Essentially, the Garrard Classic design in its modest beginning is based on a factory stock Garrard 401. These British developed idler drives were first introduced in late 1964 and successfully sold some 50,000 plus units during its 12 year production run.  What the Garrard model 401 model promised was an improvement over the classic 301 model while featuring a higher torque motor and tighter manufactured tolerances.  Many, however, would beg to differ on this last point but properly executed either model achieves a reference level of analog playback.  

First, a donor model 401 is carefully selected, then begins the arduous task of a comprehensive restoration of all linkage, control switches, motor and bearing.  Following the itemization of the parts removed, we begin the striping and deep ultra sonic cleaning process and main bearing disassembly/inspection.  Once the main bearing has been inspected we rebuilt it from the top down, replacing factory sleeve bushings, thrust plate and old oil. Factory motors are rebuilt, using refinished/restored internal bushings and re-aligned to factory specifications, then re-lubricated prior to final assembly. Stock factory idler wheels are replaced using modern machined high tolerance idler wheels featuring a special rubber composite outer rim with stainless steel hub. Either 60Hz and 50Hz precision machined Brass motor spindles are supplied for international compatibility. All new replacement parts used in the rebuild are high tolerance precision machined components built to last a lifetime.

Our inert Garrard 401 plinth consists of select natural tone woods conjoined with multi layered substrates, which serve a two fold purpose.  The primary function of the plinth is add mass, which in turn effectively dissipates unwanted motor vibrations while greatly decreasing residual mechanical rumble.  In turn, this stable platform also provides the necessary rigidity required to accurately convey the immense amount of information being read from a record during playback.  The key is obtaining not just mass per se, but the proper type of mass along which entails a critical selection of base materials.  Each armboard constructed of engineered German Panzerholz for superior playback characteristics and stability.  The use of these desirable select hardwoods along with multi base layer substrates, bonding methodology and synthetic sealer resins all play a vital role in tone and resonant tuning. 

One listen to our Garrard 401 and you will hear the reason why so many collectors continue to covet the sound of this modern day classic.