Another Turntable Offering
The Ultimate: Max-ed Out AR ES-1 Turntable w/Rega (Moth) RB-301 Tonearm, $2295 plus shipping
Why spend more to buy a refurbished AR turntable from Vinyl Nirvana?
Buying vintage electronic equipment on eBay can be a gamble. To better your chances at winning, you want two things: 1) Plenty of information about the auction item; and 2) A seller you can trust. When an AR turntable is refurbished by Vinyl Nirvana, it undergoes a multi-step inspection and tuning regimen. Ask another seller of aa AR table on Ebay these questions and see if you can get a response…
Is the motor running silently? Any unhealthy bearing noise?
Is the spindle straight? Was the spindle cleaned of old belt residue, which can cause rumble?
Does the belt properly interface with the spindle on both 33 and 45 rpm?
Is the belt new or in near mint condition?
Is the proper length belt installed? (Differences of less than an inch can result in speed changes.)
Is the proper width belt installed? (Differences can result in belt slippage or faulty change of speed.)
Has the platter bearing been inspected? Is it straight, true, and without significant wear?
Has the platter bearing well been inspected? Was it cleaned of old grease and contaminants? Was it properly lubed with appropriate oil?
Is the tonearm functioning properly? Any significant side-to-side motion, which can adversely affect tracking? Is range of motion appropriate? Is anti-skate functioning? Is appropriate tonearm weight installed?
Is cueing adjusted properly?
Were electrical connections cleaned and inspected? Headshell leads? Tonearm recepticle? RCA plugs? (Dirty connections can contribute to hum problems.) Are all connections tight? ( I use Dexoit products, highly recommended.)
Is transport screw intact? Is it functioning properly?
Are dust cover hinges intact and not stripped?
Was all wiring beneath the turntable inspected? Were worn solder joints re-soldered?
What is the condition of the AC cord? The interconnect cable?
Are springs in good working condition? Have worn springs been replaced? Has spring suspension been tuned? (This is an art learned through having set up dozens of these tables.)
Was the speed checked by strobodisc at 33 and 45 rpm?
Was headshell inspected? Is there any stripping? Do the cartridge screws hold tight? Are the leads brittle?
Is the tonearm rest original? Is it functioning properly?
Is a proper mat installed?
Is the base intact? Are the rubber feet intact?
If an AR table fails to pass any of the above inspections, Vinyl Nirvana corrects the problem before it gets listed. If the turntable is unsellable due to too many defects, it becomes a parts unit to be used in the restoration of other AR units. In addition to this multi-step inspection, each turntable is thoroughly detailed with appropriate cleaners. The average cleaning takes up to two hours. Though the tables Vinyl Nirvana sells will vary cosmetically, they will always be clean. Can you trust Vinyl Nirvana as a seller? Please read our ebay feedback (username vinylnirvana3345) regarding sales of turntables. Notice references to item exactly as described. Notice references to excellent packing. Notice references to our service and committment after the sale. Then see our testimonial page linked on the “For Sale” page.
This Week’s Maxed Out AR ES-1 with Rega (Moth) RB-301 Tonearm
The AR ES-1 is one of those tables that makes my heart beat faster. It has looks that demand attention, especially in the rarified cherry finish.
On to the turntable…cosmetically, this table is an 8.5 on a scale of 1-10. (I’m a hard rater.) The cherry veneer is in excellent shape, with only the slightest signs of wear. The metal portion of the plinth was professionally sand-blasted and powder-coated. (See photo without platters.) The only flaw of any consequence is an area of bare paint to the rear of the power switch.
The table has been highly modified with the CURRENT incarnation of the Merrill-Scillia/Vinyl Nirvana mods. It features the amazing terpolymer subchassis machined for the Rega arm, the drive platter with the upgraded bearing shaft, and the outer platter is brand new acrylic. The mat is the Merrill-Scillia lead mat. Rounding out (pun intended) out the platter system is a brand new periphery ring clamp and a brand new Bren1 record weight.
The springs, grommets and studs have all been replaced/upgraded, and I have installed a new co-polymer pulley.
Not pictured but included at the selling price is a brand new Gingko custom dustcover and original AR hinges.
The owner may opt to have the new Upgrade AR Motor installed at a discount price, if preferred. Please inquire.
The Rega (Moth) RB-301Tonearm
The Rega arms are continually lauded for their amazing audio value. This latest incarnation is an even better value due to the fact they are finally using truly good wiring and rcas. The arm is mounted to a co-polymer armboard machined just for this arm.
Please note, the arm can be upgraded to any other in the Moth/Rega line-up. Inquire for pricing.
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 peace of mind it’s been done right.
COMPLETE MERRILL PLATTER SYSTEM!
The Details
A dustcover and hinges ARE included. (See sample cover below.) 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. Lastly, I am truly not in this for the money. What I love best is 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.
Example of Gingko Custom Cover
Some comments from buyers….
“Outstanding & dedicated craftsman. Helpful hints. Personal attention.”
“The best! A great communicator who goes above and beyond in the service dept.”
“If you want an excellent reconditioned vintage turntable, Dave’s the Man! Thanks”
“When eBay was invented, nobody dreamed there’d be a seller as great as Dave!!”
Email me if you are interested in purchasing this turntable or another one I have slated for restoration.
