I picked up a PL-518 at an estate sale this past weekend and would like to get it going. I was told when I bought it it would need a new needle. What do you experts recommend for this model?

I can heartily recommend replacing not just the needle, but the cartridge itself. My pick is the Audio-Technica AT440MLA. It's supposed to list for $200, but just about anywhere you go online has it for under $90. Set it up right and it'll totally sing. SO worth it, no matter what you paid for the table.

Well, It was $2.00 for the table so I guess the $90 cartridge is still a deal.

Thanks

I can heartily recommend replacing not just the needle, but the cartridge itself. My pick is the Audio-Technica AT440MLA. It's supposed to list for $200, but just about anywhere you go online has it for under $90. Set it up right and it'll totally sing. SO worth it, no matter what you paid for the table.

What cartridge is on it now? (PS: My 518 cost me $15.)

What cartridge is on it now? (PS: My 518 cost me $15.)

I don't know what I have it is Audio-Technica, but I do not know the number. Is there a way to tell?

Also, I have a PL-516 that has the feet still intact. Are these the same as the 518? I know they will fit but are they correct?

Thanks for any help.

For the cartridge, you might have to unscrew it from the headshell for an ID. Lots of ATs of late '70s vintage had the info on top.

For feet: ones off a 516 should be OK. Far as I know, the biggest difference between a 516 and a 518 is that the 516 is belt-drive while the 518 is direct drive.

I can heartily recommend replacing not just the needle, but the cartridge itself. My pick is the Audio-Technica AT440MLA.

I heartily agree. I replaced the cartridge on my Pioneer and was "agog" at the resolution. Don't go cheap.

Second the AT440ML.

That's what I am running on my PL-518. I find the sound incredible. I also have the Shure M97xE that sounds very good but I prefer the 440. You would not go wrong with either one.

Alan

FWIW, once you have a real turntable we don't call them 'needles' anymore.

I would go for the Shure M97xe you can get them cheap now and its close to the V15 V in spec's

Ron

Everything you need to know is on this site. http://www.kabusa.com/frameset.htm?/index.htm
I prefer the Stanton 681eee for its warm rich tone, not harsh and bright like AT's which remind me of listening to CD's, but I listen mostly to jazz.

I too own a 518. It came with an old Shure M95ED cartridge, and I immediately replaced the stylus. I love my 518, and I wish I could have paid the paltry amount some of you guys paid for yours.

Anyway, I have also considered the Audio-Technica AT440MLA, but I have also heard to stick with the Shure I already have as it was supposed to be pretty good back in its' day.

Any opinions on the Shure M95ED vs. the Audio-Technica AT440MLA?

:smoke: herbs