Everything You Need to Know About Replacing the Cueing Lamp on a Panasonic SL-1200 MK1

The Panasonic SL-1200 MK1 is a legendary turntable that has been used by DJs and audiophiles for decades. One of the common maintenance tasks that you may need to perform on your SL-1200 MK1 is replacing the cueing lamp. This is a small, but essential, component that helps you to see the record groove when you're cueing up a track.

Materials You'll Need

• New cueing lamp (Panasonic PN: SFE7044)
• Small Phillips head screwdriver
• Tweezers
• Soft cloth

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Unplug the Turntable

Before you begin, it's important to unplug the turntable from the power outlet. This will prevent you from getting shocked.

2. Remove the Stylus

Use your tweezers to carefully remove the stylus from the tonearm. Be sure to hold the stylus by the grip, and not the needle.

3. Remove the Headshell

Once the stylus is removed, you can remove the headshell. To do this, simply loosen the two screws that hold the headshell in place. Be careful not to drop the headshell.

4. Locate the Cueing Lamp

The cueing lamp is located on the underside of the tonearm. It's a small, clear bulb that is held in place by a metal clip.

5. Remove the Metal Clip

Use your small Phillips head screwdriver to carefully remove the metal clip that holds the cueing lamp in place. Be careful not to damage the clip.

6. Remove the Cueing Lamp

Once the metal clip is removed, you can carefully pull the cueing lamp out of its socket. Be careful not to touch the bulb with your fingers.

7. Insert the New Cueing Lamp

Take the new cueing lamp and insert it into the socket. Be sure to align the lamp's pins with the holes in the socket.

8. Replace the Metal Clip

Once the new cueing lamp is in place, replace the metal clip. Be sure to tighten the screw securely.

9. Reattach the Headshell

Place the headshell back onto the tonearm and tighten the two screws.

10. Reattach the Stylus

Carefully insert the stylus into the headshell. Be sure to align the stylus with the groove on the record.

11. Plug in the Turntable

Once the stylus is reattached, you can plug the turntable back into the power outlet.

12. Test the Cueing Lamp

Turn on the turntable and press the cueing lever. The cueing lamp should light up and illuminate the record groove.

Tips and Tricks

• If you're having trouble removing the metal clip, you can try using a pair of needle-nose pliers.
• Be sure to hold the cueing lamp by the base, and not the bulb. The bulb is very fragile and can easily be damaged.
• If you're not comfortable replacing the cueing lamp yourself, you can take your turntable to a qualified technician.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don't try to remove the cueing lamp without first removing the metal clip. This can damage the lamp and the socket.
• Don't touch the bulb of the cueing lamp with your fingers. The oils from your fingers can damage the bulb.
• Don't overtighten the metal clip. This can damage the clip and the socket.

Call to Action

If you're experiencing problems with the cueing lamp on your Panasonic SL-1200 MK1, don't hesitate to replace it. This is a relatively simple and inexpensive repair that can help you to improve the performance of your turntable.