The Master! Thorens TD-125 in Custom Zebrawood Plinth, w/SME M2-9 Tonearm, Extras
Another Turntable Offering:
The Master! Thorens TD-125 in Custom Zebrawood Plinth, w/SME M2-9 Tonearm, Extras $2195 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-125 w/SME M2-9Tonearm
Though I love the TD 160 line, there is something about the substantialness of the 125 series that excites me. One thing is for sure, it is an ideal mate for the SME arms.
I would rate this particular turntable an 8.5/10.0. The gorgeous Zebrawood plinth is fresh from the workshop of my finish carpenter…it is just stunning…the photos do not do it justice. Unlike the original TD-125 plinth which was veneered, this is solid Zebrawood. It has been finished with three coats of finish highly recommended to highlight the beauty of the grain. Additionally, modern adhesives and reinforcements ensure this will become an heirloom. The metal top has the original finish which shows minor scuffs and wear. IT can be upgraded by sandblasting/powdercoating in “grey sparkle” for $125. The brushed aluminum faceplate is in excellent condition , with all lettering crisp and dark. The arm board is new, painted satin black. A new 3/4″ MDF bottom has been added.
The TD-125 features three speeds: 16, 33, and 45. There is a pitch controller and a stroboscope for precise speed adjustment. The speed control unit has been completely serviced, with the caps and transistors most likely to fail replaced! After replacement, it was completely reset to original spec. It is now ready for another 40 years of service! The clear acrylic set-on style dustcover is an additional $165. The stunning brushed aluminum Bren record weight is included.
The 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 is mounted on a new armboard machined just for this arm. (All box, packing, and literature is included.)
If you purchase this table, we can discuss cartridge options as part of the sale. I have several recommendations. (I am a dealer for Dynavector, Ortofon, and Grado. 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. Overall, this is a stunning table with a serious arm capable of handling cartridges in the $400 to $2000 range with ease.
Custom acrylic dustcover available for $165. Must ship in separate box.Original paint on top plate can be sandblasted/powdercoated for $125
Sample of powdercoated top in "grey sparkle"
Mirror polished platter in this photo available for $95
Closer view of the grain...gorgeous!
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.
