Audio Systems: refurbishing my dads sony turntable, sony turntable, amplifier system

Question
Hi-

I am trying to get my dad's Sony ps-lx520 linear tracking turntable to work. It has a Audio Technica SLT88E cartridge in it that is about dead - bad sound, distorted and scratchy. Question is I am not sure if this is the correct cartridge for this table or even if it is a good one. I'd like to get suggestions for upgrading the cartridge to as good as this table will take, but no better as I am told that a cartridge that's better than the turntable will be a waste. Oh, and its a plug - in type. Any suggestions greatly appreciated. Thanks :-)

Of course, if it still sounds bad after putting in a new cartridge... I'm not relishing a rewiring job...sigh.  

Answer
Cartridge is a good, high quality one.

You did not say what amp/preamp you are using with it.  You must have an RIAA preamp input to hear the sound properly.  My suspicion is you are not amplifying it correctly.

Based on your description of the sound you are hearing it seems you need the preamp in between the output of the table and the line or aux input on your amplifier system.

Let me know if you need more help.

C

PS: You can google for RIAA preamps; they cost from $30 to $100 and up.