Which turntable should I keep?


After inheriting much of my Dad's classical and jazz lp collection, I've decided to rekindle my interest in vinyl. So I've pulled my old Thorens TD 145 out of storage (Stanton 681EEE) and found the box with the $10 garage sale Denon DP-51F that I bought just as it was about to find its way to the landfill. I haven't kept up with turntable and cartridge developments for the last 20 years, so I'm not sure which of these to use, or if I should buy new? The Stanton has about 7 years of moderate use on it, so I don't know if I need to replace the stylus. I've googled both of the turntables, and haven't learned much except that it seems that I should have ponied up for the TD 160 way back when. Haven't seen much on that Denon model, so I don't know if it is low or mid range equipment. I know that I've been pretty gentle with the Thorens, but don't know anything about how the Denon was treated. Its cartridge is a tan Grado with the marking GF 1? on its front. Any suggestions on what I should do? Modifications, upgrades, new purchase? Which cartridge is the keeper? Or should I buy new?
craig76
many thanks to everyone. any idea what cartridge match would be best for each of these in the $100 or less range?
thanks for the link - my message crossed yours - I just looked at the site, should give me a food start. what is the plinth? is it what the tonearm is mounted to?
If it were me, I would keep both tables-- both are good from an era gone by---

I only wish I had your luck!@

welcome to the world of vinyl -- although jazz and classical are not my venue of choice, seeing the tables that your dad had, it looks like you might have a pretty nice LP collection as well!

Not to be redundant with others --- invest in a record cleaning machine !

Welcome to the fantastic world of vinyl !