Thorens TD 134
A mid-tier, multi-speed turntable from Thorens, made in Switzerland during the late 1950s to mid-1960s.
Overview
The Thorens TD 134 is a manual turntable produced by Thorens in Switzerland. It was positioned as a mid-tier offering in the company's lineup during its production run from 1959 to 1965, with some sources citing slight variations in the end year. The turntable features a belt-idler-drive system and supports multiple playback speeds, described across sources as either three or four speeds. It was originally equipped with the Thorens BL 104 tonearm, which uses a universal plug-in shell design. While specific technical performance data is absent, the model has appeared in collector and user circles, with anecdotal reports noting its sound quality and the common consideration of upgrading the original tonearm.
Specifications
| Operating mode | selectable (manual/tone arm lift) |
| Pitch adjustment | ± 3 |
| Drive type | Belt-Idler-Drive |
| Speeds | 3 or 4 speeds (sources vary) |
| Tonearm | BL104 |
Design
The Thorens TD 134 uses a belt-idler-drive mechanism and was originally fitted with the BL 104 tonearm, which features a universal plug-in shell for cartridge mounting.
Context
The TD 134 represented a mid-tier offering in Thorens’ turntable lineup during the late 1950s and 1960s, bridging entry-level and high-end models.
Market
A complete TD 134 turntable with tonearm and cartridge sold for $700 in November 2022. A compatible center clamp for the TD 134 and related models was listed at C $96.87. Some owners have noted the BL 104 tonearm as clunky and have considered replacing it with a more modern alternative.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.