Technics SP-10 MkII Turntable - w/ SME Series IV Tonearm + New Hana SL Cartridge

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General:
The Technics SP-10 was the first Direct Drive Turntable in the world. Made for use in radio stations, the drive is incredibly robust and starts and stops very quickly.

This particular SP-10 MKII has an original Technics plinth and dust cover. Mounted is an SME Series IV Tonearm outputting signal through a Nordost Blue Heaven DIN RCA cable. 

The turntable will be paired with a brand new Hana SL (MC) Moving Coil cartridge set up calibrated using our 12 step process. As a bonus it will come with a custom SkyFi engraved record weight.

SkyFi Cosmetic Notes:
Superb cosmetic condition with no noticeable scratches or signs of abuse. The acrylic cover does have some signs of use and while the hinges work the cover should be taken off to use.

SkyFi Technical Notes:
Unit arrived working perfectly (as most SP10s do). We did some preventive service the platter braking mechanism, checked power supply and confirmed perfect speed operation at all speeds. 

Brand Background:
At Technics we understand that the listening experience is not purely about technology but the magical and emotional relationship between people and music. We want people to experience music as it was originally intended and enable them to feel the emotional impact that enthuses and delights them. With a combination of our love of music and the vast high-end audio experience of the Technics team, we stand committed to building a brand that provides the ultimate emotive musical experience by music lovers, for music lovers.

Ownership:
Single Owner

Connections:
RCA, Ground, Power,

Cosmetic Condition:
8/10 = Very Good. Excellent front faceplate, one minor flaw on chassis side or top. See our detailed rating description here.

Working Condition:
Working perfectly and calibrated on our custom turntable calibration stand.

Included:
Turntable, External power supply, Dust cover, Custom record weight, New Hana SL cartridge,  

Packing:
Will be packed using our highly developed in-house process and custom packing materials.Specs:
SP-10 mk2
Motor: brushless DC motor, electronic rectification, quartz-controlled phase-locked servo circuit
Plater: 320mm 2.9kg aluminium
Speeds: 33, 45 and 78rpm
Pitch control: 10% (mk2P)
Starting torque: 6kg-cm
Build up time: 0.25s to 33rpm
Braking time: 0.3s from 33rpm
Speed fluctuation by load changes: 0% within 5kg-cm
Wow and flutter: 0.025% WRMS (JIS C5521)
Rumble: -73dB (DIN 45539B)

Dimensions:
102.5 x 368.5 x 368.5mm

Weight:
40 lbs.

Approximate Age:
1975

Link to Manual:
Click Here

Testing Process:
First we try to identify any mechanical issues, particularly in the tonearm bearings. We check for freedom of movement or any resistance on both the horizontal and vertical range. There is a quick test for this which involves placing the table on its front edge and allowing the arm to swing freely like a pendulum. We then make any adjustments necessary to achieve minimal resistance and sometimes adjust the bearing pressure. On gimbal tonearms we inspect the cone tip with a magnifier.

We then assess the platter speed using one of several methods, the most accurate being playing a test tone on a test record and measuring the frequency output with a frequency counter or oscilloscope. We also utilize test equipment to measure the wow and flutter to ensure it is within spec. We do this for all speeds available for that particular model (33 RPM, 45 RPM, 78 RPM).

Adjustments are then made to achieve proper speed which will vary depending on the turntable's drive design. Some require an adjustment of an internal or external potentiometer, some will require a pulley or motor adjustment. We also inspect the platter bearing to ensure it is properly lubricated, keeping in mind that some bearings don't require lubrication at all

We then inspect the power supply and address any issues with overworked capacitors, particularly on Linn and later Thorens machines which tend to need attention.

On fully mechanical vintage tables like the Thorens TD-124 and Garrard 301/401 we will go thought the entire mechanism. Then replace any worn parts and lubricate all components necessary to ensure smooth operation, speed change, and low mechanical noise. 

When fitting a new phono cartridge we will go through our detailed calibration process which can involve as many as 12 steps depending on the tonearm design. We perform this work on our custom turntable calibration rig which was developed in-house.

Some of these steps include:
• Pivot to Spindle Adjustment
• Tracking Force
• Anti-Skate
• Tonearm Height
• Lifter Height
• VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle)
• Azimuth
• Stylus Distance and Overhang

We then do a critical listening test using our test records and our test system to ensure proper sonics.