Vintage Thorens turntable -Good or Bad?

Thanks TD160 for offering pertinent info (unlike the "pissing in the punch bowl" response of Syntax).

Yes, parts on the board may need replacing, but the OP lives in LA (as do I) and there should be local qualified tech's available.

They (the caps) might be operating OK @ this point, but replacement is something that does now, or will be in the future, need to be considered.

All gear requires proper maintenance, so this is not a negative, IMO, for a vintage deck as such steps/expense should offer many years of trouble free use.

I'll suggest the OP (original poster) run a query through the vinyl forum @ AA (audioasylum.com) as there are many Thorens fans/owners that frequent the site.

I've considered the II/IV versions with the stock arms as it would be much easier for my wife to use, (than my TD125/SME combo) plus it plays 78's and it's a very musical deck.

FWIW, I contacted Thorens USA when I wanted to have my TD-160 MkII serviced. They directed me to a tech they knew well and trusted. Might be worth an email.

What makes this a wonderful hobby is we can use different combo within our own budget to get our own audio nirvana. I don't think it's a lemon as long as it's still in good shape...at a reasonable price. It will be a disaster if we incline to use the same brand of TT, cart, phono...etc.

Disregard those "arrogant" comments and enjoy the music;)

Dan

I've recently come upon the same model in a possible sale. The owner is asking $525 for the Thorens 126 mk ii in excellent condition. With a shure m97ex cartridge (not a pricey item, to say the least).

Any thoughts on that? I would think this is a fine vintage TT, but it's still old, no doubt needs tlc under the hood, has basic cart, and high price. What might a fair market value be for such an item?

Or should I take that 400-550$ US elsewhere in search of re-entry TT?