thorens td 166mk-II

[op135]

is this relatively good turntable, and can it be easily upgraded with different cartridge?

[Rolf Erickson]

is this relatively good turntable, and can it be easily upgraded with different cartridge?

This is a good turntable. A great start, if your are just getting into LP vinyl. Can be modded and tweaked extensively. Or, just leave it stock and enjoy the fine music. If you don't own it yet, you should go and get it. Should run about $150 to $300 depending on condition and cartridge etc. Great money well spent for the quality of investment, you almost can't go wrong here. It will sell like water if you wish to change tables later. Happy listening. R.E.

[adhoc]

It's a good TT. Not the top of the Thorens line, but a good solid TT nonetheless.

IMO: TD-166 < TD-160/150 < TD-160S < TD-125 < TD-124

So it's really quite good - of all the vintage Thorens TTs, it should be about the 4th best or so. Purely IMO of course! :)

[op135]

i was looking around some more and found a thorens td 280 mkII, this is probably a newer model, but is it better than the ones mentioned above?

[Mark H]

I do like the Thorens tables. I have a TD-147 and a TD-160 in constant use. Never really felt a burning need to upgrade. I also have an AR-XA which IMO is still a great starter table for anyone.

[RPhelps]

I have enjoyed my Thorens TD166MKII since I bought it in college - let's see 1976 or thereabouts. Currently running Shure M97XE cart and a new belt !

[Tony Plachy]

I used an original Thorens TD 150 MkII for over two decades (purchased in 1972). I was a fine TT, sold it to another SHMF member a couple of years ago. You may find this useful:

http://www.theanalogdept.com/thorens_dept_.htm