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Perhaps a Stupid Question

I have a Pioneer PL-530 turntable. Am the original owner (bought in the 70's). After a few different cartridges over the years I am now using a Grado Gold (MM). The table still operates very well and would like to keep it and optimize it's performance if possible. Here's my question.....

The cable (IC) of the Pioneer is hardwired into the table. Would upgrading the cable offer any benefit to the performance? I understand that turntable cables are matched to a certain machine as far as resistance and other things. Cleaning of the RCA plugs and ground is the first thing to consider. However, as much has been discussed in these forums about cables it's hard to believe whether they are a significant improvement in this scenario or not. Maybe the Pioneer is offering as much performance as it can? Remember, this cable is hardwired into the board. Some may have had similar experiences.
Please forgive me for being blunt....I know there are much superior tables and cartridges out there. I already know that. Just seeking advice from someone who may have gone down this road.Thanks.
jrpnde

Showing 2 responses by elliottbnewcombjr

elliottbnewcombjr
5,770 posts
 
If you do change the cable, then consider that you will buy an expensive cable, and most likely want to use that cable later on a different TT or Tonearm.

Solder cable with RCA Male; solder RCA Female Jacks at TT or somewhere. Solder Din connector at TT, or somewhere?

Another reason I would not change it now.
elliottbnewcombjr
5,770 posts
 
I seriously doubt you will achieve an audible difference. If the cable was deteriorated, that’s a different issue.

I would look to upgrading the TT sometime, perhaps one with the potential to change the tonearm.

Think long range now, what arm(s), cartridge(s), alternate mono cartridge; future phono input(s), try MC someday? (I finally did age 72).

These will definitely have audible differences.

mono lps definitely sound better played with mono cartridge, no reaction to vertical movement, and with stylus shape for those size grooves.

smaller size table choice: single arm with removable headshell, primary headshell stereo cartridge; occasionally change to headshell with mono cartridge. Each time adjust tracking weight and anti-skate. You get pretty quick after a while. Most probably just use the resulting VTA the arm height is set for the Stereo cartridge. Back to stereo headshell, readjust again.

or, larger TT for two separate arms

It took me a whole lotta years, joined this forum, ... I changed everything for two separate tonearms, setup ready to use, back and forth mono/stereo effortlessly during a listening session.

Stereo cartridge in main arm; mono cartridge in 2nd arm. I wish I did it years ago, never paid attention, never occurred to me I would do this.

check out this, 3 arms, fairly compact,

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Transcription-turntable-Denon-DP-3000-tonearms-Grace-960-Grace-565-Denon-DA50-/114368866746?nma=true&si=8bF7YGBC7gvXGQ0%252B95%252Ba638%252FNKE%253D&orig_cvip=true&nordt=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557

listing ended, but no bids, could make seller an offer, but local pickup NJ. If I didn’t have my current setup, I would run to get it.

Check out the round tonearm base(s), rotates to achieve different arm lengths with a single hole. I like that idea.
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