Are you in the market for a new tonearm for your turntable?
The Jelco 750D is a popular choice among audiophiles for its smooth sound and versatile compatibility with a range of cartridges.
But what turntables can actually accept this tonearm?
In this article, we’ll explore the specifications and mounting options of the Jelco 750D and highlight some turntables that are compatible with this classic arm.
Whether you’re a seasoned vinyl enthusiast or just starting out, read on to learn more about this iconic tonearm and how it can elevate your listening experience.
What Turntables Can Accept A Jelco 750D Tonearm
The Jelco 750D tonearm has an effective length of 229mm, a 15mm overhang, a mounting distance of 214mm, and a standard 30mm Linn mount. This means that it can fit most turntables that have a compatible mounting distance and tonearm base.
Some turntables that are known to be compatible with the Jelco 750D include the Rega Planar 3, the Pro-Ject RPM 5 Carbon, and the Thorens TD-160. These turntables have a standard mounting distance and tonearm base that can accommodate the Jelco 750D.
It’s important to note that some turntables may require additional modifications or adapters to fit the Jelco 750D. It’s always best to consult with a professional or the manufacturer of your turntable before making any modifications or upgrades.
Understanding The Jelco 750D Tonearm
The Jelco 750D tonearm is a well-made pick-up arm that has been on the hi-fi map since the 1970s. It is a popular choice among audiophiles due to its fine and well-aligned bearings, built-in oil damping, and proprietary single-point cross suspension system. It also features a sturdy two-pin detachable SME-style headshell, which is popular among the Japanese market that enjoys swapping cartridges.
The Jelco 750D tonearm has an effective length of 229mm, which is fairly typical for a standard tonearm. It also has an overhang of 15mm and a mounting distance of 214mm, making it compatible with most turntables that have a standard mounting distance and tonearm base. The Jelco 750D tonearm can accommodate cartridge weights ranging from 4 to 12 grams, with 20 millimeters of lateral and vertical friction.
One of the unique features of the Jelco 750D tonearm is its sensitivity or bearing starting torque. Unlike most tonearm manufacturers, Jelco specifies the bearing quality in the form of sensitivity – the force needed to deflect the arm in horizontal and vertical plane. The Jelco 750D tonearm has a sensitivity of 40 milligrams, which translates to 0.00008 N/meter (80 microNewton/meter) when adjusted for the effective distance. This is fairly typical starting torque for standard small ball bearings.
In terms of sound, the Jelco 750D tonearm delivers a clear, expansive, and precise sound that’s open and detailed enough to allow a decent budget moving coil cartridge to really dig into the tape. The music is well-balanced, and the stereo soundstage is faithfully portrayed. Its bass is rich and full, midband is open and airy, and treble is lovely and detailed – all of which adds up to a really impressive sound for the money.
Mounting Options For The Jelco 750D
When mounting the Jelco 750D, it’s important to ensure that the mounting distance matches the tonearm’s specifications. For the 750D, this distance is 214mm. It’s also recommended to choose the longest arm possible for your turntable to minimize tracking error and distortion.
One option for mounting the Jelco 750D is to use a custom collar designed specifically for Jelco tonearms. This collar provides better vertical support for the arm pillar, which makes setup easier and more consistent. However, it’s important to note that the custom collar is 5mm taller than the standard Jelco collar, so it may not be compatible with all turntables or setups.
Another option is to use headshell spacers or thin metal shims between the cartridge and headshell to adjust the VTA (vertical tracking angle) without changing the mat or spacer. This can be a useful solution for turntables with limited clearance between the top of the standard Jelco collar and the base of the arm rest plate.
It’s always best to consult with a professional or the manufacturer of your turntable before making any modifications or upgrades to ensure compatibility and proper setup. With the right mounting options, the Jelco 750D can be a great addition to any turntable setup.
Turntables Compatible With The Jelco 750D
The Jelco 750D is a versatile tonearm that can work well with a variety of turntables. In addition to the Rega Planar 3, Pro-Ject RPM 5 Carbon, and Thorens TD-160 mentioned above, there are several other turntables that can accept the Jelco 750D.
One such turntable is the Technics SL-1200MK2, which has a standard mounting distance and tonearm base that can fit the Jelco 750D. The SL-1200MK2 is a popular choice among DJs and audiophiles alike and can be a great platform for the Jelco 750D.
Another turntable that is compatible with the Jelco 750D is the Clearaudio Concept. The Concept has a standard mounting distance and tonearm base that can accommodate the Jelco 750D, making it a great option for those looking to upgrade their tonearm.
The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon is another turntable that can accept the Jelco 750D with the use of an adapter plate. The Debut Carbon has a smaller mounting distance than the Jelco 750D, but with an adapter plate, it can be easily mounted onto the turntable.
High-End Turntables That Pair Well With The Jelco 750D
For high-end turntables, the Jelco 750D is best suited for low to medium compliance cartridges. The silicone damping feature of the Jelco 750D allows for a wider range of cartridge compatibility, making it a great choice for audiophiles who enjoy experimenting with different cartridges.
Some high-end turntables that pair well with the Jelco 750D include the Shelter 501 III, Koetsu Black, Transfiguration Proteus, Dynavector XX2 MKII, Zyx R1000 Airy 3, and Benz Micro LP-S. These cartridges are known for their exceptional sound quality and are perfect for those looking to elevate their listening experience.
It’s important to note that when selecting a high-end turntable to pair with the Jelco 750D, it’s essential to consider the tonearm’s weight and compatibility with the cartridge. For example, a Grado cartridge may not be suitable for the Jelco 750D tonearm due to its weight. However, a lighter arm like the Hadcock arm would be an excellent match for a top Grado cartridge.
Upgrading Your Turntable With The Jelco 750D: Tips And Considerations
If you’re considering upgrading your turntable with the Jelco 750D tonearm, there are a few tips and considerations to keep in mind.
Firstly, it’s important to ensure that your turntable is compatible with the Jelco 750D. As mentioned above, the turntable should have a standard mounting distance and tonearm base that can accommodate the Jelco 750D. However, if your turntable requires additional modifications or adapters, it’s best to consult with a professional or the manufacturer of your turntable before proceeding.
Once you’ve confirmed compatibility, it’s important to properly install the Jelco 750D. This may require some technical knowledge or assistance from a professional, as improper installation can affect the sound quality and performance of your turntable.
Another consideration is the cartridge that you’ll be using with the Jelco 750D. It’s important to choose a cartridge that is compatible with the tonearm and can provide optimal sound quality. Some popular cartridges that work well with the Jelco 750D include the Ortofon 2M Red, Grado Prestige Gold, and Audio-Technica AT440MLb.
Finally, it’s important to consider your budget when upgrading to the Jelco 750D. While it’s a high-quality tonearm, it may not be within everyone’s price range. However, there are other options available in different price ranges that can still provide excellent sound quality and performance.
Overall, upgrading your turntable with the Jelco 750D can be a great way to improve your listening experience. Just be sure to do your research, confirm compatibility, and properly install the tonearm for optimal performance.
