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Custom AR the Turntable, Midnight Edition - $1,200 (Exeter)
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It's well documented that the walnut veneer on the mid '80s AR the turntables is failing. About 6 years ago I had this AR completely stripped and the base prepared by an accomplished auto body shop. Then I brought it to a different high-end paint shop for the high gloss black finish. In addition to the high-end paint job, there are many other upgrades to this table. First, the addition of the Rega RB330 mounted on a copolymer arm board of incredible quality with great sound deadening properties. Second, the motor was upgraded with the Merrill upgrade motor that runs at 16 volts and internally corrects the weaknesses of the original motor. Third, the original platter bearing shaft was upgraded with one of high grade stainless steel. Fourth, the original springs were replaced with high quality upgrade ones.
Cosmetically, the high gloss paint shows some light age now being 6 years old. There is some light scuffing and some very light circular scratching that is visible in certain light and at certain angles. Overall, from about 3 ft away, it looks amazing. However, when you are over it and there is light on it, you can certainly see the small cosmetic issues. I'm happy to report there are no significant scratches whatsoever and no nicks. Please examine the many photos.
In order to preserve the quality paint finish, I never mounted hinges on the turntable. The original dust cover has been modified with strips of felt tape so it can safely sit on the painted surface without causing any wear or damage. I would describe the dust cover as 8.0/10 cosmetically. There are some light scratches and scuffs.
To make this package extra special, I mounted a BRAND NEW Hana EL cartridge. ($475 value) I have over 20 years experience mounting and aligning cartridges so it is going to be ready to play for you. Please take a listen to the video that is with the ad.
Price is firm to own this one of a kind turntable with many respected AR upgrades and a brand new cartridge. I don't want to chance shipping the amazing paint job, otherwise the asking price would be $500 more.
We can arrange for pickup at my home in Exeter or I can meet you in any direction from Exeter that is a half hour or less.
Upgrades in today's pricing:
Custom paint with Prep $500
Rega RB-330 $675
Co-polymer armboard $140
Upgrade spindle shaft $180
Upgrade spring kit $55
Merrill Upgrade Motor: $225
Hana EL $475