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What is the difference between the idler wheels used with 78 phonos and the more modern ones? I would think an idler wheel is an idler wheel, regardless of how old or new the turntable is. Was there something special about the type of rubber used in those vintage idlers?
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It isn't a matter of the type of rubber, it's a matter of the size of the wheel. Inner diameter, outer diameter, and occasionally thickness will make a difference. The wheel has to be able to fit on the spindle provided, and also be able to properly drive the turntable, and be drivin by the motor. Also, due to certain laws of rotational physics, the size of the turntable relative to the size of the idler wheel and the speed of the motor will affect the (rather crucial) speed of the turntable itself.
I've personally not had any luck tracking down suitable replacement wheels for the turntables that I have. I've even tried making things, and modifying other idlers, but haven't had useable success. Replacing the pickup with something a little easier to find is rather simple. It's not that hard to fit a PowerPoint holder or a Tetrad pickup in one of the old arms. Adjusting the tracking force is usually just a matter or adding weight to the base of the arm. But I just have never been able to find a good way to replace the idler wheel. How much does it typically cost to have an idler retreaded? Where does one go for such a service? Have people had good luck with rebuilt idlers?
-Ian