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What to look for in stock AR XA table?

I have been looking for an inexpensive turntable to make a re-entry into analog playback. I have found a stock "reconditioned" AR XA turntable with a Grado Green cartridge locally. I have no recent experience at all with this, so are there some things I really need to watch for or specific questions to ask before purchasing? I will be able to play and view the unit before I spend anything on it. Any suggestions would be welcomed. Also is $125 in the right range for this table assuming the condition is as advertised? Are there others in that general price range that I ought to seek out?
stuartbmw3

Showing 1 response by samujohn

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samujohn
291 posts
 
Check the arm for excessive bearing "play". Gently take the thumb and forefinger and see if the arm rocks from side to side. The arm headshell should be square to the platter looking head on and not cocked to one side.
Check the internet for an original manual. If the unit is undamaged, you can tighten the bearings and lubricate it properly and make the damping work correctly.
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