Another Turntable Offering:
Custom Thorens TD-160BC MKII in Solid Zebrawood w/Upgraded Rega (Michell) RB-250, Extras, $1195 plus shipping
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-160BC inCustom Solid Zebrawood w/Upgraded Rega RB-250, Extras, $1195 plus shipping
What makes this week’s offering EXTRA special is the custom plinth in solid Zebrawood. I just love the depth and coloring of this exotic hardwood. As gorgeous as this looks in the photos, it is even more so in person. The BC version of the TD–160 came without a stock tonearm, so there is no this vestigial cueing lever. A nice clean look!
Cosmetically, this table is a solid 9.0 on a scale of 1-10. The solid zebrawood 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 one small indent to the left of the arm and one small scuff to the left of the armboard (see pic, so small, hard to show). The new custom set-on style dust cover is included, as well the Bren record weight.
The custom zebrawood plinth was crafted by a finish carpenter/cabinet maker with over thirty years of experience. It was finished in mulitiple coats of Tung oil finish. The custom plinth is substantially more dense and heavy than the MKII plinth.
The Upgraded Rega (Michell) RB-250
If you have never compared a stock Rega RB – 250 to one that has been rewired with upgrade wiring, it is a night and day difference… a cliche I rarely use, but in this case it’s true. As part of the rewiring, the arm ground was removed from the signal path. This is a used Rega RB-250 made for the Michell company from England. It is identical to the Rega badged RB-250 in every way except the name badge.
Overall, this is a stunning table with a serious arm capable of handling cartridges in the $200 to $800 range with ease. If I install the cartridge, it makes set-up incredibly easy for set-up. I can quote a cartridge from the Ortofon, Grado, or Dynavector lines. Or, if you have a cartridge already, I would be happy to mount it for the new owner for $30. (The Ortofon 2m Red in photos is not included.)
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.
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.
