Wurlitzer 1650

Just got my amp back and installed it, fired up machine, plays but the problem is Ben E King sounds like Mickey Mouse instead. My question is would a worn idler wheel cause this to happen. When I push on the wheel while playing it improves the sound. The motor mounts still seem pretty good, no cracking or breaks. Thanks for any help, it is most appreciated!!

Those later Simplex mechs were notorious for this sort of thing. The way the motor is coupled to the turntable and the attendant friction due to the long riser shaft requires a -really- good idler puck and clean, oil-free drive surfaces.

Even then, the 1500-1600 series were never really speed consistent. The 78 rpm version was slightly more consistent, probably because the faster speed and larger record acted as flywheel, but those mechs were likely just stopgap while the carousel was under development.

Rob/NYC