Denon DP45F

[andpeab]

well i pulled this unit out of storage to see if it was still in working condition. i am the only owner and bought it new in the 80s but it has been idle for quite some time. the power switch starts the platter turning but it doesn't respond to any of the other switches......speed, arm controls, or stop. since i know it will need a new cartridge, is it worth putting money into repairs as well, or are there any things i could try on my own? i have limited skills in this area but follow instructions well. thanks.

[Alec124c41]

You could try cleaning all switches and contacts with a good contact/control cleaner.
This is worth putting some effort into. If you saw what Denon is putting there name on these days (turntables) it would make you weep.

Cheers,
Alec

[audiopile]

It sounds like you may not have used it in awhile? These are highly automated units ( they think for themselves) - have you actually installed a cart ,balanced it ,set VTF and anti-skate/dampening , put the platter matt on , dropped a record onto this, hit play and seen if it works ? These tables are "smart" enough to not work if they know you aren't playing a record ?

[andpeab]

actually, through the search function here i found an old thread with the exact same issue. unfortunately there was no solution found at that time. what is happening is that when i turn on the power the platter spins at high speed in the wrong direction. none of the other controls do anything and the only light coming on is the red light that is located near the base of the arm.i have removed the bottom and sprayed contact cleaner on all of the switches and pots. no change so far. i have checked the service manual available on this site but there is no troubleshooting section. i will look through the owners manual again and continue to look around inside the unit. thanks for the comments so far. it looks like i will be shopping soon, though. any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

[Alec124c41]

IIRC the speed was governed by feedback from a tape head reading a magnetic track on the inside of the rim.
My experience with tape heads is that they need to be cleaned, and in proper alignment.
Note: no personal experience with this, but I ask a lot of questions.

Cheers,
Alec