My boyfriend and I just bought an old Garrard Zero 100 turntable that appears to be in good condition. We know absolutely NOTHING about record players, just admire the sound of a vinyl. We noticed that it needed a new needle and somehow misplaced the cartridge after taking it out to research where to get one. Can anyone help these turntable virgins? Any leads would be greatly appreciated! 
You may have gotten yourself into quite something there. A Zero 100 is not exactly the ideal starter 'table - they are quite complex and likely to be in need of some work. Read more.
I hope you misplaced only the cartridge itself (which may be sufficiently annoying as-is if it was something fancy), and not the headshell along with it.
For a beginner, I would prefer something a little more "plug'n'play", like one of Technics' T4P models. (I know you're not exactly drowning in suitable cartridges, but still.) The SL-DD/QD series are pretty basic-looking, rather commonplace '80s "plastic fantastic" models but decent 'tables, and usually quite inexpensive. They may not be as vibration-proof as some subchassis-equipped constructions, but some application of physics should fix that (put 'em on something heavy that is placed on elastic feet of some kind).
Be warned that high-quality vinyl playback isn't a super cheap hobby - the diminishing returns curve is far less steep when compared to digital audio, and there's a lot more fiddling involved. Not to mention that the quality of modern pressings may be all over the place (needs washing first, off-center holes, ...).
I hope you misplaced only the cartridge itself (which may be sufficiently annoying as-is if it was something fancy), and not the headshell along with it.
For a beginner, I would prefer something a little more "plug'n'play", like one of Technics' T4P models. (I know you're not exactly drowning in suitable cartridges, but still.) The SL-DD/QD series are pretty basic-looking, rather commonplace '80s "plastic fantastic" models but decent 'tables, and usually quite inexpensive. They may not be as vibration-proof as some subchassis-equipped constructions, but some application of physics should fix that (put 'em on something heavy that is placed on elastic feet of some kind).
Be warned that high-quality vinyl playback isn't a super cheap hobby - the diminishing returns curve is far less steep when compared to digital audio, and there's a lot more fiddling involved. Not to mention that the quality of modern pressings may be all over the place (needs washing first, off-center holes, ...).
Well......... we all had to start somewhere so ......so,..don't let that scare you .
Having said that, a while "Zero 100" is not the best, it is a fairly good turntable none the less. I actually purchased one back in the '70s
Hopefully yours actually is in good shape . I would suggest that you read as much as you can about it including how to refurbish it .
Most every vintage TT needs some refurbishing .
On thing, does it hold accurate speed? It my vary just slightly but that is normal for them.
Don't rush into anything...... do your research before purchasing or doing anything .
As already alluded to, vinyl playback is more complex than digital and demands user input and some knowledge about it .
BTW.. welcome to vinyl !
EDIT..
A cartridge and stylus are normally not considered part of a turntable and are normally purchased separately . The Zero 100 takes a cartridge with a standard 1/2 inch mount .
Having said that, a while "Zero 100" is not the best, it is a fairly good turntable none the less. I actually purchased one back in the '70s
Hopefully yours actually is in good shape . I would suggest that you read as much as you can about it including how to refurbish it .
Most every vintage TT needs some refurbishing .
On thing, does it hold accurate speed? It my vary just slightly but that is normal for them.
Don't rush into anything...... do your research before purchasing or doing anything .
As already alluded to, vinyl playback is more complex than digital and demands user input and some knowledge about it .
BTW.. welcome to vinyl !
EDIT..
A cartridge and stylus are normally not considered part of a turntable and are normally purchased separately . The Zero 100 takes a cartridge with a standard 1/2 inch mount .
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I've owned a couple of these - still have one somewhere.
A great resource for these units is Vinyl Engine - The Home of the Turntable
As with any older mechanical device there is plenty to know up front to get the best (or even anything) from a Zero 100 I won't repeat it I'll just encourage you to read and ask questions.
IMO the Zero 100 is a classic. Its certainly never going to be the best sonically and its a PITA mechanically, but visitors will always be intrigued by its parallel arm and flashing strobe when its running, and it has a great 1960's-70's vibe to it.
BTW, treat the cartridge slide (the plastic piece the cartridge mounts to) like its a lost Van Gogh painting. They are becoming unobtainium.
A great resource for these units is Vinyl Engine - The Home of the Turntable
As with any older mechanical device there is plenty to know up front to get the best (or even anything) from a Zero 100 I won't repeat it I'll just encourage you to read and ask questions.
IMO the Zero 100 is a classic. Its certainly never going to be the best sonically and its a PITA mechanically, but visitors will always be intrigued by its parallel arm and flashing strobe when its running, and it has a great 1960's-70's vibe to it.
BTW, treat the cartridge slide (the plastic piece the cartridge mounts to) like its a lost Van Gogh painting. They are becoming unobtainium.
Here is the page at "Vinyl Engine" with all the Zero 100 DLs.......... including the owner's and service manual . You will have to register but, it's a great site.
Garrard Zero 100 Manual - Automatic Record Changer - Vinyl Engine
Garrard Zero 100 Manual - Automatic Record Changer - Vinyl Engine
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