[ohenry]

So, I see this Rek-O-Kut Rondine Jr. Model L-34 from the 1950's with an equally old Pickering tone arm on my local Craigslist.  I'm thinking that maybe this idler wheel drive TT may be a good candidate for a modern arm and nice plinth.  I think it has dual idler wheels, but I haven't seen the turntable.  I'm assuming that I can find replacement wheels for it (I hope).

Should I be looking for something newer and more refined?  Any thoughts???

[hurdy_gurdyman]

Depends on the cost. There are Rondine Jr. turntables out there that have been fixed up wonderfully. The trick is to make a massive plinth for it and get new rubber on the idler wheels, and clean and lube the motor and platter bearings. You might even consider getting a ceramic bearing for the platter (under $10). You should then have a very nice basic turntable that should work well with whatever arm and cartridge you choose. These come with different motors on them, but even the least expensive one should be able to be made into a fine performer with some TLC.

Dave