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Perhaps a Stupid Question

I have a Pioneer PL-530 turntable. Am the original owner (bought in the 70's). After a few different cartridges over the years I am now using a Grado Gold (MM). The table still operates very well and would like to keep it and optimize it's performance if possible. Here's my question.....

The cable (IC) of the Pioneer is hardwired into the table. Would upgrading the cable offer any benefit to the performance? I understand that turntable cables are matched to a certain machine as far as resistance and other things. Cleaning of the RCA plugs and ground is the first thing to consider. However, as much has been discussed in these forums about cables it's hard to believe whether they are a significant improvement in this scenario or not. Maybe the Pioneer is offering as much performance as it can? Remember, this cable is hardwired into the board. Some may have had similar experiences.
Please forgive me for being blunt....I know there are much superior tables and cartridges out there. I already know that. Just seeking advice from someone who may have gone down this road.Thanks.
jrpnde
jnorris2005
185 posts
 
Unless you're comfortable with soldering, and think you can do a job that will do justice to an expensive audio cable, I would leave it alone.  Changing the power cable is just nonsense though.
johnss
566 posts
 
@jrpnde, I would do what millercarbon suggests, but then look into going two steps further.
1. replace the tone arm wire with litz2. replace the crap headshell leads with cardas or some other litz.

once you do that you will be shocked at super level your TT will perform at.

and as others have noted, you can go nuts on IC replacement cables, but just be sure what ever brand you select is shielded.

MM and MC carts do not do well with un-shielded  cables.....

iseland's avatar
iseland
111 posts
 
To put it kind , all cables from before 1990 are no good and needs to be replaced!!! 
In My Own Opinion 
And be aware of hevy metals in the solder =)
larry5729's avatar
larry5729
1,002 posts
 
I would buy a BlueSound Node 2i and listen to high res and MQA.  Time to leave the antiques behind.
tyray
563 posts
 
+1 What millercarbon said.

I have a Pioneer PL-630 turntable and hardwired it with shielded (cotton) 20GA Duelund wire and KLEI Absolute Harmony RCA plug IC’s.

You’re going to have to decide if you need shielded or unshielded though.

The improvement was noticeable right away and improved more with burn in.

I got my ’custom handmade’ IC’s from Chris Webber of parts connexion for a reasonable price, especially since only one pair of KLEI Absolute Harmony RCA plugs were needed for one end.

I’m still deciding on what power cord to use as some are just too big and not to flexible enough but I think I have it narrowed down to a (used) Triode Wire Labs 12 plus American Series power cable.
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