The Sherwood PS-9700 is a belt-drive, auto-return turntable designed for playing vinyl records. It is a semi-automatic analog turntable, offering ease of use with its automated functions.
Function Description:
The primary function of the PS-9700 is to play vinyl records at two standard speeds: 33 1/3 RPM and 45 RPM. It features a belt-drive system, which helps to isolate the platter from motor vibrations, contributing to better sound quality. The "auto-return" feature means that once a record finishes playing, the tonearm automatically lifts and returns to its rest position, and the turntable stops spinning. This prevents unnecessary wear on the stylus and the record.
The turntable includes a cueing lever that allows for gentle lowering and raising of the tonearm, preventing accidental scratches or damage to records. A reject button is also present, enabling the user to stop playback and return the tonearm to its rest position at any point during a record.
For connection, the PS-9700 provides PHONO outputs (RCA cables) for connecting to an amplifier or receiver with a dedicated PHONO input. A ground wire is also included to minimize hum. The AC power cord connects to a wall outlet.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Turntable System: Auto return belt drive system
- Motor: DC motor
- Speeds: 33 1/3 and 45 R.P.M.
- Wow & Flutter: 0.1% (JIS WRMS)
- Rumble: More than 55dB (DIN-B)
- Turntable Platter: Aluminum alloy die-cast, 295mm diameter.
- Tonearm Type: Static balance type
- Effective Length: 215mm
- Overhang: 15mm
- Offset Angle: 23 degrees
- Cartridge Type: Moving magnet type (AT-3482P Audio Technica)
- Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz
- Output Voltage: 3.6mV
- Channel Balance: Within 3dB at 1kHz
- Channel Separation: More than 18dB at 1kHz
- Load Resistance: 47k ohm
- Tracking Force: 1.25-1.75g
- Automatic Function: Auto return
- Power Source: AC 230V~50Hz (European model) / AC 230V~50Hz (US model)
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 430mm(W) x 91mm(H) x 336mm(D)
- Weight: 3.1 kg
- Power Consumption: 4W
Usage Features:
- Unpacking and Assembly: The turntable requires some initial assembly. This involves placing the platter on the spindle, hooking the rubber belt around the pulley and the platter, and placing the rubber mat on the platter. The metallic parts inside the larger gear should be moved in the direction of arrows for proper assembly.
- Connections:
- Audio Connection: Connect the red and white RCA cables from the turntable's PHONO outputs to the corresponding PHONO inputs on an amplifier/receiver. Ensure the ground wire is securely connected to the amplifier's ground terminal to prevent hum.
- Power Connection: Plug the AC power cord into a wall outlet.
- Placement: The turntable should be placed on a level surface, away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, excessive dust, moisture, and other electrical appliances (TVs, refrigerators, fluorescent lamps) that might cause hum or noise. Vibrations from speakers should also be avoided.
- Playing Records:
- Place a record on the platter.
- Select the desired speed (33 1/3 or 45 RPM) using the SPEED selector knob.
- Remove the dust cover, if present, and release the tonearm stopper.
- Set the cueing lever to the "up" position.
- Manually move the tonearm over the desired point on the record. The platter will start rotating automatically.
- Slowly set the cueing lever to the "down" position to lower the tonearm onto the record.
- When the record finishes playing, the tonearm will automatically return to its rest position, and the turntable will stop.
- To stop playback mid-record, press the REJECT button.
- For playing 17cm records with large center holes, use the supplied 45 RPM adapter.
- Important Note: Do not obstruct the automatic movement of the tonearm, as this may damage the automatic return mechanism.
- Replacing the Cartridge: The PS-9700 uses a standard T4P (Moving Magnetic) type plug-in connector cartridge. To replace, simply pull the old cartridge out and push the new one in. Ensure the replacement cartridge is also a T4P type.
- Replacing the Stylus: The stylus has a lifespan of approximately 300-500 hours. To replace, grasp the stylus holder and pull it away from the body of the cartridge, then insert the new stylus tip until it clicks into place. Regular inspection of the stylus tip is recommended to prevent damage to records.
Maintenance Features:
- Dust Cover: The dust cover helps protect the turntable from dust. It is recommended to keep it closed when not in use.
- Cleaning:
- To prevent static charge, which can pull dust onto the tonearm, spray the dust cover with a cling-free product and wipe it with a cloth. This will neutralize electrostatic charge and ensure flawless operation.
- For cleaning the stylus, use a soft brush.
- For cleaning records, use a record cleaner.
- Troubleshooting: The manual provides a comprehensive troubleshooting guide for common issues such as:
- Platter not rotating: Check power cord, connections, amplifier operation, and speaker monitor switch.
- No sound: Check PHONO cables, amplifier operation, and speaker monitor switch.
- Excessive noise: Check ground lead, dust/dirt on stylus/record, and clean stylus/record.
- Sound is distorted: Check dust/dirt on stylus/record, stylus wear, and amplifier tone controls.
- Tonearm does not descend with auto play: Check cueing lever position.
- Intermittent sound: Check stylus wear and record condition.
- If any trouble persists, consult a qualified service technician.
The Sherwood PS-9700 is designed to be a reliable and user-friendly turntable, suitable for enjoying vinyl records with minimal manual intervention thanks to its semi-automatic features.