(Possible) score- Pioneer SX-580 receiver

[J!m]

Sweet. Looks expensive.

 

[Elite-ist]

There was one that recently sold on Kijiji (Saskatchewan) for $100 CAD.

Nando.

 

[J!m]

I just read the manual from Hifi engine. It’s a decent deck and even detects my SA tapes automatically!

The third meter is a dynamic meter or something. Basically a peak meter, probably summing both channels I guess. Seems cool.

What were the others offered in ‘79? This seems to be their top machine from that year.

 

[J!m]

Nope- not top of the line in ‘79. I think I’ll keep my eyes out for one.

https://www.vintageshifi.com/repertoire-pdf/pdf/telecharge.php?pdf=Pioneer-1978-1979-Catalog.pdf

 

[Elite-ist]

There were a number of cassette decks that were above the CT-F700 in the 1978-79 and 1979-80 line-up. The CT-F700 was about third up from what would be considered the entry-level cassette deck.

I have three of the decks that were the TOTL from 1978-1980.

Nando.

 

[J!m]

The 700 is the top 2-head deck. But the next deck up (bottom 3-head) has fluorescent meters, which I don’t think fit the “vibe”. Probably wouldn’t record with it anyway.

Also interesting that none of the ‘tables offered had wood grain finish. I wanted to find a suitable table too.

What’s wrong with me?

 

[Elite-ist]

TOTL: PL-530 and PL-570 available from 1976-78. I owned both.

Nando.

 

[VSAT88]

Thanks, Nando!

Since you know the line so well, what would be a decent, not TOTL, 1979 cassette offering to compliment it (if I don't go Teac)?

And I'm planning to go through the unit today. It sounds fine but I found an overhaul video on YouTube and it was pretty basic. In that particular unit, distortion on one channel was cured by tightening the mount screws of the heat sink (which is the ground for the Darlingtons I believe), and the scope trace sharpened right up. Since it works fine, I'll just clean the pots and tuner variable capacitor; deox the ground traces of the same, wash the pots out and add some D100, and check the heat sink screws. None of the pots are making noise (today), but no reason not to go through it, while the hood is open. The "wood" (vinyl) finish is rough so I'm contemplating some real wood veneer to replace it. Maybe rosewood, if the price is reasonable...

All knobs will get the usual ultrasonic bath in 90% isoporpyl to remove THC and corona.

Don't shoot me till you try it... I went to wallyworld and bought some very cheap but really nice looking vinyl wrap in the kitchen area best I remember for a small Pioneer receiver that was in really bad shape. Used some bondo to fix a few spots and wrapped it and it came out really, really nice. I was very surprised how good it looked. Up close you could barley tell. I wish I could find the photos... In fact it was contact paper. Don't even think its as good as vinyl. It was something like this but much lighter in color.

https://www.walmart.com/ip/EasyLine...lf-Liner/399208594?fulfillmentIntent=In-store

 

[VSAT88]

It looked almost exactly like this stuff.
https://www.amazon.com/d-c-fix-346-...rden&sprefix=contact+,garden,217&sr=1-26&th=1

 

[J!m]

I may do that but there’s a local woodworking store that usually has veneer in stock. If it gets too expensive I may not bother.

But if I do, then I can make marching sides for the tape deck, if I get it.

 

[VSAT88]

Now that sounds like a plan. Matching, yes.

 

[J!m]

What would keep a turntable from turning on?

I've found two old Pioneer tables and neither turns on... Is there a fuse, or other common failure that causes this? Pricing is good (decent cartridges too) so if it's something easy to deal with I'll take a chance.

EDIT- PL-112D and PL-12 are the models

 

[George S.]

I see both are belt drive, missing, stretched or turned to goo belts?

 

[Steve K]

Could you tell me what you used to clean the rca jacks?

 

[J!m]

Pro Gold G5 for the connectors.

I guess on the 'tables it could be a case of seller ignorance. But when I read that in a description, I assume it is electrical (no power to motor), although I suppose it could be a belt and the seller not hearing the motor run... I'm not sure how much to risk on a table that ends up needing a motor.

 

[Elite-ist]

I wouldn't chance getting an inoperable turntable. It could also be something as simple as the tone arm needing to be cycled to the rest position before the platter will turn. You should be able to get a working PL-115D for under $200.

Nando.

 

[J!m]

I'm watching a nice 112D (that works) for $140 shipped right now...

And I think I'm going to get the CT-F9191 deck. I'm watching a few of those now. A Teac might get me metal capability in the same time frame (late 70's) but I won't bother recording with it, since I have two tuned-up 122 Mk. IIIs for that purpose. It'll still play a metal at the Cr2O3 setting just fine.

I just bought a build box and parts to put a headphone amp together so I have to cool the spending a bit...

 

[Elite-ist]

The CT-F9191 is a big step up from the other 2-head decks already mentioned. But, you have to ensure the FFW/RWD clutch mechanism has been serviced or replaced in it.

Nando.

 

[J!m]

Good to know Nando, thank you!

I will avoid any that do not FF or REW. As long as the somewhat work, I can deal with any mechanical issues it may have.

I think it's a bit older, but was still on sale as far as I can tell, so wouldn't be out of place. Also, the wood box matches nicely.

 

[Elite-ist]

And the case on the CT-F9191 is real wood.

Nando.