Thorens TD 111 (1960–1962)
A single-speed transcription turntable built in Switzerland to exceed NAB studio performance standards.
Overview
The Thorens TD 111 is a single-speed idler-drive turntable made in Switzerland from 1960 to 1962. It was sold as an economical transcription turntable for professional use, and it was designed to exceed NAB performance specifications for studio equipment. The motor, idler drive, platter and bearing are shared with the better-known TD-124, so the TD 111 is basically its compact counterpart.
Specifications
| Speed | 33.3 RPM |
| Drive system | idler drive |
| Motor | 4-pole reluctance motor (AC) |
| Platter weight | ~ 6 pounds |
| Performance | exceeds NAB performance specifications for studio equipment |
| Original price | $60 net |
Design
The TD 111 uses the same idler drive system, motor, platter, bearing and core mechanical layout as the Thorens TD-124. Units found today often have rebuilt motors, damped platters and rewired tonearms. Some also have damped top plates and heavy wood plinths for better stability.
Context
The TD 111 was the smaller, cheaper sibling to the flagship TD-124. It gave professional-grade performance in a simpler, single-speed format. It was meant for transcription and broadcast use, where steady 33.3 RPM playback was what mattered.
Market
Modern listings have shown the TD 111 priced as high as $850. Common maintenance includes replacing the RCA cables and the power cord, and rewiring the tonearm, since these parts degrade over time.
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Related Models
- Thorens TD-124 (1957–1967)
- Thorens TD-150 (1965)
- Thorens TD-225 (1975)
- Thorens TD-126 Mk III
- Thorens TD 550
- Garrard SP (1975)
- Luxman PD-310 (1981)
- Luxman PD-555 (1983)
- Harman Kardon kardon-turntables (1975)
- Onkyo CP-1020 (1979)