Garrard 301 - Project

Jim @jperry 

I will post my impressions before or after plinth installation. August 2025 will mark two year anniversary since it all started. It’s been fun for sure, learning and understanding the path to classic Garrard 301 customization. 

The trifecta, Audio Grail restored 301, mounted in a Woodsong plinth and upgraded with the Artisan Fidelity inverted bearing and hybrid platter. I am anxious to see how the synergy unfolds with the 301, Woodsong, and Artisan Fidelity upgrades before my next leap into my ultimate cartridge and maybe a phonostage. I believe @noromance pointed here or elsewhere that I need a better phono :-) 

Once everything is dialed in, I should have a clearer picture of how a cartridge like the Etsuro Gold could complement (or potentially overwhelm) the system’s balance.

Synergy Expectation

No Different to counting the winnings when the Horses are still in the Pre Race Parade Paddock.

Looking Beautiful and Fitting for the Job in Hand in only one piece of the equation.   

Whoa! Hold on to your horses   

“Looking Beautiful and Fitting for the Job in Hand in only one piece of the equation”

@pindac 

Haha—fair point! I may be admiring the shine on the thoroughbred before it is even left the paddock. But with this bloodline of components, I’m feeling cautiously optimistic it’ll be more Secretariat than show pony 🎶

Let’s see how she runs once the stylus hits the track!

So many owners of vintage idler tables put, or leave on, vintage tonearms to achieve the proper look.  But, if one uses a state of the art modern arm on these tables, they are remarkable performers--lively, engaging and fun.  Many will, even when correctly reconditioned, have a bit more audible rumble than high end modern tables, but, that is a small price to pay for the positive attributes.  A local dealer recommends 301, 401 and Thorens 124 for customers whose systems are well into six figures -- he clearly thinks the tables are worthy.  One that I particularly liked has a 12" Wheaton Triplanar arm on it.

@larryi 

I agree. There is a good reason why Garrard 301 / 401 and Thorens 124 still holds its place among vinyl enthusiasts. With the right restoration and modern touches, these vintage workhorses don’t just hold their own—they sing. I could have a very nice turntable for the money + love poured into tweaking my Garrard 301 BUT there is something about these idler tables beyond the vintage appearance. They have an innate energy and drive that many belt drives struggle to replicate, and when combined with precise modern tracking and isolation, the result can be breathtakingly musical.

I am absolutely enjoying the Garrard 301’s tactile, propulsive quality not to mention its uncanny ability to convey notes with sheer liveliness and soul. 

PS: Thanks for sharing your recommendation on Wheaton Triplanar arm. I am still pondering on my choices for 2nd tonearm :-)