[Sander deWaal]

"Harry Lavo" said:



I plan to purchase a new turntable to do mostly 'needle-drops' with
and for normal listening, and I need some advice on what 'table to
buy.

I have narrowed it down to a few selections. First, I had in mind the
Music Hall MMF-2.1. This is a modern turntable and goes for around
$350.00 new. Personally, I've never heard of the company, but many
claim it's a good 'table. Now, I also have the opportunity to
purchase some brand new and unused vintage Pioneer turntables circa
1980. I believe they are all PL-XX series models. It's a tough
decision. I don't know much about turntables myself, but I do want
something that's going to sound good and last me more than a year.
Would you go with a vintage or a modern turntable?

All suggestions greatly appreciated!


"Vintage Lovers" will disagree with me, but the direct drive tables of the
70's/early 80's, while beautifully built, were often sonically inferior to
good belt drive tables such as those manufactured by Linn, Ariston, Thorens,
etc.



Many early Pioneer models, like the PL12, PL15 etc. were belt-driven.
However, their age means they will need some maintenance, e.g. on
bearings and at least replacing the belt.
Also, many suspended sub-chassis tables like AR, Thorens, but also
Linn, will have weakened springs that need replacement and careful
adjustment.

Also, the arms on those older Pioneers were no more than barely
adequate IMO.
You won't be able to get all the advantages a modern MC cart can
offer, and some arms just won't work with them (too heavy, too much
bearing friction, course adjustments , etc.)


The modern belt driven turntables generally have excellent sound, and very
capable tonearms compared to many of their vintage bretheren.


Agreed.


I doubt you can go wrong with the MMF-2.1 if that is your price point. But
you should perhaps also look at Rega and Project and the lowest priced
Thorens if you haven't already.


Unless you're a DIY-er, I'd follow this advice.

--
"Due knot trussed yore spell chequer two fined awl miss steaks."