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Cheapo TT's for a present

I'm scouring the local thrifts, etc. for a gift. I've found a couple of possibilities. Found a Technics SL-220 in very nice shape. I've also found a Pioneer PL-112D in good shape, but maybe not quite as unweathered. Are those two old budget models comparable, or is one a lot better sounding than the other? Thanks for answering another tedious question about bottom-of-the-heap, trash-picked turntables! ;)
rongon
5 responses Add your response
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Hey, those are better turntables than you think. I have owned both and they can be quite solid performers. My nod would go to the 112D for it's more substantial plinth, but either will get you a good bit of enjoyment.

New belt and cartridge or stylus will be called for. Clean out the main bearing and refill with oil and put a small drop on the motor spindle and you should be good for quite a while.
wilson667's avatar
wilson667
90 posts
 
It seems both are going for around 125$ on Ebay. so if they can be had for less I would say condition is the main concern.I believe I had the sl-220 as my first tt in the late 90's. It sounded pretty good with a decent cartridge($50+) and phono stage(C.A. 540/640p or similar) at the time I used the built in in my receiver.I don't think it would be a bad table to get your feet wet with.
frogman
4,637 posts
 
I agree with Viridian. I can't speak to the Pioneer, but I bought my son an sl-220 a couple of years ago, and while I can't say it comes close to sounding like my TNT6, it sounds surprisingly good. With a $60 AT cart and $100 Cambridge phono section, the thing makes a lot of music.
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
Quick go to Toys-R-Us. They have many 'cheapo' record players Be sure to put the receipt in the box so the person will know where to return it.
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Hey, Fisher was a great brand in the heyday of audio and made great stuff, I am listening to a 299C integrated amp as I write this. I don't know why everyone started to run them down when they changed their name to Fisher-Price.
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