Another Turntable Offering:
Merrill Heirloom w/M-S Upgrades, Rega RB-301 Arm, $2495 plus shipping
The Merrill Heirloom Turntable
Preface:
Many of you know that my main turntable is a Merrill Heirloom. Since I purchased that turntable, I have not wanted another one in my system. It is essentially a modded AR on steroids. George Merrill took all of the modifications he had been designing and manufacturing for ARs, and took them to the next level in the table he called the Heirloom because he felt it would be the last turntable a person would own, and they would pass it on. George stopped making the Heirloom turntables in the 90s. In the mid-2000s he and Anthony Scillia sold the MS-21 and MS-2, which are definite relatives of the Heirloom. (Here’s a link to a Six Moons review of an MS-2. It is extensive in outlining the history and the accomplishments of this turntable. ) I have also created my own Merrill pages here. Enjoy learning more about these amazing tables.
The Table:
As you can see from the photos, the turntable is in very good used condition, an 8.5/10.0. There are some very minor scuffs on the laminate top surface that I could not get to show in photos. The solid walnut plinth has some small scuffs and extremely small nicks. The dark grain hides these unless you are literally looking through a magnifying head lamp.
In terms of upgrades, this turntable was completely upgraded by Merrill-Scillia five years ago with the latest terpolymer subchassis, latest aluminum resin drive platter, latest acrylic platter, latest clamp ring, and latest low voltage motor. In addition, it has highly acclaimed machined springs, which truly take the suspended subchassis turntable design concept to a new level. Also included is the Merrill-Scillia solid stainless steel record weight and the solid stainless steel tuning weight. You can read all about the philosophy behind these mods here.
Please note, at the moment, the turntable is 33rpm only. If the new owner desires, the motor can be swapped out with a regular voltage model and I can add a Mose-Hercules Speed Controller to give one the ability to switch speeds 33 and 45 rpm at the push of a button. I have completed that mod to a couple of Heirlooms, and I have been very impressed with the results. (Adds $425)
My final words on the table…it is my strong opinion that a generation from now these Merrill tables will be regarded as the finest example of the suspended sub-chassis, belt driven turntable. So, here is your chance to own one, completely serviced by me to bring it back to its glory.
The Rega RB-301 Tonearm
The 301 appears in most stereo mags as an incredible audio value. I heartily agree. If you have never compared the RB-301 to the older RB-300, it features a 3-point mount which adds more stability and a much beefier/better quality rca cable. The VTA adjuster is included, to make VTA adjustments easy.
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 double boxing and layers of bubble wrap. I prefer UPS. (Because this was a prototype, the stock Merrill packing was not available.
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 and a 5% restocking fee. After ten days, all returns are for merchandise credit only.
Read what Ben Folds and others have had to say about buying from Vinyl Nirvana.
Email me if you are interested in purchasing this turntable or another one I have slated for restoration.