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new to turntables.....need help

Hello! Today I picked up a Technics SL-D2 at a garage sale for what I think was a solid deal ($5). The player seems to be solidly built and plays nicely. Are there any upgrades my fellow members would recommend to help "improve" the sonics? New cartridge? Like I said, I am a "newbie" to the record world and if any A-gon members would like to offer a helpful suggestion, I am very appreciative. I am also willing to learn the hard way but I thought I would try here first!!
bea
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
Ditto Seantaylor about the new cartridge. That will certainly make the biggest improvment and provide you with peace of mind.
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bea OP
5 posts
 
Much thanks!!
seandtaylor99
1,262 posts
 
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.
wwwrecords
172 posts
 
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.
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