Dansette RG31
 

Hello all

I've signed up, as I'm looking for some advice, and would be grateful if your collective, hive-mind, expertise could help.

I recently purchased a bruised and battered Dansette RG31, with the intention of stripping and gutting it, covering it, and ultimately, installing a brand new high-end turntable.

So far I have stripped and gutted the whole unit, and covered the lid. My next task is to cover the main body itself, which is a daunting task, given the beautiful curves of the RG31.

Any advice, tips or suggestions would be warmly welcomed

Thank you in advance

Rex

Re: Dansette RG31
 

I would have made careful notes & taken loads of photos of how the original covering was applied. You could then replace it the same way. You may find photos on the net that might be good enough to follow.
I don’t think there is any point fitting a “high-end” turntable to a basically low cost unit. It won’t sound any better because of the limitations of the amp & speaker.

Re: Dansette RG31
 

Ii doubt that a ‘high end’ turntable would fit, the cartridge would not be compatible with the internal amplifier, it would need a pre amp. The cabinet and speaker system would not lend itself to performing well with a high end turntable.

My advice: recover the player, service the deck and amplifier and use it as it was meant to be used,

Re: Dansette RG31
 

Rex,

Is the item in working order?

Re: Dansette RG31
 

Hi all

Thanks for the replies.

I have completely gutted the unit, so all that's left is a shell. My plan is to recover it, and put in a high end turntable with a built in pre-amp. Basically I like the vintage look of the Dansette but want new, high quality audio equipment.

As for the original "mechanics" I believe they do still work. They are currently in a box in my Dad's loft

Re: Dansette RG31
 

Oops! This is a vintage restoration forum so I’m not sure you’ll find enthusiastic support for your decision to gut the set, much as you’re entitled to do whatever you like with the remaining case.

I have a friend who does amazing work with Rexine. Maybe look up a few threads on using it, as a first step ? Or ask a more specific question?

Re: Dansette RG31
 

Hi Rex.
You can get Rexine from Russell at Retrospecialist.co.uk, I have used them on several occasions.
If you want to dispose of the Record deck etc put it in the offers section of the forum.
Cheers
John

Re: Dansette RG31
 

I guessed I may get a few unenthusiastic replies regarding my choice… but I’m hoping to restore it, aesthetically at least, as best I can…

I have ordered rexine from Russell already, and have completed the lid. It’s just the curves on the main unit itself that worries me…

Astral… your friend, does he take on jobs? And if so how much does he charge?

Re: Dansette RG31
 

I will say it before anybody else does: you have made a very poor choice.

Dansette portable record players have nothing in common with high quality record decks, and were made for a completely different purpose (mostly, playing 45rpm mono pop singles in teenagers' bedrooms). You will find it extremely difficult to find anything decent that will fit in the Dansette cabinet without looking ridiculous, and it has the wrong physical characteristics to act as a deck plinth anyway.

Sorry :shrug:

Re: Dansette RG31
 

Appreciate the honest opinion, however, I respectively disagree.

I’ve already purchased a Pro-Ject turntable (with a preamp) that will fit inside the Dansette nicely. This will be wired to the stereo output on the back of the Dansette, and to the power switch on the front. Turning the power switch will start the new turntable, and light up the little Dansette badge on the front.

Vintage look, modern sound :thumbsup:

Re: Dansette RG31
 

OK, good luck with it.

Re: Dansette RG31
 

I’ve recovered several rp, my only advice to you would be to practice on an old cabinet/wood item etc first, take your time and don’t put too much Pva onto cabinet or you will get bubbles, a bit like wall papering. Good luck.
Cheers
John