CUSTOM ACOUSTIC RESEARCH XA-RARE SM.AR.T Turntable-Wilson Audio-Shure V15 IV

Description

Up for sale is a custom AR XA turnable originally modified by David Wilson of Wilson Audio in the 1970s. During 1970 and 1971 Wilson modded nineteen AR XA turntables to create the SM.AR.T model.  This is number seven of the model.  His modifications include:
*Cut original sub-chassis and bolt on a custom milled tonearm mount
*Cut a larger opening in the top plate to receive larger tonearm mount
*Mount SME 3009 Series II Improved tonearm
*Cut another opening in the top plate to receive a spirit level
*Cut original plinth to make room for larger SME tonearm cables.
*Add a badge to the top plate bearing his signature, his new model (SM.AR.T), and the 0007 edition
These modifications were pretty extreme for the time and boosted this AX's performance considerably.  We were not satisfied with the original look of the unit and felt that some mods of our own would turn this turntable into something really special looking and great sounding.  Our modifications and service points include:
*Remove tonearm, disassemble, inspect knife-edge bearing for signs of wear, clean, reassemble, re-solder RCA connectors to tonearm leads
*Dampen bottom of top plate, motor housing, sub-chassis, platter bearing, and platters with BQuiet
*Polish outer platter's edge
*Polish platter bearing & spindle and lubricate with synthetic gear oil
*Install Vinyl Nirvana heavy weight springs & rubbers for suspension
*Replace original suspension studs with new longer studs
*Add heavy weight foam to the suspension springs
*Tune new suspension for a level ride and minimal bounce
*Replace original plinth with a new MDF plinth and bottom plate by MADO of Elgin, IL
*Strip original top plate finish and repaint
*Open motor, resurface rotor, polish spindles, lubricate, reassemble
*Add tonearm escutcheon to further dampen the top plate and add rigidity to plate
*Replace motor regulator and switch spark suppression capacitors with new polypropylenes
*Mount Shure V15 Type IV cartridge, adjust overhang, align null points, set VTA, azimuth, and tracking force
Of the dozen or so AR XA turntables we have modded, this is the best looking and sounding of the lot.  This 'table is very quiet in operation and very precise in its retrieval of information.  A new aftermarket stylus, 600g stainless record weight, new cork platter mat, new drive belt, original SME bias weight, and original SME tonearm leads are included in this sale.  All that is for sale is what is described above and what is seen in the photos.
This item's shipping weight will be 38 pounds.  The tonearm will be lifted/secured and the platters will be immobilized for transport.
This product has been fully serviced in our shop.  Although we do everything within our power to ensure the safe transportation of your purchase, automated turntables often arrive at their destination in a maladjusted state due to vibration during transit.  We will not be responsible for your turntable arriving in need of adjustment.  If you cannot make the needed adjustments to your new turntable, a professional will need to be employed at your expense.  If one of our turntables is truly damaged during transit, we will be happy to assist you in making a return or making a repair.
Check out our ebay store for more analog items. As always, we will combine shipping for multiple item purchases.
Paypal payments only. Payment must be made within 3 days of the end of the sale or auction. An invoice will be generated for you at the end of the sale or auction. INTERNATIONAL BIDDERS/BUYERS: please contact us before bidding for a shipping quote. We will give a quote for the item based on destination, actual weight and size of the item -plus- the estimated weight of the packaging.
We strive to offer our customers fair prices, accurate descriptions, quick answers to questions, fast shipping, and a courteous, professional transaction.  Please leave us feedback after the completion of your transaction.  We will do the same for you.  Thanks.
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