new to turntables.....need help

Hi, Usually a change to a better interconnect will be a great improvement as they always use mediocre ones on most turntables. I bought a Technics SL-L20 at a household sale that I use in my garage system when I work on the cars, changed to a pair of decent pair of cables and it made a huge difference.

A new cartridge is critical if the condition is unknown (which it probably is). You risk damaging records permanently if you play with a bad stylus.

I'm afraid I'm not familiar with your deck but Audio technica makes some cartridges for both p-mount and standard cartridge fittings that are very good value for money. I particularly like the AT-95E.

You can try www.turntablebasics.com, or www.lpgear.com ... I've had good service from both of them.

thanks guys!!

Ditto Seantaylor about the new cartridge. That will certainly make the biggest improvment and provide you with peace of mind.

Much thanks!!

I googled the SL-D2 and it looks like it takes a standard cartridge, not a P-mount. If you fit the cartridge yourself you'll need a protractor. You can download a free one from enjoythemusic, but the turntablebasics mirrored protractor is very good for very little money. If the deck has a way to set the tracking force you'll be all set, if not get the turntable basics one ... it's cheaper than the Shure. Be careful not to track too light ... contrary to what you;d think it can damage records.

YOu can also try different types of mats and see which you like the best. My Technics SL1300 sounds best with a cork mat. I just bought some cork 12" wall tiles from Wal-Mart and used the rubber mat as a pattern. You can also do a google search on making a cork spot mat. Cheap tweaks and some make an improvement. Enjoy the fun!

I had not heard of the tweak viridian suggested on tapping on the arm for resonance. I am going to try that one myself.

thanks!

If your 'table is not P-mount you might consider forking out some dough and get a Shure V15 TypeV MR. Probably the best moving magnet ever made and they won't be around much longer. It comes with it's own protractor and is a piece of cake to install.

Being that you bought this at a garage sale for $5.00 it would be wise to bring it somewhere to be serviced. Motor speed checked, oiled. If it has belts (which I doubt)replace them. Bring a new cartridge & have your serviceman install it. Live with it a little while and if you find you are listening to records move that CDs' get a better turntable.