Sony PS-X30A (1979-1980)
A Japan-market turntable with precision speed control and electromagnetic braking, part of Sony's PS-X series
Overview
The Sony PS-X30A is a turntable produced from 1979 to 1980 for the Japanese market. It was positioned as a lower-end, later model in the successful PS-X lineup, following the bestselling PS-X70. The unit features a diecast aluminium platter, static balance tonearm, and advanced speed control for its class. A variant, the PS-X30, was released outside Japan without pitch control, repeat function, and with a slightly lighter platter.
Specifications
| Speeds | 33 1/3 rpm, 45 rpm |
| Speed accuracy | ± 0,003% |
| Wow & flutter | 0,03% WRMS |
| Startup time | 1/2 rotation (33 1/3 rpm) |
| S/N ratio | 70 dB (DIN B) |
| Platter | 31,3 cm / 1,2 kg / diecast aluminium |
| Tonearm type | static balance |
| Tonearm overall length | 30 cm |
| Tonearm effective length | 21,65 cm |
| Tonearm overhang | 17 mm |
| Stylus force range | 0...3g |
| Anti-skating range | 0...3g |
| Output cable capacitance | 50pF/m |
| Dimensions | 44,5 x 14,5 x 40 cm |
| Weight | 7 kg |
| Original price | 39,800 ¥ |
Design
The PS-X30A uses a BSL motor with Magnedisc and X'Tal Lock speed control for high stability. It includes electromagnetic braking, a low-capacitance output, and a long-span pivot aluminium tonearm. The enclosure is built with SBMC material, and the unit sits on gel-filled feet to reduce vibration.
Context
Market context places the PS-X30A as a Japan-only follow-up to the popular PS-X70 line. It shares design language and technology with higher-end models in the PS-X series, which includes the PS-X6, PS-X75, and professional PS-8750.
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)