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What to do with a Sony PS X-800?

I came across this turntable that I got in the early 80s. I'm the original owner. I hooked it up, but the arm won't move across the turntable. It will raise and then lower, which I think is part of the auto calibration mechanism. When I used it before, it worked fine. I'm guessing that sitting in a closet for 25 years hasn't hurt the table too much, but that certain parts need replacing, plus a recalibration should be done.

So, my question is, it is worth getting it fixed, or should I just sell it? I'd guess it could cost $400-500 to get it back in working order. Has anyone gone through the refurbishing process?

I've seen where even units that need servicing are fetching pretty good prices online.

Thanks,
Bob
rzs
effischer
562 posts
 
Sold these back in the day, and it was a very nice table. Very solid Japanese direct drive sound. Not as pretty as the B&O, but more thoroughly engineered. Repairing the unit is a tough call unless you are really married to how it sounds in your system; repair or replacement will both be expensive. If the ICs that control everything are still good, you can probably get quite a bit more life out of it with a refurbishment. If they're cooked though, repair may not be possible. Good luck!
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
Sadly, it is now a parts machine. If you find someone to fix it, it will cost more then 500 to get it to work assuming the fixer can find the parts, and a manual. Great machine, if it works. I have an both 800 and 555es machines. Both are working. What may make your machine a little more valuable is whether you have all of Sony's original packing and boxing materials. Shipping your unit for fixing without those materials will lead to a completely useless unit. Also, you did not mention what cartridge is installed. I have Grace Ruby Red on my units. If in good condition, these cartridges could be worth 200-300 alone, with the head shell, assuming moderate. If you decide to sell as a part machine I would be interested, cartridge or no cartridge.
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
Sadly, it is now a parts machine. If you find someone to fix it, it will cost more then 500 to get it to work assuming the fixer can find the parts, and a manual. Great machine, if it works. I have an both 800 and 555es machines. Both are working. What may make your machine a little more valuable is whether you have all of Sony's original packing and boxing materials. Shipping your unit for fixing without those materials will lead to a completely useless unit. Also, you did not mention what cartridge is installed. I have Grace Ruby Red on my units. If in good condition, these cartridges could be worth 200-300 alone, with the head shell, assuming moderate. If you decide to sell as a part machine I would be interested, cartridge or no cartridge.
rzs OP
1 posts
 
I've got the original packing materials. The cartridge is a grado, but the cantilever has a severe bend in it, so I don't think it is salvageable.

Cosmetically it's in quite good shape. Few scratches. The dustcover has a few marks on it, but functions just fine.

I was looking for someone who might be qualified to repair it and found this guy: http://orlando.ebayclassifieds.com/skilled-trades/grand-island/sony-ps-x800-turntable-full-calibration-service/?ad=27802519 any thoughts/comments?

Thanks for your comments, I appreciate them!

Bob
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