Harmon Kardon ST-7 with Rabco Tonearm

Stringreen, I do think that the tonearm on the ST7 tonearm was a low cost version of the original Rabco SL tonearm, designed specifically and only for the ST7 and never used again.  Nor was it ever sold separately.  It was therefore either designed by Dr. Rabinow (the originator of the Rabco SL tonearm or was licensed under his patent, at least.  Rabinow lived in the DC area, where I live. Same goes for the much more expensive Goldmund TF tonearm, used on their Reference turntable.

You must have got the best one they ever made .

I purchased mine new in 1977 or so. Other than a couple of new belts I’ve never had a problem with it. Tracking has been spot on. 

I owned two used HK ST-7 tables with the Rabco arm. Most finicky tonearm to calibrate and consistently maintain. Owned all the relevant repair manuals back in the day. Essential to have them on hand. I junked both tables.

I have four...(2) ST5's and (2) ST7's.  Incredibly frustrating to set the arm up to ride the roller properly...but...once it all comes together, it's audio Nirvana.  I have had over 15 esoteric turntables, from B&O's tangential tracking tables (not so good) to eclectic pivoting tone-arm turntables on some of the best platters out there, and find the HK / Rabco combination to be one of the best sounding.  I don't hear any rumble (as stated by someone above) and have the equipment to play really loud - if I want. The soundstage and depth of field is quite remarkable.  I highly recommend these if you have patience (yes, a lot of that), dexterity and motivation to really get into a piece of gear that will reward you with a wonderful music experience.

I never owned one, but a close friend did.....agreed with schubert (above).   The arm is a dog - don't think it was Rabco.

Maybe that's why he gave it to me!

Most troublesome TT ever made .

"These are some of the most sought after turntables from that mid-70's era!"  Really?  If I remember correctly (and please do correct me if not), that turntable has a built-on version of the Rabco SL tonearm, only instead of the motor-drive pulling a chain that propels the tonearm across the LP while maintaining tangency in the big Rabco, the tonearm on the ST8 is propelled by a rotating rubber tire riding on a metal bar.  The issue with that set-up was noise from the rubber tire transmitting to the rear pivot and hence out to the cartridge.  It's historically very interesting but not the greatest in terms of success in reaching its goal.

Yes it is worth fixing! I personally have a Harmon Kardon ST-8 which I bought around 40 years ago and I love still today as if it was brand new! These are some of the most sought after turntables from that mid-70's era! I'm going to add it into my new home audio/home theater system via a Simaudio Moon phono preamp to my Arcam AV950 surround processor.