Garrard SP25 (1976–1978)

A three-speed, semi-automatic turntable made in England, known for solid construction and warm sound when properly maintained.

Overview

The Garrard SP25 is a series of consumer turntables produced in multiple marks, with the SP-25 MK IV manufactured from 1976 to 1978 in England. It was marketed as a single record playing unit and described as one of Garrard's popular consumer turntables. The SP25 line gained a reputation for reliability and warm sound, though performance depends heavily on condition—poorly stored units often suffer from wow and flutter or motor issues. The SP25 Mk IV features a tubular aluminium pickup arm with a resiliently mounted counterbalance weight and is rated at a wow and flutter of +/- 0.09%. It operates on 220 volts at 60Hz and has a recommended tracking weight of 4 grams.

Specifications

Model	SP-25 MK IV
Manufacturer	Garrard
Years of manufacture	1976 - 1978
Made in	England
Speed	Three speed
Operation	Semi-automatic
Drive	Idler-Drive
Power Source	220 Volts 60Hz
Wow and Flutter	+/- 0.09%
Tracking Weight	4g
Type	Single record playing unit

Design

The SP25 Mk IV incorporates an improved tubular aluminium pickup arm with a resiliently mounted counterbalance weight. The drive system is idler-wheel type, consistent with earlier marks in the SP25 line.

Context

The SP25 was one of the most popular British turntables of the mid-century period and considered a great deck in its day. It followed a predecessor described as "the most popular choice in its class," and the line remained in production across multiple iterations, from Mk I through at least Mk VI.

Market

Units are commonly found on eBay, Etsy, Reverb, and Facebook Marketplace. Common issues include chronic wow and flutter, rumble, and motor problems such as "snap, crackle and pop" in the Mk IV. Repair guides and spare parts, including replacement motors, are available for various models in the SP25 series.