New at using Record Players, Need Help!

amberlynnguyen · by **amberlynnguyen** » Wed Nov 21, 2012 10:11 am

I recently bought this Packard-Bell record player because I fell in love with the look. The Model is 12RP51, I've searched all over the internet and can not find anything like it. The needle needs to be replaced and I need help figuring out what needle and cartridge(if necessary) to buy!

amberlynnguyen · by **amberlynnguyen** » Wed Nov 21, 2012 10:33 am

I found only one needle on Ebay for packard-bells. http://www.ebay.com/itm/1-New-Record-Cu ... 3a7bc7a9da

Would this do the job?

MattTech · by **MattTech** » Wed Nov 21, 2012 5:33 pm

First, that consolette is an odd style, and it's been re-done by someone.
The speaker grille cloth looks to be replaced by some weird print - PB would never have chosen that.
And the record changer's been replaced with a cheap end VM unit - it's not of the same era as the tuner/amp.

As for the needle, you'll have to get the cartridge number/make from it and go from there.

I'd suspect that tuner/amp might also need overhauling to insure reliability & safety.
Anything of "vintage" era is prone to failure if used without some restoration.

Bobby Basham · by **Bobby Basham** » Thu Nov 22, 2012 9:15 pm

Yep, some late 60's/early 70's VM changer connected to that mono tube unit. I would even question the finish on the outside of the cabinet. Look at the deep rich wood tone on the inside. The contrast seems rather odd. Maybe the cabinet is original, just speculating here, but definitely the turntable is not.--BB

Bobby Basham
Tucson, Arizona