse Před rokem +1

    My vintage Denon direct-drive unit needs some TLC & I wanted a smaller footprint since I was building a little system at work...
    So I decided to try a Pro-Ject Elemental, just plopped it atop the old Pioneer SX-434 I've had for 25 years & HEYYY: Extraordinarily simple operation, great looks & lovely sound. It's an especially impressive turntable because it doesn't even really have a plinth; there's a skinny slab of particle board holding a motor on one end & a tonearm on the other, with a heavy blob of molded resin in between that keeps everything sturdy. The whole rig hangs from a slat wall in a college bookstore & I'm growing quite fond of it!

  • @alvalle1206
    @alvalle1206 Před rokem +1

    New to channel. So far alot of good stuff. I've had a few TT s over the years I've been looking to get an AR to finish out a complete vintage AR system . My favorite Tt tho is my Phillips GA 312 . It's just enough of everything and sounds great with all my vintage equipment . I'll keep watching .

  • @Geopholus
    @Geopholus Před rokem

    Great review !

  • @putinkhuylo
    @putinkhuylo Před rokem +5

    I have a 1974 Technics SL 1300 and a 1975 SL 1350. Bought the 1350 new in '75. Both are like new with a little periodic maintenance. Since the tonearms do not have vertical adjustment, I simply swap mats of different thickness for proper tracking. I also have virtually every top Audio Technica cart and stylii from the mid 70s thru early 2000s. Great combinations.

  • @solomonstewart1025
    @solomonstewart1025 Před rokem +2

    Damn!! A new perspective...bonding with a turntable.

    • @skylabsaudio
      @skylabsaudio  Před rokem

      Lol, pretty soon people will be taking their turntables in to go grocery shopping. You watch.

  • @jeronronnunkoffunk4691
    @jeronronnunkoffunk4691 Před rokem +2

    Great video sir, and yes currently have 2 sl 1200s and I once owned the pioneer pl41 about 11 yrs ago and they are ginormous, but I loved it except it ran a bit fast I didn’t know how to address that at the time, it if I ever came across another I d grab it!

  • @stephen579
    @stephen579 Před rokem +5

    Some great turntables here, I also have a Thorens TD 160 mk1, can I also mention some of my other excellent turntables that you didn't feature such as the Kenwood KD990, and the Garrard 401, both of these are brilliant.

  • @raygarafano3633
    @raygarafano3633 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Thats what it is all about. Great 🎶

  • @roykeller2893
    @roykeller2893 Před rokem

    I had a Dual 506 in 1980 and loved it. Long gone. I bought one on EBay a few years back though.

  • @marioalleyne8559
    @marioalleyne8559 Před rokem +1

    Great content I’m constantly either agreeing with you or learning something.

  • @hegonefishing9122
    @hegonefishing9122 Před rokem +2

    I love my pioneer pl 707, was lucky to find it for $100 that was pristine in condition. It goes with my pioneer stack,
    But I currently have it hooked to the fisher 500c.

  • @hippydippy
    @hippydippy Před rokem

    My main TT is a Sansui SR-838 with a AT 440 mlb cartridge. I also have a Thorens TD-160 & A Dual 1219 sitting on my shelf in excellent condition. The Sansui is just the best I have though, so it's on full time mode & just wonderful!

  • @christopherstumbers5906
    @christopherstumbers5906 Před rokem +3

    I acquired a Dual 1219 from one of my clients for free. $200 in service later and the thing is working like the day it was manufactured. Now I don't wake up to my stylus repeatedly plowing into the label on my record anymore!

  • @goodie1955
    @goodie1955 Před rokem +1

    I have a dual 721 direct drive. Awesome table.

  • @johnnytoobad7785
    @johnnytoobad7785 Před rokem +1

    Just recently re-built my old (50 yr) Thornes TD-125 (Mk II) with the classic SME 3009 S2 arm. I was able to find schematics etc on the Inter-web. Upgraded just about ALL of the electronic components, belt and springs. The heavy platter combined with the old knife edge bearings demands that I re-lube it at least twice a year. One day I'll have the Tonearm refurbished. I owned a Dual 1219 in HS and Pioneer PL55D in college. I sold the 1219 and gave the Pioneer to my cousin. I would love to play with a Technics 1200 someday. Love that VTA "on the fly" feature. Can't do that with the SME 3009.

  • @upupandaway5646
    @upupandaway5646 Před rokem +1

    Great Great info 👍

  • @tonyclark6235
    @tonyclark6235 Před rokem +1

    My proper “first” turntable was a Connoisseur BD1 made by Sugden cartridge was a Goldring G800 that I bought in 1978. Been looking out for one but they seem to be in the Hen’s teeth department. Nice video…

  • @parallaxcontinuum7898
    @parallaxcontinuum7898 Před rokem +2

    Dual 1219 ,from late 68 !!!

  • @tomhalbouty3653
    @tomhalbouty3653 Před rokem +2

    Very nice review. There are a few points that might be helpful for buyers to consider regarding the Thorens turntables. The TP16 tonearm internally uses push connectors within the arm that attach to the back side of the receiver plug for the head shell. The push-on connectors used on the internal tone arm wires are very thin metal and over time often become loose, causing intermittent dropout of the signal. The solution is tedious and involves removing the plug from the tone arm, tightening the connectors and reinserting them. The better solution is completely rewiring the tone arm which provides a big reliability improvement and has some sonic benefits. I personally replaced my arm with a Jelco arm and never looked back. Regarding the Empire tables, the motor is a high speed motor compared to the low speed synchronous motors used on the Thorens and AR tables. For the tables I've worked on the rumble from the Empire table measures much higher when compared to the lower speed motors and can be audible. That said the Empire tables are very cool looking and well made. Again, nice review.

  • @cpu554
    @cpu554 Před rokem +1

    Owned a few in my life,Sony ,Micro Seiki,B&O and an Ariston RD 40 which was my fave.

  • @juanvillanueva5267
    @juanvillanueva5267 Před rokem +2

    Luv, Luv, Luv this post. The turntable is by far my favorite component.
    I have several but just one in use right now. I switched out my thorens 209, (It's really a novelty from Thorens with that crazy plinth), with vintage Kenwood 3070. It's easily the best table in my small collection. I'm crazy about tonearm on this model. It's super quiet, plays beautifully, sounds fantastic and it's nearly indestructible! I moved and kinda just dumped it in a box willy, nilly with platter on. I lucked out! This machine is gorgeous and working flawlessly. Think it's my forever table. Looks like..... Who knows? (Turntable geeks not mentally stable men.).
    Thanks for your post.

  • @pedrodapedra1
    @pedrodapedra1 Před rokem

    great video, thanks!

  • @kontrolenthusiast1099
    @kontrolenthusiast1099 Před rokem +1

    A sleeper 1982 Hitachi HT-67 owner (Direct Drive, uni-torque with quartz lock, auto, damped arm, electronic no touch photo-sensor return), purchased pre-owned 2013, no issues.

  • @craigdoriety9798
    @craigdoriety9798 Před 8 měsíci

    Still have my manual Technics SL-20 that I bought in 1977 when I was 17. Simple and dependable.

  • @markielinhart
    @markielinhart Před rokem +1

    Great run down. I still have a Sonab 67s that’s my daily driver. Quirky Swedish industrial design. Simple - manual arm drop, belt drive on/off and speed change switch. It has a 1.4kg platter. I recently refurbished it with a heavy timber plinth and a new lid. I’m currently running it with a Fidelity Research FR1 and it sounds awesome. No rumble, w&f is undetectable to my older ears… ✌️🌻🇦🇺

    • @skylabsaudio
      @skylabsaudio  Před rokem

      Nothing better than finding your forever turntable. Thanks for sharing

  • @russellewandowski843
    @russellewandowski843 Před rokem +2

    Thanks for the tip on Dual repairs. I have a 701 that's in really nice shape but could use a good refresh.

  • @AnthonyStabler
    @AnthonyStabler Před rokem +1

    I'm going to make Des Moines a destination on my next trip west. I can't wait to check out your inventory.!

  • @tturner12341
    @tturner12341 Před rokem

    I have a Marantz 6300 turntable. Fully refurbished and ready to play 😊😊