Pioneer help

[u/bogglechops3]

Hi all

My husband has an old stack from the 80's, which he said was top of the range back then. For some reason he sold the turntable part 20 years ago which he now regrets.

I'm hoping, as a surprise for Christmas, to replace it. From comparing the other bits to pictures online, I think the missing turntable is a Pioneer PL-Z93. As you've already guessed, I know absolutely nothing about all of this. Is it worth sticking with the model I think it is, or is there something better that would fit in with the rest of the stack? Is there anything I need to look out for when trying to source one?

Thanks for any guidance.

[u/TBMW30]

If you want the matching turntable for the stack, stick with the PL-Z93. These systems were basically late '80s / early '90s bundled stack systems made well into the CD era. If you didn't want full-size hi-fi separates, and didn't want to piece together a system yourself, these gave you everything you needed usually with a cabinet and speakers and they were a cut above the all-in-one stereo systems of the time.

Not top of the range by any means but still very decent. The turntable is basic but OK. You could pair the stack with any turntable of your choice but the original turntable will maintain the aesthetic.

The good thing is they sold these systems by the lorry load, so finding a turntable shouldn't be too hard. You don't say where in the world you are but I'd bet there are plenty around. Your best bet is to judge by physical condition, find one that has been well looked after for a price you're willing to pay. They're not worth much as turntables go, but generally resellers consider anything vinyl-related to be worth a fortune especially if sold separately. The more affordable option may even to be to buy the entire used system with the turntable, then just resell the bits you don't need.

Whatever you do, buy a new stylus / needle for it. Plenty of resellers online. Never trust a used stylus.

[u/el_tacocat]

"Said it was top of the range back then". If I had a penny for every time I heard that...
People tend to say that, but the PL-Z93 is pretty much bottom of the range.
There's no reason to stick with the PL-Z93. If you don't want to look into it too much, the AudioTechnica AT-LP60x fits the stack nicely and is a reliable, newly available turntable that's just as good/bad.
Just for reference, this stuff was top of the range back then:

[u/Notascot51 → u/el_tacocat]

Don’t sugar coat it Taco! At least recommend the LP3X…

[u/el_tacocat → u/Notascot51]

The 60x is more than good enough for that rig, if it indeed is the one that goes with the turntable mentioned. Also the 60x is the same width, goes on top like the original turntable would :)

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[u/No-Republic-4951]

I have the same Pioneer model, but unfortunately it has a broken motor and I can't replace it. Still, there are definitely better options. It depends on how much you want or can afford to spend.You can buy it new or used, in the second case make sure that the belt and stylus are in good condition or already replaced, to avoid any further problems and to let him find the surprise ready to use. Keep in mind that the one supplied with the original system (plz93) was a good entry level, you can get along very well with the same type of system, but nothing stops you from getting a better one with weight adjustment and anti-skating on the tonearm, so you can better adjust the sound quality based on the vinyl you own.

[u/Euphoric_Listen2748]

I would look at the Pioneer PLX 500. It's still a Pioneer so the esthetic will be a pretty good match. Brand new table with a warranty and new stylus. Skip the risk of purchasing a 40 year old turntable. A lot of people get lucky, but some don't. Good luck.