Garrard Automatic Record Changers

Introduction

The Garrard Model RC.121/Mk.II has a plug-in pickup head, while the RC.120/Mk.II has the pickup head integral with the arm. Other than this difference, both models are similar and reference in this booklet to the RC.121/Mk.II also applies to the RC.120/Mk.II, except where stated.

Should at any time further information be required regarding your Garrard Record Changer, please write to our Technical Service Department, Newcastle Street, Swindon, Wilts. (Tel.: Swindon 5381-5 lines), or for spare parts and service returns to our Service and Spares Department, 50-54, Radnor Street, Swindon, Wilts. (Tel.: Swindon 2606).

Description

The Garrard Model RC.121/Mk.II Record Changer will play automatically any number of records up to 10 either 7", 8", 9", 10" or 12" diameter at 16, 33¼, 45 or 78 r.p.m. 10" and 12" records of the same speed can be mixed in any order. No setting for any record size required, the selection being completely automatic. Records of all the sizes mentioned may if they are of similar speed, be played at the same loading providing the smallest diameter records are placed above the larger ones. With certain stereophonic pickups up to eight records may be played at one loading. 7" 45 r.p.m. records with large centre hole may be played using the large record spindle Type LRS4 (available as an optional extra) or centre hole clip-in adaptors available at record stores.

Records may also be played manually and the changer stopped and started if desired without rejecting the record being played.

Operating Instructions

To operate Changer

1. Release pickup arm retaining clip.
2. Set correct stylus for type of record to be played.
3. Move speed change knob to desired speed.
4. Place records horizontally on record spindle, lift and move overarm inward.
5. Switch on by turning the Auto knob to "On."

To unload Changer

1. Lift overarm, move to right hand side and lower.
2. Lift records off spindle, if replaying the same records lift clear of the spindle before replacing.

Reject

A record being played may be rejected by moving the "Auto" knob to the "On" position.

Manual Operation

1. Place record on turntable by threading over record spindle, moving record horizontally over the step on spindle.
2. Switch on by moving the lower "Manual" knob only. On completion of playing the record, the pickup will return to its rest and the changer switch off.

Stop

The changer automatically stops on completion of playing the records placed on it, but if it is desired to stop the changer while playing a record, slide the knob marked "Stop" forward. The changer will then stop with the pickup remaining on the record. Restart by moving the "Manual" knob to "On" and the same record will continue playing, no records being rejected.

To stop the changer for a period, move the "Auto" knob to "Off." The pickup will return to its rest and the changer switch off. The pickup arm retaining clip may be replaced if desired.

Notes

The pickup arm will not automatically move from its rest unless one or more records are loaded on the record spindle. This is a safety device to prevent the pickup being damaged by switching on inadvertently.

To play 78 r.p.m. coarse groove records, the knob of a turnover pickup should show 78 or Std. (Green) and for fine groove (Microgroove) records it should show 33/45 or L.P. (Red).

Large hole 45 r.p.m. records can be played automatically using a large record spindle Type LRS4 obtainable as an optional extra. Alternatively, clip-in record centre adaptors may be used, these are obtainable from your dealer.

To obtain the best results from your records, care should be taken to see that they are stored and cleaned as recommended by the record manufacturers. Do not leave records on the changer when not in use.

Transit Screws

When your radiogram is installed see that the two transit screws are removed and that the record changer is floating freely on its suspension springs. The transit screws are copper plated for identification.

Maintenance

The motor, turntable spindle and intermediate wheel bearings are of the oil retaining type and rarely need lubricating. When the need for oil is apparent, lubricate these bearings with a fine grade of machine oil. Carefully remove all traces of surplus oil especially from the intermediate wheel and motor pulley.

To remove Turntable

To lift turntable, remove the flat spring retaining clip and lift with equal pressure on diametrically opposite sides. If difficulty is found give the record spindle a light downward tap with a piece of wood, such as the handle of a screwdriver while lifting the turntable.

Diagram of Record Changer

The diagram shows the top view of the Garrard automatic record changer. Key components labeled include:

• Turntable Retaining Clip
• Record Spindle
• Overarm
• Adjustment for Stylus Pressure at Rear of Arm
• Adjustment for Pickup Height
• Record Selector Arm
• Pickup Arm Retaining Clip
• Transit Screw
• Speed Change Knob
• Stop Lever (under the pickup)
• Turnover Knob for Pickup
• Manual Knob
• Auto Knob

Service Adjustments

Speed

Should the speed vary during the playing of a record, first make sure that this is not due to record slip caused by warped records. Next examine the motor pulley, intermediate wheel, and inside of turntable rim for traces of oil and if necessary wipe thoroughly with a clean cloth. Also check that the intermediate wheel runs in the centre of the appropriate step on the motor pulley and is not touching the side of the adjacent step. If necessary loosen the screw holding pulley to shaft and move pulley to its correct position.

Motor

Should the motor if dual voltage range run too hot or be too weak to operate the changer, check that the links in the voltage changeover block are correct to correspond to the voltage of the power supply. Connection details are given on the cover of the block. Also check that the links are tight.

Pickup Dropping Position

The pickup arm dropping position is set for optimum accuracy. Should however any minor adjustment be required, lift up the pickup arm which will reveal the slotted bush by which the dropping position adjustment can be made. Release the small locking screw immediately behind this slotted eccentric bush, which should be given a slight turn and when the correct position has been found retighten the locking screw.

Pickup Height

The height of the pickup lift can be adjusted by turning the small screw accessible on top of the rear of the pickup arm. To make this adjustment, first place 10 78 r.p.m. records on the turntable and adjust the pickup height so that as the pickup returns to its rest after playing the top record the tip of the stylus clears the top record by ".

Pickup Stylus Pressure

The stylus pressure should not exceed 10 grammes and it is strongly recommended that a check be made occasionally with a Garrard Stylus Pressure Gauge. To adjust the stylus pressure turn the knurled screw at the rear of the pickup arm. clockwise to reduce and counter clockwise to increase the stylus pressure.

Pickup

Keep the stylus free from accumulated dust.

Spare Parts and Replacement Styli

Spare Parts for RC.121/Mk.II. and RC.120/Mk.II.

Replacement Styli for Garrard Pickups

The Garrard Models RC.121/Mk.II and RC.120/Mk.II Record Changers are made under the following patents:- British 741308, 748659. Sweden 158348. Australia 200074. Other patents pending.

Garrard Stylus Pressure Gauge (Model SPG2)

The Garrard Stylus Pressure Gauge, Model SPG2, is depicted. It is a handheld device with a dial indicating stylus pressure in grammes, ranging from 0 to 15. The gauge is described as an indispensable accessory for measuring stylus pressure, recommended for every gramophone enthusiast, and available from radio or record dealers.

Fitting Instructions for the Garrard Multi-Purpose Plug-in Pickup Cast Type MPM3

The Garrard Type MPM3 Multi-Purpose pickup case is designed for use on the Garrard Model RC.121/Mk.II automatic record changer. It enables a wide range of pickup cartridges to be fitted with the aid of supplied accessories.

A thin bakelite section, known as a knockout, is provided in the front for turnover type cartridges, and a hole in the top, covered by the Garrard name plate, is for turn-round stylus type cartridges.

The accessories comprise:

• 2 Screws (assembled) Ref: A40295
• 2 Stand-offs Ref: A50504
• 2 Spacers Ref: A45210
• 2 Screws Ref: A40345
• 1 Sub Plate Ref: A50525
• 2 Washers Ref: A40519

Most pickup cartridges can be assembled into the case using these accessories. Spacers should be used under the harness if the stylus does not project far enough. Washers should be used under screw heads if the holes in the harness are larger than the screw heads.

For cartridges with a turn-round stylus, the name plate should be removed and replaced with the sub-plate. Be careful not to lose the 6BA nuts underneath the plate.

The Garrard Engineering and Manufacturing Co., Ltd. is located in Swindon, Wiltshire, England. In the USA, Garrard Sales Corporation is located in Port Washington, New York.

Pickup Connecting Instructions

This Garrard Unit is wired for use with both Monaural and Stereophonic Pickups. The pickup moulding (shell) has three leads.

Monaural Pickup Connection:

For a Monaural Cartridge, only two leads are required. The Grey lead is not needed and should be tucked away. Use the Brown lead and the Black lead (Ground). Connect in accordance with the pickup manufacturer's instructions. The amplifier should be connected to the tags marked 'R' (Brown lead) and 'C' (screen) on the tag strip underneath the unit, where 'C' is ground. (Brown phono jack lead on U.S.A. type units).

Stereophonic Pickup Connection:

Connect the leads in the moulding (shell) to the cartridge as follows:

• Brown lead: Right hand channel
• Grey lead: Left hand channel
• Black lead: Common terminal

Some Stereophonic cartridges have four terminals; connect these according to the manufacturer's instructions.

For the amplifier connection: The Right hand channel connects to tags 'R' (Brown lead) and 'C' (screen). The Left hand channel connects to tags 'L' (Grey lead) and 'C' (screen).

Suitable Garrard Mouldings for Stereophonic Pickups:

• Models RC.88, RC.98 and TA./Mk.II: Garrard MPM2/S A55703.
• Models RC.121/Mk.II, 4HF. and TPA12: Garrard MPM3/S A55704.

The Garrard Engineering and Manufacturing Company Limited is located in Swindon, Wiltshire, England.

Addendum to Service Manuals

In certain countries, these models (RC.120/121 Mk.II and RC.88/D) are made for the 100/130 voltage range only.