Thorens turntable history. The TD 350 represents the perfect symbiosis of a mass dri...
Thorens turntable history. The TD 350 represents the perfect symbiosis of a mass drive and a subchassis turntable and unites the benefits of both technologies. Its turntable TD 160 HD was award multiple awards in 2008. A Photo Comparison of a "New" and "Old" AR XA There seem to be three main "periods" in the manufacture of the AR XA. When it was first released to the public in 1984, the TD 320 was the top of the Thorens 300-series and was also more generally considered to be top-of-its-class. In this comprehensive article, we will delve … What was the best The Turntable: From Thorens: The revival of Thorens’ unique subchassis concept is startling with their new TD 350. It was introduced in 1957 but dominated the 60s with its impeccable design and performance. Weight: 9 kg Original price approx. : 690 DM Technical data Turntable Reviews: 4437 To add a review or rate a turntable, browse for the model and use the review form. Production plant of Thorens turntables doesn`t exist for more than 30 years. 1989 Mar 14, 2012 · Manufacturer: Thorens Model: TD 165 Years of manufacture: 1972 - 1976 Made in: Switzerland Color: Power Consumption: Dimensions: 442 x 358 x 150 mm (WxHxD). Thorens TD125 Mk II Turntable SERVICE MANUAL. These five models represent the best of Thorens’ legacy in the world of vinyl playback. Aug 15, 2024 · 1966: EMT's Gerätewerk Lahr assumes production of Thorens turntables, which previously were made in Switzerland. For over 140 years, Thorens has stood for technical innovation, Swiss precision and a love of music. Croix, Switzerland in 1883, Thorens Services Ltd. It was built to do a job well, and it delivered a measured performance that much beyond the ordinary standards of the time. May 3, 2021 · All hail the Thorens TD-160, an easily modified and uniquely designed classic turntable. Under new CEO Gunter Kürten (former CEO of Elac), the company began reinvigorating its brand with the release of several new turntables that paid homage to iconic decks from the firm’s history—including the subject of this review, the TD 1500. Soon, however, the company switched to horn gramophones. Thorens originally produced Edison-type phonographs, then developed two of the most important inventions in the format's history: the direct drive system in 1928 and moving magnet cartridge in 1929. A long history of music reproduction Since 1883, Thorens has been shaping the world of music reproduction with ground-breaking innovations. Early models came Manufacturer: Thorens Model: TD 160 Type: Record player Years of manufacture: 1972 - 1976 Manufactured in: Germany at EMT in Lahr Color: black, wood veneer; also other types of wood Power consumption: Dimensions: 442 x 358 x 150 mm (WxHxD) Weight: approx. The natural elasticity of the belt prevents most motor vibrations from reaching the platter and therefore, the pick-up stylus, in more than 20 years of continouous development, Thorens has reduced the very few disadvantages of belt drive to an absolute minimum and has brought it to level of technical perfection which is THORENS News Company portait Learn more about our history, our passion for vinyl – and how the Thorens brand is looking to the future. Beyond just a listening experience, vintage turntables embody a piece of musical and technological history, offering both aesthetic charm and unparalleled craftsmanship. Initially, the company manufactured phonographs based on Edison’s principle of operation, as well as music boxes. Weight: approx. In 1956 the company introduced the TD-124—the company’s first high performance turntable and one that among collectors is still in demand. This belt-drive turntable is highly regarded for its exceptional build quality and smooth, silent operation. The Thorens TD-124 is one of the most classic turntables. Thorens TD124 and TD124mk2 were the high end turntables of the nineteen fifties and sixties and with the following advice on restoration and maintenance can sound the best even 40 years later. We will briefly go through a few highlights in the history of the brand: electronic direct drive (1927!), a subchassis in which the turntable and tone arm are mounted floating and separate from the turntable and engine (1965), dipole speakers (called Sound Wall, 70s). The company made cigarette lighters until 1964, and only stopped selling harmonicas in 1952 – but by the beginning of the second half ( Brand: Thorens ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: TD105 ), ( Part Type: Turntable Player ) Review THORENS Turntable Record Player Germany The TD 105 Thorens Turntable is a masterpiece of engineering and design, a testament to the enduring legacy of Thorens as a pioneer in the world of high-fidelity audio. It didn’t provide anything revolutionary in terms Products Thorens stands for high quality and innovation. They are almost in the class of Dunhills. One of the reasons the Thorens TD-160 Aug 14, 2012 · The Swiss made Thorens TD-124 is one of the most desired and famous turntables ever made. The 350 is just the most up to date in terms of this type of setup. : 350 DM Connections Thorens manufactured its first electric record player in 1926. The Thorens TD160 S MK V turntable represents the final evolution of the famous TD160 model, one of the most iconic turntables in high-fidelity history. This page will highlight the. An initial producer of musical boxes and clock movements, they started producing Edison-type phonographs in 1903. AR Turntable History by Vinyl Nirvana If you own AR turntable documentation not featured on these pages, please contact me. This record player promises an unparalleled listening experience, delivering precision Nov 20, 2019 · Hermann Thorens founded his company in 1883 to manufacture music boxes in Switzerland. The company moved into making record turntables, speakers, and other music items. Jun 15, 2014 · But then a strange thing happened: in 1965 Thorens introduced a cheaper (by far) table, with a simple belt drive, and called it the 150. Many LP devotees may prefer idler-drive or direct-drive, but there is no doubt that the suspended subchassis belt-drive deck as exemplified by the Thorens TD 150, born in 1965, has dominated for more than half-a-century. Volume one describes the history of the Thorens TD124 and other classic hi-fi turntables as well as the associated tone arms and pickups in many aspects and in exciting forms. The Thorens TD 150, first introduced in 1965, is a hugely significant turntable in hi-fi history. The TD 150 was not the first to deliver Oct 3, 2022 · For many years, the Thorens DT 320 headed my list of most desirable affordable turntables, as it already boasted some audiophile features that would only find their way into modern 'High-End' designs much later. The Thorens motor drives the turntable platter by means of a rubber belt. 8,5 kg Original price approx. It is aimed both at the professionals in the broadcasting studios and home audio enthusiasts who want to play the newly introduced stereo long-playing vinyl records available around the same time in top quality. Oct 3, 2023 · The Thorens TD-124 is a classic turntable that dates back to the 1950s. Here's its great grandson Thorens CEO Gunter Kürten is true to his word: when we first met at the Tokyo High End Show in 2019, he hinted that the hugely-important, wildly-popular three-point suspended-subchassis, belt-drive TD 150 of 1965 might make a Das Ergebnis wurde Thorens Reference genannt, wog 90 kg, war ausgelegt für bis zu drei Tonarme und besaß ein abstimmbares Subchassis! Äußerlich sah der Reference aus wie ein beliebiges Masselaufwerk, in dem einfach ein schwerer Plattenteller auf ein noch schwereres Grundgerüst aufgesetzt wird und Laufruhe allein durch die Masse generiert wird. Throughout the company's history, Thorens has developed a number of devices that have become milestones in the history of consumer electronics. Their most sought after lighter models are of the 1920s to 1930s era. A. Old School Thorens TD 125 Turntable For some of us, it’s the Rodney Dangerfield of the Thorens family of turntables. It began as a maker of musical boxes and related equipment, then manufactured its first Edison type phonograph in 1903, before concentrating on horn gramophones for the new shellac records. Apr 26, 2017 · Thorens TD-160, classic belt drive turntable, for vintage lovers who enjoy fiddling with turntables. It was a departure for Thorens, moving away from the idler-wheel designs of its predecessors and pioneering a new, more effective approach to vibration isolation. 1977: EMT produces the XSD cartridge with van den Hul diamond profile. That changed in 1928 when Thorens produced their first The new edition of Bung’s two-book 2018 set, with our without its former (translated) second edition from 2008, will be of interest to any Thorens lover and an absolute must have for any TD 124 enthusiast. What milestones have made this brand synonymous with Nov 5, 2024 · Vintage turntables are highly sought after by audiophiles, collectors, and music lovers who cherish the warm analog sound and unique character that only these classic devices can provide. " It noted the turntable's "strongly ribbed, solid chassis, crafted in cast aluminum," and its two-part platter Mar 25, 2024 · Thorens is one of the oldest and most revered turntable manufacturers, with a history that dates back to the late 19th century, and the Swiss hi-fi company (now relocated to Germany) continues to make turntables today. Manufacturer Model Thorens TD147 Reviews displaying reviews 1 to 10 of 10 Oct 6, 2023 · The year 1970 marked a significant turning point in the history of audio equipment, particularly when it came to turntables. Jul 13, 2015 · SWISS turntable specialist Thorens has a history almost as ancient as the phonograph itself. 1968: EMT introduces the original 928 turntable, the company's only belt drive, said to be based on the Thorens TD 125, which was built in the same factory; Thorens and EMT also shared an R&D department. It was a four-speed turntable with a roller drive, a 10-watt motor, a stroboscope, and a magnetic brake for speed control. Thorens is a formerly Swiss manufacturer of high-end audio equipment. Fast & Free shipping on many items! Description The Thorens TD-318 is the more expensive version of the TD-316, featuring the same suspended chassis and resonant free platter, but with the addition of auto-lift and shut off. Front and center is the Thorens TD 124 idler-driven turntable and its competitors from around the globe. It retains the TP-90 tonearm with detachable headshell, automatic end of play shut off, and electronic two-speed switching facilitated by the remote power supply. More advanced models are made by Clear-audio. Two years later, a new top-of-the-line TD150 turntable with the proprietary TP13 tonearm was created. Over the next 60 years, Thorens produced a prolific lineup of turntables Feb 15, 2023 · In 2019, Thorens underwent a reorganization. An initial producer of musical boxes and clock movements (which they were still producing in the 1950s), they started producing Edison-type phonographs in 1903. The company moved to Germany in 1966 and merged with EMT. Jan 15, 2025 · Discover some of the best Thorens turntables on the market, as I break down my favorite record players that are great for beginner and intermediate vinyl fans! Jun 15, 2014 · But then a strange thing happened: in 1965 Thorens introduced a cheaper (by far) table, with a simple belt drive, and called it the 150. By current standards the Thorens TD150 turntable is tiny; just big enough for a 12″ platter, and an arm that looks, well, small, simplistic, and decidedly un-German. Cylinder-based phonograph manufacturing began around the turn of the century. : 490 DM Connections Jan 11, 2023 · History of the Thorens TD-160 MK II The Thorens TD-160 MK II was first introduced in 1975 and quickly gained a reputation for its superior sound quality, thanks to its belt-driven motor, suspended chassis, and high-quality tonearm. Oct 3, 2022 · For many years, the Thorens DT 320 headed my list of most desirable affordable turntables, as it already boasted some audiophile features that would only find their way into modern 'High-End' designs much later. This review is a look back at my experience of owning the TD-124. 8,5 kg New price approx: Connections Large selection of Thorens Turntables ᐅ Browse and shop now at Thomann - Europe's largest music store | free shipping 30 days money back In 1883, Herman Thorens founded the company in St Croix, Switzerland. In 1957, the era of record players begins, leading the Thorens brand to world fame. Thorens is the oldest name in entertainment electronics, founded in 1883 by Hermann Thorens in Sainte-Croix, Switzerland. We have a great online selection at the lowest prices with Fast & Free shipping on many items!. 140 years of Thorens. May 10, 2024 · Thorens, in turn, began producing high-quality Hi-Fi turntables. History The famed Thorens TD-160 is pretty much unparalleled when it comes to classic vintage turntables models. Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or a newcomer to the world of vinyl, exploring these vintage Thorens turntables can be a rewarding journey into the past Great deals on Thorens Home Audio Record Players and Turntables. The barely-remembered TD 125 Mk II, though cherished when it was current, rarely figures in audiophile reminiscences, heated bar debates or lists of all-time greats. Thorens was a music box maker that began in 1883. AR Turntable Resources. I am always looking to add to. Turntable Reviews: 4437 To add a review or rate a turntable, browse for the model and use the review form. Linn is similar as well, but they tend to cost more. In 1883, the Thorens family business was first registered in Sainte-Croix (Ste-Croix), Vaud, Switzerland by Hermann Thorens. Thorens made its first phonograph in 1903, its first electrically-driven unit in 1928, and decades later in the In 1957 the era of turntables began, which brought the Thorens brand to world recognition and fame. This guide explores 20 of the best May 24, 2022 · Thorens TD-125 Produced in huge quantities during the 1970s, the Thorens TD-125 is one of the best vintage turntables on the market, with plenty of spare parts available for servicing. Jan 6, 2008 · The Thorens TD350 is similar to older Thorens designs like the TD325. It was just after Thomas Edison… Manufacturer: Thorens Model: TD 160 Type: Record player Years of manufacture: 1972 - 1976 Manufactured in: Germany at EMT in Lahr Color: black, wood veneer; also other types of wood Power consumption: Dimensions: 442 x 358 x 150 mm (WxHxD) Weight: approx. Begun in St. Oct 5, 2023 · In conclusion, the 1980s witnessed the production of several outstanding turntables, each with its own strengths and unique characteristics. Dec 11, 2019 · Manufacturer: Thorens Model: TD 121 Year of manufacture: 1961 Made in: Switzerland Color: Black Power consumption: Dimensions: 394 x 324 x 74 mm (HxWxD). The precursor to today’s turntables which played a rotating cylinder, was introduced by Thomas Edison in 1877, while Thorens was formed in 1883 to make music boxes and clock movements. Thorens TD 124 The Thorens TD 124 is often considered one of the greatest turntables ever made. AR Turntable History. The story continues - on every turntable that bears the Thorens name today as it did then. The employer was Thorens S. Jul 28, 2021 · In 1957, Switzerland-based Thorens introduced the TD 124 turntable, a record player destined to become a classic. continues to produce high-end turntables, tonearms, amplifiers, and accessories. My TD147 also uses this. In 1980, an ultimate turntable Thorens Reference was developed. Founded in 1883 in St. The Thorens Turntable is one of the most well-known and widely respected turntables in the history of home audio. : 350 DM Connections Oct 26, 2018 · People are rediscovering the romance and appeal of vinyl. The Technics SL-1200 series, Sony PS-X800, Thorens TD-160 Super, Rega Planar 3, and Dual CS-5000 all left their mark on the era and continue to be appreciated by audiophiles and collectors today. • The unit comes with: SME Arm-the original instruction booklet, alignment protractor etc. Let’s look back at how this remarkable company perfected the art of the turntable and see why they belong in the Hi-Fi Hall of Fame. While it might appear chunky, this turntable's performance is anything but. Produced in the 1980s, this model stands out for its 16 V motor and its robust, stable chassis, making it an ideal platform for enthusiasts seeking precision and musicality. With our "Designed in Germany" claim, we guarantee reliable performance and continuous development for a distinctive listening experience. It has a wonderful sound and a celebrated history. They are historically renowned for the range of phonograph s (turntables) they produce. Thorens is a historic manufacturer of high-end audio equipment, best known for its innovative phonographs and turntables, and is recognized as one of the world's oldest audio equipment companies, founded in 1883 in Sainte-Croix, Switzerland. ) A Thorens brochure from that same year itemized the TD 124's "11 main elements that result in 41 advantages. Thorens TD125 MK II Turntable OWNER'S MANUAL. It quickly became a favorite among audiophiles, DJs, and music lovers alike, and remained in production until the mid-1980s. Speed Thorens, Swiss company founded in 1883, is quite possibly the world's most storied and accomplished phonograph company. In 1980, Thorens decided, regardless of cost, to develop and market an ultimative turntable. Thorens Turntables: A Blend of History, Craftsmanship, and High-Fidelity Sound In the world of vinyl playback, few names carry the same weight and respect as Thorens. : 490 DM Connections Apr 14, 2022 · A handful of turntable brands lay claim to the first suspended subchassis model, but few, unlike Thorens' TD 150 from 1965, were mass produced. The Thorens turntables of the 1950s and 1960s are of such quality that they are still considered high-end audio equipment today and are highly sought after by both collectors and audiophiles. Vintage AR and Thorens Turntable Sales, Parts, and Restorations. A Photo Comparison of a "New" and "Old" AR XA. The TD-125 was originally offered with the TP-14 tonearm and TP-50 headshell, changed to TP-25 with the TD-125II (still with the TP-50) and sans tonearm for the large and very elegant TD-125LB version. Manufacturer Model Thorens TD147 Reviews displaying reviews 1 to 10 of 10 Oct 17, 2023 · In conclusion, vintage Thorens turntables are celebrated for their remarkable craftsmanship, precision engineering, and timeless aesthetics. May 2, 2025 · The Thorens Gallery offers a deep dive into the rich and multifaceted history of one of the oldest manufacturers of audio equipment, whose vinyl turntables have become synonymous with high quality, engineering sophistication, and refined European taste. Established in 1883, this Swiss company has been at the forefront of turntable design and manufacturing for over a century. and a reprint of a contemporary magazine review. 20 years after the original Thorens TD160 turntable came through our doors, the TD160HD made its way to us in 2008, a year that in itself now feels like a lifetime ago. With the TD-125 MKII, Thorens introduced a clutch into the pulley which takes up slack in the belt at startup so that a steady speed is achieved more quickly. Thorens is a Swiss manufacturer of high-end audio equipment. Thorens 140-Year Anniversary Navigating Vinyl History With A Springy Step It’s hard to imagine the record player world without Thorens – and yet that name almost disappeared from the microcosm that revolves around the black gold. Among these are the Thorens TD-124 (both the original '57 model and the even rarer Mk II of '66) and the Thorens TD-160 (a favorite of table Get the best deals for Vintage Thorens Turntable at eBay. With the popularity of turntables on the rise we decided to take a look at the history and development of the modern turntable to see why. Unlike its predecessor, the TD-124, the 125 is a fully suspended turntable design and introduced an electronic speed control. SME 3012-R: A legendary long-version tonearm, extremely popular and valuable in the global vintage audio market. of Sainte-Croix, and one year later, the first TD 124 (a tourne-disc, or turntable, with a 12" platter and four speeds) was introduced for the then-remarkable sum of 400 Swiss Francs. Many of the Thorens turntables are suspension designs. Looking for inspiration, check out the gallery of AR turntables. Croix, Switzerland, the company started out by making music boxes but are now associated with world class turntables. (TD is an initialism for tourne disque, French for turntable. Thorens made its first phonograph in 1903, its first electrically-driven unit in 1928, and decades later in the • A new drive belt for the Thorens was purchased in August 2024. Thorens Turntable- original instruction booklet, template for plinth mounting and a contemporary full colour advertising booklet. The Swiss clock company first launched its phonograph division back in 1903 when much of the world didn’t even know what a turntable was. The classic TD-125 followed in The TD-2001 is the latest design by Thorens stressing a newly developed suspension while retaining all the convenience features of other Thorens turntables. 1920s to 1960s "Swiss made of the highest quality. There aren’t many dedicated audiophiles who haven’t possessed a Thorens TD 160 at some point in their lives — usually on their way up to a Linn LP12. Thorens TD520: A top-tier belt-drive turntable known for its massive plinth and stability. The first and truly legendary TD124 model was introduced in 1957. In 1957 the era of turntables began, which brought the Thorens brand to world recognition and fame. Oct 18, 2024 · Audiophiles sought precision, and manufacturers delivered with some of the most iconic designs in turntable history. You can. Mounting Instructions for Thorens Dust Cover. Features include a clean and uncoloured sound, friction-free, velocity-sensing electronic shut-off, sound improving platter mat and easily adjustable suspension. TD 190-2 is a more robust version of TD 170-1 from Thorens and by far one of the most reliable turntables you can grab under $1000. It's a great time to upgrade your home theater system with the largest selection at eBay. Mar 15, 2024 · Thorens is a Swiss company with a rich history, known for its high-quality vinyl turntables. Complemented by high-quality accessories, we offer products that combine both tradition and modern technology. Since its founding in 1883, the brand has become synonymous with reliability, precision, and high-quality sound among audiophiles and collectors around the world. Vintage Thorens buying guide I once owned a nice Thorens TD-165 turntable that I set up and updated to function very well. vintage 1960s Thorens turntable Thorens TD-125LB 1968 1972 1975 Classic belt-drive turntable and successor of the famed TD-124, a very different successor and not nearly as sought after. Thorens. Apr 2, 2019 · Manufacturer: Thorens Model: TD 125 Type: Turntable drive Years of manufacture: 1968 - 1971 New price approx. In addition to audio playback equipment, they are also a historical producer of harmonica s and cigarette lighter s, most notably the button actuated "automatic lighter". The original AR XA turntable designed by Edgar Villchur and introduced way back in 1961 for $58 was, to the best of my knowledge, the first to place the platter The Thorens TD-124 MK2 Turntable - Review Discover more about the Thorens TD-124 MK2 Turntable - A true 1960s classic which keeps on giving. The Turntable: From Thorens: The revival of Thorens’ unique subchassis concept is startling with their new TD 350. May 10, 2024 · In 1963, Thorens merged with another Swiss company, Paillard SA, which manufactured Bolex movie cameras and Hermes typewriters. The, now iconic, TD 124 model comes onto the market and quickly becomes a great success. Our turntables offer excellent sound and ease of use, ideal for audiophile music lovers. Early models came Is Thorens producing turntables? Aboslutely not. All inovations had gone into the abyss of history. Review: Is it worth buying a 2nd hand Thorens TD160? Jul 15, 2020 · Back in 1972 the original Thorens introduced the TD 160, a triple spring-suspended sub-chassis design that quickly became a long-in-production classic and the blueprint from which many other turntables, er, sprung—Linn for instance. Cheaper models are the same as Dual, just some cosmetic changes, produced by Dual in Germany. Thorens is historically renowned for the range of phonographs (turntables) the manufacturer produces. Specifications Drive method: one step belt Dec 11, 2019 · Manufacturer: Thorens Model: TD 121 Year of manufacture: 1961 Made in: Switzerland Color: Black Power consumption: Dimensions: 394 x 324 x 74 mm (HxWxD). Sep 1, 2023 · Founded in 1883 by Hermann Thorens (1856 – 1943) in Sainte-Croix, Switzerland, the manufacturer is older than the record itself. In 2008, the company celebrated its 125th year in business. A properly set up TD-124 can outperform far more expensive current day turntables. Jan 4, 2009 · Thorens cleverly used a belt to drive the TD124's idler wheel, the turntable thus going part of the way to providing the isolation so cherished by belt-drive obsessives. Learn how to restore, upgrade, or modify your AR Turntable on the DIY page. Apr 12, 2025 · Read our Roksan Xerses 20 Plus (Package) review Thorens TD160HD (2008) Chunky, but most assuredly funky. This 3-in-1 manual includes Requests: Let us know if there is a specific manual you want. TD 150 Legacy In the convoluted history of the belt-drive turntable, much disinformation has clouded the true story of its evolution. I learned a lot throughout the process and I'm now running a nice TD-160 which I happened to find at a reasonable price and having learned so much on its lesser brother, I was able to check if the TT was ok before paying From 1903 Thorens produces record players. Established by Swiss entrepreneur Hermann Thorens (1856–1943), the company initially produced music boxes and musical works before transitioning in the Dec 16, 2018 · The most significant difference between the two turntables is in the motor design and the electronic speed control. It was a turntable that was firmly rooted in the middle class. com. From the first cylinder phonograph to the legendary turntables that delight music lovers worldwide, the history of Thorens is a story of technology, passion and perfection. May 12, 2015 · 💬 0 🔁 0 ️ 9 · Thorens belt-driven suspended turntables of the 60-70s - a brief history · The Thorens company was founded by Herman Thorens in 1883 in Switzerland. Feb 3, 2026 · Vintage Thorens Lighters for sale, where to buy them online, history and price guide. Vinyl records were still the dominant medium for music playback, and manufacturers were fiercely competing to produce the best turntables that could deliver the ultimate analog listening experience. szmgax gfqhrk pjorwy fgqiont onjyxo ghm slr mykno bkeqdoj fhao
