Sony ps-fl77 (1983)
A front-loading, linear tracking turntable with fully automatic operation and electronic biotracer tone arm control.
Overview
The Sony PS-FL77 is a linear tracking, full auto-player turntable released in 1983. It features a front-loading mechanism where the record is inserted vertically into a slot, and the entire playback sequence is automated with a single start button. The unit uses an electronically controlled biotracer tone arm that detects tracking error via a velocity sensor and corrects it in real time, reducing error to one-tenth that of conventional offset arms. Designed for precision and convenience, it includes a quick repeat function, optoelectronic disc size detection, and safety mechanisms to prevent improper operation.
Specifications
| Drive system | Direct drive |
| Wow and flutter | 0.025% WRMS |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | 75dB(DIN-B) |
| Start-up characteristic | Within 2/3 Rotation (at 33 1/3rpm) |
| Tone arm type | Linear tracking biotracer (electronically controlled tone arm) |
| Tone arm effective length | 100mm |
| Tone arm total length | 170mm |
| Needle pressure | 1.25g fixed |
| Cartridge type | MM Type (XL-250G, plug-in connector type) |
| Cartridge frequency characteristic | 20 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Cartridge output voltage | 5mV |
| Needle | 0.6 mil-round diamond |
| Cartridge dead weight | 6.0g |
| Exchange needle | ND-250G(¥3,500) |
| External dimensions | Width 355 x Height 90 x Depth 370 mm |
| Weight | 7.0kg |
| Turntable diameter | 29 cm Aluminum Die Cast |
Design
The PS-FL77 uses a linear tracking method with an electronically controlled biotracer tone arm that continuously corrects tracking error via feedback to the drive motor. It features a front-loading mechanism where the turntable retracts and the record is inserted vertically. A Linear BSL motor drives the platter, and an optoelectronic disc size selector automatically detects record diameter. The cabinet is constructed from SBMC material for internal damping, and all operational controls (except power) use feather-touch key switches. The turntable includes a muting circuit that cuts output until the needle settles, a safety mechanism preventing tone arm drop without a record, and obstacle detection that halts and reverses loading if obstructed. It supports synchronized playback with Sony cassette decks via a separately sold remote control and uses a standard plug-in connector for easy cartridge replacement.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.
Related Models
- Sony ps-5550 (1978-1980)
- Sony ps-lx5r (1983-1985)
- Sony ss-7220a (1970s)
- Sony ss-97 (Late 1970s (approximately 1977-1979))
- Sony ss-999 (Late 1970s (approximately 1977-1979))
- Sony st-j88 (1986-1988)
- Kenwood kl-888s (Late 1970s (approximately 1978-1980))
- Sansui sax-200 (Late 1970s)
- Sansui sax-600 (Late 1970s)
- Sansui sr-222 (1973-1975)