McCurdy CH-12 Boradcast Turntable W/ Custom Plinth - Dynavector Arm - Sumiko Songbird Cartridge

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General:
McCurdy is best known for its broadcast turntables, which were manufactured in Toronto, Canada. These turntables do not come up for sale often, especially in the United States. Originally designed for radio stations, McCurdy drives were built for quick, instantaneous spin-up and long-term reliability + serviceability, using a robust idler-drive system.

This particular example is fitted with a beautiful custom wood plinth that suits the turntable exceptionally well. We believe the wood is curly maple, and it has an especially nice appearance in person.

The tonearm is also worth highlighting. It is a Japanese Dynavector DV-505, one of our favorite vintage tonearms. It tracks extremely well, is a pleasure to use, and has a distinctive, almost space-age design. This one has been finished in blue to match the turntable drive, and the work was very nicely executed. The matching finish gives the entire turntable a cohesive, uniform look.

Mounted to the tonearm is a brand-new Sumiko Songbird high-output MC cartridge, valued at $1,099. The cartridge has been professionally calibrated using our 12-step setup process, a $390 service. The headshell is also brand new and is an Ortofon LH-2000.

The turntable will also include a large, high-quality acrylic dust cover to help protect the table and tonearm from dust when not in use.

SkyFi Cosmetic Notes:
Very light signs of wear, Great condition considering this turntable was most likley used in a radio station.

Ownership:
Second Owner

Connections:
RCA Phono Output, Captive Power Cord.

General Sound:
Smooth, uncolored, undistorted natural and clean

Cosmetic Condition:
8/10 = Very Good. Excellent front faceplate, one minor flaw on chassis side or top. See our detailed rating description here.

Working Condition:
Working perfectly and calibrated on our custom turntable calibration stand.

Included:
Turntable, phono cartridge, and dust cover.

Packing:
Will be packed using our highly developed in-house process and custom packing materials.Specs:
- Speeds: 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM (via an easy-access mechanical speed selector)
- Drive System: Idler wheel

Dimensions:
19.5 x 8.75 x 16 5/8 (for Plinth)

Weight:
50 lbs.

Testing Process:
First we try to identify any mechanical issues, particularly in the tonearm bearings. We check for freedom of movement or any resistance on both the horizontal and vertical range. There is a quick test for this which involves placing the table on its front edge and allowing the arm to swing freely like a pendulum. We then make any adjustments necessary to achieve minimal resistance and sometimes adjust the bearing pressure. On gimbal tonearms we inspect the cone tip with a magnifier.

We then assess the platter speed using one of several methods, the most accurate being playing a test tone on a test record and measuring the frequency output with a frequency counter or oscilloscope. We also utilize test equipment to measure the wow and flutter to ensure it is within spec. We do this for all speeds available for that particular model (33 RPM, 45 RPM, 78 RPM).

Adjustments are then made to achieve proper speed which will vary depending on the turntable's drive design. Some require an adjustment of an internal or external potentiometer, some will require a pulley or motor adjustment. We also inspect the platter bearing to ensure it is properly lubricated, keeping in mind that some bearings don't require lubrication at all

We then inspect the power supply and address any issues with overworked capacitors, particularly on Linn and later Thorens machines which tend to need attention.

On fully mechanical vintage tables like the Thorens TD-124 and Garrard 301/401 we will go thought the entire mechanism. Then replace any worn parts and lubricate all components necessary to ensure smooth operation, speed change, and low mechanical noise. 

When fitting a new phono cartridge we will go through our detailed calibration process which can involve as many as 12 steps depending on the tonearm design. We perform this work on our custom turntable calibration rig which was developed in-house.

Some of these steps include:
• Pivot to Spindle Adjustment
• Tracking Force
• Anti-Skate
• Tonearm Height
• Lifter Height
• VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle)
• Azimuth
• Stylus Distance and Overhang

We then do a critical listening test using our test records and our test system to ensure proper sonics.