2. analog
  3. 1174359102

Fixing Up Old Thorens

I have my dad's old Thorens TD 150 MKII with the original tonearm. I think the cartridge was replaced in the late 80s. It has been in storage for the past 10 years or so but I occasionally pull it out thinking that I might get into it. So my question is, how much money would I have to shell out to get this thing up to speed? I am guessing the table needs a good once over by a tech and I am sure that there are new tonearms, etc that are much better than what is on there. What would getting this in shape cost and can anyone recommend a good shop to take it to? I am near Tampa FL. Thanks
kemp
dean_man
90 posts
 
Tomjacksons, the lack of bass likely means that the platter is now too close to the top plate and you need to adjust the springs. There is a good tutorial at the analogdept site, and this post at Vinyl Engine from a former Thorens employee will also help you learn how to do this--http://www.vinylengine.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=7020&highlight=justage

Scroll down to the post by Violette. On that-auction-site the poster Violette (Joel) also sells wonderful lubricants and Thorens-spec belts for the various Thorens models.

Also at VE is a Thorens overhaul guide (authored by Violette) that you might print for reference, it's terrific.

Jim
a011996
8 posts
 
to Tomjacksons :

I have the same experience with the Rega RB300 on another turntable. It seems to have a very "midrange" sound. Very weak bass. As far as i can remember speed accuracy = good treble and all the bass is essentially in the arm...
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,807 posts
 
Make sure the rear of the arm is high enough too. If it is too low, bass modulation will reduce the tracking pressure, IOW weak bass.

Also make sure you have the cartridge connections correct. If one channel is out of phase, you may experience weak bass.
More to discover