The Story
“The Judge” is more than a restoration; it is a centerpiece of legacy and heart. This Steiner Audio project was meticulously handcrafted in our Memphis workshop as a tribute to the memory of my friend, Gerald Skahan. The journey began with a rescue mission to Fayetteville, Arkansas, to secure this rare 1959 West German Telefunken Hymnus, which we have now elevated to our signature standard.
A Legacy in Satin Walnut
We made a deliberate architectural choice to move away from the thick, reflective “piano” lacquers common in the 1950s. Instead, “The Judge” features a satin hand-rubbed walnut finish. This finish highlights the natural vertical grain and eliminates room glare, reflecting the clean lines of the Mid-Century Modern movement while preventing the “checking” or cracking often found in old polyester finishes.
Modernized Hi-Fi Integration (No Bluetooth)
- High-Res Streaming: Slated for WiiM integration, allowing for seamless wireless audio and multi-room connectivity.
- Television Integration: Equipped with HDMI ARC, turning this 1960s centerpiece into a high-performance sound system for your modern TV.
- Turntable: An upgraded Pro-Ject RPM 1 belt-drive with an S-shaped tonearm for superior tracking.
- Slide-to-Light Technology: Our signature high-voltage magnetic reed switches trigger a warm LED glow the moment you slide the doors open to reveal the gallery.
- The Speakeasy: The interior has been transformed into a custom mirrored glass bar.
Current Status
Come see us at Merchants on Broad in Memphis to experience this tribute in person. As always, Annie and Stanley (the corgis) are on-site for final quality control inspections.