The Pioneer PL-115D is a solid turntable, but like many vintage audio components, it can benefit from some targeted modifications to elevate its sonic performance. A crucial first step is selecting the right cartridge. For the Pioneer PL-115D, cartridges with a compliance around 10cu and a tracking force of 2g to 2.5g are generally recommended. More delicate, high-compliance cartridges are simply not the best match for this turntable’s tonearm.
In terms of cartridge types, more robust DJ cartridges can be a surprisingly good fit. The Grado DJ-100 is often cited as a strong contender, offering a rich sound profile. Budget-friendly Audio Technica cartridges are also worth considering, though elliptical stylus models might represent a slightly higher investment. Grado cartridges tend towards a warmer sonic signature, while Audio Technica cartridges are typically brighter and more detailed. For Audio Technica cartridges specifically, experimenting with shortening the tonearm leads and adjusting capacitance loading can noticeably impact the treble response, allowing for finer tuning of the sound.
Several key modifications can be performed on the Pioneer PL-115D to improve its performance, while retaining its automatic functionalities. These modifications can be categorized into essential tweaks and further enhancements.
Essential PL-115D Modifications:
- Motor and Bearing Maintenance: Begin with basic maintenance by oiling the motor and cleaning and re-oiling the main bearing. Proper lubrication is crucial for smooth and quiet operation.
- Automatic Mechanism Greasing: Grease all automatic moving parts to ensure smooth and reliable operation of the turntable’s automatic functions.
- Tonearm Bearing Adjustment: Adjust the tonearm bearings to minimize play, aiming for near-zero movement. This reduces unwanted resonances and improves tracking accuracy.
- Balance Weight Optimization: Discard the rear balance weight and its mounting arm. This component is often deemed ineffective and can be a source of unwanted resonances, negatively impacting sound quality.
- Suspension Refinement: Remove the original foam damping from the suspension system. While counterintuitive, this allows the suspension to work more effectively, albeit requiring more precise adjustment. The Pioneer PL-115D’s suspension operates at a somewhat higher frequency compared to typical sub-chassis turntables (around 3Hz to 5Hz). This characteristic necessitates the use of lower compliance cartridges to avoid excessive movement. Carefully set the suspension height to ensure equal clearance both above and below the sub-chassis. Level the turntable initially and then fine-tune the suspension. Once in its final location, level the entire unit; avoid further adjustments to the suspension itself.
Further Potential Enhancements:
For more advanced improvements to your Pioneer PL-115D, consider these structural enhancements. While originally epoxy (Araldite) was used, screw-locking compound is now recommended as a more user-friendly alternative. For the most robust bond, two-part epoxy remains the ultimate choice.
- Main Bearing Mount Reinforcement: Undo the main bearing mounting, apply adhesive, and re-glue it securely in place. This reinforces the bearing mount, reducing vibration and improving stability.
- Tonearm Mounting Section Reinforcement: Similarly, undo and re-glue the plastic tonearm mounting section to the sub-chassis. This strengthens the connection between the tonearm and the turntable’s structure.
- Arm Tube Joint Reinforcement: Undo and re-glue the arm tube into the bearing housing joint. This step enhances the rigidity of the tonearm assembly.
- Headshell Carrier Reinforcement: Undo and re-glue the headshell carrier into the end of the arm tube. This final structural reinforcement step ensures a more solid connection for the headshell.
Considerations and What to Avoid:
- Plinth Damping: Damping the plinth of the Pioneer PL-115D is generally not considered necessary.
- Sub-chassis Damping: Damping the sub-chassis is optional and requires caution. If you choose to damp the sub-chassis, use very thin, inexpensive self-adhesive floor tiles. Ensure you do not obstruct any mechanisms. Apply a maximum of two layers underneath and one layer above the sub-chassis. Excessive weight can negatively impact the suspension’s performance.
- Headshell Washer: Remove the rubber washer from the headshell. Once the setup is finalized, use screw-locking compound sparingly on the mating surfaces of the joint to semi-permanently secure the headshell.
- Headshell Weight: The stock Pioneer PL-115D headshell is relatively heavy. A lighter headshell, ideally made of magnesium, would be a beneficial upgrade to further reduce tonearm mass.
- Turntable Mat: The original turntable mat is generally considered adequate and may not require replacement. Avoid using a mat that is too heavy, as this could potentially interfere with the suspension system.
Outcome of Modifications:
Implementing these modifications significantly refines the Pioneer PL-115D’s sonic characteristics, resulting in a cleaner, more balanced, and expressive sound reproduction. These DIY tweaks allow the Pioneer PL-115D to achieve a surprisingly high level of performance, making it a truly rewarding vintage turntable to own and enjoy.
