Garrard 301 - Project

@noromance @jperry @mdalton @fsonicsmith 

301 is up and running for past 6 days. It does sound pretty darn good with $15K tonearm/cart combo. Love the classic industrial appearance. I am still getting acclimated with its strengths and flaws in stock form and maybe jumping the gun here but I feel this is not a TT that sounds best in its stock form. The inherent vibration or energy from motor and plinth was out of control. I got it tamed for most part by isolating the plinth with IsoAcoustics mini pucks. I realize, a better isolation solution is probably the next step but what can or should do next to eliminate or reduce inherent vibrations. Perhaps, a aftermarket bearing, platter, idler wheel or even a better, denser plinth. 

Appreciate your input. 

Put plinth first on your list that includes platter, bearing, and idler wheel, and I think you’re on the right track.

@lewm

I hear you..sourcing a good plinth wouldn’t be easy as the two outlets I know of wouldn’t sell plinth by itself. I may have to look for alternative TT while I work towards perfecting the 301.

In retrospect, I think my advice was rash, as I have no experience with Garrard or with the plinth you did acquire. I can only claim intimate knowledge with Lenco GL75. ( And for the Lenco I made the ridiculous choice of slate for the plinth.) Several others who have contributed to this thread can offer better Garrard advice than I. One point that may be cogent: I believe you’re not using an outboard PS at present. Even if speed is constant under load, a good outboard PS can reduce noise by permitting the TT to maintain speed at lower voltage. Beyond that, the Phoenix Engineering gear offers a feedback mechanism that also helps, albeit the PE stuff may not be compatible with your induction type motor. It works superbly with the Lenco motor, I can attest.

301 restoration

I’ve attached a link to the standard steps Woodsong Audio follows for their restorations.  That and their plinth is what I have for my 401.  I also have the 401 on a wall-mounted cabinet.  No feedback or noise - but also no subwoofer…