78's through the system


I am simultaneously considering ways to upgrade my phono setup, and be able to play 78's on the big rig for the first time. I own a mid-80's Technics SL-1200 with a Benz-Micro Glider M2 going though a conrad-johnson PV-8 w/phono. The first thing to address is either modifying the TT to play 78rpm, or preferrably upgrading to a better TT that can do 78rpm. I have seen that Michell can supply a 78-capable pulley for the Gyrodec, but other suggestions would be welcome. Then I need a tonearm with a removable headshell, and I'm thinking SME, again suggestions helpful. I have no idea what 78 cartridge to look for (I'll keep the Glider for 33/45). And lastly, how imortant will it be to only have RIAA EQ available to me, or will I need to do something in the phono preamp area about that? My entire budget for this project is $3,000 max, whether I go new or used.
zaikesman

Showing 2 responses by gthrush1

One of the less-expensive Clearaudio tables would be perfect for this. I think the "Solution" will support up to three tonearm/cartridge combinations at once.

You could probably get a "Solution table", RB250 tonearm to mate with your Glider, and a second RB250 to mate with a 78 rpm cartridge (like maybe a Grado, there may be others available).

As far as phono preamps go, for the sake of convenience you might want to buy two MS Phonomena's, so that there would be no need to swap cables every time you want to switch which format you're going to play. I don't know how the Phonomena will do with 78, but if you contact MS, I'm sure they can tell you.

If you shop carefully, you _might_ be able to do the whole deal for your $3k max budget. Enjoy!

One cool thing about being able to have three arm.cartridge setups is that later down the road you could add a third RB250 to your rig to support a mono cartridge, as well. I don't know what type of phono preamp would be needed for mono, but I betr MS can tell you...
Oh, one other thing, to control motor speed for 33 1/3, 45, and 78, you can pick up a used VPI PLC cheap, and still come in within your budget.