Garrard RC209 (Circa 1965)

A manual, entry-level turntable with four-speed, fully-automatic operation, made for the 1960s home audio market.

Overview

The Garrard RC209 is a manual, entry-level turntable produced circa 1965. Garrard built it to bring affordable record-playing technology to a wider market. It is a four-speed, fully-automatic record changer, designed for use with the PYE BOX RECORD Player system. It isn't a high-end model. It has the mechanical simplicity and serviceability typical of Garrard designs from the era. Today, enthusiasts of vintage audio equipment who like restoring and using classic turntables appreciate it most.

Specifications

Operation	Fully-Automatic
Speeds	Four Speed
Speeds	33⅓, 45, and 78 RPM
Motor Type	4-pole AC motor

Design

The turntable uses an idler-wheel drive system. To keep the speed stable, the platter and idler wheel need regular cleaning with isopropyl alcohol. Maintenance typically means degreasing and lubrication, and the idler wheel is a common point of failure.

Context

The Garrard RC209 was produced during the 1960s as part of Garrard's effort to bring affordable record-playing technology to a wider market.

Market

The Garrard RC209 is not a highly sought-after collector's item. It earns a collectibility rating of 3/10. It turns up on the used market under listings such as "Vintage Record Player Pye Black Box - Garrard RC209 Four Speed Fully-Automatic." Original pricing was listed at 8 1/2 guineas in 1963. Service manuals are available, including a Photofact edition (509-12) and an English-language manual by Steve Berens. The Berens manual is noted as not very good.