After acquiring a Pioneer PL-540 turntable, the first step was a thorough cleaning and setup. Yesterday was dedicated to this process, ensuring every component was pristine and correctly configured. The initial inspection revealed the inside of the unit to be remarkably untouched, suggesting careful previous ownership. While all the turntable feet were present, a couple showed signs of wear and might warrant replacement in the future.
One of the first things noted was that the Vertical Tracking Force (VTF) was significantly misadjusted. The counterweight had been turned in a full rotation too far, with the antiskate also set higher than necessary at 4g. Furthermore, the cartridge offset was measured to be off by 4mm from the specified setting.
To rectify these issues, the cartridge offset was precisely adjusted to Pioneer’s specification of 49mm, measured to the rear of the headshell washer. Subsequently, the tonearm was balanced, and both the VTF and antiskate were set to a more appropriate 1.5g.
The initial listening experience with the Pioneer PL-540 is generally positive. However, compared to a Shure cartridge on a Bic turntable previously used, the sound profile is different. It appears to be less bright and defined, possibly exhibiting a degree of compression or reduced dynamic range. Despite this, the overall sound quality is still considered good and enjoyable. A future plan is to experiment with the Shure cartridge on the Pioneer PL-540 to assess if this improves the sonic characteristics.
Looking ahead, further enhancements are planned for this turntable. While the original plinth is in excellent condition, the idea of crafting a new plinth from MDF and applying a veneer is appealing, preserving the original plinth’s condition. The dust cover, bearing moderate scratches, is also slated for sanding and polishing to restore its clarity.
Currently, anticipation is building for the return of a Marantz 2265B receiver from repair, which will play a crucial role in deciding the final audio setup. The concluding element will be the selection of a set of modern bookshelf speakers to complement the existing CS77 speakers, aiming for a well-rounded and high-fidelity audio system. This is shaping up to be an exciting project for any audio enthusiast.
