Thorens TD-203 experiences?


I've been considering changing out my vintage PL 15D II for one of these to get better performance in a more compact footprint.  I'm especially pleased that they've started shipping with the Ortofon 2M Blue in place of the TAS (A-T); I've always been partial to the Ortofon MM sound.  That, along with the recent price reduction has kindled my current attention.

This would not be a rig that would get a lot of use; I keep the old Pioneer for noisier and/or weak recordings that don't benefit from my high end table.  It works well enough, but has never been especially engaging even with a hyper-accurate alignment of a new 2M Red.  I'm also very tight on space in my rack.  The height of the PL 15 is uncomfortable to work with and is not especially attractive.

I've read the reviews and have only seen one or two pop up second hand, so am thinking it offers a good value proposition.  I'd like to hear from current and/or former owners about their experiences, especially adjusting the azimuth, VTA and impressions of overall build quality.  It's my understanding the deck is designed in Germany and made in Asia, so build quality strikes me as a potential concern.

FWIW, I owned a Planar 2 for a long time and got good service out of it.  I had originally considered another one (now that they make them again) or a Pro-Ject Debut as well.  They're both just wide enough to be a fit problem in the space so not feasible.

Look forward to your input!


effischer
@rff000 Please keep me posted on how things progress.  I haven't made my move yet, but am thinking seriously about it in the next few months.  As you're the first respondent, I'm really interested to learn from your experiences.  I'm very pleased to hear about the VTA adjustment capability and that you've had good results on your best LPs.  Thanks for your reply and happy listening!
I'm not sure of propriety, but if you try Vinyl Engine's forum, look at the posts or responses by Rafaelmombo from Sweden.He is obviously very knowledgeable about cartridges and turntables, just loves his TD 203 and  Benz Micro silver cartridges. I've had Regas from P3 to P8, and was not impressed.
Thanks for the head's up on the VE thread, @boofer .  Read it over and it really does seem like the TD-203 could be a good choice for me; I really prefer neutral, uncolored playback.  I am also a fan of unipivot arms, so that's another selling point for me.

Now, for a bit more marinating before I pull the trigger...

Thanks again & happy listening!
I’ve had a Thorens TD203 w/ Ortofon 2m Blue cartridge for 2 months and absolutely love it. This is one dynamic sounding turntable w/ gobs of PRaT. Very clean, detailed, extended, tight rhythmic bass, airy highs, big soundstage. I really works for me and mates well w/ Schiit Mani phono stage and Mystere tube integrated amp.

If I ever wanted to upgrade, which I don’t want to, the Thorens TD309 w/ Ortofon Black would be at the top of my list because I’m so impressed with what I’m hearing now.
I really appreciate the input, @mjcmt ; I've not pulled the trigger on the 203 yet.  Life is what happens while you're busy making plans!  Heading into a new year changes the equation so it will happen sooner rather than later.  I will report back once I get the ball rolling.  Thanks again and happy listening!