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Tag: Garrard Turntable

  • Are Garrard Turntables Any Good? A Review

    Are Garrard Turntables Any Good? A Review

    Are Garrard turntables any good? Before smartphones, walkmans, iPods, there was the Garrard turntable. Garrard was a turntable brand known for quality and excellence in the industry. However, in 1982, Garrad completely shut down, ceasing all turntable manufacturing. So are the legendary Garrard turntables any good?

    Garrard turntables are formidable turntables in the industry. They withstood the test of time and provided audiophiles with an impeccable experience.

    They serve as a collective piece for some vinyl enthusiasts. However, they still function effortlessly if adequately maintained.

    Most Garrard turntables aren’t in premium condition, and users will have to restore the turntables to their former glory. Regardless, you can find parts for this turntable on eBay and similar sites.

    Are Garrard Turntables Any Good?

    Garrard turntables were extremely popular during their time; not only were they present in films, huge companies like the BBC primarily used Garrard turntables in their stations. In the 1987 war comedy film Good Morning Vietnam, the late actor Robin Williams utilized a set of Garrard turntables in a broadcasting station.

    Garrard turntables were predominantly popular in Europe, most especially in the U.K. The British people would not listen to music from any turntable brand other than a Garrard. But it’s been over 30 years since Swindon, the company behind its production, shutdown the Garrard manufacturing plants.

    In the 21st century, Are Garrard turntables any good?

    The Sound

    Numerous owners and enthusiasts rave about the music quality that you get from a Garrard turntable. Some enthusiasts have called it a testament to the vinyl era. Garrard turntables are recognized immediately because of their almost musical tone.

    However, some people may argue that the brand image is a huge selling factor behind its legacy apart from the sound. Garrard created the turntables and designed their appearance to appeal to a broader audience.

    The Current Price of Garrad Turntables

    The current pricing of Garrard turntables speaks a lot about the value of a Garrard turntable. Depending on the state of the turntable, it could cost over $200 on platforms like eBay.

    Not only that but restored Garrard turntables can cost up to $4000 on eBay. Garrard turntables are remnants of the vinyl age and showcase a legacy. Not only that, but Garrard turntables were and still are high-quality turntables. Here’s why.

    What Made And Still Makes Garrard TurntablesTop-Tier?

    In 1953, Garrard introduced the classic Garrard 301. Its main selling point was that it could play in three speeds:

    • 78 rpm
    • 45 rpm
    • 33 1/3 rpm

    There were two schedules of the Garrard 301 turntables. Schedule 1 was the grease-bearing model, and Schedule 2 was the oil-bearing model.

    The 301 was an evolution in the turntable industry at the time; its appearance speaks true to its era.

    After the 301 came the 401, a step in the right direction for Garrard. But what made these turntables perform? Experts theorize that it all boils down to its motor.

    Other turntables in the industry (at that time) took a lot of time to start, but the Garrard turntables offered instant start-up due to the powerful motor unit.

    The powerful motor is what also made it so popular with radio stations. Broadcasting and radio stations needed a turntable with a faster start-up process, and the Garrard was the answer.

    So what makes it any good in the current decade?

    Garrard turntables come with problems that, at that time, had temporary solutions. Keep reading to find out more on what you need to know about Garrard turntables.

    If you have, find, or buy a Garrad turntable in good condition, you will have some problems you may need to solve. Once you solve those problems, you can now get the full capability of the Garrard turntable.

    But does that take away the originality of its sound? Some would argue it might, and others would argue otherwise. The answer lies with what you want from your Garrard turntable. Restoring a Garrard turntable will require you to make some compromises.

    The Garrard turntable is an excellent investment if you want a legendary turntable in your collection. After all, the Garrard turntable did rule the industry for nearly two decades before its downfall.

    What You Need To Know About The Garrard Turntable

    The Garrard turntable came with its share of problems that you can quickly solve today. At the time, the issues seemed less problematic and more a compromise to having a high-quality turntable. Here are some things you need to know about the Garrard turntable:

    1. The powerful motor emits a considerable amount of vibrational energy.
    2. The bearing wears out quickly.
    3. The aluminum platter.
    4. The stylus produces a drag.
    5. The idler wheel system

    The Motor

    The motor, although power, transmits a considerable amount of vibrations to the chassis. The vibrations make it harder for the user to get the whole listening experience from the turntable.

    Garrard did note this down as a drawback to their powerful motor. So they encouraged users to add ‘sound-proofing’ elements to the turntable. These elements would absorb the vibrations from the motor.

    The Bearing

    In the case you do find a Garrad turntable in the market right now, there’s a high probability that the turntable has a worn-out bearing.

    Nonetheless, you can take it out and examine it to be sure. If the turntable has a worn-out bearing, you may have to replace it.

    The Aluminum Platter

    The issue behind the aluminum platter is that it would ring like a bell when tapped. Not only that, but the platter would have an uneven thickness that would cause an imbalance.

    The Stylus

    The stylus can produce a drag that changes randomly, and its force depends on the speed at which the groove is moving. The result is that you get a shaky tone and smudged transients.

    The Idler Wheel System

    The idler, the motor pulley, and the platter work together through the means of springs. The springs will slowly start to wear out with time, and you have compromised stability.

    Not only that but the entire idler wheel system toughens with age. It begins to lose its grip and eventually causes increased vibrations.

    What Are The Vintage Garrard Turntable Models?

    Garrard made two main turntable models, the 301 and the 401. In 1965, Garrard introduced the Garrard SP25 with four speeds instead of three. It was extremely popular at the time.

    There are other honorable mentions, such as the Garrard Model Lab 80. A multi-purpose record changer that also served as a transcription turntable.

    What About The Garrard Type A Turntable?

    Garrard released the Garrard Type A Mark II turntable in the 1960s. Like its predecessors, it was a top-tier and durable turntable during its time. In the 60s, experts refer to this turntable as an automatic turntable.

    Collectors will generally seek vintage Garrard 301 and 401 models, so there isn’t much information regarding other models.

    Regardless, these models are still in existence and circulate the market.

    Why Did Garrard Shutdown?

    Garrard shut down due to failed product lines, late implementation of innovation, and derailing from its original image. But there is a silver lining in every cloud.

    There has been a rebirth of the Garrard turntables. In 2018, Cadence Audio SA, another turntable company, took ownership of Garrard.

    Conclusion

    Garrard turntables are an excellent investment for collectors and those interested in the Garrard legacy. If restored, they will function impeccably and deliver appealing results. So, are they worth it? Yes.

    Related Articles

    Sources

    1. Garrard, Garrard, The Legacy Continues, Garrard, https://garrardturntables.co.uk/ Accessed December 16th, 2021.
    2. Wikipedia, Garrard Engineering and Manufacturing Company, Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garrard_Engineering_and_Manufacturing_Company Accessed December 16th, 2021.
    3. Swindon Web, Garrard in Swindon, swindonweb.com/?m=8&s=116&ss=394&c=1324&t=Garrard%20in%20Swindon Accessed December 16th, 2021.
    4. Adrian Wu, Ancient Garrard Turntables: Still Relevant Today? PS Audio, https://www.psaudio.com/copper/article/ancient-garrard-turntables-still-relevant-today/ Accessed December 16th, 2021.
    5. Gramophone Museum, Garrard History, Gramophone Museum, http://www.gramophonemuseum.com/garrard.html Accessed December 16th, 2021.
    6. Featured Image Credit: “Born in the USA” by werejellyfish is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
  • How To Remove A Garrard Turntable (Three Easy Steps)

    How To Remove A Garrard Turntable (Three Easy Steps)

    Although the Garrard Engineering and Manufacturing Company is barely relevant today, many still aspire to hear and use their turntables due to their vintage quality. However, most Garrard turntables to date are old and are in dire need of repair. To aid you with the very first step of repairing your own Garrard turntable, let us know how to remove a Garrard turntable in three basic steps.

    To gain access to your Garrard turntable’s inner workings, you will need to remove the turntable mat. To initiate this, pull from the center first before pulling the sides using either a pen knife or a screwdriver.

    Tearing apart your turntable is a very delicate process, and it can seriously get intimidating quickly. However, please do not fret, as we guide you throughout the process step by step, making the whole process a walk in the park.

    Taking It Apart: Removing A Garrard Turntable In Three Simple Steps

    Most people who own Garrard turntables get them either from a garage sale or through inheritance. Unfortunately, most do not own a manual for it, nor can they bring them to turntable service centers since most do not cater to Garrard turntables. In addition to that, the sheer weight and fragility of Garrard turntables make them extremely difficult to carry around from town to town for repairs. (source)

    Although I sincerely discourage repairing them on your own, most people simply do not have the choice, nor do they have the luxury of having a nearby technician. Add to that, and they might just want to do simple maintenance such as oiling or replacing the belt. That is why below, we listed the three easy steps to removing your Garrard turntables.

    1. Make sure that your Garrard turntable is in an idle state (not playing).
    2. Unplug the turntable from power sources
    3. Remove the platter or turntable mat first

    Ensure That Everything Is Turned Off

    Aside from specific repair requirements, one of the basics of repair and maintenance is to turn off the turntable and unplug it from its power source. Although this may seem as basic as one, two, and three, most people frequently forget to do this step.

    Keeping the turntable unplugged keeps you safe from electrocution. But watch out for things like capacitors that can store energy even when electronics are unplugged.

    Primarily, electrocution concerns stem from the fact that most turntables, especially Garrard, are powered by the stronger alternating current (AC) instead of, the weaker direct current (DC). In addition to that, we may need to touch the wires for specific repairs, and most repairs involve physical contact with conductive materials, making this process critical for your safety.

    In the instance that your turntable was in use before repair, you will need to turn it off. When doing such, make sure that your turntable has cooled off for at least thirty minutes before opening it up. Also, try turning it on and off several times after unplugging. This action will help to dissipate any capacitors that may be present. Moreover, when doing repairs and maintenance regarding the turntable belt, it is critical not to skip this step to prevent any possible injury from a moving part. (source)

    Taking It Apart: Removing The Top Layer

    Now that you have turned off everything, it should be safe to operate the turntable now. The first thing you will need to remove is the rubber dust cover, as most Garrard turntables require you to remove the dust cover before taking the said turntable apart. This item looks like a caterpillar sliced in half (or like rubber clips, depending on the model) and is used to prevent dust from building up inside the turntable, affecting the sound quality.

    The next step is easy to understand but challenging to execute, so read carefully. Newer Garrard turntables tend to remove easily, using a pulling motion on the platter directly from the aligning rod. (source)

    However, if you have an older model, we might need a more blunt approach. Gently, using a small hammer and pry edge like a flat screwdriver, gently pry open the Garrard turntable’s platter out of its casing. After doing this, slide the platter off and set it aside in a safe area. (source)

    This whole process is beneficial for those who want to remove or replace the belt from their Garrard turntable. However, for those wanting a simple oiling procedure, we might want to refer to Garrard’s user manual (if available).

    Diagnosis And Home Repair: Simple Garrard Turntable Maintenance Processes You Can Do At Home

    (Image By Porius – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=7743507)

    After you have opened up your Garrard turntable, indeed, you are not leaving it at that. That is why, in this section specifically, we will teach you essential maintenance steps to preserve your Garrard turntable. By taking some pages of information directly from the manual, we will discuss these maintenance steps.

    Oiling Your Garrand Turntable: It Shouldn’t Be So Hard.

    Whether for the motor for the turntable belt or the bearings, your resident Garrard turntable is not the type to require a lot of oiling. However, there are times where oiling becomes less of a luxury and more of a necessity. In those situations, use our short guide on how to oil our Garrard turntable.

    The oiling points for your Garrard turntable are accessible by removing the turntable mat. To remove the turntable mat, you will need to lift the turntable from the side after lifting it from the center boss. By following this process, you make sure that the turntable is not damaged nor the insides. (source)

    You can access the retaining clip by levering the nameplate with a screwdriver or a penknife in an upward motion. Remove the retaining clip afterward.

    You can now remove the turntable. To initiate this, with the foam mat attached, lift the turntable using your fingers on opposing sides while applying the same amount of pressure. This action is done evenly so you don’t create an uneven force that may damage the Garrard turntable.

    You can now access the oiling points for the turntable’s motor. To oil effectively, make sure you place the appropriate amount. Any excess oil should be accounted for and removed using cloth. (source)

    Replacing The Turntable Belt The Easy Way

    After removing the turntable and exposing its internal parts, you can now check the turntable belt. Hold the strap and use your hands to pry the belt away from the belt drive if the turntable belt is still attached to the drive. However, if the belt is broken, throw it away instead. (source)

    To make sure that the belt drive is clean, dampen a cheesecloth using isopropyl alcohol. Use the damp cloth to wipe down the belt gently.

    When dust and debris build up around the turntable, the sound quality of the Garrard will be affected. Ensure that you wipe the essential parts of the turntable, from the insides to the belt drive, including the new turntable belt and the platter.

    Now that everything has been wiped clean, please insert the new turntable belt. Wrap it around the belt drive such that it fits snugly into the drive. (source)

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. Who Owns The Garrard Engineering and Manufacturing Company?

    Since 2018, Garrard Engineering and Manufacturing Company has been owned by Cadence Audio SA. However, the history of Garrard Turntables goes way back to 1915, when it was under Garrard & Co. (source)

    1. What Are The Record Spindles In My Garrard Turntable For?

    Record spindles in Garrard Turntables function for the automatic playing of records. (source)

    1. How Often Should I Oil My Garrard Record’s Belt?

    You can oil it as often as four times a year or once in three months. However, oiling frequency is typically only required about once a year. The frequency will also depend on the condition of the turntable and the frequency with which you use it.

    Sources

    1. ”Garrard in Swindon”, Guide To Swindon, Last Accessed November 2,
    2. James, “How to Repair a Garrard Turntable”, It Still Works, Last Accessed, November 3, 2021.
    3. “Garrard Turntable Laboratory Series, Instruction Manual”, Garrard Engineering and Manufacturing Company, Last Accessed November 2, 2021.
    4. Featured Image By RayL11111111 – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=17656270