Can "Refurbished" Thorens turntables sound better, and worth taking a chance on??
I had seen on Audiogon, and e-bay a few Thorens turntables of of 60's thru the 80's that have been nicely restored and on sale. For, example, a few of the models are the TD-160, TD-166, and TD-124. There could be others from that series. Nevertheless, the sellers claim they have been thoroughly checked out( motor, bearing, belt and platter assemble, and tone arm alignment.) Also ne or two bases have been repainted and even lacquered.
My question: Is it really worth it to invest in a refurbished table that could be 40 years old?? Thorens were classics in the 60's through early 90's and possibly the best table on the market next to the Linn Sondek LP-12 which was more expensive. Is there a lot of risk in opting for refurbished vintage table over a new one?? .
Anyone have any knowledge or experience with these older tables that have been refurbished and even retolled, and whether they can compete with some of the current tables on the market?? .
BTW, it seems like since the so-called vinyl and analog revolution touted by Michael Fremer and others of Stereophile, that a good table starts at about $1500- $2000 without cartridge, and then prices can skyrocket to $3000 to $7000 and beyond.
Need some feedback because my Project DC Carbon with an Ortofon 2M Red is just not cutting it for me any longer I thought it would sound better than it does Thanks!!.
When I got back into vinyl I purchased a TD-166 as time went on I purchased a VPI Classic 1. The VPI was a significant upgrade to the Thorens but also more money. I bought the Thorens for about $350 the VPI cost me $2000. Given the cost differential the VPI was still a bargain and worth the extra cost IMO. Tighter Bass more detail and a much more stable platform. Chuck |
The old Thorens were one of the best in their day and I still think fondly of them but I would be very cautious about buying an old table these days for big bucks. There is a lot of beefed up old gear marketed on this site to get top dollar as alternatives to the newest and pricier products out there. Not saying it is or is not worth it, I would just be very careful paying big bucks unless I really trusted the seller. |
http://pbnaudio.com/audio-components/audio-turntables/groovemaster/groovemaster-vintage-direct Most definitely, if properly restored they will be on par with most anything available today. From their maker Peter |
Thank you to those who replied so quickly. The table I was referring to is under the "turntable" category: the Thorens TD-166, with an AT-120E cartridge, Obviously, I don't know the seller from Adam, but he has lots of positive feedback, There is a very good explanation of what has been upgraded and checked out on the table. If you should take the time to read it, let me know your thoughts about the item |
IMO, It really depends on your equipment (how resolving) because if your gear is GOOD I think the classic tables make a lot of sense. (I have a TD 160 with grado wood prestige $600) A table like the Thorens TD160 with original tonearm TP16 and wiring will sound really wonderful too. But, If you have a higher end system that is VERY resolving, you probably are selling the system short with an older table like a Original Thorens. Unless your a super tweaker ie...tonearm, cartridge replacement and rewiring and plinth reconstruction, all of these skills might be required to deal with a classic table. Do your self a favor and get a Pro-Ject Xtension with a Dynavector or Sumiko ......seriously. A Ortofon 2m red is NOT anywhere near the performance of a Grado, Dynavector, Sumiko...NOT even close! A better cartridge would provide a HUGE upgrade. IMO. Good Luck. Matt M |
