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Average Price: $1,850

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$2499

$4500+

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Description

The Wurlitzer 140b was released in 1964. Although the differences between the 140b and the 140a are minor, they seriously improve the keyboard’s playability.

First, the reeds are identical to those in the Wurlitzer 200 and 200a. This is of course very convenient today, since 200-style reeds are much more common than earlier types. The reed screws were also revised, since those in the 140a were prone to breaking. The second difference is the amplifier. The preamp transistors in the 140b are silicon, not germanium, which are much easier to source. This makes the 140b amplifier more reliable and serviceable than the previous version. But since it has germanium power transistors, the 140b still has a unique tube-like warmth.

Product specs

Brand Wurlitzer
Model 140B 64-Key Electric Piano
Finish Beige
Year 1964 - 1967
Made In United States
Categories Electric Pianos
Analog / Digital Analog
Color Family Tan
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Weighted
Number of Keys 64 Keys

FAQs

What makes the Wurlitzer 140B different from other electric pianos?

The Wurlitzer 140B is known for its unique analog sound, produced by its reed-based tone generation. It features a distinctive tremolo effect and a warm, vintage tone that sets it apart from other electric pianos.

Is the Wurlitzer 140B suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Wurlitzer 140B is well-suited for live performances due to its robust build and distinctive sound that cuts through a mix. However, it's important to ensure proper amplification to fully capture its tonal qualities.

What is the keyboard action like on the Wurlitzer 140B?

The Wurlitzer 140B features weighted keyboard action, providing a tactile and responsive playing experience that closely mimics that of an acoustic piano, making it suitable for expressive performance.

How many keys does the Wurlitzer 140B have?

The Wurlitzer 140B is equipped with 64 full-size keys, offering a slightly reduced range compared to a standard piano, but sufficient for most musical styles and compositions.

Does the Wurlitzer 140B require any special maintenance?

Like most vintage electric pianos, the Wurlitzer 140B may require occasional maintenance, such as tuning of its reeds and checking the condition of the amplifier and tremolo circuits, to ensure optimal performance.

Anthony Marinelli Music

Anthony Marinelli Music

Wurlitzer Electric Piano Sound Comparison: 120 vs 140 140B 200

Video thumbnail for Wurlitzer Electric Piano Sound Comparison: 120 vs 140 140B 200 by Anthony Marinelli Music

Wurlitzer Electric Piano Sound Comparison: 120 vs 140 140B 200

Anthony Marinelli Music

Anthony Marinelli Music

Video thumbnail for Wurlitzer  EP 140B Restored by Vintage Vibe by Vintage Vibe

Wurlitzer EP 140B Restored by Vintage Vibe

Vintage Vibe

Vintage Vibe

Video thumbnail for Wurlitzer 140b Electroic Piano by defactodrums

Wurlitzer 140b Electroic Piano

defactodrums

defactodrums

Video thumbnail for Breakdown - Playing a tribute to Tom Petty on my Wurlitzer 140B by Armen Chakmakian

Breakdown - Playing a tribute to Tom Petty on my Wurlitzer 140B

Armen Chakmakian

Armen Chakmakian

Video thumbnail for Wurlitzer 140B by PTD Unlimited Vintage

Wurlitzer 140B

PTD Unlimited Vintage

PTD Unlimited Vintage

Video thumbnail for Wurlitzer 140b Michael Whittaker by whittymusic

Wurlitzer 140b Michael Whittaker

whittymusic

whittymusic

Video thumbnail for Wurlitzer 140B Electric Piano With Lid & Music Rack by Tropical Fish

Wurlitzer 140B Electric Piano With Lid & Music Rack

Tropical Fish

Tropical Fish

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Wurlitzer 140B.

Setup and maintenance

  • Rebuilding the amp and replacing the speaker are common steps to restore the Wurlitzer 140B, ensuring it functions optimally after decades of disuse.

    Source
  • Addressing vibrato issues can involve troubleshooting varistors, despite some experts suggesting they are irreplaceable; alternative solutions may focus on other circuit components.

    Source

Build quality

  • The key bushing repair and reglueing of keytops are necessary to address wear from heavy gigging, indicating these are typical areas of concern for restoration.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • After restoration, the Wurlitzer 140B finds a home in recording studios like Temperamental Recordings, highlighting its value in professional settings.

    Source
  • Repairing older components, like those from the 1960s, may require different approaches than those used for 1980s synthesizers, highlighting the unique restoration challenges of the Wurlitzer 140B.

    Source

Other

  • The unique upholstery detail, such as being covered in corduroy, adds to the instrument's character and can be a talking point for enthusiasts.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Restoring the vibrato circuit may require replacing old carbon resistors and checking germanium transistors, as these components can degrade and affect performance.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Replacing capacitors is recommended following guides like Vintage Vibe's, which specifically targets problematic components to enhance functionality.

    Source

Critic Reviews

1966 Wurlitzer 140B electronic piano – Alan's growing vintage keyboard collection

vintagerockkeyboards.com

A gem from the golden age of electric pianos, the Wurlitzer 140B shines with its excellent action and nuanced tone, surpassing even the famed 200 series. Its optical vibrato and responsive dynamics are a treat for discerning ears. However, at the cost of portability, this model is notably heavy. Its early solid-state amp, while charmingly mellow, can be noisy without a rebuild. The lack of a direct line-level output is a minor inconvenience, easily remedied with aftermarket solutions. This vintage beauty is a stellar choice for those valuing sound over convenience, offering an authentic, multifaceted audio experience.

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5.0 out of 5

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Elliott Smith uses Wurlitzer 140B

Elliott Smith

Singer, Guitarist

Heatmiser

...
Verified via YouTube

At the 2:53 mark in the YouTube video "Elliott Smith in the studio," Elliott Smith is seen playing a Wurlitzer 140B while performing the "Figure 8" B-side track. It's likely he used this keyboard for the song "Bye" as well.

See how Jordan Rudess uses Wurlitzer 140B

Jordan Rudess

Keyboardist, Composer

Dream Theater

...
Verified via YouTube

introduces at 1:30 in the video

See how Ray Manzarek uses Wurlitzer 140B

Ray Manzarek

Singer, Keyboardist

The Doors

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Manzarek can be seen playing a Wurlitzer electric piano during the Doors' L.A. Woman sessions in late 1970. The Wurlitzer is either a model 140B or its tube-amplified twin, the 145B. You can hear it on the songs "Crawling King Snake" and "L.A. Woman" from the 1971 album of the same name.

See how Philip Glass uses Wurlitzer 140B

Philip Glass

Composer, Music Producer

Polyrock

...
Verified via Paristransatlantic

In the 2nd picture down on this interview site, the PGE appears to be using a Wurlitzer 140B electric piano. Philip Glass has his back to the camera, but it's fairly clear that this is indeed the PGE due to the layout of the performers and of course due to the vest and PG's hairstyle. The photo of this performance indicates that this was probably very early in the history of the PGE.

See how Tori Amos uses Wurlitzer 140B

Tori Amos

Singer, Keyboardist

Y Kant Tori Read

...
Verified via Photo

This image shows Amos' gear as including a Wurlitzer 140B.

See how Benmont Tench uses Wurlitzer 140B

Benmont Tench

Keyboardist

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

...
Verified via Photo

Featured in this Instagram post and this Twitter post.

benmonttench today's pal #thankyoukenrich @kenrichsounds

avocadojesus I have that same custom vibrato in my 140b it's the best. Hey just curious @benmonttench I dunno if you respond to questions like this, but what's your fav amp for your 140b?

benmonttench @avocadojesus I just mic the speaker!

See how Al Kooper uses Wurlitzer 140B

Al Kooper

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Blood, Sweat & Tears

...
Verified via Photo

Al Kooper playing a Wurlitzer 140B (or a similar 140/145 model) with The Blues Project at the Cafe Au Go Go, a nightclub in Greenwich Village, New York City, circa 1968.

See how Roger Joseph Manning Jr. uses Wurlitzer 140B

Roger Joseph Manning Jr.

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Jellyfish

...
Verified via YouTube

At 1:11:17 in the video titled "Jellyfish's 'Bellybutton' | Inside the Album with Roger Joseph Manning Jr. - Produce Like A Pro," Roger Joseph Manning Jr. mentions using a Wurlitzer 140B electronic piano in the song "Calling Sarah" from the album Bellybutton by Jellyfish.

See how Richard Carpenter uses Wurlitzer 140B

Richard Carpenter

Keyboardist

The Carpenters

...
Verified via Carpenterarts

At the Richard & Karen Carpenter Exhibit, visitors may see Richard Carpenter's Wurlitzer 140B electric piano, which he purchased from Jeff Hanna of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band in 1967.

See how Dave Rowberry uses Wurlitzer 140B

Dave Rowberry

Keyboardist

The Animals

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Dave Rowberry can be seen playing a Wurlitzer 140B with the Animals. The photo comes from the cover of the compilation album The Most of the Animals.

A

Alex Del Zoppo

Singer, Keyboardist

Sweetwater

...
Verified via Photo

Alex Del Zoppo playing a Wurlitzer 140b (or a similar 140/145 model) on stage with Sweetwater at the Midwest Rock Festival at Wisconsin State Fair Park in West Allis on July 25, 1969.

See how Marsha Tomal uses Wurlitzer 140B

Marsha Tomal

Guitarist, Keyboardist

The Daughters of Eve

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Marsha Tomal can be seen playing a Wurlitzer 140B with the Daughters of Eve. The electric piano is stacked on top of a Vox Continental organ, making for a rather unique keyboard setup.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Wurlitzer 140B, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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