Another Turntable Offering:
Sonographe SG-3 Turntable w/ Sumiko MMT arm,
Sonographe SG-3 Turntable
Sono-who? The Sonographe line of turntables were marketed by Conrad Johnson. I am not sure who they had design and manufacture the turntable, but it was a terrific design with a very nice build. Here’s what I like about the SG-3 turntable:
- Suspended acrylic subchassis adjustable from above!
- Extensive use of acrylic for resonance control: platter, drive platter, subchassis
- Drive platter is nicely machined and finished, includes indent for lp labels
- Uses same Hurst motor as the AR tables, so replacements are still available
- Solid wood sides over inner composite wood frame
- Logical and quality dustcover design
As you can see, there is a lot to like about this turntable! There are other suspended subchassis turntables on the periphery, such as CJ Walker and Ariston, but for my money, this is the one to own. The designer was definitely aware of George Merrill’s work because of the use of acrylic throughout for resonance management.
Cosmetically, the turntable is a solid 8.5/10.0. The oak plinth is in excellent condition. There is some very minor wear at the edges, but no deep scratches, no nicks, etc. On the back side, there are two holes where a previous owner mounted a cable junction box. This was done neatly. The dust cover is whole and also in very good to excellent condition.
I really really like this table, and that is no sale’s pitch. I have often thought if I ever do design a turntable, it would incorporate many of the features of the SG-3. Too bad Conrad-Johnson introduced this table right when cds were gaining prominence, otherwise, I really think it would have taken off.
For those interested, here is a brochure for the Sonographe.
The Sumiko MMT Tonearm
The MMT was often paired with the Sonographe. It is a well reviewed arm made by Jelco, a Japanese company that has manufactured tonearms for over 40 years. This used arm is in good cosmetic condition and outstanding functional condition. The is one 1/4 scratch on the arm tube, please see the photo. There is also one area of slight wear on the arm stem and some very slight wear on the original Sumiko headshell. The arm is installed on an original Sonographe armboard.
Overall, this is a stunning table with a serious arm capable of handling cartridges in the $200-800 range with ease. If I install the cartridge, it makes set-up incredibly easy for set-up. I would be happy to mount an owner-purchased cartridge for $30.
The Details
The shipping is not included. 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 NOS turntable box in an extra sturdy box.
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 restorati