Connoisseur BD1 or BD2 that is the question

[Stevie 911]

Hello,

Just found what I believe to be a Connoisseur turntable and brand new boxed SME 3009 Improved tone arm. My dad started the mounting and assembly process but it's been gathering dust now for over 20 year. Not sure how to identify which model it or if it's worth renovation and compatible with this high quality arm. My main concern is the motor, electronics and wiring since sure that it will have deteriorated over the years.

Much appreciate any advice anyone can offer.

Cheers

Steve
:scratch:

[MCRU]

Hi mate, I would not class the SME3009 as high quality, in fact they are not that good, the weakest arm in the SME line up! Suggest you send the whole thing to a turntable renovator who can oil the bearing and clean it up etc, etc.

I had my last one done by Dominic, nice chap.

http://northwestanalogue.weebly.com/

[MartinT]

Hi Steve

The BD1 was a kit turntable only, without arm. The BD2 was a complete deck with Connoisseur arm (which was not very good). It sounds like you have a BD1 with SME3009 Improved, exactly the combination I first had back in 1976 or so.

You can make a plinth from a simple thick sheet of plywood or double-up MDF, with a cutout as on the Connoisseur template provided. Use good feet (I would recommend the Isonoes). The SME is capable of good performance with a light tracking cartridge such as the Shure, AT or Nagaoka MMs.

[Beobloke]

Keep the SME and send it to Audio Origami for a sport of fettling and a re-wire..

As to the Connoisseur, either chuck it in the bin where it belongs or stick it on eBay, where some poor deluded soul will undoubtedly snap it up!

[Dingdong]

I used to have a BD1 and a 3009 many about 15 years ago in a homemade plinth. Cost me £40. The BD1 is probably not the best turntable around. I'd be tempted, unless you are emotionally attached to it, to ebay it and get something like a Thorens with an SME armboard fitted that will go well with the SME. Something like a Shure M95, 97 or a V series cartridge would suit it.