2. analog
  3. 1407698096

Turntable Buying Advice

I have a vintage Thorens TD 166 mk 2 that has not been used on 13 years. It definitely needs a new cartridge and there is some motor noise? My budget if buying new would be $350 - $450 which puts me write at entry level. Should I refurbish the Thorens, or buy an entry level Project or similar table.

Thanks
upsidedown
dill
2,530 posts
 
Fix up the Thorens
czarivey
5,946 posts
 
i'll 2nd to restoration of Thorens.
Motor may have gunked bearing that just needs cleaning and small drop of pistol or fishing gear oil.
restored TD166 is better than today's entry-level for sure.
stanleylocke
240 posts
 
Go with the Thorens refurb.
mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,497 posts
 
Fix the Thornes. You can even replace the motor if needed. Then you can spend some $$ on a Grado Prestige wood body. They make 2 kinds low output or the high output depending on your needs. This IS the Cartridge for the Thornes. You will be amazed at how it competes against turn tables costing 3 or 4 times as much.
More to discover