What was wrong with the P-mount ?

erik_squires

So, as some of you may gather, I know very little about turntables. I mean, I think of getting into vinyl, especially with the new Techniques turntables

So, what is it you like about the new Techniques turntables, Eric?

Fixed dimensions for the cartridge, adjust the tracking force, and bam, done.

Fixed only for one tonearm if the P-Mount cartridge and Tonearm are from the same manufacturer. When you switch P-Mount cartridge between different arm there is nothing fixed (you will have to connect wires to P-Mount adapter just like with any conventional cartridges), you will have to adjust overhand for each tonearm (they are different). Also you can’t twist the cartridge in the headshell when you want to change alignment method from Stevenson to Baerwald for example.

What was the ultimate P-Mount system ?
I think Technics SL1000 mk3D is ultimate, this system is factory calibrated and all you need is to insert a Technics P-mount cartridge, very simple. Tonearm and arm board is one piece, simply amazing. Instead of Technics P-mount MC cartridge i would add Technics p205c mk4 MM.

Technics SL1000 mk3D is very nice, indeed. 

Eric, the only real hassle with turntables is you have to get up every 20 minutes to flip sides. Set up is a once every 10 year thing when you change cartridges. If you take care of your records correctly, only by new ones, use a dust cover and a conductive sweep arm you never have to clean them because they never get dirty. Having said all this LPs have a euphoric character and for us old guys there are romantic and tradition factors. LP's are less convenient and more noisy which turn off a lot of young people. They are also potentially much more expensive than digital. You can set up a premium computer based system for the cost of a middle of the road cartridge. Unfortunately there is no easy cheap way to get your feet wet. Turntables are a tweaker's heaven. If you are not one, stay away.
P mount cartridges s--k by the way.

Mike

Rigidity problem? 

Eric when you’re buying new Technics turntable like SL1200G or SL1200GR (those are the best you can get) a cartridge adjustment is very easy, because plastic overhang gauge is included. This is how it works and you don’t need a P-Mount cartridge.

There is only ONE thing you have to check, it’s position of the stylus tip, it must be right under the mark on the overhang gauge.

Just buy yourself a brand new Technics from the store with warranty and be happy, it’s great turntable if you can afford SL1200GR at least (or G for much higher price).

I don’t like Rega and all that belt drive crap they are selling for higher price than perfect Technics SL1200GR ($1700 in USA).

If you need a decent MM cartridge for your Technics i can not only offer you some of the best MM, but i could mount and align it for you not only with Technics overhang gauge, but also with Dr.Feickert if you want Baerwald alignment method instead of Technics method. I’m sure some fellow audiophiles can do the same for you. I own a few Technics turntables myself (and many others).