MAGNAVOX CP-242B Collaro Turntable Repair

( Brand: Magnavox ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: CP-242B ), ( Model: COLLARO ), ( Part Type: Turntable ), ( Country Of Origin: England )

Review MAGNAVOX Collaro Turntable Repair Or Parts Only Untested Read

The **Magnavox CP-242B Collaro Turntable** is a classic example of mid-century engineering craftsmanship, designed with both functionality and timeless elegance in mind. Originally manufactured in the 1960s, this model stands out as a rare and sought-after piece of vintage audio equipment, blending the simplicity of a direct-drive mechanism with the distinctive charm of its Collaro (collapsible) tonearm. The turntable s robust, all-metal construction featuring a heavy-duty cast-aluminum platter and a precision-machined counterweight ensures stability and durability, making it a reliable choice for audiophiles and collectors alike. The tonearm itself, a hallmark of the era, is designed with a collapsible joint that allows for easy storage and transport, a practical feature that was particularly valued by those who appreciated both form and function. Beneath its sleek, retro styling lies a direct-drive motor, known for its smooth and consistent speed, free from the wobble often associated with belt-driven systems. The CP-242B s matte black or two-tone finish, paired with its clean, minimalist design, gives it a timeless appeal that transcends decades, making it a prized addition to any audio enthusiast s collection. Whether restored to pristine condition or preserved in its original vintage state, this turntable embodies the spirit of analog audio where craftsmanship, innovation, and enduring beauty converge. For those seeking to repair or restore one, the CP-242B offers a rewarding challenge, with its mechanical precision and iconic design making it a fascinating piece of history to bring back to life.

Buying a **Magnavox CP-242B Collaro turntable** specifically for repair rather than as a new purchase involves several considerations. Below is a detailed breakdown of the pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

---

### **Pros of Buying a Magnavox CP-242B Collaro for Repair**

1. **Rarity and Collectibility**

The Magnavox CP-242B Collaro is a classic, high-quality turntable from the 1970s, known for its precision engineering and sound quality. Many audiophiles and collectors seek out well-maintained examples. If you plan to restore and sell it later, its rarity could increase its value over time.

2. **Sound Quality and Build**

The CP-242B features a direct-drive motor, a counterweighted tonearm, and a high-quality cartridge (often the Stantone or Shibata), which were considered top-tier for their time. If restored properly, it can deliver excellent sound, appealing to audiophiles and vintage equipment enthusiasts.

3. **Potential for Resale Value**

If the turntable is in good condition and restored well, it could fetch a high price in the used market, especially among collectors. Some models from this era have appreciated significantly over the years.

4. **Historical and Aesthetic Appeal**

The CP-242B has a distinctive, mid-century modern design that many appreciate. Its inclusion in a collection of vintage audio gear could add to its desirability.

5. **Repair and Customization Opportunities**

Restoring this turntable allows you to learn about analog audio systems, tonearms, and cartridges. You could also upgrade components (e.g., replacing the stock cartridge with a modern one like a Stantone or Ortofon) to improve performance.

6. **Community and Networking**

Owning and restoring a classic turntable connects you to a niche community of audiophiles and collectors. This can lead to shared knowledge, trade-ins, and potential collaborations.

---

### **Cons of Buying a Magnavox CP-242B Collaro for Repair**

1. **High Initial Cost**

Even if the turntable is in need of repair, the purchase price may be steep, especially if it s a well-known model. You could end up spending more upfront than you would on a modern turntable with similar (or better) performance.

2. **Repair Complexity and Costs**

- **Motor and belt replacement** (if belt-driven) or direct-drive motor servicing.

- **Tonearm balancing and alignment** (a delicate process that requires precision).

- **Cartridge replacement or refurbishment** (cartridges degrade over time and may need cleaning or replacement).

- **Platter and bearing servicing** (wear and tear can affect tracking).

- **Electrical and wiring checks** (some models have fragile wiring that may need repair).

These repairs can add up quickly, especially if you lack experience and need to hire professionals.

3. **Time-Consuming Process**

Restoring a turntable is not a quick fix it can take weeks or months, depending on your skill level and the condition of the unit. This may not be feasible if you re looking for immediate use.

4. **Depreciation Risk**

While some vintage turntables appreciate, others depreciate if they re not in pristine condition or if the market shifts. If you re not confident in your restoration skills, the turntable might not hold its value.

5. **Modern Alternatives**

Many modern turntables offer comparable (or superior) sound quality at a fraction of the cost. For example, a well-reviewed entry-level or mid-range turntable (e.g., Audio-Technica AT-LP60X, Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Evo, or Rekordvinyl RV1) can be purchased new for a similar price to restoring a vintage model. These often come with warranties and require minimal maintenance.

6. **Cartridge and Accessory Compatibility**

The stock cartridge on the CP-242B may be outdated or incompatible with modern preamps. You ll likely need to replace it, adding to the cost. Additionally, finding compatible accessories (e.g., anti-skate adjustments, phono preamps) can be challenging.

7. **Lack of Standardization**

Vintage turntables often lack modern standards for alignment, tracking force, and anti-skate. Achieving optimal performance may require extensive tweaking and experimentation.

8. **Environmental and Practical Considerations**

Vintage turntables are sensitive to environmental factors like humidity, temperature, and dust. Maintaining them requires careful storage and handling, which can be inconvenient compared to modern turntables.

---

### **Conclusion**

- You are passionate about vintage audio and enjoy the process of restoration.

- You have the time, patience, and technical skills (or access to professionals) to restore it properly.

- You re confident that the turntable will appreciate in value or that you ll derive personal satisfaction from the project.

- You re willing to invest significant time and money into bringing it back to optimal condition.

- You re looking for a turntable to use immediately without the hassle of restoration.

- You prioritize cost-effectiveness and modern convenience.

- You lack experience with vintage audio equipment and are unsure about the repair process.

- You d rather have a turntable that s already in working order with modern reliability.

...then purchasing a **modern turntable** may be the better choice.

---

### **Recommendation**

If you re **not already deeply invested in vintage audio**, I recommend against buying the Magnavox CP-242B solely for repair unless you re prepared for the challenges and costs involved. Instead, consider these alternatives:

1. **Buy a Modern Turntable**

- **Budget Option:** Audio-Technica AT-LP60X ( $200) or Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Evo ( $300).

- **Mid-Range Option:** Rekordvinyl RV1 ( $400) or Audio-Technica LP120X ( $500).

These offer excellent sound quality, reliability, and ease of use without the repair hassle.

2. **Buy a Used Vintage Turntable in Working Condition**

If you still want a classic, look for a **restored or well-maintained** example (e.g., a Technics SL-1200, Rega RP1, or another Magnavox model) that s already functional. Websites like Reverb, eBay (with caution), or local audiophile forums are good places to find these.

3. **Start with a Less Expensive Vintage Model**

If you re determined to restore a vintage turntable, consider a **less rare or less expensive model** (e.g., a Technics SL-1200, which is more common and easier to repair) before committing to the CP-242B.

4. **Focus on the Restoration Process as a Learning Experience**

If you re buying the CP-242B primarily to learn about turntable repair, pair it with a **less expensive project** (e.g., a cheap belt-driven turntable) to practice before tackling the Magnavox.

---

### **Final Verdict**

The Magnavox CP-242B is a **fantastic turntable if restored properly**, but it s not the most practical choice for someone looking for a hassle-free audio experience. If you re serious about vintage audio and willing to invest the time and effort, it can be a rewarding project. Otherwise, a modern turntable or a pre-restored vintage model would likely serve you better in the long run.

Details:

Please see the pictures. For Sale: Magnavox Collaro turntable from a model CP-242B console stereo. Although this is an untested turntable, I do not see any reason it would be in full operational use with a little TLC. This is a complete turntable in very good cosmetic condition.

part #: cp242b price

• $49.00

specifications vintagerecordplaygo:

• brand: Magnavox
• mpn: Cp-242b
• model: Collaro
• part type: Turntable
• country of origin: England

offer vintagerecordplaygo:

• sold: 0
• started: March 12, 2026
• quantity: 1
• availability: In Stock
• options: Ship-to-home

payments vintagerecordplaygo:

• other
• credit card: Mastercard
• wallet: Google-pay

shipping vintagerecordplaygo:

• type: Calculated
• transit: 2-5 Days
• service: FedEx Ground / FedEx Home Delivery
• class: Standard
• cost: $31.78
• carrier: FedEx

seller vintagerecordplaygo:

• rating: 100.0%
• city: Missoula, Montana
• # reviews: 2489

returns vintagerecordplaygo:

• policy: No Returns

general vintagerecordplaygo:

• Vintage Electronics > Vintage Audio Video > Vintage Record Players
• condition: For parts or not working

Magnavox CP-242B Is Similar To:

• 456sf 456sf 1 Nos Collaro Magnavox (25.9% similar) The item as you can see from photos is very presentable. 3 in height . What a great find. Here is 1 vintage new old stock collaro Magnavox Eva 456SF 45 rpm record adapter spindle in nice condition see photos thanks. Also many others. Please see to photos for condition and quality. Fits collaro ...(August 23rd, 2017)
• 1 K8888 Magnavox Micromatic Turntable (38.2% similar) I have put a new cord end on it, my guess is this was part of console unit because the old plug cut off. Wood base is decent just a few edge scrapes again nothing outstanding. Plexiglas top is really pretty decent has light scratches nothing outstanding. Took pictures of cartridge I do not know what...(August 21st, 2018)
• 1 St608 R Magnavox Vintage Turntable Record Player Radio Original Cherry Cabinet (45.8% similar) Radio and turntable power on. Pretty rare complete cabinet. Cabinet has some wear, but its in pretty decent shape. Looks pretty much complete...(June 5th, 2018)
• 13392 Magnavox Vtg Micromatic Turntable (39.3% similar) It has switch on,off and auto. I think a power cord can be wired in to harness and it could hooked up stereo, the record player does not have built rca plugs they would need. It is made in england model W700 w 800 series tag shows volts 60 cycles. Boxes because this limits me to use the post ...(July 9th, 2017)
• 1480-01 Magnavox Vintage Idler Wheel For (31.9% similar) This is a idler wheel, and for the following turntables:collaro 58-41, TC-340, TSC-640, SC Magnavox, f2 j2 k6 S600 used. Up for sale here is this vintage idler wheel, marked 8096. The rubber is still fairly soft, but there a dent on rim in one area, so this will need to be rebuilt presumably. Please...(January 9th, 2017)
• 148b Magnavox Vintage Stereo Phonograph Console Tube Amp Record Player Turntable (35.3% similar) Will list 2 time, if it dont sell I part out. Look like the turntable assembly is not correct for it, wood based modified, I dont know, I'm an expert. Estate item. Dont know anything else. For more detail check pictures below, order continuously. Vintage Magnavox turntable cabinet model 148B. Power ...(April 6th, 2018)
• 151b Magnavox Vintage Turntable Tube (40.4% similar) Vintage turntable Magnavox tube 151B...(October 13th, 2018)
• 161203 Magnavox Vintage Turntable Model Wont Turn On (44.8% similar) Made in the USA. The speaker wires are intact, rubber disc, arm, controls on top in very good condition. Ships only in the us. I opened the inside and all looks very good, can't find any broken parts, maybe cord but there are no apparent breaks in. Vintage Magnavox turntable, model , plays records. ...(December 12th, 2018)
• 1k8887 Magnavox Vintage Automatic Turntable Record Player (43.1% similar) Here is an old Magnavox turntable, it probably uses transistors. The dust cover is also here. It has an unusual plug so I am selling as is. I purchased at an estate sale and have no way to test it...(February 16th, 2019)
• Vintage 1k8890 Record Player Turntable Changer 1972 Magnavox (37.6% similar) Great for an audiophile's collection. It turns on and spins like new, but I didn't have a record to test the needle or changer, however it looks barely used, everything is very clean and shows little to no wear. This vintage turntable is in excellent condition...(January 7th, 2015)
• 1p2506 Magnavox Vintage Portable Turntable Record Player Radio Phono Am Fm (38.1% similar) With accessories included or not read the entire and look at all photos in listing before placing a bid buying an item. Vintage Magnavox 1P2506 portable turntable record player radio phono am FM for parts or repair...(April 15th, 2018)