Loricraft Garrard 301 to Dobbins Sp10 Mk3 - What can I expect ?

pani

Kind sir, curious, for the sake of comparison was the Garrard 301 Loricraft model you previously owned also using the "hollow box frame" style stock plinth with the rest stock? Any modifications?  Curious as to which era ie. version the used Mk.3 Dobbins you purchased, there were a couple slight variations if memory serves. In any event, I believe you will really enjoy your Sp10Mk.3 based drive front end. When they are well implemented, these direct drives are musical powerhouses. I adore mine!

Lewm

Agree on your post above with regards to musical neutrality ~ transparency, as these traits the Mk.3 excels in. On a friendly side note, Kodo the Beat actually does not use a Mk.3 motor or Technics platter.

I have to ask this question, you purchased an sp10 MKIII that is coming up on 40 years old.  They are expensive, much more so than a SP10 MkII.  What happens if something breaks?  Are parts available for all repairs?  I mean it has to be over 10K.  Thats a lot to spend on something 40 years old.  I mean, I know its a great table but its pretty old.

Every heard of vintage exotic sports cars enthusiasts?  Vintage Cafe Motorcycles? Vintage wristwatches?  Same idea kind sir,......nothing to be concerned about.   

Specialist technicians and electronics engineers exist all over the world who are qualified and can readily service the famous vintage decks, including the Sp10Mk.3's and Garrard's, EMT and so forth.  Remember, the best vintage tables (with few exceptions - ex. Micro) were first and foremost commercial devices built like tanks, not disposable, dainty audiophile toys, and made to be used daily and serviced.  They will last a lifetime if properly maintained. 

Lewm

Do you know any further details of its construction? For example, what motor did it use? Was it quartz controlled?

If I recall correctly, it was first designed and made by Teres.