I just inherited/saved from the junkpile a Motorola console stereo/turntable that my parents purchased in the early 70’s. The cabinet is in very good condition, and the stereo seems to work fine, but the turntable obviously needs some work. It plays fine, but takes a push to get turning, the arm doesn’t swing back to the beginning of the LP but drops down in the middle, and it sounds as if it’s groaning in agony to keep the turntable spinning.
I know nothing about electronics, so the information that I got from google wasn’t very helpful for me.
I would like to have the turntable repaired, but would like to keep this set as original as possible, even though its value is purely personal nostalgia.
Should I trust this “family heirloom” to an ordinary electronics repair shop? Should I look for a company that specializes in older electronics? How would I go about evaluating the quality of the repair shop?
If it’s belt-driven, the belt is probably stretched out of shape. Try to find one of those old “mom & pop” type repair shops. They’ll be the likliest place to get it fixed, it if can be,.
Believe it or not, some high-end stores still sell new turntables. Audiophiles say that the quality of audiophile vinyl is still superior to CDs. Check the yellow pages for high-end audio stores, and ask them to recommend a repair shop.
I understand the appeal you may have for it, but you must also realize that it really has no value (literally $0). So if I were you, my first inclination would be to try to fix it myself…
Go to www.audioasylum.com there is a forum there for vintage equipment. Someone there will know where to find spare parts or who can service it for you. Vinyl is still very much alive in the audiophile world, though I don’t think I have ever heard of anyone still using anything like your Motorola. There are tons of new record players available, FWIW.
The reason the platter needs a push could be because of a bad start up capacitor for a DC direct drive motor. There are many ways to make the turntable turn. Mr. Blue Sky has a good suggestion for belt driven platter.
The needle or cartridge probably needs replacing. A Google (motorola phonograph parts) search yields suppliers of NOS (New Old Stock) and replacement stock. Heck, try the model number in a search and don’t forget the Groups tab. Check **rec.antiques.radio+phono[/] on UseNet.
The arm may be ‘thinking’ there is a 45 on the platter.