Thorens
Swiss turntable craftsmanship since 1883
History
Thorens was founded in Sainte-Croix, Switzerland in 1883 by Hermann Thorens as a manufacturer of music boxes and clockwork mechanisms. The company is the oldest continuously operating audio brand in the world, with a history spanning over 140 years. The company entered the phonograph business in the 1900s, producing high-quality spring-motor gramophones. By the 1920s, Thorens was producing electric phonographs and began developing the technology that would lead to modern turntables. The TD-124 (1957) became Thorens' most iconic product. This idler-drive turntable featured a massive platter, robust suspension, and exceptional speed stability. Used in radio stations and by serious audiophiles, the TD-124 remains one of the most sought-after vintage turntables. The 1960s brought the TD-150 (1965), a belt-drive turntable with a suspended subchassis. Designed by H.H. Scott engineer E.A. (Ted) Hearn, the TD-150 pioneered the subchassis suspension design that would influence countless turntables including the famous Linn LP12. The TD-160 (1972) refined the TD-150 design and became Thorens' best-selling turntable. With its wooden plinth, suspended subchassis, and reliable belt-drive, the TD-160 offered high-end performance at a reasonable price.Key Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1883, Sainte-Croix, Switzerland |
| Founder | Hermann Thorens |
| Original Business | Music boxes and clocks |
| Oldest Hi-Fi Brand | Over 140 years of history |
| Famous Models | TD-124, TD-150, TD-160 |
| Current Status | Revived brand, new production |
Legendary Products
Thorens TD-124 (1957-1969)
One of the finest idler-drive turntables ever made. The TD-124 featured a massive platter, four-point suspension, and a robust motor system. Used by radio stations worldwide, it remains the holy grail for idler-drive enthusiasts.Thorens TD-150 (1965-1972)
The turntable that pioneered suspended subchassis design. The TD-150's three-point sprung suspension isolated the platter and tonearm from external vibrations—a concept that influenced turntable design for decades.Thorens TD-160 (1972-1980s)
Thorens' best-selling turntable. The TD-160 refined the TD-150 design with better materials, improved suspension, and a more elegant appearance. It became the reference standard for affordable high-end turntables.Thorens TD-125 (1960s-1970s)
A hybrid design using an idler-drive system with electronic speed control. The TD-125 offered the torque of idler-drive with the convenience of electronic speed selection. It remains highly collectible.Classic Models Reference
| Model | Era | Drive | Features | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TD-124 | 1957-69 | Idler | 4-point suspension | The classic |
| TD-124 Mk II | 1960s | Idler | Improved TD-124 | Refined classic |
| TD-125 | 1960s-70s | Hybrid | Electronic speed | Speed control |
| TD-125 Mk II | 1970s | Hybrid | Improved 125 | Later version |
| TD-150 | 1965-72 | Belt | Subchassis | Pioneered suspension |
| TD-150 Mk II | 1970s | Belt | Improved 150 | Refined version |
| TD-160 | 1972-80s | Belt | Best-seller | Classic belt-drive |
| TD-160 Mk II | 1970s-80s | Belt | Improved 160 | Updated classic |
| TD-165 | 1970s-80s | Belt | Budget 160 | Entry-level |
| TD-166 | 1970s-80s | Belt | Semi-auto 160 | Auto-return |
| TD-145 | 1970s | Belt | Auto-lift | Semi-automatic |
| TD-147 | 1970s | Belt | Full-auto | Full automatic |
Sound Signature
Thorens turntables are characterized by: - Speed stability - Precise, consistent rotation - Low noise - Quiet motors and bearings - Isolation - Suspension design rejects vibration - Musicality - Engaging, natural presentation - Build quality - Swiss precision engineeringCollecting Thorens
Vintage Thorens gear is valued for: - TD-124 - The ultimate idler-drive - TD-160 - Best-selling classic - Original condition - Unmodified units preferred - Working suspension - Critical for TD-150/160 - Complete packaging - Original boxes command premium Most collectible models: - TD-124 - The holy grail - TD-124 Mk II - Refined classic - TD-160 Super - Premium version - TD-125 - Electronic speed controlRestoration Tips
Common Thorens service items: - Replace idler wheels (TD-124/125 - critical) - Service bearings (clean and relubricate) - Replace belts (TD-150/160/165/166) - Adjust suspension (TD-150/160 series) - Check motor capacitors - Verify speed (strobe disc or app)Competitors & Comparisons
Thorens vs Garrard: Both classic idler-drives; different approaches Thorens vs Technics: Technics direct-drive; Thorens belt/idler Thorens vs Linn: Linn improved on Thorens suspension conceptAll Models in Archive (4)
| TD-124 | 1957 |
| TD-150 | 1965 |
| TD-225 | 1975 |
| TP-19 | 1975 |
Models
Turntables
Amplifiers
- TP-19 - 1975