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$75 Thorens vs. $2K+ Michell...is this possible?

Hi all,

I've had my first turntable ever (a Michell Tecnodec purchased used with a Benz Glider medium ouput purchased new) for a couple of months now, and although it has sounded good at times and sometimes even great, overall it hasn't been what I've expected based upon the reputation that vinyl has over digital. Sometimes my table sounds smothered or rolled off in the highs, and sometimes I hear what I can best describe as noise/static/distortion on vocals when they get loud. Things have gotten a bit better with what I assume is break-in of the cartridge and some minor tweaking of VTA.

Yesterday, I purchased a well used Thorens TD 160 with an Audio Technica AT125LC. The cartridge is riding so low (I assume from use) that at times the body rubs on the record surface. I haven't had the time to do extensive direct comparisons, but the essence of what I expected from vinyl is here with the Thorens. An overall smooth, natural coherence that is emminently enjoyable to listen to. Natural, airy highs. Solid, but not overdone firm bass.

Again, I have not done direct comparisons, but I don't hear any of the downsided I heard with my Michell. There may not be quite the detail or soundstage width, but I feel like it's an overall more enjoyable listening experience.

I'd love input from the more experienced here to help me understand what's happening here.

Thanks much,
Paul
pj234
restock
831 posts
 
Also per my recollection, the Michell/Benz combo also sounds a little light in the bass.

That is very much my experience with the Michell Tecnodec. Using a Denon DL103R and a Wright Phono was a lot better, but still not satisfactory IMO. This is the one area where the Tecnodec does not come close to the more expensive Gryro. Rolled of highs I would not expect - possibly this is a fuction of the loading. Which version of the Glider (L,M,H) did you get? If is the L version choosing a loading at a higher resistance might work much better.
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
plato...i love old speakers, and some of the jbl's (even those over 30 and 40 years old) are still in service in homes and recording studios. the lancers and many others are evidence that some speakers age like wine, while most at any price age like fish.
ihcho's avatar
ihcho
612 posts
 
I have Thorens TD145 MKII with Audio Technica AT125LC and TP16 MKII arm. I bought the stylus new. My friend has Sota Comet with Rega RB300 arm and Grado Reference Gold cartridge.

We compared them in his setup - LaScala and Dynaco ST-70 amp with PAS-3 tube preamp.

To my ear, some difference on details for certain music, but not quite readily noticeable on most others. Especially considering the price difference - 6 fold ($1200 vs $200).

I guess I need to listen more to appreciate the details, but at my current spending limit, I'd rather stick to mine for a while.
piedpiper
753 posts
 
resolving some of the differences on that system could be challenging.
ihcho's avatar
ihcho
612 posts
 
What would be the weakest point? The speaker or (pre)amp? Or both? Somehow he likes LaScala even though the strong trebles tires him sometimes.

Could you provide me sample system setup that may reveal the differences?
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