Reason for buying old/classic turntables


Could you please clarify why many people buy old/classic turntable from the 1960's or 1970's? Are those turntables better than the contemporary ones? Is it just emotion and nostalgia? I'm also asking because these classic turntables are often quite expensive (like vintage automobiles and wine). Recently I saw an advertisement for the Technics SP-10 Mk II for $3,000 and a Micro Seiki SX-111 for $6,000. You can also buy a modern turntable like an Avid, a Clearaudio or Raven for that kind of money. Or are these classic turntables still superior to the modern ones?

Chris
dazzdax
You're correct.

I misused computer numerical control in my post in which the basic thrust was meant to indicate that current manufacturing processes due to computers/software allow better, more consistent, and tighter tolerances.

I am familiar with much of the equipment, undoubtedly not as much as you, so please excuse the error.
Actually after reading Audiofeil's comments about advances in engineering capabilites it made me think through how correct that is. A computer does not have 1/1,000,000 the calculating capability of the human brain and thinks only linearly no matter how complicated or detailed the programming. Ones and zeros baby, on and off. That's it. If you program 3 demensional calculations they actually work via indivdual nesting of commands interwoven. The human brain is capable of so much more, and so are human craftsman.

Anyone, and I am guessing there are a many on this board, who have been to Europe(or currently live there) and have seen the precision stonework that was done 2000+ years ago knows that humans are capable of extremely precise craftsmanship without the aid of any type of computer, or even a slide rule. There are many wonderful examples of precision human craftmanship in building that almost any mechanical engineer would tell you are currently not duplicable because the skill needed to construc those type projects no longer exists and cannot be duplicated. Motar-less construction on a massive scale where you cannot fit a piece of paper through the gaps of a 2 ton stone??? Awesome.

So I think turntables made 40 yrs ago probably are OK as compared to those made today. I would love to see a blind listen test, but we know that no one in the audio community ever wants to go there.
Stormin Norman:
After reading many posts over the years, it is my conclusion that most are polite and courteous, although uninformed, and pretentious. Hidden agendas and idle chatter are the theme for the day. The learning curve is long and can be expensive. I can understand if some get frustrated and vent them on the forum. I don't believe it should be taken so personal.
I would love to see a blind listen test, but we know that no one in the audio community ever wants to go there.

Who told you that?????????
I can do that ..............in fact I will in the near future.
In january/February I am planing to have a little get together for few audiophile friends but not only.
I'll have two analog setups-
this DIY belt drive with parts found on 4K tables/dedicated marble/aluminum stand
and this idler
with specially design plinth.
Phono stage:
Consonance Ref40
RWA prototype battery powered tube phono

Arms/carts:
Moarch Up4 arm and Musicmaker III cart with Isolator for belt drive
SME 3009 II Imp. arm with Shure V15 cart for idler to keep things vintage

Speakers:
Single Driver speakers of my own (modified Fostex eF206)

Amps:
Modified Consonance Cyber 800 monos (PP 78wpc, EL 34)
Melody M300b monos ( 8wpc SET amps, 300B)

I will send the info to those who would like to come over for a listen and good time.
Two dates will be open - one for AC members of "NY Audio Rave" club and second for AgoN members and few of my friends.

Please let me know if you are interested and forward your contact info.

Cheers
Mariusz
Lithojoe,

Will do. I will work on whatever it is I need to work on. All smiles, really.