I didn’t bother learning about your existing TT until others here suggested keeping it.
So I had Brave AI gather the basics.
The Technics SL-Q3 is a fully automatic, quartz-locked direct drive turntable released in 1979-1980 that is widely regarded as a high-quality, durable unit from the height of the "turntable wars." It features a brushless DC motor, a 31.2 cm aluminum die-cast platter, and a static-balanced S-shaped gimbal tonearm with a rotational speed deviation of only ±0.002%.
Key specifications and features include:
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Performance: It achieves a wow and flutter of 0.025% WRMS and a signal-to-noise ratio of 78dB, with speeds reaching constant rotation in just 0.9 seconds.
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Design: The cabinet uses a two-layer TNRC acoustic material for anti-vibration, and it supports auto-start, auto-return, and repeat modes while accommodating 7", 10", and 12" records.
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Tonearm: The arm has a 7 mg initial motion sensitivity and uses a quick-change headshell compatible with standard 1/2" cartridges (such as Audio-Technica, Shure, or Ortofon), rather than the P-mount found on cheaper models.
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Value: Users frequently describe it as a "poor man’s SL-1200" due to its robust build and accuracy, often finding excellent value in the used market for around $200-$300.
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IF it is setup properly, and you can mount/align/calibrate a new cartridge (or have a friend who can) (or live near me 07062), I would certainly buy a spare headshell (with azimuth adjustment) and put it on your existing TT.
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After that: Any New/Used TT, I would want a Tonearm with removable headshell.