Technics SP-10MKII Vintage Turntable with Obsidian Plinth and New Cartridge - Serviced

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General:
The Technics SP-10 drive was one of the first ever direct-drive turntables.

Designed for use in demanding radio station playback environments, the drive is incredibly robust and starts and stops very quickly. 

When combined with the official Technics obsidian plinth and Technics EPA-A250 tonearm, this created a complete turntable system known as the "SL-1000MKII Professional Direct-Drive Turntable".

Being the flagship in Technics lineup, the SP-10MKII drive (later known as SP-10MK2) features the best in direct-drive technology. Simply having an external motor power supply alone is an excellent upgrade over most 'tables. This allows for higher-quality designs and parts to be utilized overall.

This particular SP-10MKII has an original Technics obsidian plinth and smoked dust cover. The tonearm mounted is a beautiful Technics EPA-A250 arm. We really like this tonearm as it feels super high quality to use, plus has a damping system built-in. Ultimately this tonearm helps you get the most out of your phono cartridge.

It also has the benefit of a service performed in-house for long-term reliability and maximum performance. More than 15 capacitors were replaced in the power supply.

The turntable will be paired with a brand new Sumiko Songbird High Output (MC) Moving-Coil cartridge, setup and fully calibrated using our 12-step process.

A new SL-1000RE-S will set you back $25K.

SkyFi Cosmetic Notes:
Slight swirls or light scratches on high gloss finish. Nice dust cover with no cracks. Overall nice shape.

SkyFi Technical Notes:
We recapped the power supply, adjusted the braking system, and replaced the power cord. Working perfectly. Includes an extra thick original Technics mat (RGS0010)
and OEM phono cable with integrated ground.

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:
Second Owner

Connections:
RCA Phono, Ground, Power cable

General Sound:
Smooth, uncolored, undistorted natural and clean

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:
Just the Unit

Packing:
Will be packed using our highly developed in-house process and custom packing materials.Specs:
SP-10MKII
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% (MKIIP)
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:
22.05 x 18.31 x 6.69 inches (560 x 465 x 170mm)

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.