Pioneer PL-12D Turntable With Shure M75ED Cartridge (No Lid)

Why Buy New is pleased to offer for sale this brilliant Pioneer PL-12D Turntable With Shure M75ED Cartridge (No Lid).

It has been professionally repackaged and includes a Shure M75ED Cartridge, user manual, counterweight and 45 RPM adaptor. 

This has been tested and is in full working order. This is being sold with our own 3 month warranty.

The cosmetic condition is good. There are a few minor surface marks and scratches. Unfortunately, the lid was cracked during transit so it is not included. Please see the images for further details.

FREE national courier delivery.

Why Buy... from us?
Because all of our items go through a full inspection, get serviced (if required), PAT tested for electrical safety, deep cleaned and all come with a warranty. We are 100% committed to customer care and are always on hand pre or post-delivery for technical help and advice.

Pioneer PL-12D Turntable (1972-1976)

The Pioneer PL-12D is a standout model in the history of turntables, celebrated for its simplicity, durability, and outstanding performance in its class. After examining 16 user reviews and the product’s technical details, here’s a comprehensive evaluation:

Design and Build Quality

The PL-12D boasts a timeless aesthetic with its dark brown walnut-finished base and black-silver accents, offering both elegance and functionality. Its robust build is highly praised by users, contributing to its long-lasting appeal.

The turntable feels substantial at 7.5kg, with well-machined components such as the 30cm aluminium alloy platter, which enhances stability during playback.

Performance

Motor and Drive System

• The 4-pole synchronous motor delivers stable and accurate speeds (33 and 45 RPM).
• The belt-drive system, made from durable polyurethane, resists ageing and temperature fluctuations, minimising vibration and rumble effectively.

Wow and Flutter / Rumble

• With 0.1% WRMS wow and flutter and a 47dB rumble rating, the PL-12D provides a smooth, low-noise playback experience. While not state-of-the-art by modern standards, these specifications were impressive during its production era and still satisfy most casual listeners.

Tonearm and Tracking

• The S-shaped tonearm features lightweight construction and precise geometry, minimising tracking error.
• A spring-activated anti-skating device ensures proper channel separation for stereo records, enhancing audio fidelity.
• The lateral balance weight prevents instability, even with vertical stylus movement, providing consistent performance.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

The PL-12D is beginner-friendly, with a straightforward setup process and minimal maintenance requirements. Many users highlight the availability of replacement parts, particularly belts, as a key advantage for long-term ownership.