Sony PS-LX55 - User Manual

This turntable system is equipped with a linear tracking tonearm, which duplicates the movement of the cutting head used to create the record master. This design minimizes tracking error, reducing harmonic distortion and preventing excessive pressure on the inner wall of the groove, thereby improving tracking ability and channel separation. The system is fully automatic, with a microcomputer controlling the turntable and tonearm movements, activated by "feather-touch" function buttons on the front panel.

A key feature is the automatic record size selection, which uses a photo sensor system to detect the record size (30 cm or 17 cm) and adjust the tonearm's drop point accordingly. If no record is on the platter, the tonearm will not descend and will automatically return to the arm rest. The unit also includes a muting system that activates when the tonearm is lifted and deactivates when it lowers onto a record, eliminating the need to adjust amplifier volume during stylus placement.

The PS-LX55/LX55C utilizes a linear torque BSL (brushless and slotless) direct drive motor, known for its extremely low noise level and smooth operation, virtually eliminating wow and flutter. Its high torque ensures a quick start to 33 1/3 rpm in just half a revolution.

Synchronized operation with compatible Sony cassette decks is possible. When the tonearm lowers onto a record's lead-in groove, the cassette deck's standby mode is released, and recording begins. Upon completion of play, the cassette deck automatically enters record muting mode for four seconds, then pause mode. This synchronization requires a Sony RM-65 synchro remote control unit.

Important Technical Specifications:

Turntable:
- Platter: 30 cm (12 in.), aluminum-alloy diecast
- Motor: Linear torque BSL (brushless and slotless) motor
- Drive system: Direct drive
- Control system: FG servo control system
- Speed: 33 1/3 rpm, 45 rpm
- Wow and flutter: 0.03% (WRMS)*, 0.035% (WRMS), ±0.045% (DIN)
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 75 dB (DIN-B)
- Automatic system: Lead-in, return, repeat, arm up/down, record size selection
Tonearm:
- Type: Linear tracking tonearm
- Pivot-to-stylus length: 75 mm (3 in.)
- Tracking error: ±0.1°
- Tracking force adjustment range: ±0.25 g
- Usable cartridge: plug-in type, 6 g
Cartridge (VL-45G, supplied with PS-LX55C):
- Type: Moving magnet type
- Frequency response: 10 Hz to 20 kHz
- Output voltage: 3.5 mV at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec., 45°
- Load impedance: 47 kilohms
- Tracking force: 1 to 1.5 g (1.25 g recommended)
- Stylus: Sony ND-145G
- Weight: 6 g
General:
- Power requirements: 120 V ac, 60 Hz
- Power consumption: 10 W
- Dimensions: Approx. 355 x 85 x 355 mm (w/h/d) (14 x 3 3/8 x 14 in.) including projecting parts and controls
- Weight: Approx. 4 kg (8 lbs 13 oz) net; Approx. 4.7 kg (10 lbs 6 oz) in shipping carton
- Supplied accessory: 45-rpm adaptor (1)

*Note: The wow and flutter measurement method concerns only the turntable assembly, excluding the tonearm, cartridge, or record, and is obtained from a magnetic pick-up head.

Usage Features:

Front Panel Operation with Dustcover Closed: ARM TRANSPORT buttons allow easy tonearm movement over the record. Start/stop and tonearm up/down functions can also be controlled from the front panel.
Auto Play: Pressing the START/STOP button initiates automatic record playing. The tonearm moves to the lead-in groove, lowers, and playback begins. At the end of the record, the turntable stops, and the tonearm automatically returns to the arm rest.
Manual Play: To begin play at a specific point, use the ARM TRANSPORT buttons to position the tonearm, then press START/STOP.
Moving During Play: While a record is playing, the ARM TRANSPORT buttons can be used to move the tonearm to a different part of the record. For fine adjustments, press and immediately release the appropriate button.
Lifting Stylus During Play: The ARM LIFTER button allows temporary lifting of the stylus from the record, useful for pausing playback at the same point. Pressing it again lowers the tonearm.
Stopping Play: Pressing the START/STOP button during play stops the turntable and returns the tonearm to the arm rest.
Repeat Play: The REPEAT button enables continuous repeat playback until pressed again to stop the function.
Record Speed Selection: The SPEED selector allows switching between 33 1/3 rpm and 45 rpm. The corresponding indicator illuminates to show the selected speed.
Tracking Force Fine Adjustment: A lever allows fine adjustment of tracking force to prevent stylus skipping, especially useful if the factory setting is too light.
Synchronized Recording: With a compatible Sony cassette deck and RM-65 remote control unit, the turntable can synchronize recording, automatically starting and stopping the cassette deck in response to tonearm movement.

Maintenance Features:

Stylus Care: Before each play, clean the stylus with a soft brush, brushing from back to front. Avoid touching the stylus with fingers. If using a fluid cleaner, ensure it dries completely before playing. The stylus has an approximate life of 400 hours and should be replaced with an ND-145G replacement stylus (for VL-45G cartridge) when worn to prevent record damage.
Cabinet and Dust Cover Cleaning: Periodically wipe with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn stains, use a cloth moistened with a mild detergent solution. Avoid alcohol, benzine, or thinner, as these can damage the finish.
Rubber Mat Cleaning: Wipe gently with a soft cloth slightly dampened with water when dirty.
Lubrication: The turntable motor shaft is factory-lubricated for the life of the turntable and requires no periodic lubrication.
Repacking: Retain the original carton and packing materials for safe transport of the unit. Before repacking, secure the tonearm with the arm clamp, spacers, and transit screws.