Another Turntable Offering:
Stock Thorens TD-160B MKii with rewired SME 3009 Tonearm, Extras, $1295 plus shipping Sale Pending
Why buy a restored vintage Thorens turntable from Vinyl Nirvana?
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-160B MKii w/ Cardas rewired SME 3009 Tonearm, Extras, $1295 plus shipping
Cosmetically, this table is a solid 8.5 on a scale of 1-10. The original Thorens plinth is in very good condition. The sides, which are black paint on metal, are free of any significant cosmetic issues, but there are some light scuffs and very minute nicks. The metal portion of the plinth is also in very good condition The new acrylic hinged dust cover is included. Finally, the black Bren record weight and the cork-rubber composite mat ($120 value) are included. In addition, the belt and the rubber feet are new.
The 160B MKii is fully manual and runs at 33 and 45 rpm. The “B” designation means it came with a non-Thorens arm, and thus there is no cueing apparatus at the front right. The arm has its own cueing lever.
The rewired SME 3009 Series II Improved Tonearm
The SME is an audio classic, coveted by many as THE vintage arm. It is simply one of the best respected and best looking tonearms ever produced. This specific arm is in good cosmetic condition and functions perfectly. It features the highly desirable removeable headshell. Please note the picture below of the REAR base plate where some of the finish has bubbled. It is NOT flaking or loose. It is not visible from in front of the turntable. As commensurate with the age, there are other small blemishes here and there on the arm, though none anywhere near as significant as the bubbling that is shown.
The forty plus year old wiring has been updated with Cardas wiring from the headshell coupling to the Art Pop RCA plugs. The $225 value arm rewire was done by a tonearm technician who has literally done 100s of arms, new and vintage.
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 piece of mind it’s been done right. The cartridge in photos is NOT included. I am a dealer for Ortofon, Grado, and Dynavector.
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 UPS.
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.