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Perhaps a Stupid Question

I have a Pioneer PL-530 turntable. Am the original owner (bought in the 70's). After a few different cartridges over the years I am now using a Grado Gold (MM). The table still operates very well and would like to keep it and optimize it's performance if possible. Here's my question.....

The cable (IC) of the Pioneer is hardwired into the table. Would upgrading the cable offer any benefit to the performance? I understand that turntable cables are matched to a certain machine as far as resistance and other things. Cleaning of the RCA plugs and ground is the first thing to consider. However, as much has been discussed in these forums about cables it's hard to believe whether they are a significant improvement in this scenario or not. Maybe the Pioneer is offering as much performance as it can? Remember, this cable is hardwired into the board. Some may have had similar experiences.
Please forgive me for being blunt....I know there are much superior tables and cartridges out there. I already know that. Just seeking advice from someone who may have gone down this road.Thanks.
jrpnde
andrewkelley
276 posts
 
Do what @millercarbon says. He hooked up my system with tweaks and knowledge and mine sounds better than the best in any showroom. 
Everything counts 
asvjerry's avatar
asvjerry
4,846 posts
 
If you opt to replace the IC, it may behoove to replace the wiring in the tonearm to the cartridge...

Would require a careful investigation of the manner and means the originals have been routed, and how 'permanent' they'd been done.

I've done this sort of activity, but it's not for the impatient nor clumsy....
smandlej
74 posts
 
If it is the original, I would suggest replacing the ribbed platter mat. I did this with my old P112-D. A felt replacement should be inexpensive. IMO vinyl should be supported under the entire playing surface and clamped to even out minor warps.
jnorris2005
185 posts
 
Unless you're comfortable with soldering, and think you can do a job that will do justice to an expensive audio cable, I would leave it alone.  Changing the power cable is just nonsense though.
johnss
593 posts
 
@jrpnde, I would do what millercarbon suggests, but then look into going two steps further.
1. replace the tone arm wire with litz2. replace the crap headshell leads with cardas or some other litz.

once you do that you will be shocked at super level your TT will perform at.

and as others have noted, you can go nuts on IC replacement cables, but just be sure what ever brand you select is shielded.

MM and MC carts do not do well with un-shielded  cables.....

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