Help ! Ariston RD 40

[chas]

Hi I recently purchased an Ariston RD 40, unfortunately, it was damaged in transit, the tone arm was broken,it's an Ariston but there are no numbers on it. I need to replace the arm, but what with ? The cartridge was an MP11 Boron, the stylus is broken. Is it worth buying a new stylus or should I get a new cartridge ? I have been told that it's not an easy job to replace the arm as I wont be able to get an "arm board". I've never had to change an arm on a turntable, so I've no experience at all, also there are no instructions with the deck, so if any-one can get me a copy I'd be greatful. Is the RD 40 worth spending money on, or should I go for a different turntable ? I've heard this turntable & to my ears it sounds very nice. I'd really appreciate any help anyone can give me. Thanks & regards. Chas.

[JaS]

The only pics I've seen of the RD40 had what looked like a sumiko-sourced (ariston branded) arm on it as standard (other arm boards where available). I think Revolver may have used a variation on the same arm. If you can get the arm off easily it may be worth sketching the mounting arrangement and the measurements between the arm and spindle and posting these here to help in suggesting a straight replacement. Unless anyone else has more specific info? FWIO the Ariston sounded quite sweet from what I can remember (a friend had one) and is worth repairing. Regards Jas

[chas]

Thanks for that, do u you think I should replace the cartridge or the stylus ? Thanks again Chas

[JaS]

I don't know if a new stylus is available for the Nagaoka, but if you don't know its history I'd be tempted to get a new cart - it wasn't a particularly expensive item new. However until you have another arm in place its difficult to recommend another cartridge - your budget might make a difference here too. Regards JaS

[chas]

Thanks for your help

[andersk2]

Hi, I put a Rega RB300 arm on my RD40 a long time ago. it is quite an improvement over the stock arm. Maybe in this case you can use the original base platter or why not make a new one yourself out of wood for example. The Rega arm comes with measurments for fitting. Cheers Anders

[Paul Conrad]

Hi I'm sure you have sorted this out by now, but if not....I used to sell Ariston deck 15 years ago, so have abit of experience with them. Mount a Rega RB250 arm. Make a new armborad - use original as a template and get a woodshop / carpenter to cut a piece of MDF to the same size (Diameter and Thickness). Drill a hole in the centre to mount the arm - 22mm I think, and holes for mounting the armboard on the turntable as per the old board. Spray paint black - job done. Then either get a replacement stylus for the MP11 or a new cartridge of similiar type - perhaps a Rega. This should leave you with a great sounding deck for minimal outlay! Bets luck - Paul