A Beogram 4000 turntable from Norway recently arrived for restoration. The packaging was excellent, using the original styrofoam inserts, and the only issue was two loose control pads, which were prevented from causing damage due to tape and foam inside. This highlights the importance of securing these pads with non-residue tape during shipping.
Fortunately, this is an easy repair. Cosmetically, the Beogram is in excellent condition.
The aluminum panels will gleam like new with a thorough cleaning. As expected, the hood has some deep scratches.
These can be addressed with a thorough polishing session. The plinth is in remarkable shape, with sharp corners
and only minor blemishes.
Internally, the Beogram appears largely untouched.
There are no obvious signs of tampering, although a bent carriage spindle bearing is preventing the spindle from rotating.
Additionally, the pulley is missing, but it may be lodged elsewhere. Often these are cracked, and a new aluminum pulley would be a fitting replacement.
Two other crucial elements of this Beogram 4000 are in good shape: the distinctive red position indicator appears undamaged,
and the strobe light functions properly.
The AC motor powered on quietly, indicating the quality of its Swiss engineering. The tracking system is not operational and the OFF button is unresponsive. However, these are solvable problems.
Of greater concern is the damaged MMC20 mount on the original tonearm. The Beogram arrived with a 4002 arm, which also has a damaged mount.
One of the contact terminals is out of place. The original arm, taped to the aluminum panel, has the common problem of a broken plastic tab, leaving the flex PCB hanging loose.
A newly designed MMC20 mount replacement part has shown promising results and may be a viable solution for this Beogram.
Another concern is the right hood hinge, where the steel pin has been replaced with a screw.
It’s perplexing why such modifications are made.
Overall, this Beogram 4000 provides a solid foundation for a complete restoration. There are no insurmountable obstacles to restoring this piece to excellent condition and functionality.