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Average Price: $1,850
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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
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What makes the Wurlitzer 140B different from other electric pianos?
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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.
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Is the Wurlitzer 140B suitable for live performances?
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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.
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What is the keyboard action like on the Wurlitzer 140B?
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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.
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How many keys does the Wurlitzer 140B have?
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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.
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Does the Wurlitzer 140B require any special maintenance?
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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.
Videos
Anthony Marinelli Music
Wurlitzer Electric Piano Sound Comparison: 120 vs 140 140B 200
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
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Rebuilding the amp and replacing the speaker are common steps to restore the Wurlitzer 140B, ensuring it functions optimally after decades of disuse.
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Addressing vibrato issues can involve troubleshooting varistors, despite some experts suggesting they are irreplaceable; alternative solutions may focus on other circuit components.
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Build quality
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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.
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Use cases and applications
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After restoration, the Wurlitzer 140B finds a home in recording studios like Temperamental Recordings, highlighting its value in professional settings.
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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.
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Other
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The unique upholstery detail, such as being covered in corduroy, adds to the instrument's character and can be a talking point for enthusiasts.
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Features and functionality
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Restoring the vibrato circuit may require replacing old carbon resistors and checking germanium transistors, as these components can degrade and affect performance.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Album Usage
The Wurlitzer 140B has been featured on the following albums:
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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