2. misc-audio
  3. 195652-94506

What would you do?

I just bought a Denon dp-57l turntable in really ​​​​​​, really nice condition for what I feel was quite a bargain ($250). It functions perfectly, gorgeous rose wood veneer, scuff marks on the dust cover which can be buffed out with lens restorer. Even though it functions perfectly, it is 43 years old and has never been recapped. A recapping can cost up to $700. It also came with an Ortofon Red cartridge not worthy of this quality of table and I'd say needs at least a Bronze.  So my question is:

Given the initial $250, plus $700 for a recap, plus let's say $500 for a good mm cartridge, we're looking at $1450 give or take a couple hundred if recapping isn't that much. Is this beautiful table worth it quality and sound wise to put that into it, or would a comparably priced new table beat it in sound quality? Looking for those with a similar Denon who've recapped theirs and have a quality cartridge to voice their experienced opinions. I'm putting it in a system that has Belles integrated, but I'll be using my BAT phono pre. 

thecarpathian

Showing 1 response by motown-l

motown-l
234 posts
 

I like vintage turntables like the Denon mentioned or similar JVC's of the era. I am also not a fan of the bio-tracer tonearms, but it's personal. I would upgrade to an Ortofon 2M Blue, 

For $1400, I would get the new Clearaudio Compass.

I have a circa 1978 Philips AF877. Other than some maintenance like lubing the bearing and replacing the head shell leads, I have done little to the turntable. There are a few capacitors in the speed control circuit, but none that I could find in the signal path. I'm not replacing anything unless the speed gets wonky. 

 

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