2. analog
  3. 1234134252

AR-XA or Thorens 165 vs current tables

I'm wondering how the vintage AR-XA and Thorens 165 measure up to current turntables. You can get one these in good working order for half the price of Rega P2, and about $100 less than a P1.

Let's say you even went so far as the re-lube them, are they still comparable?

Thanks.
jonpb
narrod
1,064 posts
 
Viridian, my second table is the AR-XB. I agree the arm is the weak link but I have never damaged a record with it.

Wendell
Post removed 
narrod
1,064 posts
 
Yes, if the AR was my primary table the arm would be replaced.
I do enjoy playing it and it does make music I enjoy.
solex
4 posts
 
I do not have the experience that most are stating here.

I have and AR-XA with the stock arm and an AT-440Mla. I rewired the arm with Litz wire and dampened the top plate. I also added a SS thrust plate and polished the spindle bearing.

I also have a TD-160b MK II with an Linn Basik LVX arm and a Grado Sonata 1.5mV.

In my opinion the AR-XA equals the TD-160b (but I'm not done modding the TD-160)
More to discover