Another Turntable Offering:
Custom Thorens TD-160 Super in Padauk w/ new SME M2-9 Tonearm
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.
This Week’s Thorens TD-160 Super in Custom Padauk Plinth, with new SME M2-9 Tonearm, $1995 plus shipping
In 2011, this exact combination was one of my most discussed and drooled over offerings. Thus, I am very excited to offer another! What makes this EXTRA special is the custom plinth in solid African Padauk wood. The reddish tint of the wood is reminiscent of the stock Super base, but this wood is so much more richer in texture and looks. (See close-ups.)
Cosmetically, this table is an solid 8.5 on a scale of 1-10. The padauk plinth is brand new with not a single blemish to report. The metal portion of the plinth is in very good to excellent condition, with just one fine circular scratch at the edge of the platter line on the right. (See pic) The new custom set-on style dust cover is included. Finally, the Bren record weight is also included.
The custom padauk plinth was crafted by a finish carpenter/cabinet maker with over thirty years of experience. It was finished in mulitiple coats of Teak oil to preserve the surface from UV rays.
The new SME M2-9 Tonearm
The SME tonearms have been lauded for their excellence for over 40 years. The M2-9 is their latest arm. (Retail $1295) It incorporates many of the classic SME characteristics, yet belongs solidly in the here and now. It can easily handle cartridges in a multi-thousand dollar range. (All box, packing, and literature is included.) The arm is fully warrantied.
If you purchase this table, we can discuss cartridge options as part of the sale. I have several recommendations. If 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 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.