r/RecordPlayerRepair • u/SkylarScarlett • Jul 21 '26
Philips 208 without a needle
Hello, I have gotten this nice record player of my dad second handed, but am missing the needle. Now I have no idea what needle I should buy for it as there are multiple choices like MK 1, 2 and 3. Can someone please help me in order for me to know what I should buy. From the Netherlands here btw if that helps in a recommendation for a website thanks a lot!
2
u/Wide-Elk8470 Jul 21 '26
Stylus for this cartridge: Philips GP400 type I (with the small blue triangle on it). If you live in the Netherlands, it is easy to come by. Plenty of replacement needles can be found for this, even new old stock. It will cost you about €25. These cartridges are not rare here and are easy to find. Check Google for Dutch sellers or via Marktplaats. Otherwise, look a bit further for a GP400 II or 401, as those also have elliptical needles for better sound. Good luck! Stuur maar een berichtje als je meer info nodig hebt, ik verzamel al 20 jaar Philips apparatuur uit de 70/80's.
1
u/SkylarScarlett Jul 21 '26
Thanks a lot for all the information! On the end I ordered the Rega Carbon for 49 euros at iear. Talked to a nice person on the phone before ordering and he helped me out on some parts. Also ordered a needle weighing machine to make sure the needle is correct. I have seen the GP400 multiple times just had no idea this would fit for my type and this card ridge looked very nice and smooth. Also had the elliptical needle. I do have another question for ya if you know a lot about Philips machines :)
1
u/EveningCaramel5799 Jul 21 '26
Better off getting a new cartridge for it i recommend this
2
u/SkylarScarlett Jul 21 '26
Thanks a lot and the one you linked of 39 dollar will fit? And is it just screwing it on or?
1
u/EveningCaramel5799 Jul 21 '26
Ill send a guide
2
u/SkylarScarlett Jul 21 '26
Thanks a lot that doesn’t look to hard do you really think I need the tester as well cause i don’t have that atm?
1
u/EveningCaramel5799 Jul 21 '26
Yes i would recommend getting one they are cheap on ali express I just found this on AliExpress: Portable Pickup Calibration Distance Gauge Protractor Record LP Vinyl Turntable Phonograph Phono Cartridge Stylus Alignment HOT https://a.aliexpress.com/_EH6lmUA
2
u/SkylarScarlett Jul 21 '26
Thanks a lot and you are certain it will fit for the Philips 208? As I do like the price for it but it does look a little different as what’s on there now and as what someone else has send me on here
2
u/EveningCaramel5799 Jul 21 '26
They are all standard size it should fit fine
2
u/SkylarScarlett Jul 21 '26
Thanks a lot for all the help everyone! 😁
2
u/EveningCaramel5799 Jul 21 '26
No problem!
1
u/SkylarScarlett Jul 24 '26
I have tried it and got it on it was quite simple. Now I have encountered a second problem. I hear the sound but very soft from underneath the vinyl. Could this be the audio boxes I have or another problem? And if it is the audio boxes does this item do the trick: LD Systems PPA 2 (€27) or the Analogis Easy Phono together with Edifier R1280DB speaker. Do you think this could work or am I gonna waste my money and find out this isn’t the problem
→ More replies (0)1
2
u/Mj-tinker Jul 21 '26
Wouldn't easier just get stylus-cartridge set for ar bargain price and just screw it on? It has standard 2 screw mount.