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Source for Garrard 301 plinth (and other 301 questions)

I recently picked up a Garrard 301 (found in a console in a blighted house in Detroit, off all places). It's in surprisingly good condition -- runs quietly and keeps perfect speed without any adjustment). I'm embarking on the restoration, upgrade Odyssey and am looking ahead to needing a plinth. 

I see a seller on eBay who charges about $1,000 plus shipping from Germany. Does anyone know of a domestic source (and ideally one that isn't so expensive)? I don't have the deep pockets that seem to be needed for this endeavor, so I'm trying to keep costs down.

Secondarily: Can anyone recommend some DIY maintenance tips for getting the best out of this table until I can afford to send it off for a professional tune-up? It's an oil-bearing version. I've added a few drops of oil to the bearing but am wondering if I should disassemble and clean it. Same with the motor. 

Thanks

 

dcindc

Showing 1 response by br3098

br3098
1,000 posts
 

@dcindc plinths for idler wheel turntables require some thought put into their design if you are interested in wrestling the best performance out of your deck. Why? Because these decks (301/401, TD-124, various Lenco models) transmit energy differently than belt or direct drive turntables. I would divide the world of idler wheel plinths into heavy and lightweight. I've had good success with both but I suggest skipping the very heavy obsidian or rock plinths. It's possible to completely isolate the deck from the plinth but it's really hard and that outweighs the benefits IMO.

Chris Harban makes some great plinths - Woodsong Audio. The best plinth I ever had for a TD-124 was one I make from stacked and glued 1/2" marine plywood, carefully braced and damped in key locations. It was a fun weekend project but my wife didn't like the utilitarian look.

 

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