Custom Thorens TD-150 w/Rega RB-300, Tiger Maple Plinth, Extras. $895 plus shipping
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.
This Week’s Custom Thorens TD-150 w/Rega RB-300, Extras, $895 plus shipping
I have been modifying the wonderful and venerable Thorens TD – 150 for over 10 years. I have written in my blog about how wonderful it is as a platform for a custom turntable. This particular unit came in recently as a trade-in. To be honest, I am always skeptical when a table is coming in with a “custom-made” plinth. I know first hand that it looks easy to make a plinth, but to carry it out flawlessly, well that’s something else entirely. In any event, I was pleasantly surprised when this unit arrived and I could see the level of craftsmanship. The finger joints are well done. Likewise, the fit and finish is overall very very well done.
Cosmetically, this turntable is an 8.5/10. As stated above, the tiger maple plinth is very well crafted. However, one dovetail in the front right has a tiny space (see pic) and the back right joint has a little more space than there should be, maybe 1/16th. The armboard is also tiger maple, stained red. It is in exceptional shape. The metal portion of the plinth is very good to excellent. There is one area where the metal is lightly creased. (see pic)
Mechanically, please note the speed changer has been removed. (Some owners did this deliberately to eliminate the potential resonance it could create.) As a result, speed change is done by removing the platter and placing the belt on the correct portion of the pulley. (Just as one does it on an AR)
The Bren record weight is included, but no dust cover, However, I can have one custom-made in 3-4 weeks for $125.
The Rega RB-300 Arm
Rega arms are continually hailed as one of the best values in audio. This used stock RB-300 is in very good to excellent condition, with some very slight wear at the headshell. If you purchase this table, I can discuss cartridge options as part of the sale. I am a dealer of Grado, Ortofon, and Dynavector cartridges. When I mount and align your cartridge, it makes set-up in your home incredibly easy, plus you get the peace of mind it’s been done right.
The tiger maple is exceptional!Note slight space in bottom left dovetailNote small space at right rear corner top
Slight "crease" in metal top, 2" longNote the cueing lever to the right is now vestigial
Note speed changer has been removed
The Details
This table will be packed like it is a fragile pane of glass. I simply care too much for these tables to just shove them in a box. I will carefully pack the table in extra sturdy boxes. and bubble wrap. I prefer Fedex Ground.
I love introducing someone new to the joys of vinyl, getting someone back into vinyl who left it for the “superiority” of cds, or helping someone else who does appreciate it to “move up.” In that regard, I do what few sellers do…if the buyer needs it, I can supply up to one 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.
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. After ten days, all returns are for merchandise credit only.
Some comments from buyers….
“Outstanding & dedicated craftsman. Helpful hints. Personal attention.”
“The best! A great communicator who goes above and beyond in the service dept.”
“If you want an excellent reconditioned vintage turntable, Dave’s the Man! Thanks”
“When eBay was invented, nobody dreamed there’d be a seller as great as Dave!!”
Email me if you are interested in purchasing this turntable or another one I have slated for restoration.