nice turntable that plays 78s


Hi guys,

I'm looking for a turntable that plays 78s as well as 33s (45 is optional though I'd guess that most tables that play the first two would play 45). Don't want to spend more than about $500, used of course. Any recommendations? Also, will I have to change the cartridge/stylus setup when moving between 33s and 78s?

Many thanks.
lousyreeds1
Hi john, thanks for the info. I'm very interested but still a bit confused. I don't quite understand what the 'Lenco project' is. I see the plinth available for sale but what else would be necessary if I bought that?

Thanks!
Lousyreeds1,

My comments are posted at the Lenco thread, finding it may be difficult as it is now over 2000 posts.

Basically, the Lenco is a very capable turntable and enormous fun to build and listen to. I found mine at EBAY for less than $100.00. The table was in perfect running order and came with tonearm, Shure cartridge, tone arm wire, walnut base and dust cover.

There are very few products in high end audio that cost $100.00 and fewer still that are fun to listen to. My Lenco was a blast to play and even with custom base, Decca arm and new super Shure V15VMXR, I still had less invested than most of us spend on a high end power cord. Below is a link to my Lenco project, complete with images.

Albert's Lenco
Hi again Albert,

Thanks for the link, my feeble mind is beginning to catch up now! I'm definitely considering buying the plinth that's on the 'Gon right now. Looks to be exactly what I need...
Hi Lousyreeds, great to see someone getting enthusiastic! Albert is very definitely the greatest expert on setting up that particular plinth, but if you need any help in setting it up with a tonearm & etc. then don't hesitate to contact me. I've actually never even tried one of my Lencos on 78, and I've had them for more than a decade, ever since they blew away my high-end belt-drives, *sniff*! But I bought some mint-conditon 78 LPs and will try them soon.
I just went down this road while looking for a gift for my father. He has many, many old 78s that he hasn't heard in years as well as a fair number of LPs. This was my choice:

http://www.esotericsound.com/turntable.htm

I can't make any claims about audiophile quality since I don't have much experience in the turntable department, but I've never heard 78s sound so good. It's belt driven and everything you need is included for far less than the $500 you mentioned. The great thing is that with 4 different "78 rpm" settings, it covers all of those off-speed 78s that Alberporter mentioned and it makes a huge difference. It's easy to tell right away at what speed a song was really recorded, even if you don't know the song. You do have to change styli between 78s and LPs, but it's quick and easy, provided your eyesight isn't too bad. All I can tell you for sure is that my dad is enjoying his tremendously. Hope that helps.