Garrard SL55

A manual turntable from the mid-1960s, known for reliability and clean performance.

Overview

The Garrard SL55 is a manual turntable with a manual tonearm. At least one 1968 catalog marketed it under the Synchro-Labs brand, which suggests a multi-speed automatic variant may have existed. It was described as a classic manual turntable and recognized for reliability and clean performance. One user recalls it as their first adult turntable. Another lists it as part of their first hi-fi system, paired with a Shure M44e cartridge, Fisher X-100A tube amp, and Acoustic Research 4ax speakers. A 1969 Audio magazine reference lists it alongside the SL65 for low wow performance, and it was considered a viable option among contemporaries like Dual.

Specifications

Product type	manual turntable
Tonearm type	manual tonearm
Drive	four-pole, single

Design

Under the platter, the SL55 uses two lapped steel washers with a ball-bearing race in between, all resting on a resilient base. The mechanical parts beneath the chassis are identical to those of the Garrard 3000. A service manual is available for download, and refurbishment kits exist for full restoration.

Context

A 1969 source listed the Garrard SL55 alongside Dual turntable models, which suggests it held a comparable position in the market at the time. It was cited as an example of a turntable with low wow, which points to good speed stability for its class.

Market

A Facebook marketplace listing shows a Briconic stereo with a Garrard SL55 turntable priced at A$50. Replacement parts such as cartridge stylus kits and record stack holders are available, and the model is sometimes parted out. One user reported the turntable dragging slightly, which could point to bearing or drive issues over time.