The capacitors are not in the signal path, so unless there's a speed issue, or tonearm problem I wouldn't worry. As to cartridges, mine runs a Shure V 15 type IV. The tone arm is less than stellar, in my opinion, because of the joints which may age poorly, and the electronic counterweight. Mine tends to rotate in and out of service as my whims, and acquisitions change, but for the age and the occasional bargain price, I would pass it by, unless there is an interest in vintage... Having said that, mine has been in service for thirty years, or so. The turntable was not designed with a long life in mind, more a happy accident of good engineering and quality components. At this point in its arc, it probably should, or could be considered "disposable", or as a parts donor if there is a breakdown.
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.