Garrard RC98

A 4-speed super auto-manual record changer

Overview

The GARRARD RC98 is a 4-speed super auto-manual record changer manufactured by Garrard Eng. & Mfg. Co. Ltd. It supports playback at 16, 33, 45, and 78 rpm and can automatically play up to eight records of 10 or 12 inches in size. The unit was available in variants including the RC98/4L, RC98/4H, and RC98/4, with schedule number 53000/4. Designed for built-in or standalone use, it features an idler-wheel drive system and a ceramic cartridge.

Specifications

Product type	4-Speed Super Auto-Manual Changer
Speeds	16, 33, 45, 78 rpm
Record capacity	Up to eight records
Record sizes	10 or 12 inch at 78 rpm
Model variants	RC98/4L, RC98/4H, RC98/4
Schedule number	53000/4
Chassis type	Chassis only or for «building in»
Drive type	idler wheel turntable
Cartridge type	ceramic cartridge design

Design

The RC98 uses an idler-wheel drive system and features a chunky tonearm with a ceramic cartridge. It was designed for integration into console systems or as a chassis-only unit for custom installations.

Market

The RC98/4L has sold for $75 in working condition, while other listings show higher asking prices, including one at €255 and another at $3,628.90 (15% off original). Some units require servicing to restore operation, and restoration interest exists, with documented threads on platter removal and repair. Service documentation is available, including a 1956 Photofact manual (338 - 5) and schematics from antique radio archives.

Market Value

┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ GARRARD RC98                                                    May 2026 │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ High      $24                                     Latest             $24 │
│ Median    $23                                     Trend           ▼ Down │
│ Low       $13                                     Volume           ~3/mo │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│    $50 ┤                                                                 │
│        │                                                                 │
│        │                                                                 │
│    $29 ┤                                                                 │
│        │.                                                               .│
│        │                                                                 │
│        │                               .                                 │
│     $0 ┤                                                                 │
│        ├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│
│    vol │█                              █                                █│
│        └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│
│         2026-04                      2026-04                      2026-05│
└──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

eBay completed sales. Excludes accessories, parts, and non-working units. Hover points for details.