Thorens TD-126 MKII TurnTables
Thorens TD-126 MKII TurnTables
USER REVIEWS
[Mar 31, 2008]
bmac50
Audio Enthusiast
Strength:
Heavy and yes that is a strength, you get no feedback even with this turntable even with it sitting on a speaker, we tested this with several turntables in the barracks. Hum was very low with a 300 watt p/c amp not playing anything with the volume turned almost 3/4 of the way. Push the button to start the table turning and still nothing from the speakers. This was probably one of the best turntables ever built for isolation other than turntables costing 1000's.
Weakness:
Other than the cover would never stay half way open I can think of none. I bought mine when Thorens was in the middle of the model change (125 to 126). I actually took the station aircraft from Iceland to London just to get one of these plus save a ton of money. I had been using Pioneer turntables mostly up to this point so this was a huge jump. Customer Service Have never had to use their service other than cleaning n lube. The last time I had my belt checked it had stretched less than 1 cm. Similar Products Used: Look it in for service several years ago and low and behold there was another one just like it. It was an America version and not nearly as heavy so upon close examination they had completely different motors. |
[Jan 29, 2008]
reynaldo
AudioPhile
Strength:
Good solid, heavy plinth that can stand an earthquake. Smooth and clean sound, rumble? what's that? Built to last. Mine turned 26 last november
Weakness:
I can't hear any I fully agree with the other reviews: I've owned a 126 Mk III for 26 years and it´s been my beloved toy ever since. Previously I had a 145 Mk I while in college and that one I also recommend to anyone who can get their hands on one. The 126 broke the mold as far a a solid, massive and quiet table. I remember when I bought it (1981) some "experts" not liking the tone arm that came with it (TP-16 III) at the time but I also remember hearing spectacular sound comming from my cartridge of choice at the time ( Shure V-15 type IV). Currently I´m running a Dynavector 10X5 and the sound beats any CD in my collection. Sure, 21st century tables are sexy but I'm keeping my big tank that seems to be indistructible. Similar Products Used: Thorens TD 145 Mk I |
[Jun 23, 2005]
ddarch44
Audio Enthusiast
Strength:
Switches from completely manual to semi-automatic. Stable, yet adjustable, speed.
Weakness:
Wish they had used metal instead of plastic in a couple of places. I have listened to/lived with almost all of the Thorens suspended turntables from the 60s, 70s, and 80s...and this one is by far the nicest when speaking of units with stock arms. I have owned several TD-125 of various vintage and style, but none of those match the sonics and features of the 126 MKII. Again, this is with the stock arm. I am really anxious to upgrade to an SME or Linn, and see what it can do then!! Similar Products Used: Whole Thorens suspended TT line. Acoustic Research line. |
[Jul 05, 2004]
Belgarchi
AudioPhile
Strength:
Build quality, practical, gorgeous sound, excellent suspension
Weakness:
Attached, flimsy power cord I bought it with a Grace tonearm and a Supex MC cartdridge, in pristine condition. This turntable is superb : very heavy, so well suspended that you can knock it violently when playing a record without any detrimental effect ! The platter, made of 2 parts, weights more than 3 kg. The speed can be tuned, there is a stroboscope. It is easy to change the tonearm, and I installed a SME 3009 serie III. I don't ear any rumble nor speed variation. It is my last turntable : I don't think another one can better it. Compared to a Thorens TD-125, it has many similar features (the platter, for example), but is better build (casing, etc.). I don't know why the older TD-125 is better known today, it doesn't make sense. The value rating of "5" is for one in perfect condition (rare) at less than $500. Similar Products Used: Lenco, Garrard, Era, Thorens, etc. |