Well, nostalgia struck again and I bought a PL-71 a few minutes ago! Check it out at 'THAT' auction place, item number 370108250530.
I probably paid a little much, but one recently went for $120 more than I got mine for. I don't care, as long as it arrives safe. Looks like it has an Audio Technica cartridge in it too, I'll have to wait and see. I had one 30 years ago and I loved it. I let it go and never thought I'd see one again, but I decided to gamble on the auction and bought it.
I kindly asked the seller if he would remove the platter, wrap it up in crushed newspaper and put it in the bottom of the box, and asked them to tape the tonearm down tight. I figured that it was probably more risk to ask them to take the counterweight off and the cartridge shell, and wrap them separately too, so I am just praying that they will survive the trip from Pennsylvania to Michigan in one piece.
I remember that turntable being so well built, and beautiful too. I suppose that the dustcover will need some attention but I've seen posts here about restoring them. I can't wait for it to arrive. Maybe I should start a PL-71 fan club. WooHoo!:thmbsp:

Congratulations! You did right with the platter and securing the arm, but yes, you should have also asked them to remove the counterweight. It's not risky--it just slides off. If that comes off in transit, it could do a number on the finish, the dust cover, and maybe the arm. Hopefully they already know enough to do it. We'll keep our fingers crossed. :thmbsp:

My favorite Pioneer TT. Excellent way to go :)

i think i saw it listed , put it on my watch list. nice.
wish i had gotten one when i was in japan years ago.
or even here had i known about them.

If the dustcover ends up getting destroyed in transit - as chances are better than not that it will - you can buy a new one for it from an AK Sponsor - TurntableDepot - contact us through our link at the bottom of each page! Several AK Members have purchased new covers from us that are very happy with the quality of workmanship and clarity!

Great table, one of the best looking decks around:thmbsp:

Congrats! I was watching that one too!:thmbsp:

Good Luck.

John.:music:

I've always liked the PL-71, in fact when I bought my table in '75, it came down to either that Pioneer or the TT you see in my avatar. I ended up with the Micro, but either would have been great.

Good luck with the shipping, and keep us posted.

Very nice, congrats. Best of luck with it and spin that vinyl!