RCA lathes

Post: # 13080Unread post **dietrich10** Thu Mar 03, 2011 7:05 am

Anyone experience using these?
Curious if could mod a Haeco stereo head on one.

Post: # 13088Unread post **Kris D** Thu Mar 03, 2011 12:41 pm

Hi- The RCA 73b was originally equiped with a lay down type cutter and has a pretty tight clearance between overhead carrage and platter. The older style Haeco that looks like a pack of smokes might work. The Westrex clone would be a tough one. I have seen the old style head mounted on a presto 8d with the overhead tower lifted to make more room. I would bet one could have new mounting bracket made if the overhead can take the weight. The smaller/earlier/lighter Haeco would be easier to mount but I have not heard the best things about it's performance.
My friend owns one of the early Haeco stereo heads that was later converted to run without feedback and uses Ferro fluid for dampening!!
We have never cut with this but apparently the previous owner did, cutting at double speed to overcome resonance issues!! Crazy!
Good luck - Kris

Post: # 13163Unread post **dietrich10** Mon Mar 07, 2011 2:13 pm

Thanks Kris.

I will not have the lathe with me for another two weeks
Modified 73b with grampian b/d and gotham amps