The Pioneer PL-115D is a semi automatic, 2 speed, belt drive turntable. It has an elegant look with the walnut grain base and charcoal top. It utilizes a speed detecting auto-return mechanism that will smoothly return the arm to rest even with a warped record. It was made in Japan and hit the market around 1976.
The arm is a static balanced S shaped pipe arm and does have an anti-skating device. Cartridge weight can be between 4g and 10g.
The PL-115D operates at both 33 1/3 and 45 speeds. the platter is aluminum alloy die cast. The belt drive uses a 4 pole synchronous motor with wow and flutter at 0.07%.
It uses a light plug in type aluminum headshell. It does not have VTA adjustment.
Pioneer sold many, many PL-115D turntables so they are not rare. But, demand is high. Since so many were made parts are easily attainable which makes it a good entry level turntable. With a little modification it can be a really good turntable. Fully restored they sell for over $300. an average unit sells for about $150.
Does this come with speakers or is it built in? A neighbor just gave one to me, no speakers and no sound
It doesn’t have speakers built in. You’ll need a pair of speakers as well as an amplifier. The amp can be a stereo with a phono input on the back or a small specialized phono amp that you can find on Amazon.
Thank you!
I have one of these turntables that has been sitting idle for some years, but now I’ve decided to use it since I have bought a new receiver that will accommodate it. I’ve cleaned it up a bit, it spins at 33.5 but when I play records the sound is distorted, which I assume is related to my old shure cartridge. Can you suggest an optimal replacement cartridge for $100 or less?
Thank you.