Packard Bell RPC-30 Console Stereo

davidwhiggs · by **davidwhiggs** » Mon Aug 13, 2012 5:42 am

Howdy --
I just purchased a (1960s?) Packard Bell RPC-30 that seems to be in perfect working condition, and was wondering what a rough estimate of its worth might be. This area is a bit beyond my purview. Much thanks to anyone who can take the time to provide advice.
Cheers,
-- Dave

MattTech · by **MattTech** » Mon Aug 13, 2012 6:34 am

You're certainly invited to use the handy-dandy search function on this site.
Try typing in "Packard Bell" and I'm quite sure you'll find substantial information.

As for being 40+ years old, I doubt anything that age is in perfect condition, due to aged components.
In order to have peace of mind and insure its lasting, I'd suggest having it checked out by a reputable service tech.
Those things are but a ticking time bomb without attention.

by **Ron Rich** » Mon Aug 13, 2012 4:40 pm

Matt,
I agree 100 % with your statement, above, about a "ticking time bomb"--but I would expand it to include ALL electrical & mechanical "things" that are over 10 years old--they should all be l@@ked at every few years, by someone qualified to do so---Ron Rich

MattTech · by **MattTech** » Mon Aug 13, 2012 6:17 pm

Ron Rich wrote:Matt,
I agree 100 % with your statement, above, about a "ticking time bomb"--but I would expand it to include ALL electrical & mechanical "things" that are over 10 years old--they should all be l@@ked at every few years, by someone qualified to do so---Ron Rich

Quite true, Ron.
Most people have the tendency to think - "it still works, let me use it".

Previous owners/sellers mostly neglect having service performed on vintage equipment,
The old saying "if it's not broke, don't fix it" might be true to a point, but nevertheless age increases
the chances of unexpected failures.

Current new owners of said vintage equipment don't have a clue as to the workings of these things.
Polished, shined-up cabinets and dazzling knobs and dials are their focus - not the guts inside.

If you want to get the most enjoyment of these things, get it checked out.

adamkipp · by **adamkipp** » Tue Sep 01, 2015 4:01 am

I am almost finished restoring one. Well, more like cleaning mouse turds and spiders out and replacing small parts. I have tried 2 different cartridges on it and neither will fit. It's too tight. The tone arm is straigh . Can anyone tell me what kind of cartridge to use? I'll attach pictures if I can. Thank you