Automatic Record Changer RC 65A

Garrard Eng. & Mfg. Co. Ltd.; Swindon, England

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  • Year
  • 1955 ?
  • Category
  • Sound/Video Recorder and/or Player
  • Radiomuseum.org ID
  • 369384

 Technical Specifications

  • Wave bands
  • - without
  • Details
  • Changer (Record changer)
  • Power type and voltage
  • Alternating Current supply (AC) / 40-60 Hz,110/130 & 200/250 Volt
  • Material
  • Various materials
  • from Radiomuseum.org
  • Model: Automatic Record Changer RC 65A - Garrard Eng. & Mfg. Co. Ltd.;
  • Shape
  • Chassis only or for «building in»
  • Notes

  • The Garrard RC‑65A is a mid‑1950s British automatic record changer manufactured by Garrard Engineering & Manufacturing Co. Ltd. It represents an evolution of the RC‑65 model, offering refined mechanical operation and compatibility with mixed record sizes. The RC‑series was among Garrard’s most successful lines, bridging the transition from manual turntables to fully automatic multi‑record changers.

    Feature Description
    Type: Automatic record changer
    Drive system: Idler‑wheel drive from 4‑pole induction motor
    Speeds: 33⅓, 45, and 78 RPM
    Tonearm: Balanced arm with manual cueing and automatic return
    Spindle: Multi‑record drop spindle with record‑pushing pawl
    Overarm: Weighted overarm for record stack stability
    Cartridge: Mono crystal or ceramic type (user‑replaceable stylus)
    Platter: Aluminium alloy, rubber‑damped mat
    Finish: Hammered grey or black enamel with chrome trim

    Mechanical Description
    The RC‑65A employs Garrard’s classic cam‑gear mechanism, synchronised with the tonearm and spindle assembly. During operation:

    • The record pushing pawl advances the next disc from the stack.
    • The overarm maintains alignment and prevents slippage.
    • The tonearm automatically lifts, moves to the lead‑in groove, and returns after play.

    The changer can operate in manual or automatic mode via the left‑hand control lever marked Start and Stop. After the final record, the motor switches off automatically.

    Differences from RC‑65
    The RC‑65A variant introduced minor mechanical refinements:

    • Improved tonearm damping and tracking.
    • Revised cam geometry for smoother cycling.
    • Updated spindle assembly for better record separation.

    Historical Context
    The RC‑65A was marketed during Garrard’s expansion into export markets, particularly North America and Australia. It was often supplied as the record changer unit in radiograms by Pye, Ekco, HMV, and Astor.

  • Net weight (2.2 lb = 1 kg)
  • 4 kg / 8 lb 13 oz (8.811 lb)

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The model Automatic Record Changer is part of the collections of the following members.

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