Thorens TD 121 (1961)
A single-speed idler-drive turntable designed as a simplified version of the TD 124.
Overview
The Thorens TD 121 is an idler-drive turntable made in Switzerland in 1961. Thorens positioned it as the economical version of the TD 124. It shares the TD 124's design heritage but uses a simpler mechanism, which cuts both noise and cost. It was meant mainly for broadcast use. The motor runs a single speed, 33⅓ rpm, and can be converted to other standard speeds including 16⅔ and 45 rpm.
Specifications
| Speeds | 33⅓ rpm (convertible to 16⅔, 45) |
| Dimensions | 394 x 324 x 74 mm (HxWxD) |
| Weight | 9 kg |
| Wow and flutter | 0.1% WRMS |
| Rumble | 47dB |
Design
The TD 121 uses an idler-drive system and a single-piece platter. The mechanism is simpler than the TD 124's, and that gets it a quieter noise floor. It is built as a transcription deck, with durability and precision aimed at professional use.
Context
Thorens sold the TD 121 as the economical version of the TD 124. It gave you core Thorens engineering at a lower price. Broadcasters used it most, since they needed reliable, high-quality playback.
Market
The TD 121 originally listed at $85 net (High Fidelity magazine, December 1964). Collectors now seek it out, and restored units go for between $2,000 and $4,000 on the secondary market.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.
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)