Description
Why buy a restored vintage Thorens turntable from Vinyl Nirvana?
When you buy a restored turntable from Vinyl Nirvana, the table has undergone a multistep inspection, tuning, and detailing regimen. The work is performed by me, someone who has worked exclusively on belt driven, suspended subchassis turntables such as Thorens, Linn, and AR for over a decade. I know these models intimately, and have developed techniques over my lifetime to restore them to the best condition possible.
In addition, since I have probably the largest selection of parts for these turntables in North America, if it is determined by inspection that something needs to be replaced because it is missing, broken or worn, it happens. Though all of the turntables I sell will be 100% functional, because of their age, cosmetic condition will vary. It is my pledge to you that any and all cosmetic defects will be pointed out in the item description, and whenever it is possible, photographs will be provided. When you buy from me, it is not like eBay where you have to wonder if you are getting what you are really getting. If there is a flaw cosmetically, you will know it is there.
As a potential buyer, you should know I don’t just service these turntables, I love them. Though I have restored hundreds of them, I still find great joy in bringing a vintage turntable back to its glory. Likewise, if the turntable has been customized, I cared deeply that those items are the best possible ones I can source. For example, my custom plinths are built by a finish carpenter with over 30 years of experience, someone who cares as much about their sound construction as their beauty. Likewise, when something is custom painted or powercoated, I go to a professional company, one of the most highly regarded in New England. Those are just two examples, but I have made it my mission, when I do farm out work, to get people who care about their finished product the same way I do.
Finally, because none of the above will matter if the turntable doesn’t reach you in one piece, I have extensive experience in safely shipping vintage turntables. I know the tricks and the techniques to get your turntable to you without incident. I literally ship over 100 turntables per year, and my success rate is over 99%. In the fractional amount of cases where there is a problem, it is always resolved with your complete satisfaction as my goal. A lot of businesses make that claim; with me you will find it is a way of life. See our testimonial page.
The Featured Thorens TD-166 MKii in Solid Cherry Plinth
The Table
What makes this week’s offering EXTRA special is the custom plinth in solid 3/4″ solid cherry. I love the classic look of the cherry with the brushed aluminum top plate. As fabulous as this looks in the photos, it is even more so in person. The custom plinth was crafted by a finish carpenter/cabinet maker with over thirty years of experience. It was finished in multiple coats of Tung oil finish. As mentioned above, the custom plinth is substantially more dense and heavy than the stock plinth. A 1/2 inch black dyed mdf bottom also adds mass.
The TD-166 MKii was the little brother to the TD-160 MKii. It is fully manual, with speeds of 33 and 45 rpm. The TP-11 arm is original and offers all adjustments one would ask of an audiophile grade arm. Cosmetically, this table is a solid 8.5 on a scale of 1-10. The top plate is in overall good condition, the one flaw being the cue up “arrow” is slightly fading. (see pics) The table is fully tested and functional. In terms of upgrades, the belt, cork-rubber composite mat, male rca plugs and Ortofon cartridge are all new.
Note: Unlike most of my turntables this one comes WITHOUT a dust cover. A set on style cover adds $99. A new hinged acrylic dust cover is available for $149. Inquire after the sale.
The Ortofon OM-10
This moving magnet cartridge is brand new. It retails for $72 but is included here at the asking price. The cartridge is mounted and aligned for you, making set up much less stressful for you. Please note the OM-10 is considered a “starter” cartridge. You can upgrade it now or later by buying the OM-20 ($195) or OM-30 stylus ($275) from me. Inquire after the sale.
The Details
110/120 volt 60 hz only
Note: Due to the nature and scope of my business, shipping your turntable package can range from 2-10 business days. After your purchase, I will contact you within 24 hours with my best shipping estimate date.
Note: Turntables with sprung subchassis are wonderful in many ways for isolating your turntable from unwanted resonances, however, they are susceptible to footfalls. If this turntable is going in a room with bouncy floors, it will need to go on a wall shelf for proper functioning.
We have over fifteen years experience shipping vintage turntables successfully. All turntables are packed with the utmost concern with them arriving in the same condition you see pictured here.
If the buyer needs it, I can supply up to a half hour hour of help by phone with set up. (At a mutually arranged time.) In general, most buyers don’t need it, but if there IS a problem, I am there. I also have many videos available to hel with various set-up issues.
Your table is guaranteed to look and work as described, or you may return it within ten days of arrival for a full refund, minus return shipping charges and a 15% restocking fee. After ten days, all returns are for merchandise credit only. If you ever have an issue with your purchase, 3 weeks or months or years after the purchase, please contact me and we will resolve the issue in a way we mutually agree upon.
Read what Ben Folds and others have had to say about buying from Vinyl Nirvana.
