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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

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.

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Use cases and applications

  • 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

  • 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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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Don Randi uses Wurlitzer 140B

Don Randi

Keyboardist

The Wrecking Crew

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Verified via Photo

In this photo, Don Randi and Dick Glasser can be seen with a Wurlitzer 140 in the studio circa 1966 in Los Angeles, California.

See how Rose Stone uses Wurlitzer 140B

Rose Stone

Singer, Keyboardist

Sly & the Family Stone

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Rose Stone can be seen playing a Wurlitzer 140b electric piano.

In a YouTube video of this performance, a front view of the instrument is seen at the 8:19 mark (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5WD6BccSY1M&ab_channel=ScottishTeeVee). This shows the control knobs mounted next to the keys, a trait of the 140b model. Controls were mounted to the lid on the 140 and 140a models.

See how Morgan Evan Evans uses Wurlitzer 140B

Morgan Evan Evans

Composer

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Verified via SoundCloud

Morgan Evan Evans uses the Wurlitzer 140B for its funky vintage sound, as showcased in the SoundCloud set "Odyssey of the Vacuum Tube Space Truckers" by Grey Sushi.

See how Jim Donna uses Wurlitzer 140B

Jim Donna

Keyboardist

The Castaways

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Verified via Photo

Jim Donna played a Wurlitzer 140B (or the similar 145B) with the '60s one hit wonder The Castaways. In one interview, Donna said that this was the first keyboard he purchased after joining the band.

See how Daryl Hooper uses Wurlitzer 140B

Daryl Hooper

Keyboardist

The Seeds

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Verified via Photo

Daryl Hooper frequently played a Wurlitzer electric piano with the Seeds. It is featured on most songs from the band's eponymous debut album.

See how Spooner Oldham uses Wurlitzer 140B

Spooner Oldham

Keyboardist

Drive-By Truckers

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Verified via Photo

Spooner Oldham used a 140B Wurlitzer on Aretha Franklin's 1967 single "I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)," playing a riff that runs through the whole song. In this photo, Oldham can be seen playing a Wurlitzer in the studio with Aretha Franklin in 1968.

Genre Usage

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Used With

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

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