Thorens TD 1601 Belt Drive Semi Automatic Turntable w/New Sumiko

General:
RETURN OF THORENS DNA WITH ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Thorens TD 1601 combines everything TD 1600 brings with some additional features regarding comfort and connection to amplifiers. Classical wooden plinth, two-part platter with inner belt and thick rubber mat, powerful motor control unit, arm board and acrylic dust cover are expanded by balanced outputs and functions for easier handling.

The conical springs for sub chassis are not mounted on top board any longer but standing on the bottom. Additionally, a small but strong tightened thread made of steel connects sub chassis with a steel pin on the bottom and so prevents sub chassis from staggering and allows only vertical movement.

An electrical lift is included, too and a contactless auto shut off. XLR jacks provide a real balanced connection to amplifiers

This unit is lightly used and comes fitted with a brand new Sumiko Blue Point No.3 High output MC cartridge perfectly calibrated.

SPECIAL FEATURES
- Stabilized sub chassis on three conical springs
- Polished precision belt
- Two part platter
- Adjustable belt tension
- Electronical controlled motor
- Electrical lift
- Contactless auto shut off
- Balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) output
- Thorens precision tonearm TP 92 9“

SkyFi Cosmetic Notes:
Very good condition no deep scratches or scuffs.

Brand Background:
Thorens is the oldest name in entertainment electronics, founded in 1883 by Hermann Thorens in Sainte-Croix, Switzerland. The brand is still worldwide known for its high-quality record players. 

Thorens is a formerly Swiss manufacturer of high-end audio equipment. Thorens is historically renowned for the range of phonographs (turntables) the manufacturer produces. In addition to audio playback equipment, Thorens is also a historical producer of harmonicas and cigarette lighters, most notably the button actuated "automatic lighter".

Connections:
RCA outputs and Ground connections

General Sound:
Smooth, uncolored, undistorted natural and clean

Cosmetic Condition:
8/10 = Very Good. Excellent front faceplate, one minor flaw on chassis side or top. See our detailed rating description here.

Working Condition:
Working perfectly and calibrated on our custom turntable calibration stand.

Included:
Exactly as pictured and described above.

Packing:
Original Manufacturers Packing

Original MSRP:
$5,500.00

Specs:
Drive type- Belt, electronically controlled AC motor
Mains- 115 V /230 V (AC)
Mains- frequency 50 / 60 Hz
Power consumption- 18 W
RPM- 33,3 , 45 RPM
Wow & Flutter- DIN/WRMS <=0,05 %
Platter- Two parts, Aluminium, 3,2 kg
Effective length-TP 92 232,8 mm
Offset angle- 23,66°
Overhang- 17,8 mm
Effective mass- 11 g
Capacitance- <=110pF

Dimensions:
17.3" x 14.6" x 7.1"

Weight:
25 lbs.

Approximate Age:
2020

Link to Manual:
Click Here

Recommended Cables:
Kimber Kable - Phono Interconnects

Kimber Kable - Flagship Phono Interconnects

Testing Process:
First we try to identify any mechanical issues, particularly in the tonearm bearings. We check for freedom of movement or any resistance on both the horizontal and vertical range. There is a quick test for this which involves placing the table on its front edge and allowing the arm to swing freely like a pendulum. We then make any adjustments necessary to achieve minimal resistance and sometimes adjust the bearing pressure. On gimbal tonearms we inspect the cone tip with a magnifier.

We then assess the platter speed using one of several methods, the most accurate being playing a test tone on a test record and measuring the frequency output with a frequency counter or oscilloscope. We also utilize test equipment to measure the wow and flutter to ensure it is within spec. We do this for all speeds available for that particular model (33 RPM, 45 RPM, 78 RPM).

Adjustments are then made to achieve proper speed which will vary depending on the turntable's drive design. Some require an adjustment of an internal or external potentiometer, some will require a pulley or motor adjustment. We also inspect the platter bearing to ensure it is properly lubricated, keeping in mind that some bearings don't require lubrication at all

We then inspect the power supply and address any issues with overworked capacitors, particularly on Linn and later Thorens machines which tend to need attention.

On fully mechanical vintage tables like the Thorens TD-124 and Garrard 301/401 we will go thought the entire mechanism. Then replace any worn parts and lubricate all components necessary to ensure smooth operation, speed change, and low mechanical noise. 

When fitting a new phono cartridge we will go through our detailed calibration process which can involve as many as 12 steps depending on the tonearm design. We perform this work on our custom turntable calibration rig which was developed in-house.

Some of these steps include:
• Pivot to Spindle Adjustment
• Tracing Force
• Anti-Skate
• Tonearm Height
• Lifter Height
• VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle)
• Azimuth
• Stylus Distance and Overhang

We then do a critical listening test using our test records and our test system to ensure proper sonics.