defo 1200'S OR 1210'S (MK II)
If you are on a budget, and buy a cheap set that turn out to be in disrepair,
NOT TO WORRY!!!!
Technics are easily servicable!!!!
Contact me and I'll help you get them fixed.
When buying, check the following carefully:
1. Check the on/off rotating switch, should not be really loose.
2. Check the brake, platter should start and stop rapidly when functional.
3. Check the pitch fader, again should not be too loose.
Don't worry if there is no "click" at the zero position (this could be a modification which is fine and helps with mixing (disables Quartz lock))
4. Check the tonearm base and tonearm in general for movement (other than the regular swing L/R and up down of course) Check tonearm for dents, chips, cracks or looks out of shape
*THIS IS V-IMPORTANT* TONEARMS COST A PACKET
5. Check the stylus cartridge for movement at the fixing collar, when cartridge is fitted - there should be no rotational movement possible
6. Remove the platter (CAREFULLY NOW) this is done by removing the slip-mat if fitted and pulling directly upwards v.gently using the finger holes. Check inside for signs of wear, metal dust e.t.c. Check the magnet on the platter underside for chipping, scratches or other wear. Refit VERY CAREFULLY and also check for any side to side movement (should be rock solid)
7. Check the pitch accuracy and stability, do this by visually checking the "dot ring" on the platter edge - start the platter rotating and examine the small dots next to the strobe (the red/blue/white light onder the on/off switch) Adjust the pitch at 33 AND 45 so that the appropriate band of dots appear motionless (don't have it on quartz lock (green/blue/white light next to pitch fader)
8. Check the spotlight is operational (press the little button near front of deck on top) The spotlight should glide up smoothly and light should be on)
*THIS IS NOT ESSENTIAL* MANY DECKS (inc.. fwd>>) DON'T HAVE THIS IN OPERATION, AND REPAIR IS RELATIVELY CHEAP.
9. Check casing and feet for excessive wear , scratches, chips e.t.c.
*THIS IS A SIGN OF LONG USAGE / CARELESS HANDLING*
10. Check lid is included if not fitted ( useful for transport/ keeping dust off when not in use)
* AGAIN, PRESENCE IS A SIGN OF CAREFUL OWNER*
11. Check the phono and earth leads for damage
12. TRY PLAYING A RECORD!!!! make sure there's a good equal signal on both left and right channels, and no loss or crackling when you wiggle the leads slightly.
14. Check the 7" 45 convertor is present (steel disc in recess at back of top)
* AGAIN NOT ESSENTIAL, BUT PRESENCE IS A SIGN OF CAREFUL USE*
15. Check for hire company stickers or marking (poss. U.V.)
*YOU DO NOT WANT EX HIRE COMPANY DECKS!!!!!!!*
16. HAVE FUN !!!!!!!!
Any probs P.M. me ok?
F.Y.I - my pal bought a pair a couple/few years ago for £150 slight disrepair mainly cosmetic otherwise perfect NOW IN FAULTLESS DAILY USE !!!! look hard for bargains....they're out there!!!!
Also if you can stretch budget to new'uns - with careful use they should last 20++++ years, mine have...and try not to drop them down stairs when running from cops busting yo' party/radio station...they'll prob still work though!!! (again mine are o.k.)
OH...AND try not to spill too much beer down 'em, they don't like it much.
) with ortofon DJ S cartridges or whatever for £300.
Literally 1980 is what I meant by early eighties.