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Project TD 124

Did you repaint the metal base? If so what paint did you use? I'm working on a table that I want to end up looking like a TD-121 (the single speed version of a 124) and no where can I find info on the proper paint to use.
 
The brass cone feet and bubble level came today. We'll see how this bubble level goes ...

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Not bad, just popped it out from underneath with an allen wrench and a hammer. I put the new one right in using a double sided sticky tape since it doesn't really snap in. Pretty snug though.

Now time to baste the turkey (3 ml of 5W/30 motor oil) ...
(It took awhile for the heavy platter to settle down due to the oil pressure on the shaft. I just rotated it several revolutions letting gravity have its way until it finally settled down. Good, no overflow and no leaks.)

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Now checking for speed accuracy ...

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Not bad at all. Stabilized after 1 minute on the stroboscope :thmbsp:

Enough project for now. I'll work on the SME arm tomorrow, then we're ready to rock 'n roll! :banana:
 
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Whew! She's Done!

Took me 4 hrs. to install the arm. The rubber grommets were a challenge to put on that base plate. After installing the cartridge, I had to redo the whole process because I forgot to put the tonearm handle in (it goes between the headshell and the cartridge). Adjusted my azimuth, VTA, and tracking alignment with supplied protractor. After setting the tracking force, I verified with my Shure SFG-2 stylus force gauge. It was pretty close! Then I plugged in the lead underneath the SME arm. It had a ground wire that needed to be screwed on the chassis (found it beneath the center section supporting the armboard, there's just one screw hole there for that purpose, so I screwed it in there). Whew! Now time to enjoy the fruits of my labor :banana:

The finished product... :thmbsp:

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Let's watch her play now (sounds awesome in actual, forgive the distortion due to the mic's limitations of capturing it) ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9SBsATIqnE
 
What about a dustcover?

What shall I do for a dustcover? Do you guys have dustcovers for your TD 124?
 
Gorgeous. :drool: There's a sticky (in DIY maybe?) about making your own dustcover. I intend to do that for my TD-125. Even though I have the standard plinth and could buy a new dustcover for it, I don't like the proportions of the originals (or the repros).
 
JonL said:
Gorgeous. :drool: There's a sticky (in DIY maybe?) about making your own dustcover. I intend to do that for my TD-125. Even though I have the standard plinth and could buy a new dustcover for it, I don't like the proportions of the originals (or the repros).
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What about the hinges, where can we get them?
 
I haven't figured out hinges yet. I'm sure there are small spring loaded hinges available from cabinetry supply houses, but there'd be some experimentation required to get the load right I think. Could also just make one to lift on and off.
 
JonL said:
I haven't figured out hinges yet. I'm sure there are small spring loaded hinges available from cabinetry supply houses, but there'd be some experimentation required to get the load right I think. Could also just make one to lift on and off.
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Found one at acousticsounds.com, but you still need the bottom part. You need the slots to slide these in. Those slots are really the hard to find parts more than the hinges.

http://store.acousticsounds.com/d/42894/Thorens-TD170190158185240_-_Pair_of_Dustcover_Hinges-Dustcovers
 
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I would like to thank AK for all the insight you gave me, especially to JWRosenthal, Fidtune, Arkay, and Nu2toobs for the encouragement and confidence you all gave me to go ahead and pursue this dream (without which, I might not have this today).

Thank you very much guys! :thmbsp::thmbsp::thmbsp:
 
Thanks Gillsev. I think everyone here is just as happy as you and share in your excitement seeing your table come together. Job well done sir.
( how does your 124 rank against your old TD320 or Garrard 80 ?)
 
fidtune said:
How does your 124 rank against your old TD320 or Garrard 80 ?
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I was quite surprised when I played a record on it because it had more soundstage than the Lab 80 or the TD320. The presence of the music seems to be more engulfing and solid bodied. I can't really explain it unless you're here to listen to it. Those explosive moments within the record groove get propelled into and out the speakers with a more efficient delivery. I notice a sharper, keener sense of rhythm. Drums leap out into the room with more suddenness. etc. This quality can be addictive. I don't know if it's because of the cartridge, or the belt/ idler drive combination in conjunction with the eddy brake that smooths it out. This is Awesome to say the least!

However if i get lazy with the interaction, I'll still use my Lab 80 for automation. :D
 
gillsev said:
I was quite surprised when I played a record on it because it had more soundstage than the Lab 80 or the TD320. The presence of the music seems to be more engulfing and solid bodied. I can't really explain it unless you're here to listen to it. Those explosive moments within the record groove get propelled into and out the speakers with a more efficient delivery. I notice a sharper, keener sense of rhythm. Drums leap out into the room with more suddenness. etc. This quality can be addictive. I don't know if it's because of the cartridge, or the belt/ idler drive combination in conjunction with the eddy brake that smooths it out. This is Awesome to say the least!

However if i get lazy with the interaction, I'll still use my Lab 80 for automation. :D
Click to expand...

That's a very good description:thmbsp:
 
And Finally, The Finishing Touch

A Custom Made Dustcover from JMK Displays ...

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This concludes my Project TD124 :banana:
 
That's a beautiful turntable -- nicely done! :thmbsp:

While doing all that beautiful work with the plinth, did you do any of the other possible "tweaks" underneath, like upgrading the bearing and thrust pad, the motor "mushroom" mounts, etc...?
 
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