Op "I owned higher-end TTs and I can say this TT sounds as good."
Extracts from Fremer’s Analgoue Planet review of this table in 2015 (after replacing with supplied cartridge with the CF3600LE, a newly developed Audio-Technica cartridge exclusive to LP Gear that uses an elliptical stylus):
"I chose not to try other, more expensive cartridges in the PL-30-K because I feel this automatic turntable is a “starter” ‘table, or a “finisher” turntable for those only interested in hearing records without regard to sonics, though with the upgraded stylus, the PL-30-K sounded decent enough."
"The overall sound was warm, with reasonably good low frequency extension and control and a rich, somewhat ripe midrange. The high frequencies were less than fully developed but cleanly rendered and overall you could say things were a bit murky compared to both far more expensive and similarly prices ‘tables that don’t offer the Pioneer’s feature set of built-in phono preamp and automatic start and stop. Of course I was playing it through my reference system, which was a ridiculous fit. I imagine through a budget priced system with somewhat steely high frequencies, the Pioneer might be just the “warming trend” required to produce a pleasing overall balance"
"Pioneer’s PL-30-K is not intended for the “serious” audiophile"
