Thorens TD 135 (1961–1964 or possibly 1968)

A precision transcription turntable built for amateur studios, produced from 1961 to 1964.

Overview

The Thorens TD 135 is a precision transcription turntable. Thorens positioned it as an "inexpensive studio machine for amateurs." It was introduced in 1961. Sources disagree on when production ended. Some say 1964, others say production ran until 1968. It shares parts with the higher-end models, including the E-50 motor from the legendary TD 124. It performs best with the Thorens BTD-12S professional tonearm. Thorens grouped it with the TD 124, TD 134 and TD 184, and it sits between the TD 124 and TD 160 in the lineup.

Specifications

Platter	12", non-magnetic
Speed control	+-3% variable via eddy-current braking system
Speeds	16, 33, 45 and 78rpm
Drive type	Belt-Idler-Drive
Dimensions	15 x 12″
Weight	22.7lbs
Original price	390 DM (with tonearm) or £37.41 (specific unit listing)
Performance	Rumble, wow and flutter exceeds NAB specifications

Design

The TD 135 MK I uses the same drive system as the TD 124, including the E-50 motor. It is designed to reach peak performance only with the Thorens BTD-12S professional tonearm.

Context

Thorens introduced the TD 135 in 1961 as a more affordable option in its precision turntable line. It sits between the TD 124 and TD 160 in both capability and market position.

Market

The TD 135 is considered rare. Some units get parted out for their E-50 motors, which are compatible with the TD 124. Used tonearms from the model have listed for $249.99 as spares or repair parts.

Market Value

┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ THORENS TD 135                                                  Jul 2026 │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ High      $761                                    Latest            $761 │
│ Median    $705                                    Trend                — │
│ Low       $340                                    Volume           ~3/mo │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│   $800 ┤                                                                 │
│        │                                                                .│
│        │.                                                                │
│   $586 ┤                                                                 │
│        │                                                                 │
│        │                                                                 │
│        │                                                                 │
│   $300 ┤       .                                                         │
│        ├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│
│    vol │█      █                                                        █│
│        └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│
│         2026-03                      2026-04                      2026-05│
└──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

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eBay Listings

Thorens TD 135 vintage audio equipment - eBay listing photo 1

RARE FULLY RESTORED THORENS TD 135 MK I TURNTABLE

$1,800

See all Thorens TD 135 on eBay

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