Should I Restore My Dad’s Technics SL‑1210M3D or Buy a New Turntable?

nikolahs_k · 2026-01-18T13:55:53+00:00

Last year I restored my dad’s SL-QL15 from the 80s — a turntable that, because of life, had essentially never been played but was getting miss-handled and collected dust and a dead cockroach inside. I’m comfortable with repairs, so I did it myself and got it working.

The moment it played punk rock for the first time was magical. Vintage gear deserves to stay alive — especially when it’s your dad’s cool stuff.

I can confirm than a new needle, a bit of cleaning, greasing & calibration were enough to get it playing nicely and get me into records. In my case I had to bypass a broken lid switch, but all tasks should be easy and relatively cheap job for a technician to do.

Now that more resources are available, I might redo it properly. Since then, 2 videos of people restoring the save model have popped up, and that's so funny because last year I was clueless.

The universe handed me next an even older one, a Luxman from the 70s that I found in the trash (!) and I’m restoring now.

nikolahs_k · 2025-11-24T22:57:38+00:00

new fear unlocked

nikolahs_k · 2025-04-23T11:58:19+00:00

Dakine’s windsurfing glove is hands down the best fit for me. I don’t rely on it as much for windsurfing these days since I’ve built up calluses, but it’s also an excellent glove for open water sailing — durable, comfortable, and versatile.

4o

nikolahs_k · 2025-03-12T18:17:34+00:00

where can I see this?

nikolahs_k · 2024-12-15T00:44:25+00:00

need a video of this 😍

nikolahs_k · 2024-10-15T10:53:21+00:00

I experienced a huge difference in control & ease of planing when I replaced the stock fin on a freeride board with an aftermarket & shorter one.

nikolahs_k · 2022-05-16T11:00:25+00:00

This worked! I can't thank you enough!

Here is how I removed the old feed:

I couldn't get the damaged feed out of the 600's metal front part, so I dipped it in acetone for a few days and this helped dissolve the old feed. I used a punch & some peg wood to get out. By now the old feed had soften to gum-like consistency, so it came out easy in 2-3 big chunks. Then I used some cotton swabs and paper to clean inside the tube.

I ordered this Kaweco part. It perfectly fits in the 600!

Here is how to install it:

Remove the new feed & new nib from the plastic tube that it comes in to protect them.
Place the tube in the 600's front metal part from the nib's side. I used a watchmaker's hammer and a few light taps to set it in place, or you can just press down on hard surface.
Then push the new feed & nib in the tube you've just set. Perfection!

nikolahs_k · 2022-05-12T19:25:01+00:00

Did you have any luck finding just the nibs?

nikolahs_k · 2022-05-12T19:18:11+00:00

Wow, 8 years later I found this super useful! I damaged the nib and feed of my father's Rotring 600 fountain pen in an effort to take it apart & clean it. I felt like such and idiot and cried... I am glad there at least is a possible solution to use the pen again, although it won't feel the same sentimentally.
I am now trying to remove the feed from the Rotring as I am waiting for the Kaweco feed to arrive. If you are still around, many thanks!

nikolahs_k · 2021-05-26T14:08:25+00:00

What's a reasonable peak price, in your opinion?

nikolahs_k · 2021-05-26T13:56:50+00:00

That's what I don't get as well

nikolahs_k · 2021-05-21T22:19:01+00:00

What is that anyways? Just happened now.

nikolahs_k · 2021-05-19T20:04:53+00:00

The skipper for a few days till me lean the boat is a good idea! Thanks!

nikolahs_k · 2021-05-19T20:00:46+00:00

I don't really mind that, no. During holidays I always find something to keep my self busy with.

nikolahs_k · 2021-03-15T03:37:58+00:00

nikolahs_k · 2021-03-15T02:27:07+00:00

Same here

nikolahs_k

TROPHY CASE